That Patricia Highsmith's prose continues to draw me into the frightening and abhorrent world of the blithe, remorseless, sybaritic, Tom Ripley should tell you everything you need to know about this series of books. Another masterpiece from the late Ms. Highsmith.

Really enjoyable. A little less convoluted than Ripley Under Ground — still has a couple of credulity-stretching moments. But there's something about Highsmith's feverish, apprehensive atmosphere that is gripping and disconcerting. ( )

I thought this one was better than [b:Ripley Underground Ripley #2|56710874|Ripley Underground Ripley #2|Patricia Highsmith|https://s.gr-assets.com/assets/nophoto/book/50x75-a91bf249278a81aabab721ef782c4a74.png|88662814], but not as tightly woven as [b:The Talented Mr. Ripley|2247142|The Talented Mr. Ripley (Ripley, #1)|Patricia Highsmith|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1611780694l/2247142._SY75_.jpg|1817520]. It gave a really nice adrenaline rush, and I found it difficult to put down, but there were parts that were just too unbelievable. Inept Mafia guys showing up exactly when expected, as if on cue in a one-act comedy play, was just over-the-top ridiculous. ( )

Having read "The Talented Mr. Ripley", I had high hopes for the sequels. Unfortunately, I didn't enjoy this as much as the original. I found the characters rather flat with the exception of Tom Ripley, who's always full of surprises. I don't think I'll bother with the other sequel as a result. ( )

I accidentally read this one second instead of third--the books weren't very clearly labeled, though I could have checked the original pub date on title page verso. Doesn't really matter now, as I don't see myself reading any additional Ripley novels. The original was excellent, as I recall, but this one, well I doubt it would still be in print even if it weren't for its connection with the first, and also because Highsmith's reputation is enjoying a bit of a revival. ( )