Walter Mosley's Devil In A Blue Dress captivates with its vivid depiction of post-WWII Los Angeles and intricate plotting. Critics praise its rich character development and the compelling figure of Easy Rawlins. However, some find the pacing uneven and the conclusion predictable. Overall, it skillfully blends historical fiction and noir, offering a fresh take on the detective genre.

Readers who enjoy Devil In A Blue Dress by Walter Mosley typically appreciate gripping noir detective stories set in post-WWII America, featuring complex characters and social commentary. Fans of Raymond Chandler's The Big Sleep or Chester Himes' A Rage in Harlem will find this novel’s richly detailed narrative and historical context compelling.

In 1948 Los Angeles, WWII veteran Ezekiel "Easy" Rawlins, who is Black and recently unemployed, accepts a job from a ruthless white man to find a woman named Daphne Monet. Needing to pay his mortgage, Easy navigates a web of deceit, violence, and racial tension, uncovering secrets about Daphne and getting entangled with corrupt figures, ultimately becoming a private investigator. This book features sexual violence and racial slurs.

Mysterious / Dark / Gritty / Suspenseful / Challenging

- *Devil in a Blue Dress* marked Walter Mosley's debut as a novelist, introducing his popular character, Easy Rawlins, a Black World War II veteran turned private investigator in 1940s Los Angeles.
- The novel became so successful that it inspired a 1995 film adaptation of the same name, starring Denzel Washington as Easy Rawlins and Don Cheadle in a role that won critical acclaim.
- Walter Mosley was inspired to set the story during the post-World War II era because he wanted to explore the social and racial dynamics of that transformative period in American history.

**Ezekiel “Easy” Rawlins**  
A sensitive World War II veteran in his late twenties who takes pride in his work and his status as a homeowner. He is drawn into a complex investigation that tests his principles and resilience.

**Daphne Monet / Ruby Hanks**  
A woman with a mysterious and dual identity, initially known as Daphne Monet. Her complex background and relationships shape a significant portion of the narrative.

**Raymond “Mouse” Alexander**  
Easy's friend known for his small stature and propensity for violence. His actions and relationship with Easy highlight key themes of morality and survival.

**DeWitt Albright**  
The businessman who hires Easy for a job, marked by his light attire and demeanor. His motivations are tied to themes of greed and exploitation.

**Joppy Shag**  
A bartender and former boxer whose introduction of Easy to Albright complicates their relationship and advances the plot.

**Junior Fornay**  
A large bouncer known for his indifference and moral ambiguity. His interactions with Easy provide insight into issues of responsibility and blame.

**Frank Green**  
Daphne's half-brother with a violent reputation. He maintains a complicated connection to Daphne throughout the story.

**Odell Jones**  
A quiet and religious man involved in vices, who advises Easy. His presence underscores Easy's internal conflicts and decisions.

**Todd Carter**  
A wealthy and powerful businessman who employs Albright to find Daphne. His character highlights themes of wealth, privilege, and obliviousness.

**Matthew Teran**  
A powerful and grotesque figure with political ambitions. His character is entwined with the corruption and racism of LA's elite.

Walter Mosley

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Novel

Easy Rawlins

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