Plugged

Daniel McEvoy, an Irish ex-military bouncer at a seedy New Jersey casino, finds himself entangled in an escalating series of criminal complications. After his friend and hair transplant specialist disappears, McEvoy must navigate through local mobsters, corrupt cops, and dangerous women while trying to keep his new hair plugs intact. The story combines classic noir elements with dark humor, following McEvoy as he attempts to untangle himself from multiple threatening situations. His military training and street smarts are put to the test as violence and intrigue mount around him in the gritty casino town environment. Set against a backdrop of organized crime and small-time hustlers, Plugged explores themes of identity, belonging, and the lasting impact of past trauma. The novel blends hardboiled crime fiction conventions with contemporary social commentary and psychological insight.

Readers found Plugged to be a departure from Colfer's young adult works, with darker humor and grittier crime elements. Many noted the noir style and witty dialogue as highlights. Liked: - Fast-paced plot with sharp comedic timing - Main character Daniel McEvoy's internal monologues - Blend of Irish and American crime fiction elements - Dark humor throughout - Strong side characters Disliked: - Violence level surprised some Artemis Fowl fans - Plot called "scattered" by multiple readers - Some found the humor forced - Character development seen as limited Ratings: Goodreads: 3.5/5 (5,800+ ratings) Amazon: 3.9/5 (160+ ratings) LibraryThing: 3.4/5 (200+ ratings) One reader noted: "Think Carl Hiaasen meets Irish noir." Another wrote: "The jokes land but the plot meanders." Several reviewers mentioned expecting a lighter tone based on Colfer's previous works.

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🔍 Eoin Colfer wrote the bestselling Artemis Fowl series before venturing into adult fiction with Plugged. 🎖️ The author extensively researched PTSD and military experiences to authentically portray Daniel McEvoy's background as a UN peacekeeper in Lebanon. 🎲 The novel's casino setting was inspired by Colfer's visits to New Jersey while on book tours for his young adult works. 💇 The unusual focus on hair transplants in the plot came from Colfer's fascination with the psychology of male vanity and aging. 🎭 Plugged was adapted into a stage play that premiered at the Civic Theatre in Dublin in 2012.