It took me ten days to read this book; that is because I kept starting and stopping. Still, I did finish it. Then it took me 10 days to think about how to write this review. Of course, I could have written a vague two-sentence comment—many reviewers do—and then given it a middling rating. But that’s not my way. I like to provide meaningful feedback for others who are seriously thinking about reading the book being reviewed.

This is the most sexist book I have ever completed. Not the “most sexist” I have ever encountered, but previously whenever I have found myself reading a novel that made me uncomfortable because of its sexism, I would stop reading it, throw it in the dnf pile. (This goes for novels that push the feminist agenda as well; I don’t like reading overhyped propaganda.)

What kept me reading “Been Wrong So Long It Feels Like Right” were the brilliant philosophical insights interwoven throughout the novel. As I read, I highlighted passages that were masterfully written comments on the complexities of human experience. Walter Mosley is a genius in terms of his understanding of the human condition, at least the male human condition, both on psychological and on sociological levels.

The storyline is based on the hard-boiled detective genre that was popular from the late 1940s to early 1970s. The protagonist, King Oliver, becomes involved in two separate cases, one of which, the Marigold Hart plot thread, was highly predictable and could have been omitted. Had it been excluded, a large chunk of sexism would also have been erased. The other plot thread, the search for King’s father, was less predictable, and although it still had a component of unsettling sexism, was overall more balanced in its portrayal of women.

In the 50s, 60s, and early 70s, the novels and movies utilizing the hard-boiled detective theme did promote sexist attitudes towards women, but this is 2024, not 1971. The story does not take place fifty years ago. Were I a Twitter (or X) user, I would promote a #NeverViewedRead thread, because they were of my time, but indeed, I never saw a single one of those movies, nor read any of the novels. And having completed “Been Wrong So Long It Feels Like Right”, I will never enter into that prejudiced world again.

In addition to the sexism, there was one other element that disturbed me as I continued reading. We see everything through King Oliver’s eyes, and he describes in intricate detail everything he sees—the clothes other characters are wearing, their faces and bodies, the way they move, plus the buildings he enters and their furnishings. Yet I could see nothing. All that incredible detail provoked no images in my mind. At first I thought there was something wrong with me—an inability to form visual images. Then I realized that I had good mental representations for scenes in books I had read recently, and for one I read while thinking about this review. The details seen by King Oliver were like reading a nonfiction book—a list of items. What is fictional is the overall storyline, taken directly from the hard-boiled detective genre. What is good are the non-fictional musings of the protagonist—philosophical musings on moral ambiguity and social justice.

Consequently, I do not wish to give this book a rating. The thinking part of me believes that the author is a brilliant philosopher and its philosophical musings deserve four stars. The emotional/intuitive part of me feels like it is hackneyed fiction designed to promote masculine sexuality and worth at most two stars.

Thanks to Mulholland Books for providing an electronic copy of this book via NetGalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinions.

This book is the third in a series, a fact that I did not know when I started to read. Bu two chapters in, I felt the missing backstories.

The book is a well done set of character studies, including his usual thorough and believable physical descriptions, but no real “mystery”. Reading is a pleasure and the plot moves rapidly with a great deal of wonderful imagery.

While I wish I’d read the first two books before starrting this one, I can certainly recommend "Been So Wrong… in or out of sequence.

Walter Mosley delivers another winner!

This is the third book in the Joe King Oliver series and the best one yet. The story reveals a bit more about King's character, making it even easier to root for him. Mosley's prose is like urban poetry and so enjoyable to read. I loved the ending. When I finished reading, I wanted more. Hope Mosley continues to write stories in this universe. It would be a crime if he didn't.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a sneak peek.

Hightly recommended!

Walter Mosley continues to prove why he's a master of the detective genre with his latest Joe King Oliver novel, delivering a story that masterfully weaves together family drama with high-stakes investigation. As a longtime follower of detective fiction, I found myself completely absorbed by this third installment, which elevates the series to new heights.

The narrative follows two compelling threads: King's search for his long-estranged father at the behest of his dying grandmother, and his involvement with Marigold Hart, a woman on the run from her billionaire husband with her young daughter in tow. Mosley demonstrates his storytelling prowess by balancing these plotlines with remarkable skill, each one feeding into the other to create a rich tapestry of moral complexity.

What sets this book apart is its deep dive into King's family dynamics, particularly the nuanced exploration of his relationship with his father, Chief Odin Oliver. The protagonist himself continues to fascinate - a former police detective who chose integrity over corruption, operating with his own moral compass that doesn't always point true north. His complex relationships with women and his friendship with the psychopathic Melquarth add compelling layers to his character.

Mosley's prose crackles with tension, particularly in scenes where King must navigate between personal desires and professional obligations. The author never takes the easy way out, forcing his protagonist to grapple with difficult choices that have no clear right answer. While the book can stand alone, the richness of character development through the previous novels adds significant weight to the emotional stakes. "Been Wrong So Long It Feels So Right" represents Mosley at his finest - a perfect blend of hard-boiled detective work, family drama, and moral ambiguity. It's not just a great detective novel; it's a great novel, period.

A big thank you to Mulholland Books and NetGalley for providing an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.

An interesting book. A man hunts for his missing father at his dying grandmother request. It is ultimately a story of redemption and live.

In Been Wrong So Long It Feels Like Right, Walter Mosley delivers a powerful and introspective narrative that grapples with themes of identity, justice, and the search for personal redemption. Known for his masterful storytelling and keen social insight, Mosley’s latest work is a thought-provoking exploration of what it means to confront one's past and seek a path toward a better future.

The novel follows a deeply flawed protagonist whose journey of self-discovery is both compelling and heart-wrenching. Mosley’s characters are richly drawn, each carrying their own burdens and struggles. The protagonist’s introspection reveals a tapestry of regrets and aspirations, inviting readers to engage with the complexities of human experience. Mosley’s skillful writing captures the nuances of his characters' lives, making them relatable and authentic.

At the heart of the narrative is a profound examination of systemic issues, particularly those related to race, inequality, and the criminal justice system. Mosley does not shy away from addressing uncomfortable truths, using his platform to illuminate the injustices that persist in society. This social commentary adds a layer of depth to the story, prompting readers to reflect on their own beliefs and the world around them.

Mosley’s prose is both lyrical and incisive, creating a rhythm that draws readers in. His ability to blend personal narrative with broader societal themes makes the story resonate on multiple levels. The pacing is deliberate, allowing for moments of reflection that enhance the emotional weight of the story. Mosley’s wit and insight shine through, balancing the heavier themes with moments of humor and humanity.

One of the book’s strengths lies in its exploration of the concept of wrongness and rightness. Mosley invites readers to consider how perceptions of morality can shift over time and how the struggle for redemption can redefine one’s sense of self. This philosophical inquiry adds layers to the narrative, making it a rich and rewarding read.

In conclusion, Been Wrong So Long It Feels Like Right is a compelling and insightful novel that showcases Walter Mosley’s exceptional talent for storytelling. With its engaging characters, poignant themes, and sharp social critique, it is a work that challenges and inspires. Mosley’s exploration of the complexities of human nature and the quest for redemption is a testament to his status as one of contemporary literature's most important voices. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the human condition and the societal structures that shape our lives

Great story. Great writing. Great pacing. What more is there to say? Mosley continues at the top of his form with this third installment in the King Oliver series. One can only hope for many more to come. I couldn't put it down and neither will you.