I have long been a fan of screwball comedy, starting with movies, and then moving into books. “Screwball” as adjective is defined as ” crazily eccentric or whimsical”; I’m pretty selective of the level of “screwball-ness” in movies or books–too much is too much for me, but the right amount is good for the giggles.
The most easily familiar mystery series would be the Stephanie Plum series by Janet Evanovich, beginning with One for the Money. The first three or so titles really set up the series, and what one could expect from the character and the author. In my opinion (and mine alone), the series has gone on way too long (number 17[?] is due out this summer), and there will soon be a shortage of cars to blow up in New Jersey.
The author who I think writes screwball best for me is Jennifer Crusie. Crazy situations, misunderstood romances and occasional pratfalls come together with sizzling sex scenes that all make good books–just the right mixtures. I love Ms Crusie’s characters, and her locations are in the midwest–a lot of craziness seems to go on there. A newer author who I think is following in Ms. Crusie’s footsteps is Deborah Coonts, whose first book was published in 2010, Wanna Get Lucky?, followed by Lucky Stiff this year. While her titles are definite double entendres, they also correspond with the location of this series, Las Vegas. Both of these authors write mainly smart women characters, which endear them further to me; even the smart women can land in screwy situations sometimes.
Jeanne Ray is the author I have found to write good screwball fiction (her books are not shelved usually in the romance or mystery sections of libraries or bookstores). She’s written four novels, my personal favorite being Step-Ball-Change. An almost empty nest couple finds everyone coming home to roost, including the main character’s sister. This book reminded me of the movie “The Philadelphia Story”, and the nest is quite sorted out in the end (not a spoiler–I’ve given no details away!).
My favorite screwball movies, or movies with those elements are the above mentioned “Philadelphia Story”, “The Thin Man”, and “His Girl Friday” (for the witty banter too). I am not a fan of “Bringing Up Baby” which many contend is one of the best screwball comedies–for me it just goes on too long (I know there will be people who disagree).
Spring and summer are great times to read a little screwball; get out there and enjoy a little craziness!
Happy Reading!
Patti