Pulp Friction gives us more of a good bad thing. It doesn't quite deliver with the same impact the original work did, but maybe it gives us something better. In its favor is diversity and an impressive 23 stories. Some outstanding additions to the gang this time around are Brian Hodge's look at the really dark side of Hollywood, Caitlin Kiernan with a steamy New Orleans setting, Mason Powell's L.A. noir, and Charles Ardai's violent, yet seductive John Woo-world. In noir, sex, death, and crime have consequences.
Actions have reactions.
The stories of Noirotica 2 don't all live up to this standard. As I warned before, this stuff is not for everyone and even those who can take it may prefer another aspect of the mix. Part of noir is also sheer entertainment and perhaps in this respect, the second volume works better than the first. Maybe the drink doesn't knock you on your ass like the first, but as long as Roche is setting 'em up, I'm delighted to keep downing 'em. Noirotica 2 is more than worth taking the trip to the dive.