Would this book have ever gotten published without the TV show to build a fan-base first? Probably not.

Does that stop it from being a very fun and very, very cheesy read? Definitely not.

The ghost writer of the book does a good job writing a novel in a style that seems to fit Richard Castle's character. So for fans of the show, I would recommend this book. For people who've not watched the show and are just looking to read a good mystery? Go try some Nero Wolfe.