Books Like...

The Last Gifts of the Universe by Riley August is a lighthearted sci-fi adventure that revolves around two siblings, Scout and Kieran, and their cat, Pumpkin. As space archaeologists, they traverse the galaxy searching for lost knowledge from ancient civilizations, battling corporate greed along the way. The world-building is efficient and straightforward, providing just enough detail to immerse readers without overshadowing the central emotional narrative. The story artfully blends humor with poignant moments of grief, love, and the inevitability of loss, making it both a fun and deeply resonant read.

August's writing style is engaging, capturing a range of emotions from joy to sorrow, while maintaining a clear and relatable voice. The characters are well-developed and relatable, drawing readers into their journeys and the captivating dynamics they share. The book's pacing keeps the narrative moving swiftly, presenting a blend of exploration and discovery, culminating in a thought-provoking portrayal of life and death. Despite some readers feeling the ending was abrupt, the emotional depth leaves a lasting impression, reinforcing the themes of hope and connection.

Lady Eve's Last Con by Rebecca Fraimow is a genre mashup of science fiction, romance, and screwball comedy that follows Ruthi Johnson, a con artist seeking revenge on Esteban Mendez Yuki for abandoning her kid sister. Ruthi plans to con Esteban out of his family fortune by posing as a provincial debutante Evelyn Ojukwu. However, Ruthi's plan takes an unexpected turn when she catches the eye of Esteban's sister, Sol, leading to a series of events that challenge Ruthi's schemes and ultimately drive the plot forward. The book is described as witty, humorous, and zany, with elements of heisting, grifting, and worldbuilding that keep the story engaging and fast-paced.

Rebecca Fraimow's writing style in Lady Eve's Last Con is praised for its ability to blend classic works of science fiction with different historical eras, creating a unique setting that sparks the imagination without overwhelming the reader. The author navigates the sapphic romance between the characters in a way that feels real and attainable to 21st-century readers, while also incorporating elements of diasporic Jewish identity, queer normativity, and commentary on consumerism. The plot is driven by suspense and unexpected twists, keeping readers engaged as they follow Ruthi's journey of revenge and redemption.

'The Heist' in the Fox and O'Hare series by Janet Evanovich and Lee Goldberg follows the story of a conman named Nick Fox who is caught by the FBI but is given the opportunity to continue his thieving ways with the assistance of FBI agent Kate O'Hare. The plot revolves around their partnership and the various capers they embark on, transitioning from a heist-focused narrative to more of an action-packed storyline as the series progresses. The writing style is described as light-hearted, funny, and easy to read, with elements of humor and entertainment that keep readers engaged throughout the book.

'Portrait of a Thief' by Grace D. Li is a novel that delves into the complexities of diaspora, family, and big dreams. The story follows a group of college students on a mission to reclaim stolen art and return it to its country of origin. The book explores themes of identity, struggles with familial expectations, and the impact of colonialism on Chinese Americans. Through a mix of suspenseful heists and introspective moments, the characters navigate friendship, ambition, and the pursuit of justice, all while grappling with their own imperfections and the weight of their heritage.

'The Town' by Chuck Hogan is a gripping crime novel that delves into themes of brotherhood, loyalty, and the complexities of human relationships. The story follows a group of men involved in criminal activities in a close-knit community, creating a sense of camaraderie and tension among the characters. The writing style is praised for its ability to immerse readers in the world of the story, with well-developed characters and a fast-paced plot that keeps the reader engaged throughout.

The author, Chuck Hogan, crafts a narrative that not only explores the thrilling aspects of crime and action but also delves into the emotional depth of the characters. Through vivid descriptions and sharp dialogue, Hogan creates a sense of realism that allows readers to connect with the protagonists on a deeper level. is described as a rollercoaster ride of emotions, challenging the reader's perceptions of morality and loyalty while keeping them on the edge of their seats with its heart-pounding suspense.

Prince of Thieves by Chuck Hogan is a character-driven novel set in Charlestown, Boston, following the life of Doug, an ex-convict and bank robber, as he navigates his forbidden love for Claire, a bank manager. The book delves into Doug's internal struggles, growth, and his complex relationships with his crew members, the town of Charlestown, and the FBI agent pursuing them. The writing style is described as clean, smart, and insightful, with a focus on character development and the gritty atmosphere of the working-class neighborhood.

'Heat 2' by Meg Gardiner and Michael Mann is a gripping novel that serves as both a prequel and a sequel to the iconic movie 'Heat'. The story intertwines the lives of familiar characters like Neil McCauley, Vincent Hanna, and Chris Shiherlis, providing new insights into their pasts and futures. The writing style captures the essence of the original film, with vivid descriptions and intense action scenes that keep the readers on the edge of their seats. The book expertly weaves together multiple timelines, creating a complex yet engaging narrative that adds depth to the characters and the storyline.

Malibu Burning by Lee Goldberg is a fast-paced caper novel that follows the story of master thief Danny Cole seeking revenge by using a wildfire to loot rich people's homes. The book introduces two new series characters, arson investigators Walter Sharpe and Andrew Walker, who must stop Cole's elaborate scheme while navigating through the chaos of out-of-control California wildfires. The plot intertwines between Cole's planning and executing the heist and Sharpe and Walker's pursuit, culminating in a deadly climax in a fire-ravaged area.

The writing style in Malibu Burning is described as engaging, with vivid descriptions of fires that evoke both horror and beauty. The book delves into the challenges faced by firefighters, the intricacies of arson investigations, and the dynamic between law enforcement and criminals. The characters are depicted as likable and multi-dimensional, with entertaining dialogues and an over-the-top yet suspenseful narrative that keeps readers engaged till the very end.

The Hot Rock by Donald Westlake is a comedic heist novel featuring John Dortmunder and his crew of New York robbers. The plot revolves around Dortmunder and his team attempting to steal a priceless gem, but due to a series of mishaps, they end up having to pull off multiple heists to secure the jewel. The writing style is described as funny, engaging, and fast-paced, with quirky and eccentric characters adding to the humor and entertainment value of the story. The book offers a series of capers that keep readers engaged, with each attempt to steal the gem resulting in unexpected twists and turns.

The Sacred Art of Stealing by Christopher Brookmyre is a crime novel that revolves around DI de Xavier, a police officer involved in an unusual bank robbery. The book is described as a captivating and surprisingly believable story, with an ingeniously complicated plot that keeps the readers rooting for characters who might be considered as 'baddies'. The writing style is wry, darkly funny, and brilliantly evokes the local scenery of Glasgow, where the story is set.