Books Like...

Killshot by Elmore Leonard is a fast-paced thriller involving two criminals: Armand Degas, a half Ojibway Indian hitman known as the Blackbird, and Richie Nix, a not so bright redneck. The story unfolds as they team up for a scam that goes awry, involving an ironworker and his wife who inadvertently get caught up in the events. The plot is described as real and unpredictable, driven by human impulse and chance, creating suspense and leaving the reader guessing about the characters' fates.

Elmore Leonard's writing style in Killshot is praised for its matter-of-fact approach and evocative storytelling, making the characters' emotions and actions feel real and engaging. The book is noted for its well-drawn characters, fast-paced narrative, and a plot that is a cut above most in the genre. The dialogue and characterizations are highlighted as particularly strong, with Leonard's ability to create vivid and relatable characters being a standout feature of the book.

'Ivory Pearl' by Jean-Patrick Manchette follows the story of Ivory Pearl, a professional photographer known for her daring adventures in various war zones. The book is set in the year 1956 and portrays Ivory Pearl as a strong, resourceful, and intelligent woman who navigates through dangerous situations with bravery. The plot thickens as the story unfolds, involving characters like Victor Maurer, Aaron Black, and a series of high-stake events that keep the pace fast and adventurous. Despite being an unfinished work, the novel promises a gripping narrative that delves into espionage, revolutions, and uprisings of the post-WWII era.

The writing style of 'Ivory Pearl' is noted for its detailed descriptions, meticulous research, and the incorporation of various elements like brand name products, jazz music, and references to other literary works. The book offers a blend of hard-boiled crime fiction and international thriller, showcasing Manchette's ability to craft a complex yet engaging storyline with well-developed characters.

'Raylan' by Elmore Leonard follows the adventures of US Marshal Raylan Givens as he navigates through various criminal cases in Kentucky. From high-stakes poker games to kidney-stealing rings and bank robberies, the book intertwines multiple storylines with familiar characters from the Justified series. The writing style captures the essence of the TV show, with snappy dialogue and fast-paced action blending seamlessly into a modern western backdrop.

features a trio of interconnected stories involving female villains, each with their criminal projects, entwined with Raylan's pursuit of justice. The plot includes elements from previous books in the series and the TV show, creating a cohesive narrative that showcases Leonard's signature storytelling style. The character of Raylan Givens is portrayed as a sharp-witted and compassionate lawman, dealing with a range of criminals while maintaining his own sense of justice and integrity.

In Leonard's mystery novel, three con men team together to kidnap retired Miami bookie Harry Arno, who is expected to come up with the ransom money to secure his own release. Federal marshal Raylan Givens is recruited by Harry's ex-girlfriend to rescue him and is in hot pursuit of the criminals racing against time. The book features quirky and amusing characters, snappy dialogue, oddball characters, and an unexpected denouement. The story unfolds with originality, entertaining scenes, and excellent use of dialogue, described with cinematic preciseness.

Raylan Givens, a U.S. Marshal with a strong sense of loyalty and moral code, is depicted working to save Harry from the dimwitted kidnappers. The plot involves a cast of interesting characters, including a psychic named Rev. Dawn Navarro, adding depth and intrigue to the narrative. The book presents a fast-paced crime thriller written by a master, with an engaging storyline and a mix of suspense, humor, and unexpected twists.

Pagan Babies by Elmore Leonard is a crime novel set against the backdrop of the genocide in Rwanda. The story follows Father Terry Dunn, a fake priest, who returns to Detroit from Rwanda with a plan to raise money for Rwandan orphans. Teaming up with Debbie Dewey, a recently released convict, they embark on a scheme involving swindling money from Debbie's ex-boyfriend and getting entangled with the local Mafia. The book is praised for its fast-paced plot, well-drawn characters, and the unique setting of post-genocide Rwanda.

'Freaky Deaky' by Elmore Leonard is a fast-paced crime novel set in 1980s Detroit. The plot revolves around a group of ex-radicals and bombers who are now involved in scamming a rich individual. The story is filled with twists, extortion, bombings, and double-crossings, all intricately woven together. Leonard's writing style is described as precise, intricate, and quick, with every character feeling alive and believable. is known for its ironic humor, engaging dialogues, and a web of crime that enmeshes all the characters.

Nada by Jean-Patrick Manchette is a gritty crime novel set in Paris. The plot follows an eclectic group of anarchist terrorists who decide to kidnap the American ambassador during his visit to a brothel. As tensions rise, the characters reveal their conflicting ideologies and grow increasingly disillusioned with their mission, leading to chaotic internal conflicts and a dark conclusion. Throughout the story, Manchette incorporates sharp social and political commentary, reflecting the turmoil of 1970s France.

Manchette's writing style is concise and impactful, offering a fast-paced narrative filled with tension and realism. He avoids glorifying his characters, presenting them as flawed misfits driven by rage rather than noble ideals. This creates a sense of authenticity and darkness in the story. With little embellishment, Manchette's prose pulls readers into a raw and brutal world. The novel’s short length and intense storytelling make it a compelling read, emphasizing existential themes and absurdity within the anarchic backdrop.

Rum Punch by Elmore Leonard is a crime novel that intricately weaves the lives of its flawed characters into a captivating plot. At the center is Jackie Burke, a flight stewardess ensnared in the dangerous world of drug dealing, as she navigates her way out of trouble with the help of a bondsman and others involved in her plight. The storytelling is both complex and straightforward, with Leonard's signature dialogue-driven style allowing readers to engage deeply with the characters and their motivations.

Joe LaBrava, a former Secret Service agent turned photographer, reconnects with an aging movie star, Jean Shaw, who he idolized as a child. Set in Miami, the story unfolds as LaBrava suspects that Shaw is being targeted for extortion by Miami thugs. As the plot thickens, involving kidnapping, extortion, and murder, LaBrava finds himself entangled in a dangerous web of deceit and intrigue. The narrative is filled with tight dialogues, well-crafted scenes reminiscent of a movie, and a plot that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Elmore Leonard's writing style shines through, capturing the essence of film noir cinema and delivering a story that is both nostalgic and engaging.

"Maximum Bob" by Elmore Leonard is a humorous and quirky crime fiction novel set in Florida, revolving around Judge Bob Gibbs, known for handing out maximum sentences to convicts. The plot involves a cast of colorful characters, including Bob's new age wife, a group of criminals and losers, and an alligator placed in his backyard as part of a scheme to get rid of his wife. The story unfolds with misadventures, justice, and unexpected twists typical of Leonard's writing style.