Books Like...
'A Clean Kill in Tokyo' follows the life of John Rain, a complex character who is a skilled assassin with a troubled past. Set in the intriguing backdrop of Japan, the story delves into Rain's personal struggles, his meticulous techniques to avoid detection, and the intricate web of relationships he navigates. The plot unfolds with twists and turns, involving corrupt politics, a dangerous romance, and a mission that puts Rain in the crosshairs of various adversaries. Barry Eisler's writing style vividly portrays the essence of Tokyo, incorporating detailed descriptions of the city's environment, culture, and customs, while keeping the narrative engaging and suspenseful.
If you liked A Clean Kill in Tokyo, here are the top 100 books to read next:
- #1
Save:In 'The Hunter' by Tom Wood, readers are introduced to Victor, a highly trained assassin who finds himself in a perilous situation when he becomes the target of his enemies. The book is filled with high-octane action, intense fight sequences, and a fast-paced plot that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The story follows Victor as he navigates through a dangerous world where he must outwit not only his enemies but also other skilled assassins and intelligence agencies.
'The Hunter' by Tom Wood is praised for its gripping narrative, well-rounded characters, and detailed descriptions of the world of contract killing. The book delves into Victor's psyche, portraying him as a complex character who lives by a strict set of rules to survive in a brutal and unforgiving profession. With elements of suspense, intrigue, and authenticity in tradecraft, the novel keeps readers engaged from start to finish, offering a thrilling and adrenaline-filled reading experience.
The target looked older than in the photographs. The glow from the streetlight accentuated the deep lines in his face and pallid, almost sickly complexion. To Victor the man seemed on edge, either hig... - #2
Save:The Gray Man by Mark Greaney is a fast-paced thriller following Courtland Gentry, a former CIA operative turned legendary assassin known as The Gray Man. Hunted for an assassination he committed, Court finds himself in a high-stakes game of cat and mouse with elite forces from around the world. The book is filled with non-stop action, improbable scenarios, and a plot that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Greaney's writing style is described as character-driven, with a focus on intense action sequences and a plot that hooks readers from the first page.
Just under a mile away, Gentry pulled off the road, turned into a dry streambed, and forced the Land Rover as deep as possible into the tall brown river grasses. He climbed out of the truck and raced ... - #3
Save:Orphan X follows the story of Evan Smoak, a former government assassin turned vigilante, who helps people in distress while living a secretive lifestyle. However, his past catches up to him, leading to an exciting game of cat and mouse where Smoak must outwit his pursuers to survive. The book is described as a fast-paced thriller filled with action, violence, and unexpected twists, reminiscent of characters like Jack Reacher and Jason Bourne. The plot revolves around Evan's unique set of skills, his mysterious background, and his transformation from a trained killer to a protector of the vulnerable.
The writing style of Orphan X is praised for its engaging storytelling, likable characters, and intense suspense that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The book is noted for its intricate plot, well-developed characters, and a blend of action, adventure, and intrigue. While some readers find the premise familiar, they appreciate the execution, the character growth of Evan Smoak, and the non-stop pace of the narrative that makes it a compelling and enjoyable read.
The slice on his forearm had occurred during an altercation at a truck stop. He usually didn’t like to get involved with anything or anyone outside his missions, but there had been a fifteen-year-old ... - #4
Save:"Hit Man" by Lawrence Block follows the life of John Keller, a semi-retired hitman who seeks meaning in his life through therapy sessions, dog walking, stamp collecting, and navigating relationships. Despite his profession, Keller is portrayed as a relatable and somewhat mundane character, engaging in introspection and everyday activities while carrying out his deadly assignments. is structured as a collection of short stories that gradually weave together to form a novel narrative, showcasing Keller's complexities, quirks, and moral dilemmas in a noir and humorous tone.
Lawrence Block's writing style in "Hit Man" is characterized as light, enjoyable, and laid back, drawing readers into Keller's world of contract killings with a touch of dark humor and dry wit. The episodic nature of the book allows for the gradual development of Keller's character, as he navigates through his job as a hitman while attempting to connect with humanity through mundane activities and introspective musings. The novel presents Keller as an enigmatic figure who challenges traditional perceptions of hitmen by blending elements of mystery, humor, and character study.
Keller flew United to Portland. He read a magazine on the leg from JFK to O’Hare, ate lunch on the ground, and watched the movie on the nonstop flight from Chicago to Portland. It was a quarter to thr... - #5
Save:'Transfer of Power' in the Mitch Rapp series by Vince Flynn is a high-octane political thriller where the White House is taken over by terrorists, leaving over 100 hostages and the president trapped inside. It's up to Mitch Rapp, the CIA's top counterterrorism operative, to lead a stealthy rescue mission and regain control. The story is filled with action-packed sequences, espionage, and political intrigue, showcasing the heroism of Rapp and the intense battle between good and evil. The writing style is described as fast-paced, engaging, and rich in detail, keeping readers on the edge of their seats throughout the book.
A FINE MIST fell from the darkening spring sky as the black limousine turned off of E Street. The armor-plated car weaved through the concrete-and-steel barricades at a speed suggesting urgency. As th... - #6
Save:In "The Kill Artist" by Daniel Silva, readers are introduced to Gabriel Allon, a retired Mossad agent turned art restorer, who is pulled back into the world of espionage to hunt down a Palestinian terrorist responsible for the death of his family. The book delves into the complexities of the Israel-Palestine conflict, intertwining international politics with spy intrigue. Silva's writing style is praised for its fast-paced action, intricate plot twists, and well-developed characters, setting the stage for a gripping spy thriller series.
Before the war Maurice Halévy was one of the most prominent lawyers in Marseilles. He and his wife, Rachel, had lived in a stately old house on the rue Sylvabelle in the Beaux Quartiers, where most of... - #7
Save:This book follows the story of an American doctor, Christine Palmer, who rescues an assassin named David Slaton from the Atlantic Ocean after a shipwreck. As Christine discovers David's true identity, a lethal Israeli assassin, she becomes entangled in a web of conspiracies and danger. The plot is filled with mystery, suspense, murder, devious twists, and even a touch of romance, keeping readers glued to the pages. The narrative unfolds with David being hunted down by various assassins and authorities, all while trying to uncover the truth behind a secret mission gone wrong involving nuclear weapons.
The writing style in this book is praised for its captivating storytelling, well-developed characters, intricate intrigue, and fast-paced action. Ward Larsen's attention to detail and ability to keep the plot engaging with clever phrases and well-timed revelations make this espionage thriller a compelling read for fans of the genre.
Christine Palmer saw it right on schedule, a waxing three-quarters moon on the horizon. Bright and beautiful in its own right, the moon began lifting up toward the stars for what would certainly be an... - #8
Save:'The Drifter' by Nicholas Petrie follows the story of Peter Ash, a Marine veteran suffering from PTSD who returns home to help the widow of his former Sergeant. As Peter uncovers a terrorist plot while doing repairs on the widow's house, he finds himself entangled in a dangerous situation involving a large sum of money, a mangy dog, and explosives. The book is praised for its well-written plot full of twists and turns, engaging characters, and a climactic ending that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
The writing style of 'The Drifter' is noted for its fast pace, intricate plotline, and complex character development. Readers appreciate the depth of the characters, especially Peter Ash, and the way the author delves into the challenges faced by returning veterans. The book effectively combines elements of suspense, thriller, and noir genres, offering a gritty and emotional narrative that sheds light on the struggles of veterans and the impact of war on individuals.
The hundred-year-old house sat on a narrow lot on the edge of a battered Milwaukee neighborhood that, like the house, had seen better days. It was early November, not warm, not even by Wisconsin stand... Shibumi by Trevanian is a geopolitical thriller featuring one of the most blatant Gary Stu characters outside of James Bond. The story revolves around Nicholai Hel, a European with Asian consciousness, who is the world's most wanted man and an accomplished assassin. The plot delves into themes of international espionage, personal excellence, and the battle between ruthless power and corruption. The writing style includes well-researched and convincing details about post-war Japan, Go, caving, and the Basque Pyrenees, alongside offensive cultural stereotyping and elitist pontificating on living a worthwhile life.
Joke? It damn well better notbe a joke, I shit thee not! If anything has gone wrong, my ass will be grass. And if the slightest little thing iswrong, you can bet your danglees that Mr. Diamond and his...- #10
Save:Burke is a detective and con artist in New York City with a soft spot for cases involving abused children. When a mysterious woman named Flood hires him to track down a child killer for revenge, Burke delves into the gritty streets filled with memorable characters like The Mole and street corner prophets. Written in a hard-boiled noir style, "Flood" by Andrew Vachss follows Burke's journey through the dark underbelly of the city, tackling themes of child abuse and vigilantism.
I GOT TO the office early that morning-I think it was about ten o’clock. As soon as the dog saw it was me, she walked over to the back door and I let her out. I went outside with her as far as the fir...
