Books Like...

Charlie Huston's 'Caught Stealing' follows the story of Hank Thompson, a bartender who unwittingly gets entangled in a dangerous situation after agreeing to watch his neighbor's cat. The plot unfolds rapidly as Hank is violently attacked, leading to a series of events that involve murder, a national manhunt, and a mysterious key that sets off a chain of violent encounters. The writing style is described as fast-paced, gritty, and raw, with elements of dark humor and intense action that keep the reader engaged throughout the story.

Lennon, a mute getaway driver, finds himself betrayed and left for dead after a bank heist goes wrong in Philadelphia. Determined to recover his stolen money, Lennon embarks on a mission to unravel the betrayal that leads him into a complex web involving the Russian and Italian mobs, a dirty cop, and other dangerous players. The fast-paced and adrenaline-fueled narrative twists and turns as Lennon navigates through a city engulfed in violence and crime.

'The Wheelman' by Duane Swierczynski is a gripping crime novel that delves into the consequences of a botched bank robbery and the ensuing chaos that ensues. With a likable anti-hero, unexpected plot twists, and a high body count, this book promises an engaging and thrilling read for fans of noir fiction and fast-paced action thrillers.

'Severance Package' by Duane Swierczynski is a fast-paced, action-packed thriller that follows a group of employees at a financial institution who are unexpectedly called into work on a Saturday only to find out they are part of a top-secret organization that must shut down, with each member ordered to die as part of the closure. The novel delves into themes of survival, betrayal, and desperation as the characters navigate a deadly game of escape and intrigue, set in a high-rise building rigged to prevent any chance of survival. Swierczynski's writing style is described as darkly comical, satirical, and engaging, with a relentless pacing that keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the unpredictable and illogical ending.

Deputy Billy Lafitte is a corrupt cop facing the consequences of his past actions while navigating through a plot filled with corruption, national disasters aftermath, and rogue government agents. The fast-paced and intense storyline keeps readers engaged as Lafitte struggles with his inner demons and faces off against ruthless antagonists, all set in the desolate, snowy landscapes of rural Minnesota.

The Dawn Patrol by Don Winslow is a suspenseful tale that delves into the surfing culture of Southern California through the eyes of Boone Daniels, a former police officer turned private investigator. The story follows Boone as he navigates a case involving a missing witness and the allure of massive waves hitting the coast. The book captures the essence of the surfer lifestyle, intertwining it with a solid suspense story that immerses readers in the unique world of surfers and their camaraderie.

Winslow skillfully weaves together elements of crime, mystery, and surf culture to create a captivating narrative that keeps readers engaged. Through Boone Daniels and his surfing buddies, the book explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and adventure while also delving into the darker underbelly of the San Diego region. The writing style is described as fast-paced, lyrical, and engaging, making it a compelling read for those interested in a blend of surf culture and crime fiction.

"California Fire and Life" by Don Winslow is a thrilling mystery novel that follows the story of Jack Wade, an investigator for California Fire and Life, as he delves into a suspicious fire involving the Russian mafia, shady characters, and a multi-million dollar insurance claim. The book is praised for its fast-paced action, intricate plot twists, and detailed exploration of fire investigations, California real estate, and the criminal underworld. Winslow's writing style is described as engaging, with short, smartass chapters that keep readers hooked and an offbeat narrative voice that adds a unique flair to the storytelling.

The Shotgun Rule by Charlie Huston is a gritty and intense coming-of-age novel set in the early 80s, following a group of teenage delinquents who stumble upon a dangerous situation involving a meth lab run by Hispanic criminals. The story delves into themes of violence, drug use, dysfunctional families, and the harsh realities of American life, all portrayed through authentic dialogue, complex characters, and a nonlinear narrative style that keeps readers on edge until the climactic ending.

'Greenwich Killing Time' by Kinky Friedman is a hilariously eccentric mystery novel that follows the adventures of the author himself as a private investigator in a cocaine-fueled thrill ride. The book features quirky characters like McGovern, Weasel, and whiskey, all making their way through Vandam amidst nightmares and old-timey noir language. Despite the standard mystery formula of solving crimes, the book is filled with twists, turns, interesting characters, and a touch of Chandler-esque pulp fiction.

The writing style of 'Greenwich Killing Time' is described as witty, entertaining, and filled with old-timey noir language, creating a fun and engaging read. Kinky Friedman's unique storytelling approach, blending humor and mystery, sets the stage for a series that is both audacious and captivating, with a touch of irreverence and political incorrectness that adds to the charm of the narrative.

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.