Books Like...

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.

'Ghostman' by Roger Hobbs follows the story of a career criminal known as Ghostman, who specializes in helping crew members disappear after heists. The protagonist, Jack, is a master of transforming his identity and lives off the grid. The novel begins with a botched casino heist in Atlantic City, setting the stage for a suspenseful narrative that alternates between Jack's search in Atlanta and the backstory of a failed heist in Kuala Lumpur. Despite being a criminal, Jack is portrayed as a methodical and calculating character who navigates dangerous situations with cold-blooded precision.

The writing style of 'Ghostman' is described as taut, action-packed, and filled with detailed information about weapons, criminals, and heists. The narrative structure keeps the reader engaged by intertwining two heists and providing flashbacks to deepen the storylines. The protagonist's ability to maintain multiple identities and his expertise in criminal tradecraft add layers of complexity to the plot, making it a fast-paced and intriguing thriller.

'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.

'UNSUB' by Meg Gardiner follows Detective Caitlin Hendrix as she faces the return of a notorious serial killer known as The Prophet, who terrorized the Bay Area decades ago. Caitlin, determined to succeed where her father failed, navigates through a series of gruesome murders and cryptic clues left behind by the killer. The plot is intense, gritty, and suspenseful, keeping readers on edge with its detailed storytelling and well-developed characters. The writing style is described as intricately detailed, suspenseful, and engaging, making it difficult for readers to put the book down.

'Once Upon a Time in Hollywood' by Quentin Tarantino is a novelization of his own movie, offering an in-depth exploration of the main characters' backstories such as the stuntman Cliff Booth and the washed-up TV star Rick Dalton. Tarantino delves into Hollywood history, intertwining real events and characters with his fictional creations. The book provides additional scenes, thoughts, and memories of the characters, altering some aspects from the film and allowing readers to appreciate both versions for their unique qualities.

The writing style in 'Once Upon a Time in Hollywood' is described as raw, entertaining, and at times loose and aimless. Tarantino's novel captures the essence of a bygone era of Hollywood, immersing readers in the 1960s film industry with detailed descriptions of places, sounds, and even Hollywood gossip. The book is praised for its ability to bring the characters to life, particularly Cliff Booth, and for its compelling storytelling that reflects Tarantino's passion for cinema and storytelling.

'The Force' by Don Winslow is a gritty crime fiction novel that delves into the corrupt world of the NYPD, focusing on Detective Sergeant Denny Malone and his elite task force in Manhattan North. The story follows Malone's descent from a respected cop to a dirty officer involved in corruption, drugs, and violence. The plot unfolds through flashbacks, showcasing the blurred lines between good and bad, as well as the impact of corruption on individuals and the system. The writing style is described as detailed, compelling, and immersive, painting a vivid picture of the seedy underbelly of New York City.

In "City on Fire" by Don Winslow, the author takes readers back to his roots in Rhode Island, where the Italian and Irish mobs in Providence are locked in a semi-war. The plot involves a crooked FBI agent, mob violence, and a complex web of family ties and criminal activities. The writing style is described as gritty, human, and enthralling, reminiscent of Winslow's previous works like the Power of the Dog trilogy, with a focus on realistic language and actions.

'The Getaway' by Jim Thompson follows the story of Doc McCoy and his wife, Carol, as they attempt to escape after a bank robbery goes awry. The narrative explores themes of desperation, betrayal, and violence as the couple navigates a dangerous journey to evade the law and their criminal associates. The writing style is described as dark, unglamorous, and deeply nihilistic, portraying a gritty and realistic depiction of crime and its consequences.

The Gardner Heist by Ulrich Boser is a nonfiction book that delves into the story of one of the largest unsolved art thefts in history. Set in 1990 at the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in Boston, the book narrates how two men disguised as police officers stole 13 paintings and various artifacts, leaving behind a mystery that remains unsolved to this day. Through a mix of historical background on Boston, the museum, and the enigmatic Isabella Gardner herself, along with interviews with shady characters and art theft history, Boser weaves a compelling narrative that captivates readers interested in the world of art crime.

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.