James Lee Burke

James Lee Burke is an American author known for his crime novels, particularly the Dave Robicheaux series. He has won numerous awards for his work, including Edgar Awards for Best Novel.

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. The Neon Rain

    This novel introduces readers to a hard-nosed detective navigating the gritty underbelly of New Orleans. The protagonist finds himself embroiled in a complex web of murder, corruption, and betrayal after discovering the body of a young woman. As he delves deeper into the investigation, he encounters a range of dangerous characters, from drug lords to rogue agents, all set against the evocative backdrop of the Louisiana bayou. The detective's pursuit of justice is not only a quest to solve the murder but also a personal journey that forces him to confront his own demons and the dark side of the human soul.

    The 6472nd Greatest Book of All Time
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  2. 2. The Tin Roof Blowdown

    In this gripping novel, the narrative delves into the chaotic aftermath of Hurricane Katrina as it ravages New Orleans, exposing the city's darkest corners and the resilience of its inhabitants. Through the eyes of a dedicated detective, the story explores a complex web of crime, survival, and morality amidst the floodwaters that have consumed the city. The detective navigates the treacherous, lawless landscape in pursuit of justice, encountering a diverse cast of characters who each, in their own way, represent the human condition in the face of disaster. The novel is a poignant reflection on tragedy, redemption, and the indomitable human spirit.

    The 9611th Greatest Book of All Time
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  3. 3. A Private Cathedral

    Set in the hauntingly atmospheric backdrop of Louisiana, this gripping tale follows detective Dave Robicheaux as he navigates a world filled with corruption, vengeance, and supernatural elements. As he delves into a decades-old feud between two crime families, Robicheaux encounters a mysterious hitman with seemingly otherworldly powers. The narrative weaves through themes of love, redemption, and the eternal struggle between good and evil, all while exploring the depths of human nature and the shadows that lurk within. With its rich, lyrical prose and complex characters, the story is a mesmerizing journey into the heart of darkness.

    The 15563rd Greatest Book of All Time
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  4. 4. Cadillac Jukebox

    A Dave Robicheaux Novel

    In this gripping crime novel, a Louisiana sheriff's deputy, Dave Robicheaux, finds himself entangled in a complex web of political corruption, racial tension, and personal vendettas. As he investigates the murder of a local civil rights leader, Robicheaux uncovers a sinister conspiracy involving powerful figures who will stop at nothing to protect their secrets. Amidst the sultry backdrop of the Deep South, he must navigate a dangerous landscape of deceit and violence, confronting his own demons while seeking justice for the victim. The story weaves together themes of morality, redemption, and the enduring struggle for truth.

    The 17130th Greatest Book of All Time
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  5. 5. Swan Peak

    A Dave Robicheaux Novel

    In this gripping novel, former detective Dave Robicheaux and his longtime friend Clete Purcel find themselves entangled in a web of violence and corruption while vacationing in the Montana wilderness. As they seek solace from their troubled pasts, they are drawn into a brutal investigation involving a wealthy oil family, a sadistic killer, and a series of mysterious deaths. The story weaves themes of redemption, justice, and the enduring scars of trauma, set against the backdrop of the rugged and hauntingly beautiful landscape, as Robicheaux and Purcel confront their own demons while seeking to unravel the dark secrets threatening to destroy them.

  6. 6. The Day The Universe Changed

    This book explores the profound impact of scientific and technological advancements on human perception and society throughout history. It delves into pivotal moments when new discoveries reshaped the way people understood the world and their place within it. By examining a series of transformative events, the narrative illustrates how shifts in knowledge and innovation have continuously altered cultural, philosophical, and social landscapes, ultimately influencing the course of human progress and the collective consciousness.

  7. 7. Robicheaux

    In this gripping Southern noir, a haunted detective grapples with the demons of his past while navigating the murky waters of crime and corruption in the bayous of Louisiana. As he investigates a series of brutal murders, he is forced to confront his own inner turmoil and the ghosts that linger from his days in Vietnam. With a rich tapestry of complex characters and a vivid depiction of the Deep South, the story delves into themes of redemption, justice, and the enduring scars of trauma, all set against the backdrop of a world where morality is as elusive as the mist over the swamp.

  8. 8. Feast Day Of Fools

    Set against the harsh and unforgiving backdrop of the Texas-Mexico border, this gripping tale weaves a complex narrative of crime, redemption, and moral ambiguity. The story follows Sheriff Hackberry Holland as he navigates a labyrinth of violence and corruption, driven by the discovery of a tortured man in the desert. As Holland delves deeper into the investigation, he encounters a cast of morally conflicted characters, each with their own secrets and motivations. The novel explores themes of justice, humanity, and the eternal struggle between good and evil, all while painting a vivid picture of the rugged landscape and its impact on the souls who inhabit it.

  9. 9. Crusader's Cross

    A Dave Robicheaux Novel

    Set against the sultry backdrop of Louisiana, this gripping tale follows detective Dave Robicheaux as he becomes embroiled in a decades-old mystery involving a missing woman and a web of deceit. When a chance encounter with a dying man reveals secrets from the past, Robicheaux is drawn into a dangerous investigation that threatens to unravel his own life. As he navigates the murky waters of corruption and betrayal, he must confront his own demons and the haunting memories of a love lost. The narrative weaves together themes of redemption, justice, and the enduring power of the past, creating a rich tapestry of suspense and intrigue.

  10. 10. Rain Gods

    Set against the backdrop of the rugged Texas landscape, this gripping narrative follows the journey of Hackberry Holland, a seasoned sheriff, as he delves into a chilling case involving the brutal murder of nine illegal immigrants. As he navigates a world rife with corruption, violence, and moral ambiguity, Holland encounters a cast of complex characters, including a ruthless hitman and a mysterious woman with a dark past. The story weaves together themes of redemption, justice, and the haunting echoes of past sins, creating a tense and atmospheric exploration of human nature and the relentless pursuit of truth.

  11. 11. To The Bright And Shining Sun

    Set against the backdrop of the Appalachian coal mining community in the 1960s, this compelling narrative follows the life of a young man named Perry Woodson Hatfield James. Struggling with the harsh realities of poverty, labor strikes, and familial tensions, Perry navigates a world rife with conflict and change. As he grapples with his identity and the legacy of his family's past, Perry's journey is one of resilience and self-discovery, capturing the essence of human endurance and the pursuit of a brighter future amidst adversity.

  12. 12. Jesus Out To Sea

    This collection of short stories delves into the lives of ordinary people facing extraordinary challenges, set against the backdrop of the American South and New Orleans. Through vivid and evocative prose, the narratives explore themes of loss, redemption, and the enduring human spirit in the face of adversity. Each story is a poignant reflection on the complexities of life, capturing moments of beauty and despair with a raw, emotional depth that resonates long after the last page is turned.

  13. 13. In The Moon Of Red Ponies

    Set against the rugged backdrop of Montana, this gripping tale follows former Texas Ranger Billy Bob Holland as he navigates a web of corruption, vengeance, and redemption. When a Native American activist is released from prison, a series of violent events unfolds, threatening the fragile peace of the community. As Billy Bob delves deeper into the mystery, he confronts his own demons and the moral complexities of justice. With a rich tapestry of characters and a haunting exploration of human nature, the story weaves a suspenseful narrative that challenges the boundaries between right and wrong.

  14. 14. Heartwood

    Set in the rugged landscapes of Texas, this gripping tale follows the journey of Billy Bob Holland, a former Texas Ranger turned lawyer, as he navigates a web of deceit, corruption, and murder. When a local man is accused of stealing a valuable artifact from a wealthy and influential family, Billy Bob finds himself entangled in a complex case that challenges his moral compass and tests his resolve. As he delves deeper into the investigation, he uncovers dark secrets and hidden motives that threaten to unravel the fabric of the community, forcing him to confront his own past and the haunting memories that linger in his heart.

  15. 15. White Doves At Morning

    Set against the tumultuous backdrop of the American Civil War, this gripping narrative weaves together the lives of several characters whose paths intersect in the Deep South. The story delves into the complexities of loyalty, love, and survival as it follows the journey of a Confederate soldier, a determined abolitionist, and a resilient young woman. As they navigate the brutal realities of war, their personal struggles and moral dilemmas reveal the enduring human spirit amidst the chaos of a nation divided. Through vivid storytelling and rich historical detail, the novel explores themes of redemption, sacrifice, and the enduring quest for justice.

  16. 16. The Lost Get Back Boogie

    Set against the rugged backdrop of Montana, this novel follows the journey of Iry Paret, a musician and ex-convict seeking redemption and a fresh start after serving time in Louisiana. As he navigates the complexities of life outside prison, Iry becomes entangled in the lives of the people he meets, including his best friend Buddy Riordan and Buddy's troubled family. The narrative explores themes of forgiveness, the struggle for personal freedom, and the haunting shadows of the past, all while capturing the raw beauty and harsh realities of the American West.

  17. 17. Cimarron Rose

    Set in the rugged landscape of Texas, this gripping tale follows a defense attorney and former Texas Ranger as he navigates the murky waters of justice and personal redemption. When his estranged son is accused of murder, he is thrust into a world of deceit, corruption, and long-buried secrets. As he battles to prove his son's innocence, he confronts his own haunted past and the moral complexities of the legal system, all while unraveling a web of intrigue that threatens to destroy everything he holds dear.

  18. 18. Sunset Limited

    A Dave Robicheaux Novel

    Set against the evocative backdrop of Louisiana's bayous, this gripping narrative follows detective Dave Robicheaux as he delves into a complex web of murder, betrayal, and long-buried secrets. When a local artist is found dead, Robicheaux is drawn into a world where the past and present collide, revealing the dark underbelly of Southern life. As he navigates through a landscape filled with colorful characters and moral ambiguities, he must confront his own demons while seeking justice in a world where truth is as elusive as the setting sun.

  19. 19. Burning Angel

    A Dave Robicheaux Novel

    Set in the sultry and atmospheric backdrop of Louisiana, this gripping tale follows detective Dave Robicheaux as he navigates a treacherous web of crime, corruption, and family secrets. When a local crime boss is found dead, Robicheaux is drawn into a complex investigation that uncovers a sinister plot involving a powerful crime syndicate and a mysterious, ancient artifact. As he delves deeper, he must confront his own demons and protect those he loves from the shadows of the past, all while battling the moral ambiguities that blur the line between justice and vengeance.

  20. 20. Last Car To Elysian Fields

    In this gripping tale set against the sultry backdrop of Louisiana, a seasoned detective finds himself entangled in a web of mystery and danger as he investigates the disappearance of a blues singer from the 1950s. As he delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a tapestry of corruption, betrayal, and long-buried secrets that threaten to unravel the lives of those involved. With atmospheric prose and a keen eye for the complexities of human nature, the story weaves a compelling narrative of redemption and justice, where the past and present collide in unexpected ways.

  21. 21. Pegasus Descending

    A Dave Robicheaux Novel

    In this gripping tale of crime and redemption, a troubled detective finds himself entangled in a web of deceit and violence in the sultry backdrop of Louisiana. Haunted by the ghosts of his past and driven by a relentless pursuit of justice, he navigates a labyrinth of corruption and betrayal, where every clue leads to more questions and danger lurks at every turn. As he delves deeper into the case, he must confront his own demons and make peace with the choices that have shaped his life, all while racing against time to uncover the truth and protect those he loves.

  22. 22. Jolie Blon's Bounce

    Set against the sultry backdrop of Louisiana, this gripping mystery follows Detective Dave Robicheaux as he delves into the brutal murder of a young girl, whose death is eerily linked to a series of other crimes. As he navigates the murky waters of corruption, racial tension, and personal demons, Robicheaux encounters a colorful cast of characters, including a washed-up musician and a sinister mobster. With his keen intuition and relentless pursuit of justice, he unravels a complex web of deceit, ultimately confronting the dark forces that threaten to consume him and his beloved bayou.

  23. 23. Dixie City Jam

    A Dave Robicheaux Novel

    Set against the sultry backdrop of New Orleans, this gripping tale follows the relentless detective Dave Robicheaux as he delves into a tangled web of crime and corruption. When a Nazi submarine is discovered off the Gulf Coast, it ignites a series of violent events that draw Robicheaux into a dangerous world of neo-Nazis, treasure hunters, and mobsters. As he navigates the murky waters of the past and present, Robicheaux must confront his own demons while seeking justice in a city where the line between right and wrong is often blurred.

  24. 24. In The Electric Mist With Confederate Dead

    Set against the haunting backdrop of Louisiana's bayous, this gripping mystery follows Detective Dave Robicheaux as he investigates a series of brutal murders that seem to be linked to a Hollywood film crew shooting in the area. As he delves deeper, Robicheaux is haunted by visions of Confederate soldiers and his own troubled past, blurring the lines between reality and the supernatural. With the help of his loyal friend, Clete Purcel, he navigates a web of corruption, betrayal, and long-buried secrets, ultimately confronting the ghosts that linger in both the misty swamps and his own soul.

  25. 25. Connections

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  26. 26. Every Cloak Rolled In Blood

    Set against the haunting backdrop of the American South, this poignant narrative delves into the depths of grief, redemption, and the supernatural. The protagonist, a seasoned writer, grapples with the recent loss of his beloved daughter, finding solace in the familiar yet eerie landscapes of his past. As he navigates the murky waters of sorrow, he encounters spectral figures and unsettling memories that blur the lines between reality and the otherworldly. Through a tapestry of vivid imagery and emotional depth, the story explores the enduring bonds of family, the weight of personal demons, and the quest for peace amidst chaos.

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  27. 27. Flags On The Bayou

    Set against the backdrop of the Civil War, this gripping narrative delves into the lives of a diverse cast of characters navigating the tumultuous landscape of Louisiana's bayous. As the war's chaos encroaches upon their lives, they grapple with issues of loyalty, morality, and survival. The story weaves together the perspectives of soldiers, slaves, and civilians, painting a vivid picture of a society on the brink of transformation. Through its rich, atmospheric prose, the tale explores the complexities of human nature and the enduring spirit of those caught in the crossfire of history.

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  28. 28. Black Cherry Blues

    Set against the backdrop of the American South, this gripping narrative follows the journey of a former New Orleans cop turned private investigator who is drawn into a web of murder, deceit, and redemption. Haunted by the ghosts of his past and the recent death of his wife, he finds himself embroiled in a dangerous investigation after a friend is accused of a brutal crime. As he delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a sinister conspiracy that stretches from the oil fields of Montana to the bayous of Louisiana, testing his resolve and challenging his moral compass at every turn.

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  29. 29. A Morning For Flamingos

    In this gripping installment of the Dave Robicheaux series, the resilient detective finds himself entangled in a web of danger and deceit as he navigates the murky waters of New Orleans' criminal underworld. After surviving a harrowing assassination attempt, he is reluctantly drawn back into the world of law enforcement, tasked with infiltrating a notorious drug ring. As he delves deeper into the case, Robicheaux must confront his own demons and grapple with the blurred lines between justice and vengeance, all while trying to protect those he loves from the shadows that threaten to consume them.

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  30. 30. A Stained White Radiance

    Set in the sultry and atmospheric backdrop of Louisiana, this gripping tale follows detective Dave Robicheaux as he delves into the murky world of family secrets and political corruption. When a brutal crime strikes close to home, Robicheaux is drawn into a web of deceit involving an old friend, a charismatic televangelist, and a former Klansman. As he navigates the dangerous waters of betrayal and redemption, he must confront his own demons and the haunting memories of his past. The narrative weaves together themes of justice, loyalty, and the enduring scars of history, creating a compelling and evocative mystery.

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  31. 31. House Of The Rising Sun

    Set against the backdrop of the early 20th century, this gripping narrative follows the tumultuous journey of Hackberry Holland, a former Texas Ranger with a troubled past. As he embarks on a relentless quest to find his estranged son, Hackberry becomes entangled in a web of violence, betrayal, and redemption. His path crosses with a ruthless arms dealer, a mysterious artifact, and a cast of vividly drawn characters, each with their own secrets and desires. The story weaves through the rugged landscapes of Texas and Mexico, exploring themes of love, loss, and the enduring struggle between good and evil.

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  32. 32. Heaven's Prisoners

    In this gripping tale of suspense and redemption, a former New Orleans detective, Dave Robicheaux, seeks solace in the quiet life of a bait shop owner in the Louisiana bayou. However, his peaceful existence is shattered when he rescues a young girl from a plane crash, inadvertently drawing him back into a world of crime and corruption. As he delves deeper into the mystery surrounding the crash, Robicheaux confronts his own demons while navigating a treacherous web of deceit, violence, and betrayal, ultimately discovering that the past is never truly behind him.

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  33. 33. Lay Down My Sword And Shield

    Set against the backdrop of the turbulent 1960s in Texas, this gripping narrative follows the journey of Hackberry Holland, a disillusioned Korean War veteran turned lawyer. As he navigates the complexities of his personal and professional life, Hackberry is drawn into a world of political corruption, racial tensions, and moral dilemmas. Struggling with his own demons and a haunting past, he embarks on a quest for justice and redemption, confronting the harsh realities of a society in turmoil. Through vivid storytelling and rich character development, the tale explores themes of identity, integrity, and the enduring fight for what is right.

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  34. 34. Don't Forget Me, Little Bessie

    Set against the backdrop of the American South, this poignant narrative delves into the complexities of family, memory, and redemption. The story follows a young girl as she navigates the turbulent waters of her past, grappling with the haunting memories of her childhood and the enduring impact of familial bonds. Through evocative prose and richly drawn characters, the tale explores themes of forgiveness and the enduring power of love, ultimately offering a hopeful glimpse into the possibility of healing and reconciliation.

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  35. 35. Another Kind Of Eden

    Set against the backdrop of the 1960s American West, this gripping tale follows Aaron Holland Broussard, a young drifter and aspiring writer, as he navigates the tumultuous landscape of a changing society. Haunted by the ghosts of his past and driven by a desire for redemption, Aaron finds himself entangled in a web of violence, love, and mystery. As he forms unexpected alliances and confronts dark forces, Aaron's journey becomes a poignant exploration of the human spirit's resilience and the quest for a place to call home.

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  36. 36. Clete

    Set against the backdrop of the gritty and atmospheric Louisiana landscape, this gripping narrative follows the tumultuous journey of a complex and tormented detective. As he grapples with his own demons and a haunting past, he becomes embroiled in a web of corruption, betrayal, and violence. With a keen sense of justice and a relentless pursuit of truth, he navigates the murky waters of crime and morality, confronting both external adversaries and his inner struggles. The story weaves a rich tapestry of suspense, emotion, and redemption, drawing readers into a world where the line between right and wrong is often blurred.

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  37. 37. Wayfaring Stranger

    Set against the backdrop of mid-20th century America, this novel weaves a rich tapestry of history, love, and redemption. The story follows Weldon Avery Holland, a World War II veteran, as he navigates the complexities of post-war life. After a chance encounter with the infamous Bonnie and Clyde during his youth, Weldon's life takes a series of unexpected turns, leading him to the oil fields of Texas and the glitzy world of Hollywood. Alongside his wife Rosita, he battles personal demons and external threats, all while seeking justice and meaning in a rapidly changing world. The narrative explores themes of resilience, the enduring scars of war, and the pursuit of the American Dream.

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  38. 38. The New Iberia Blues

    A Dave Robicheaux Novel

    In this gripping tale set against the evocative backdrop of Louisiana's bayous, a seasoned detective finds himself entangled in a complex web of murder, mysticism, and moral ambiguity. As he delves into the mysterious death of a young woman, he encounters a cast of enigmatic characters, each harboring secrets that blur the lines between good and evil. With haunting prose and a keen sense of place, the narrative explores themes of redemption, justice, and the enduring struggle between light and darkness, all while maintaining a relentless pace that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

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  39. 39. The Glass Rainbow

    In this gripping installment of the Dave Robicheaux series, the seasoned detective finds himself entangled in a web of corruption and murder in the heart of Louisiana. As he investigates the brutal deaths of seven young women, Robicheaux uncovers a sinister connection involving a wealthy family, a charismatic ex-convict, and a mysterious author. With the help of his loyal friend, Clete Purcel, he navigates a landscape of moral ambiguity and personal demons, all while confronting the haunting specters of his past. The narrative weaves a tale of suspense and redemption, exploring the dark underbelly of human nature and the enduring quest for justice.

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  40. 41. The Axemaker's Gift A Double Edged History Of Human Culture

    A Double Edged History Of Human Culture

    A probing meditation on how humanity’s capacity to fashion tools, symbols and social systems has driven both creative flourishing and destructive consequence; tracing the ways technology, language and institutions shape moral life, violence and environmental decline. Blending historical analysis, literary reflection and personal observation, the book argues cultural achievements are double-edged and calls for humility, stewardship and a renewed ethical imagination to guide progress toward compassion rather than annihilation.