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. Get Shorty

   

   A Miami loan shark travels to Los Angeles to collect a debt from a low-budget movie producer, only to get entangled in the Hollywood scene. Through a series of events, he ends up pitching a movie idea based on his own life as a mobster. This comedic crime novel explores the similarities between the film industry and organized crime, while offering a satirical look at the behind-the-scenes workings of Hollywood.

   The 1111th Greatest Book of All Time

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2. 2. LaBrava

   

   A former Secret Service agent turned photographer, Joe LaBrava, becomes entangled in a plot involving a faded movie star, Jean Shaw, whom he idolized in his youth. The story is set in Miami, where LaBrava is drawn into a scheme by Shaw and her lover to scam a mobster out of a large sum of money. As LaBrava gets deeper into the plot, he must use his old skills to navigate the dangerous underworld and protect Shaw, while also dealing with his feelings for her.

   The 3056th Greatest Book of All Time

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3. 3. 52 Pick Up

   

   In this gripping crime novel, a man's life spirals into chaos when he becomes the target of a blackmail scheme. After his extramarital affair is caught on tape, he refuses to pay the demanded sum, leading to a dangerous game of cat and mouse with the blackmailers. As he attempts to outmaneuver his adversaries and protect his family, the story delves into the dark underbelly of crime, revealing the lengths to which people will go for money and revenge. With its fast-paced narrative and complex characters, the novel explores themes of morality, desperation, and the consequences of one's choices.

   The 5357th Greatest Book of All Time

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4. 4. Stick

   

   The book is a crime novel that follows the story of Ernest "Stick" Stickley, Jr., an ex-con who, after being released from prison, tries to leave his criminal past behind and make a legitimate living in Florida. However, Stick quickly finds himself entangled in the seedy underworld of drug dealers, con artists, and hit men. As he navigates this dangerous terrain, Stick must use his wits and street smarts to outmaneuver those who want him dead, while also attempting to reconcile with his estranged daughter and build a better future. The novel is known for its sharp dialogue, dark humor, and vivid portrayal of the Miami crime scene.

   The 7840th Greatest Book of All Time

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5. 5. Killshot

   

   A married couple enters the Witness Protection Program after accidentally witnessing a crime committed by a hitman and a dangerous criminal. The couple struggles to adapt to their new identities and lifestyle, while the two criminals ruthlessly hunt them down. The story is a suspenseful cat-and-mouse game, with the couple constantly trying to outsmart and escape their pursuers.

   The 17113th Greatest Book of All Time

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6. 6. Freaky Deaky

   

   The novel is a crime thriller set in Detroit, revolving around a former bomb squad officer named Chris Mankowski who becomes entangled in a complex web of revenge and deception. As he investigates a series of bombings, he crosses paths with a colorful cast of characters, including a pair of ex-1960s radicals seeking retribution and a wealthy, eccentric businessman with his own agenda. The story unfolds with Leonard's signature blend of sharp dialogue, dark humor, and unexpected twists, leading to a tense and explosive climax.

7. 7. Mr. Paradise By Elmore Leonard

   

   In this crime thriller, a retired lawyer named Mr. Paradise is murdered in his Detroit home, drawing in a cast of colorful characters including his young girlfriend, Chloe, and his loyal assistant, Montez. Detective Frank Delsa is tasked with unraveling the mystery, navigating a web of deceit, greed, and corruption. As Delsa delves deeper into the case, he encounters a mix of shady lawyers, ambitious models, and dangerous criminals, all while developing a complicated relationship with Chloe. The narrative is filled with Leonard's signature sharp dialogue and unexpected twists, culminating in a tense and unpredictable resolution.

8. 8. Three Ten To Yuma And Other Stories

   

   The collection features a series of gripping Western tales that delve into themes of justice, morality, and human nature. Each story is set against the rugged backdrop of the American frontier, where characters face moral dilemmas and life-or-death situations. The narratives explore the complexities of lawmen, outlaws, and ordinary people, highlighting their struggles and resilience. With sharp dialogue and vivid descriptions, the stories capture the tension and unpredictability of the Wild West, offering a compelling glimpse into a world where survival often hinges on quick thinking and courage.

9. 9. Out Of Sight

   

   The story revolves around the unlikely romance between Jack Foley, a charming career bank robber, and Karen Sisco, a determined U.S. Marshal. After a daring prison escape, Jack and Karen's paths cross, leading to a tense and complicated relationship as they find themselves on opposite sides of the law. As Jack plans one last heist with his quirky crew, Karen is hot on his trail, creating a thrilling cat-and-mouse game filled with witty dialogue, unexpected twists, and a blend of humor and suspense. The narrative explores themes of attraction, morality, and the blurred lines between right and wrong.
10. 10. Tishomingo Blues

    

    The novel is a thrilling blend of crime and comedy set in the American South, where a high-diving stunt performer named Dennis Lenahan becomes entangled in a dangerous web of local corruption and organized crime. After witnessing a murder, Dennis is drawn into a complex scheme involving a charismatic con man, Robert Taylor, who has his own agenda. As alliances shift and tensions rise, Dennis must navigate a world of deceit and violence, all while trying to keep his own head above water. The story is rich with colorful characters and sharp dialogue, capturing the essence of Southern noir with a touch of humor.

11. 11. Riding The Rap

    

    In this crime thriller, a cunning bookie named Harry Arno finds himself in trouble when his former employee, Chip Ganz, hatches a plan to kidnap him for ransom. As the scheme unfolds, U.S. Marshal Raylan Givens steps in to untangle the web of deceit and rescue Harry. The story is filled with Leonard's signature sharp dialogue and colorful characters, including a psychic, a gun-toting ex-girlfriend, and a host of bumbling criminals. The narrative explores themes of greed, loyalty, and justice, all set against the vibrant backdrop of South Florida.

12. 12. Be Cool

    

    In this crime novel, a former loan shark turned movie producer navigates the treacherous waters of Hollywood as he seeks inspiration for his next film project. He becomes entangled with a struggling rock band, a seductive widow, and a host of eccentric characters, including mobsters and music industry insiders. As he delves deeper into the chaotic world of show business, he must use his street smarts and charm to outmaneuver those who would exploit or harm him, all while trying to maintain his cool demeanor and achieve success in the cutthroat entertainment industry.

13. 13. Pagan Babies

    

    The novel follows the story of Father Terry Dunn, a priest in Rwanda who is secretly involved in a scheme to con money from unsuspecting donors by claiming to support orphans affected by the genocide. Returning to Detroit, he becomes entangled with Debbie Dewey, a woman seeking revenge on her ex-boyfriend who scammed her. Together, they navigate a world of deception, crime, and unexpected alliances, blending dark humor with a critique of moral ambiguity as they pursue their own versions of justice and redemption.

14. 14. Three Complete Novels

    Get Shorty, Rum Punch, Out of Sight

    

    The collection features three gripping crime novels that showcase the author's signature style of sharp dialogue, complex characters, and intricate plots. Each story delves into the gritty underworld of crime, exploring themes of justice, morality, and human nature. The narratives are filled with unexpected twists and turns, as flawed yet compelling characters navigate dangerous situations, often blurring the lines between right and wrong. The author's keen eye for detail and knack for creating tension make these novels a captivating read for fans of crime fiction.
15. 15. Glitz

    

    The novel is a crime thriller that follows Vincent Mora, a Miami-based homicide detective recovering from a gunshot wound in Puerto Rico. While there, he encounters Teddy Magyk, a psychopathic criminal with a vendetta against him. As Mora returns to Miami, he becomes embroiled in a complex web of crime and deception involving a glamorous casino world, murder, and revenge. The story unfolds with Leonard's signature sharp dialogue and intricate plotting, as Mora navigates the dangerous underworld to confront his adversary and protect those he cares about.

16. 16. Jackie Brown

    

    The novel follows a flight attendant who becomes embroiled in a dangerous scheme involving smuggling money for a gunrunner. As she navigates the treacherous waters of crime and deception, she cleverly orchestrates a plan to outwit both the criminals and law enforcement. With a mix of suspense and humor, the story explores themes of survival and cunning, as the protagonist seeks to secure her freedom and a better future amidst the chaos.

17. 17. Djibouti

    

    The novel is a thrilling tale set in the Horn of Africa, where an ambitious documentary filmmaker and her partner navigate the dangerous world of piracy and terrorism. As they delve deeper into their project, they encounter a colorful cast of characters, including a charming yet unpredictable pirate, a wealthy playboy, and a cunning terrorist. The story unfolds with a blend of suspense, humor, and unexpected twists, capturing the chaotic and often perilous environment of modern-day Djibouti. Through sharp dialogue and vivid storytelling, the narrative explores themes of ambition, morality, and the blurred lines between right and wrong.

18. 18. Swag

    

    The book is a gritty crime novel that follows the story of two small-time crooks, Frank Ryan and Ernest Stickley Jr., who team up to execute a series of meticulously planned robberies in Detroit. Their partnership is based on a set of rules designed to keep them out of trouble, but as they become more successful, their greed and overconfidence lead them to take bigger risks. The tension escalates as their criminal activities attract the attention of law enforcement and rival criminals, ultimately testing their loyalty and survival instincts in a world where trust is scarce and danger is ever-present.

19. 19. Pronto

    

    The novel follows U.S. Marshal Raylan Givens as he pursues Harry Arno, a Miami bookie who flees to Italy after being falsely accused of stealing from his mob boss. As Raylan tracks Harry, he navigates a web of deceit and danger involving the Italian mafia and local criminals. The story unfolds with a blend of suspense, humor, and sharp dialogue, showcasing the complex relationships between law enforcement, criminals, and those caught in between. The narrative explores themes of loyalty, justice, and the blurred lines between right and wrong.
20. 20. Bandits

    

    Set in the vibrant and gritty backdrop of New Orleans, this thrilling tale follows a trio of unlikely allies—a former nun, an ex-con, and a seasoned thief—who find themselves entangled in a daring heist with high stakes. As they navigate a world of danger and deception, their mission to steal a fortune from a corrupt Nicaraguan colonel becomes a test of loyalty and survival. With sharp dialogue and unexpected twists, the story explores themes of redemption and the blurred lines between right and wrong in a world where everyone is out for themselves.

21. 21. The Hot Kid

    

    Set in the 1930s, this gripping tale follows the life of Carl Webster, a sharp-shooting U.S. Marshal known for his youthful looks and unyielding pursuit of justice. As he navigates the tumultuous world of Prohibition-era America, Carl becomes entangled in a cat-and-mouse game with Jack Belmont, a notorious bank robber determined to make a name for himself. Amidst the backdrop of crime, ambition, and the quest for notoriety, the story explores themes of morality, fame, and the blurred lines between heroism and villainy, all while capturing the essence of a bygone era with vivid detail and dynamic characters.

22. 22. The Bounty Hunters

    

    Set in the rugged terrain of the Arizona Territory, this gripping Western tale follows the determined and skilled Army scout, Dave Flynn, as he embarks on a perilous mission to capture a renegade Apache leader, Soldado Viejo. As Flynn navigates the harsh landscape and confronts the challenges of the unforgiving desert, he must also contend with a motley crew of bounty hunters, each driven by their own motives and desires. Amidst the tension and danger, Flynn's pursuit becomes a test of endurance, loyalty, and survival, ultimately leading to a dramatic showdown that questions the very nature of justice and retribution in the untamed West.

23. 23. Maximum Bob

    

    Set in the sweltering heat of Palm Beach County, this gripping tale follows the antics of a flamboyant and controversial judge known for his harsh sentences and eccentric behavior. As he becomes entangled in a series of bizarre events, including a murder plot and a series of peculiar encounters with a psychic, the story unfolds with a mix of dark humor and suspense. The narrative weaves through the lives of a colorful cast of characters, each with their own secrets and motives, ultimately leading to a thrilling and unexpected climax.

24. 24. The Complete Western Stories Of Elmore Leonard

    

    This collection brings together a captivating array of tales set in the rugged landscapes of the American West, showcasing the gritty realism and sharp dialogue that define the author's style. Each story delves into the lives of cowboys, outlaws, and lawmen, exploring themes of justice, survival, and the harsh realities of frontier life. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for creating memorable characters, these stories capture the essence of the Western genre, offering readers a vivid glimpse into a bygone era where the line between right and wrong is often blurred.

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25. 25. When The Women Come Out To Dance

    

    In this captivating collection of nine short stories, readers are drawn into a world where crime, deception, and unexpected twists intertwine with the lives of a diverse cast of characters. From a Colombian drug lord's wife plotting her escape to a determined dancer seeking revenge, each tale explores the complexities of human nature and the lengths people will go to achieve their desires. With sharp dialogue and vivid settings, the stories delve into themes of betrayal, justice, and survival, offering a gripping glimpse into the darker side of life.

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26. 26. The Moonshine War

    

    Set during the Prohibition era, the story unfolds in rural Kentucky, where a former bootlegger turned government agent, Frank Long, returns to his hometown to uncover hidden moonshine. He faces a moral dilemma as he confronts his old friend, Son Martin, who has a secret stash of high-quality whiskey. As tensions rise, a ruthless gang of criminals arrives, seeking the valuable liquor, leading to a dangerous showdown. The narrative explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the blurred lines between law and criminality in a time of economic desperation.

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27. 27. Last Stand At Saber River

    

    Set in the aftermath of the Civil War, this gripping Western tale follows a Confederate veteran who returns to his Arizona homestead only to find it occupied by Union sympathizers. As tensions rise, he must navigate a landscape of betrayal, shifting loyalties, and personal vendettas to reclaim his land and protect his family. With a backdrop of rugged terrain and a cast of complex characters, the story explores themes of honor, justice, and survival in a lawless frontier.

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28. 28. Mr. Majestyk

    

    A gripping tale of justice and revenge, the story follows Vince Majestyk, a resilient melon farmer and Vietnam War veteran, who finds himself entangled in a dangerous conflict with a ruthless mob hitman. When his peaceful life is disrupted by corrupt forces trying to take over his land, Majestyk's determination to protect his livelihood and loved ones leads to a thrilling showdown. With his military skills and unyielding spirit, he takes on the criminal underworld, proving that even the most ordinary man can become a formidable adversary when pushed to the brink.

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29. 29. Split Images

    

    In this gripping crime novel, a wealthy and charismatic playboy becomes the prime suspect in a series of brutal murders, drawing the attention of a seasoned Detroit homicide detective and a savvy Miami journalist. As the investigation unfolds, the lines between justice and vengeance blur, revealing a world where the rich and powerful manipulate the system to their advantage. The narrative explores themes of corruption, morality, and the seductive allure of violence, all set against the backdrop of high society and the gritty underbelly of urban life.

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30. 30. Valdez Is Coming

    

    In a rugged frontier town, a humble and principled Mexican-American lawman finds himself embroiled in a deadly conflict after a tragic misunderstanding leads to the wrongful death of an innocent man. Seeking justice and compensation for the man's widow, he confronts a powerful and ruthless landowner who dismisses his pleas with violence. As tensions escalate, the lawman is forced to draw on his inner strength and resourcefulness, embarking on a relentless quest for retribution against those who wronged him, ultimately becoming an unexpected hero in a tale of honor, vengeance, and redemption.

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31. 31. Hombre

    

    Set in the rugged landscape of the American Southwest, this gripping tale follows John Russell, a man raised by Apaches, who finds himself reluctantly thrust into a perilous journey aboard a stagecoach. As tensions rise among the diverse group of passengers, including a corrupt Indian agent and a desperate woman, Russell's unique perspective and survival skills become crucial when they are ambushed by outlaws. The story explores themes of identity, prejudice, and justice, as Russell's stoic bravery and moral compass are tested in a world where the lines between civilization and savagery blur.

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32. 32. Rum Punch

    

    In this gripping crime novel, a flight attendant finds herself caught in the crosshairs of a dangerous game between law enforcement and a ruthless gunrunner. As she navigates the treacherous waters of deception and betrayal, she devises a cunning plan to outsmart both sides and secure her freedom. With a colorful cast of characters, including a charming bail bondsman and a relentless ATF agent, the story unfolds with unexpected twists and turns, blending suspense with sharp dialogue and a touch of dark humor.

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33. 33. City Primeval

    High Noon in Detroit

    

    Set against the gritty backdrop of Detroit, this crime thriller follows the relentless pursuit of justice by a determined homicide detective, Raymond Cruz, as he hunts down a cunning and ruthless killer known as "The Oklahoma Wildman." The narrative weaves through the city's underbelly, exploring themes of morality, law, and the blurred lines between right and wrong. As Cruz delves deeper into the case, he confronts his own demons and the chaotic nature of a city teetering on the edge of lawlessness, leading to a tense and explosive showdown.

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34. 34. The Switch

    

    In this gripping crime novel, two ex-cons hatch a plan to kidnap the wife of a wealthy Detroit developer, hoping for a hefty ransom. However, their scheme takes an unexpected turn when the husband refuses to pay, revealing a tangled web of deceit and betrayal. As the criminals and their hostage navigate a series of twists and turns, alliances shift, and the lines between captor and captive blur, leading to a thrilling and unpredictable climax.

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