Lawrence Block
Lawrence Block is a prolific American crime writer best known for his series featuring the characters Matthew Scudder and Bernie Rhodenbarr. He has received numerous awards for his work, including the Edgar, Shamus, and Maltese Falcon Awards.
Books
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.
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1. Eight Million Ways To Die
In this gripping crime novel, a former cop turned private investigator, Matt Scudder, is hired to find the killer of a high-class call girl. As he delves deeper into the dark underbelly of New York City, Scudder becomes entangled in a web of deceit, corruption, and addiction. With his own demons haunting him, Scudder must navigate the dangerous streets and confront his own personal demons in order to bring justice to the victims and find redemption for himself.
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2. Ariel
The book is a gripping thriller that follows the story of a young woman named Ariel who possesses extraordinary telepathic abilities. As she navigates the complexities of her powers, Ariel becomes entangled in a dangerous web of intrigue and manipulation. Her unique gift attracts the attention of various individuals with their own agendas, leading her on a suspenseful journey filled with unexpected twists and moral dilemmas. Throughout the narrative, Ariel must confront her own identity and the ethical implications of her abilities while striving to maintain her autonomy and protect those she cares about.
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3. The Sins Of The Fathers
A Matthew Scudder Crime Novel
In this gripping mystery, a former NYPD detective turned private investigator is drawn into a complex case involving the brutal murder of a young woman. As he delves deeper into the investigation, he uncovers a tangled web of secrets, lies, and hidden motives that challenge his perceptions of justice and morality. The detective must navigate through a maze of deceit and confront his own past sins to unravel the truth, revealing a haunting tale of redemption and the enduring impact of familial bonds.
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4. All The Flowers Are Dying
In this gripping crime thriller, a retired private investigator finds himself drawn back into the world of mystery and danger when a series of seemingly unrelated murders begin to unfold. As he delves deeper into the investigation, he uncovers a chilling connection between the victims and a sinister figure from his past. With the clock ticking and the body count rising, he must confront his own demons and navigate a web of deception to stop the killer before more lives are lost. The narrative weaves together themes of redemption, justice, and the haunting shadows of one's past, creating a tense and compelling story that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
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5. Hope To Die
A Matthew Scudder Novel
In this gripping crime thriller, a former NYPD detective turned private investigator finds himself entangled in a complex web of deceit and murder. When a wealthy couple is brutally slain in their Manhattan home, the investigator is drawn into the case by a series of unexpected events. As he delves deeper, he uncovers a trail of secrets, betrayal, and hidden motives that challenge his moral compass and test his resolve. With each twist and turn, the investigator must navigate a dangerous path to uncover the truth, all while confronting his own demons and the shadows of his past.
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6. Everybody Dies
A Matthew Scudder Novel
In this gripping crime novel, the seasoned private investigator, Matt Scudder, finds himself embroiled in a dangerous game of cat and mouse in the gritty streets of New York City. As he navigates the murky underworld, Scudder is drawn into a web of betrayal and violence, where every decision could mean life or death. With a cast of complex characters and a plot filled with unexpected twists, the story delves into themes of morality, redemption, and the inescapable nature of fate, leaving readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page.
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7. Even The Wicked
A Matthew Scudder Novel
In this gripping mystery, a retired NYPD detective turned private investigator is drawn into a chilling game of cat and mouse with a vigilante killer who targets criminals that have escaped justice. As the detective delves deeper into the case, he must navigate a web of moral ambiguity and personal dilemmas, all while racing against time to prevent the next murder. With a blend of suspense, wit, and intricate plotting, the story explores themes of justice, redemption, and the thin line between right and wrong.
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8. A Long Line Of Dead Men
A Matthew Scudder Mystery
In this gripping mystery, private investigator Matthew Scudder is drawn into a chilling case when he is approached by a member of a secretive club known as "The Club of Thirty-One." This enigmatic group, consisting of thirty-one men who meet annually, is plagued by a series of mysterious deaths that seem to be more than mere coincidence. As Scudder delves deeper into the lives and secrets of the club members, he uncovers a web of intrigue, betrayal, and danger that threatens to ensnare him as well. With his keen instincts and relentless determination, Scudder races against time to unravel the truth behind the long line of dead men.
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9. The Devil Knows You're Dead
In this gripping installment of the Matthew Scudder series, the seasoned private investigator finds himself embroiled in a complex web of deceit and murder when a seemingly straightforward case of a murdered lawyer spirals into a labyrinth of secrets and betrayal. As Scudder delves deeper into the murky underworld of New York City, he encounters a cast of morally ambiguous characters, each with their own hidden agendas. With his trademark blend of intuition and tenacity, Scudder navigates the dangerous terrain, uncovering shocking truths that challenge his own sense of justice and morality.
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10. A Walk Among The Tombstones
In this gripping crime thriller, a former NYPD detective turned unlicensed private investigator is drawn into a chilling case involving the brutal kidnapping and murder of a drug dealer's wife. As he delves deeper into the dark underbelly of New York City, he uncovers a sinister world of violence and corruption, where the lines between justice and vengeance blur. With a complex plot and richly developed characters, the story explores themes of morality, redemption, and the relentless pursuit of truth in a city teetering on the edge of chaos.
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11. A Dance At The Slaughterhouse
In this gripping crime novel, private investigator Matthew Scudder is drawn into a chilling case involving a snuff film and a brutal murder. As he delves deeper into the dark underbelly of New York City, Scudder uncovers a web of corruption, deceit, and violence that tests his moral compass and challenges his resolve. With his characteristic tenacity and sharp instincts, he navigates a world where justice is elusive, and danger lurks at every turn, ultimately confronting the harrowing realities of human depravity.
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12. A Ticket To The Boneyard
In this gripping crime thriller, a former detective is thrust back into a world he thought he had left behind when a dangerous figure from his past resurfaces, threatening not only his life but also the lives of those he holds dear. As he navigates the dark underbelly of New York City, he must confront old demons and unravel a web of deceit and betrayal. With time running out, he races against the clock to stop a relentless adversary, all while grappling with his own inner turmoil and the haunting memories of a case that nearly destroyed him.
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13. Out On The Cutting Edge
In this gripping installment of the Matthew Scudder series, the ex-cop turned unlicensed private investigator finds himself navigating the gritty streets of New York City, delving into the mysterious disappearance of a young aspiring actress. As Scudder immerses himself in the underbelly of the theater world, he encounters a web of deceit, addiction, and betrayal, all while grappling with his own personal demons. The narrative is a masterful blend of suspense and introspection, offering a raw and unflinching look at the complexities of human nature and the relentless pursuit of redemption.
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14. When The Sacred Ginmill Closes
Set in the gritty streets of 1970s New York City, this gripping crime novel follows the life of Matt Scudder, an ex-cop turned unlicensed private investigator. As he navigates the city's underbelly, Scudder is drawn into a web of corruption, betrayal, and murder when he is hired to solve a series of seemingly unrelated crimes. Battling his own demons and addiction, he delves deeper into the dark world of organized crime, uncovering secrets that challenge his moral compass and test his resolve. The narrative weaves a tale of redemption and the quest for justice amidst the chaos of a city that never sleeps.
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15. A Stab In The Dark
A Matthew Scudder Crime Novel
In this gripping crime novel, a seasoned private investigator is drawn back into a cold case that has haunted him for nearly a decade. The brutal murder of a young woman, once thought to be the work of a notorious serial killer, resurfaces when new evidence suggests otherwise. As the detective delves deeper into the shadows of the past, he uncovers a web of deceit and betrayal that challenges his perceptions of justice and morality. With each twist and turn, the line between right and wrong blurs, leading to a shocking revelation that forces him to confront his own demons.
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16. In The Midst Of Death
A Matthew Scudder Mystery
Set against the gritty backdrop of New York City, this gripping crime novel follows ex-cop turned private investigator Matthew Scudder as he navigates a complex web of deceit and corruption. When a seemingly straightforward case involving a police officer accused of corruption spirals into a series of brutal murders, Scudder finds himself entangled in a dangerous game of cat and mouse. As he delves deeper into the murky world of law enforcement and organized crime, Scudder must confront his own demons and moral ambiguities to uncover the truth and bring justice to light.
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17. Time To Murder And Create
A Matthew Scudder Crime Novel
In this gripping mystery, a private investigator is thrust into a dangerous game of deception and murder when he is entrusted with a mysterious envelope by a dying acquaintance. The envelope contains a list of names and a significant sum of money, with instructions to expose a blackmailer if anything happens to the acquaintance. As the investigator delves deeper into the lives of those on the list, he uncovers a web of secrets and lies, leading him to confront moral dilemmas and face the dark underbelly of human nature. With each revelation, the stakes rise, and the investigator must navigate a treacherous path to uncover the truth and deliver justice.
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18. A Drop Of The Hard Stuff
A Matthew Scudder Novel
In this gripping crime novel, readers follow the journey of Matt Scudder, a former NYPD detective turned unlicensed private investigator, as he navigates the gritty streets of New York City. Set against the backdrop of Scudder's own struggle with sobriety, the story unfolds when a chance encounter with a fellow AA member leads to a murder investigation. As Scudder delves deeper into the case, he confronts his own demons while unraveling a web of secrets, lies, and redemption. The narrative is a compelling exploration of morality, addiction, and the quest for justice in a world where the lines between right and wrong are often blurred.
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19. The Burglar In The Closet
In this engaging mystery, a reformed burglar named Bernie Rhodenbarr finds himself embroiled in a perplexing situation when he decides to retrieve a hidden stash from a closet in a friend's apartment. However, his plans take a drastic turn when he discovers a dead body instead. As Bernie navigates through a web of deceit, secrets, and unexpected twists, he must use his cunning and wit to unravel the truth and clear his name, all while avoiding the watchful eyes of the law and the real killer lurking in the shadows.
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20. Sometimes They Bite
This collection of short stories delves into the darker corners of human nature, exploring themes of crime, mystery, and the supernatural. Each tale is a masterful blend of suspense and intrigue, with characters that are as complex as they are flawed. From chilling encounters with the unknown to the gritty realities of urban life, the stories weave a tapestry of tension and unexpected twists, leaving readers on the edge of their seats and pondering the thin line between the ordinary and the extraordinary.
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21. The Burglar Who Traded Ted Williams
In this intriguing mystery, a reformed burglar named Bernie Rhodenbarr finds himself entangled in a web of deception and danger when he is accused of a crime he didn't commit. As he navigates the underbelly of New York City, Bernie must use his wit and skills to clear his name, all while dealing with a stolen baseball card collection, a murder investigation, and a cast of eccentric characters. With humor and suspense, the story unfolds as Bernie races against time to uncover the truth and prove his innocence.
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22. The Burglar Who Thought He Was Bogart
In this witty and engaging mystery, a charming and clever burglar finds himself entangled in a web of intrigue and deception reminiscent of a classic film noir. As he navigates the shadowy streets of New York City, he is drawn into a dangerous game involving a missing manuscript, a femme fatale, and a cast of eccentric characters. With his quick wit and love for old movies, he must solve the puzzle before the stakes become too high, all while channeling the spirit of his cinematic idol, Humphrey Bogart.
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23. W świetle I W Mroku. Opowiadania Inspirowane Malarstwem Edwarda Hoppera
Opowiadania Inspirowane Malarstwem Edwarda Hoppera
This collection of short stories delves into the evocative world of Edward Hopper's paintings, bringing to life the haunting and enigmatic scenes captured on canvas. Each tale is a unique exploration of the human condition, weaving narratives that echo the solitude, mystery, and introspection found in Hopper's art. The stories traverse a spectrum of emotions and experiences, from the mundane to the extraordinary, offering readers a glimpse into the lives of characters caught in moments of quiet reflection and profound revelation.
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24. Keller's Homecoming
In this gripping tale, the protagonist, Keller, a professional hitman, finds himself at a crossroads as he returns to his hometown after years of living a life shrouded in secrecy and danger. As he navigates the familiar streets and encounters faces from his past, Keller is forced to confront the choices he's made and the life he's led. The narrative delves into themes of redemption, identity, and the inescapable pull of one's roots, all while maintaining a suspenseful atmosphere that keeps readers on edge as Keller grapples with the ghosts of his past and the uncertainty of his future.
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25. Keller's Designated Hitter
In this gripping tale, a professional hitman finds himself in a moral quandary when his latest assignment takes an unexpected turn. Tasked with eliminating a seemingly ordinary man, the hitman uncovers layers of deception and hidden motives that challenge his own code of ethics. As he navigates the murky waters of loyalty and betrayal, he must decide whether to follow through with the job or risk everything to uncover the truth. This suspenseful narrative explores themes of identity, choice, and the blurred lines between right and wrong.
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26. Keller's Fedora
In this intriguing tale, a seasoned hitman finds himself at a crossroads, grappling with the complexities of his profession and the moral dilemmas it presents. As he navigates the underworld of contract killing, he is unexpectedly drawn into a world of introspection and self-discovery. The narrative unfolds with a blend of suspense and dark humor, offering a glimpse into the mind of a man who must reconcile his past actions with his desire for a more meaningful existence. Through a series of unexpected events, he is forced to confront his own humanity, leading to a transformative journey that challenges his very identity.
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27. Keller's Horoscope
In this intriguing tale, a hitman finds himself at a crossroads, contemplating his life's direction after receiving a horoscope that suggests a change is imminent. As he navigates the complexities of his profession, he begins to question the path he has chosen and the moral implications of his actions. The narrative delves into themes of fate, self-discovery, and the possibility of redemption, all while maintaining a gripping tension that keeps readers engaged in the protagonist's internal and external conflicts.
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28. Keller's Adjustment
In this gripping tale, a hitman finds himself at a crossroads, grappling with the monotony of his profession and yearning for a change. As he navigates the complexities of his assignments, he begins to question his own moral compass and the path that led him to this point. The narrative delves into his internal struggles and the unexpected twists that challenge his perception of right and wrong, ultimately leading him to reconsider his life's direction. With a blend of suspense and introspection, the story explores themes of identity, redemption, and the search for meaning in a world where the lines between good and evil are often blurred.
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29. Keller On The Spot
A Keller Story
In this gripping tale, readers are introduced to a professional hitman who finds himself at a crossroads, questioning the morality of his profession. As he navigates the complexities of his assignments, he is forced to confront his own conscience and the consequences of his actions. The narrative delves into his internal struggles, painting a vivid picture of a man torn between his lethal skills and a burgeoning desire for redemption. With a blend of suspense and introspection, the story explores themes of identity, morality, and the possibility of change in a life defined by violence.
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30. Hit Me
In this gripping tale, readers follow the life of Keller, a former hitman who has retired to a quiet life in New Orleans with his wife and daughter. However, the allure of his past profession proves too tempting when he is drawn back into the world of contract killing. As Keller juggles his domestic responsibilities with his clandestine assignments, he navigates a series of morally complex situations, questioning his own ethics and the true cost of his choices. The narrative expertly blends suspense with introspection, offering a compelling exploration of identity and redemption.
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31. Keller In Dallas
A Keller Story
In this gripping narrative, a seasoned hitman finds himself in the bustling city of Dallas, tasked with a seemingly straightforward assignment. However, as he navigates the complexities of his mission, he is confronted with unexpected challenges that test his skills and moral compass. The story intricately weaves elements of suspense and introspection, as the protagonist grapples with the blurred lines between duty and conscience, ultimately leading to a thrilling and thought-provoking conclusion.
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32. Hit And Run
In this gripping thriller, a professional hitman finds himself ensnared in a deadly game of cat and mouse after being framed for a high-profile assassination he didn't commit. As he navigates a treacherous landscape filled with deceit and danger, he must rely on his wits and skills to uncover the truth and clear his name. With relentless pacing and unexpected twists, the story explores themes of trust, betrayal, and the thin line between hunter and hunted.
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33. Quotidian Keller
In this gripping narrative, readers are introduced to a hitman who is anything but ordinary. Living a life of routine and precision, he navigates the complexities of his profession with a meticulous attention to detail. As he balances the mundane aspects of everyday life with the high-stakes world of contract killing, the protagonist finds himself questioning the moral implications of his work. This introspective journey is marked by unexpected twists and turns, offering a profound exploration of identity, morality, and the human condition.
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34. Hit Parade
In this gripping crime novel, readers follow the life of a professional hitman who navigates the complexities of his morally ambiguous profession. The protagonist, known for his meticulous planning and execution, finds himself juggling multiple assignments while dealing with the personal challenges that come with a life of secrecy and danger. As he delves deeper into his latest contracts, he must confront unexpected twists and the ethical dilemmas that arise when his personal and professional worlds collide, leading to a thrilling exploration of loyalty, identity, and survival in the underworld.
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35. Hit List
In this gripping thriller, a professional hitman known only as Keller finds himself embroiled in a series of morally complex assignments that challenge his sense of identity and purpose. As he navigates the dangerous world of contract killing, Keller grapples with the ethical dilemmas of his profession, all while trying to maintain a semblance of normalcy in his personal life. The narrative delves into the psychological intricacies of a man torn between his lethal vocation and the desire for a more conventional existence, ultimately leading him to question the very nature of his work and the choices he makes.
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36. Hit Man
In this gripping narrative, readers are introduced to Keller, a professional hitman who navigates the complexities of his morally ambiguous profession while grappling with his own existential dilemmas. Set against the backdrop of various urban landscapes, the story delves into Keller's meticulous approach to his assignments, his interactions with his handler Dot, and his unexpected introspections about life, identity, and the possibility of change. As Keller carries out his contracts, he finds himself questioning the nature of his work and the possibility of redemption, all while maintaining a veneer of detachment and professionalism.
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37. Keller's Therapy
In this gripping psychological thriller, a professional hitman finds himself at a crossroads, questioning the morality of his profession and the meaning of his existence. As he navigates through a series of assignments, he begins to seek solace in therapy sessions, where he confronts his inner demons and the emotional toll of his violent career. The narrative delves into the complexities of human nature, exploring themes of redemption, identity, and the struggle for personal peace amidst a life of chaos and crime.