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Top 11 Donald Westlake Books
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Top 11 Donald Westlake Books

Top 11 Donald Westlake Books

Let's delve into the thrilling world of Donald Westlake, one of the greatest crime writers of all time. From gritty heists to electrifying suspense, Westlake's books are a must-read for any crime fiction fan. In this roundup, we'll explore some of his most beloved works and highlight what makes them extraordinary. Get ready to be captivated by these masterful stories.

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smoke-489544-1

In "Smoke, " master of the thriller genre Donald E. Westlake takes readers on a wild ride with Freddie Noon, a thief who stumbles upon a miraculous invisibility serum during a botched break-in at a high-tech lab. After acquiring this extraordinary gift, Freddie's life takes a sudden and unexpected turn as his every move becomes the talk of the town.

Now invisible, Freddie quickly discovers the benefits of his newfound ability for his line of work, but is also haunted by the constant danger of revealing himself. As people from all walks of life become obsessed with catching a glimpse of him, Freddie must navigate through a web of danger, deception, and intrigue to maintain his stealthy existence.

With his typical wit and sharp storytelling, Westlake deftly weaves a captivating tale of crime, intrigue, and the lure of invisibility that will keep readers on their toes until the very end. "Smoke" is an exhilarating, fast-paced novel that delivers an irresistible blend of action, suspense, and unexpected twists. Don't miss out on this intriguing and thrilling journey into the life of an unseen thief!


  • Authors: Donald E. Westlake

  • Publisher: Mysterious Press

  • Published Date: April 11, 2001

  • Page Count: 301.0

  • Print Type: BOOK

  • Categories: Fiction

  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE

  • Language: en


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bad-news-489553-1

"Bad News" by Donald E. Westlake is a thrilling crime novel that brings readers into the dangerous and intricate world of John Dortmunder and his gang. Dortmunder, a seasoned thief, finds himself involved in a bizarre plan masterminded by the cunning Fitzroy Guilderpost.

The crime in question? Stealing a dead Indian from his grave.

As Dortmunder and his crew navigate through the twisted web of deceit and treachery perpetrated by Guilderpost and Little Feather Redcorn, they must figure out the true motives behind this audacious endeavor. In this tale of high-stakes heists and unlikely alliances, Dortmunder must also contend with the unexpected dangers lurking in the shadows of the cemetery.

With Westlake's sharp wit and fast-paced storytelling, "Bad News" delivers a unique fusion of crime, suspense, and dark humor that will leave readers breathless. Don't miss this riveting addition to the world of crime fiction.


  • Authors: Donald E. Westlake

  • Publisher: Warner Books (NY)

  • Published Date: February 26, 2002

  • Page Count: 388.0

  • Print Type: BOOK

  • Categories: Fiction

  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE

  • Language: en


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god-save-the-mark-489543-1

A Novel of Crime and Confusion


God Save the Mark is a thrilling tale of crime and confusion by acclaimed author Donald E. Westlake. Fred Fitch, a naive and easily deceived man, finds himself in the crosshairs of danger after inheriting a hefty sum from his long-lost but notoriously shady Uncle Matt. Uncle Matt's murder has left Fred no time to mourn, as it has also drawn the attention of his uncle's past enemies.

As Fred struggles to avoid becoming an unwitting accomplice to the same crimes his uncle was involved in, he finds himself in the midst of a twisted web of deception. The race is on to uncover the truth behind Uncle Matt's life and death while evading the ever-looming threats.

Filled with suspense, wit, and unforgettable characters, God Save the Mark is an engaging page-turner that will keep readers guessing until the very end. Experience the thrill of trying to outsmart a criminal mastermind in this riveting novel of crime and confusion.


  • Authors: Donald E. Westlake

  • Publisher: Macmillan

  • Published Date: July 05, 2004

  • Page Count: 269.0

  • Print Type: BOOK

  • Categories: Fiction

  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE

  • Language: en


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whats-so-funny-489564-1

John Dortmunder, a seasoned mastermind of heists, knows when something's impossible. Yet, when a former cop named Eppick lands him a job to steal a bejeweled, solid gold chess set from an underground vault in a Manhattan bank, Dortmunder is initially reluctant. But after learning that the alternative is jail for a previous offense, he reluctantly agrees, enlisting the help of his crew of good-natured, bumbling thieves.

As they devise a plan, Dortmunder struggles with the odds of success. Donald E.

Westlake's thrilling novel, "What's So Funny? " leaves readers on the edge of their seats, unsure if Dortmunder and his team will succeed in this seemingly insurmountable task.


  • Authors: Donald E. Westlake

  • Publisher: Grand Central Publishing

  • Published Date: July 05, 2007

  • Page Count: 376.0

  • Print Type: BOOK

  • Categories: Fiction

  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE

  • Language: en


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the-man-with-the-getaway-face-425818-1

A Parker Novel


Introducing The Man with the Getaway Face, a thrilling addition to the Parker Novel series by the masterful Richard Stark. In this gripping tale, Parker finds himself in a race against time as he must flee New York after receiving a contract on his life. His journey takes him across the country, from Nebraska to New Jersey, as he embarks on a perilous mission to escape the ruthless mob that has placed a bounty on his head.

Along this deadly path, Parker discovers a stunning woman named Alma, who becomes his dangerous ally in more ways than one. As he undergoes a facial reconstruction to change his appearance, Parker adds the biggest heist of his career to his growing list of accomplishments. But beware—no one gets away without paying a price, and Parker's actions have stirred danger and deceit that reach far beyond what he could have ever imagined.

The Man with the Getaway Face is a fast-paced, suspenseful read with Richard Stark's signature blend of wit and action. With its captivating plot, complex characters, and expert storytelling, it's no wonder this novel has received an average rating of 4.0 stars from its eager readers. Don't miss out on the chance to join Parker on this thrilling adventure—you'll be on the edge of your seat from start to finish.


  • Authors: Richard Stark

  • Publisher: University of Chicago Press

  • Published Date: September 15, 2009

  • Page Count: 226.0

  • Print Type: BOOK

  • Categories: Fiction

  • Average Rating: 4.0

  • Ratings Count: 1.0

  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE

  • Language: en


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good-behavior-263628-1

In the thrilling novel Good Behavior, master thief Dortmunder finds himself entangled in a dangerous and unexpected mission. Tasked with the seemingly unattainable goal of saving a nun's kidnapped daughter, Dortmunder must navigate the treacherous world of nuns, a devious father, and a locked penthouse apartment.

Despite his initial apprehension, Dortmunder finds the kind-hearted sisters to be less intimidating than the ones from his past, enabling a surprising alliance. A riveting tale of crime, redemption, and family, Good Behavior by Donald E. Westlake offers a captivating blend of suspense and intrigue, proving that even the most seemingly impossible tasks can change a heart.


  • Authors: Donald E Westlake

  • Publisher: Overamstel Uitgevers

  • Published Date: October 25, 2011

  • Page Count: 201.0

  • Print Type: BOOK

  • Categories: Fiction

  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE

  • Language: en


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memory-221745-1

"Memory" by three-time Edgar Award winner Donald E. Westlake follows the life of Paul Cole, a man struggling to rebuild his life after a violent encounter.

With his memory damaged, he faces even greater obstacles, as the police hound him and he's unable to return home. This final, never-before-published novel is a noir masterpiece, offering a dark and introspective portrayal of a man battling against merciless forces that seek to take away his identity.

"Memory" is a gripping tale of survival, highlighting the author's masterful storytelling abilities and showcasing his unique perspective on the human experience.


  • Authors: Donald E. Westlake

  • Publisher: Titan Books (US, CA)

  • Published Date: October 30, 2011

  • Print Type: BOOK

  • Categories: Fiction

  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE

  • Language: en


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drowned-hopes-489545-1

A Dortmunder Mystery


Discover the thrilling tale of "Drowned Hopes, " a Dortmunder mystery by the renowned author, Donald E. Westlake.

Set in motion by the unexpected appearance of an old cellmate, Dortmunder finds himself caught in a web of crimes that reaches back to his past. With a massive fortune buried underwater, they devise a daring plan to flood the entire town to unearth the loot.

This masterfully-crafted novel is a suspenseful adventure filled with unexpected twists, and a testament to Dortmunder's determination in the face of adversity. With a page count of 565 and a mature rating, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat as you unravel the secrets that lie beneath the dam.


  • Authors: Donald E. Westlake

  • Publisher: Hachette UK

  • Published Date: February 02, 2012

  • Page Count: 565.0

  • Print Type: BOOK

  • Categories: Fiction

  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE

  • Language: en


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help-i-am-being-held-prisoner-263941-1

Dive into a rollicking crime caper with Donald E. Westlake's Help I Am Being Held Prisoner. When Harold Künt lands in jail for a harmless prank gone awry, he finds himself entangled in the plans of his fellow inmates to break out and rob two banks. Desperate to avoid his comrades' dangerous scheme, Künt finds himself caught up in a thrilling game of cat and mouse.

Westlake's wit and ingenuity take center stage in this rediscovered classic from a master of the genre. Readers will be drawn into a world of action, comedy, and suspense, as one misadventure leads to another in this thrilling tale of crime and punishment.

Fans of Donald E. Westlake will enjoy this brilliant work of fiction that showcases his mastery over the crime genre. Help I Am Being Held Prisoner is a must-read for lovers of witty writing, fast-paced action, and clever plot twists. Join Harold as he navigates the unpredictable waters of the Big House, and prepare to be captivated by this timeless story.


  • Authors: Donald E. Westlake

  • Publisher: Titan Books (US, CA)

  • Published Date: February 13, 2018

  • Page Count: 256.0

  • Print Type: BOOK

  • Categories: Fiction

  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE

  • Language: en


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castle-in-the-air-317050-1

"Castle in The Air" by the incomparable Donald Westlake is an exhilarating collision of "The Italian Job" and "Ocean's Eleven", delivering a thrilling crime caper unlike any other. Four teams of international thieves, each with their sights set on a king's ransom, navigate through the labyrinth of Paris while a disassembled castle serves as their prize.

The stakes are high, the heists wild—with no common language between them, the teams must rely on their wit and guile. The treasure's location remains a mystery, as does the true value of each team's share of the loot. Westlake masterfully weaves an intricate tale of ambition, deception, and nail-biting suspense through the bustling streets of Paris.

As a Mystery Writers of America Grand Master, Westlake never fails to captivate and surprise his readers, and "Castle in The Air" is no exception. With its page-turning action, expertly crafted characters, and deliciously unpredictable plot, this breathless slapstick chase is not to be missed. Join the wildest team of thieves in this unforgettable adventure.


  • Authors: Donald E. Westlake

  • Publisher: Titan Books (US, CA)

  • Published Date: March 30, 2021

  • Page Count: 193.0

  • Print Type: BOOK

  • Categories: Fiction

  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE

  • Language: en


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call-me-a-cab-189101-1

Call Me A Cab serves as the last unpublished masterpiece penned by esteemed MWA Grandmaster, Donald E. Westlake. This riveting road trip through the USA highlights the author's flair for marrying shrewdness and tantalizing intrigue.

Devoid of criminal elements or dramatic explosions, Call Me A Cab offers a gripping tale that follows a New York City taxi driver embarking on a captivating cross-country journey with a beautiful woman. From the bustling streets of Manhattan to the picturesque landscapes of Los Angeles, this road trip takes the characters on an unprecedented literal and metaphoric journey across the United States. Westlake's distinctive style of suspense leaves readers on the edge of their seats, proving that a captivating narrative can triumph without the presence of crime.

Do not miss this groundbreaking final work from a cherished and iconic literary figure.


  • Authors: Donald E. Westlake

  • Publisher: Titan Books (US, CA)

  • Published Date: February 22, 2022

  • Page Count: 245.0

  • Print Type: BOOK

  • Categories: Fiction

  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE

  • Language: en


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