Discover books similar to "American Tabloid"

American Tabloid cover

James Ellroy

American Tabloid

4.21

"American Tabloid" by James Ellroy is a gripping and intricate novel that delves into the dark underbelly of American politics and crime in the 1950s and 60s. The book follows the intertwining lives of several characters, including a former LAPD officer, a mobster, and a Kennedy insider, as they become embroiled in a web of power, corruption, and violence. Ellroy's writing is sharp and unapologetic, with a staccato rhythm that mirrors the fast-paced and often brutal world he portrays. The author's use of language is masterful, with a distinctive style that combines vivid imagery, slang, and technical jargon to create a unique and immersive reading experience. The novel explores themes of power, loyalty, and the corrupting influence of ambition, as the characters navigate a world where morality is fluid and survival often depends on ruthless cunning. The story is grounded in historical events and figures, including the Bay of Pigs invasion, the Cuban Missile Crisis, and the assassination of John F. Kennedy, giving the narrative a sense of urgency and relevance that resonates with readers today. "American Tabloid" is not a book for the faint of heart, as it contains graphic violence, explicit language, and mature themes. However, for readers who enjoy complex characters, intricate plotlines, and a gritty, unvarnished portrayal of American history, this book is a must-read. Overall, "American Tabloid" is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that challenges readers to question the official narratives of history and consider the role that power, corruption, and violence play in shaping our world. Ellroy's masterful storytelling and distinctive voice make this book a standout addition to any literary collection...

List of books similar to "American Tabloid":

The Big Nowhere cover

James Ellroy

The Big Nowhere

A classic from the same author, 'The Big Nowhere' is a dark, twisting tale of crime and corruption in 1950s Los Angeles. With its richly drawn characters and intricate plot, this book is a must-read for fans of 'American Tabloid'.

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L.A. Confidential cover

James Ellroy

L.A. Confidential

Another masterpiece from James Ellroy, 'L.A. Confidential' is a gritty, fast-paced thriller that explores the dark underbelly of Los Angeles. With its complex characters and shocking twists, this book is sure to satisfy fans of 'American Tabloid'.

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The Godfather cover

Mario Puzo

The Godfather

A classic of the crime genre, 'The Godfather' tells the story of the Corleone family, a powerful mafia clan in New York City. With its richly drawn characters and intricate plot, this book is a great choice for fans of 'American Tabloid'.

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The Friends of Eddie Coyle cover

George V. Higgins

The Friends of Eddie Coyle

A classic of the crime genre, 'The Friends of Eddie Coyle' tells the story of Eddie Coyle, a small-time criminal who becomes an informant for the police. With its gritty realism and complex characters, this book is a great choice for fans of 'American Tabloid'.

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Casino cover

Nicholas Pileggi

Casino

This novelization of the hit movie 'Casino' tells the story of Sam Rothstein, a mob-connected casino executive who tries to go straight. With its gritty realism and complex characters, this book is a great choice for fans of 'American Tabloid'.

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The Devil in the White City cover

Erik Larson

The Devil in the White City

This true crime story tells the story of H.H. Holmes, one of America's first serial killers, who operated in Chicago during the 1893 World's Fair. With its richly drawn characters and intricate plot, this book is a great choice for fans of 'American Tabloid'.

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The Alienist cover

Caleb Carr

The Alienist

Set in 1896 New York City, 'The Alienist' follows the story of a criminal psychologist who teams up with a newspaper illustrator and a police secretary to track down a serial killer. With its richly drawn characters and intricate plot, this book is a great choice for fans of 'American Tabloid'.

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The Black Dahlia cover

James Ellroy

The Black Dahlia

A classic from the same author, 'The Black Dahlia' is a dark, twisting tale of crime and corruption in 1940s Los Angeles. With its richly drawn characters and intricate plot, this book is a must-read for fans of 'American Tabloid'.

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