4.04
Part of "Jack Taylor" series
"Cross" by Ken Bruen is a gripping, darkly humorous crime novel that follows the story of a former police officer, Robert "Cross" Crozier, as he seeks revenge on the criminals who have wronged him. After being forced into early retirement, Cross finds himself consumed by anger and a desire for justice, leading him to take matters into his own hands. Bruen's writing style is unique and captivating, with short, staccato sentences that perfectly capture the gritty, unforgiving world of criminal underworld. The pacing of the novel is fast and relentless, with unexpected twists and turns that keep readers on the edge of their seats. One of the standout aspects of "Cross" is the complex and morally ambiguous protagonist. Cross is not a typical hero; he is flawed, violent, and often makes questionable decisions. Yet, despite his flaws, readers cannot help but root for him as he navigates the dangerous waters of the criminal world. The novel also explores themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the corrupting influence of power. Through Cross's journey, Bruen challenges readers to consider the true nature of justice and the consequences of seeking revenge. Overall, "Cross" is a thrilling and thought-provoking read that will appeal to fans of crime fiction and noir. Its unique protagonist, fast-paced plot, and exploration of complex themes make it a standout addition to the genre. Whether you're a fan of Ken Bruen's previous work or new to his writing, "Cross" is a novel that is not to be missed...
Ken Bruen
The Guards
If you enjoyed 'Cross' by Ken Bruen, you might like to explore more of his work. 'The Guards' is the first book in Bruen's popular Jack Taylor series and offers a similar dose of gritty Irish crime fiction. The novel follows the story of Jack Taylor, a former police officer who becomes a private detective in Galway. With its dark humor, complex characters, and poetic prose, 'The Guards' is a great choice for fans of 'Cross'.
Learn MoreMichael Connelly
The Black Echo
Fans of 'Cross' who enjoy fast-paced crime novels with a strong sense of place may enjoy 'The Black Echo' by Michael Connelly. This novel introduces readers to Harry Bosch, a veteran LAPD detective who must solve a murder that is eerily similar to a case he worked on years ago. With its gritty realism, complex characters, and vivid descriptions of Los Angeles, 'The Black Echo' is a great choice for fans of 'Cross'.
Learn MoreStieg Larsson
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
If you're looking for a crime novel with a strong female protagonist and a complex plot, you might enjoy 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' by Stieg Larsson. This Swedish thriller follows the story of Lisbeth Salander, a brilliant but troubled computer hacker who teams up with a disgraced journalist to solve a decades-old mystery. With its intricate plotting, sharp social commentary, and unforgettable characters, 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' is a worthy successor to 'Cross'.
Learn MoreVal McDermid
The Wire in the Blood
Fans of 'Cross' who enjoy psychological thrillers with a strong sense of character may enjoy 'The Wire in the Blood' by Val McDermid. This novel introduces readers to Tony Hill, a clinical psychologist who works with the police to catch serial killers. With its complex characters, intricate plotting, and vivid descriptions of the criminal mind, 'The Wire in the Blood' is a great choice for fans of 'Cross'.
Learn MoreRaymond Chandler
The Big Sleep
If you're looking for a classic crime novel with a similar level of grit and style as 'Cross', you might enjoy 'The Big Sleep' by Raymond Chandler. This novel introduces readers to Philip Marlowe, a hard-boiled detective who must navigate the seedy underbelly of Los Angeles to solve a complex case. With its sharp dialogue, vivid descriptions, and unforgettable characters, 'The Big Sleep' is a must-read for fans of 'Cross'.
Learn MoreThomas Harris
The Silence of the Lambs
Fans of 'Cross' who enjoy psychological thrillers with a strong sense of danger may enjoy 'The Silence of the Lambs' by Thomas Harris. This novel introduces readers to Hannibal Lecter, a brilliant but terrifying serial killer who helps a young FBI agent track down another killer. With its complex characters, intricate plotting, and vivid descriptions of the criminal mind, 'The Silence of the Lambs' is a worthy successor to 'Cross'.
Learn MoreJames Ellroy
The Black Dahlia
If you're looking for a crime novel with a similar level of historical detail and gritty realism as 'Cross', you might enjoy 'The Black Dahlia' by James Ellroy. This novel is based on the true story of the murder of Elizabeth Short, a young woman whose body was found in a vacant lot in Los Angeles in 1947. With its complex characters, intricate plotting, and vivid descriptions of the city, 'The Black Dahlia' is a great choice for fans of 'Cross'.
Learn MoreRaymond Chandler
The Long Goodbye
If you're looking for a classic crime novel with a similar level of wit and style as 'Cross', you might enjoy 'The Long Goodbye' by Raymond Chandler. This novel follows the story of Philip Marlowe, who becomes embroiled in a complex case involving a wealthy businessman, his troubled wife, and a mysterious stranger. With its sharp dialogue, vivid descriptions, and unforgettable characters, 'The Long Goodbye' is a must-read for fans of 'Cross'.
Learn MoreErik Larson
The Devil in the White City
If you're looking for a non-fiction book with a similar level of historical detail and intrigue as 'Cross', you might enjoy 'The Devil in the White City' by Erik Larson. This book tells the story of the 1893 World's Fair in Chicago and the serial killer who used the fair to lure his victims. With its richly detailed descriptions, vivid characters, and gripping narrative, 'The Devil in the White City' is a great choice for fans of 'Cross'.
Learn MoreCaleb Carr
The Alienist
If you're looking for a historical crime novel with a similar level of complexity and intrigue as 'Cross', you might enjoy 'The Alienist' by Caleb Carr. This novel is set in 1896 New York City and follows the story of a criminal psychologist who must track down a serial killer who is targeting boy prostitutes. With its richly detailed descriptions, vivid characters, and gripping narrative, 'The Alienist' is a great choice for fans of 'Cross'.
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