For hard-boiled mystery readers, the plot buildup is obvious/dated. Skip to chapter 8 and then things start to get a bit more interesting...and then the end goes very dark. ( )

Being a Noir/Hard Boiled crime thriller fan, I just got into Hard Case Crime books earlier this year with Lawrence Block's "Sinner Man". Thoroughly enjoyed it, so I decided to start with Hard Case Crime #001 "Grifter's Game (also a Block novel). Loved it! After two books, I have become a Lawrence Block fan. I really like that his novels are short and to the point, no extra filler that doesn't need to be there.

I thought I had an idea where the story was going to end, then it took an unexpected twist that I did not see coming at all! Good Stuff!! ( )

Grifter's Game by Lawrence Block

Joe Marlin is a conman, always on the make and the run. He is good at his game, getting money off of unsuspecting wealthy women. Then he steals a suitcase, (finds it) full of heroin and meets Mona Brassard. He wants Mona, (her) money and a life of luxury. But at what cost. Soon his life takes a turn and there is no looking back.

A fantastic story with a likable antihero (Joe) and woman who has met her match. With thought provoking moments, intrigue, twists and turns I was hooked from the start. Grifter's Game is perfect for those who enjoy thrilling crime/drama. A must read. ( )

Well, that took a dark turn!! ( )

I had a lot of fun with this one - loved the pacing, phrasing, etc. Good old pulpy pulpy. ( )