40 Books About Heists

"The Hunter: A Parker Novel" by Richard Stark is an iconic heist novel that follows the story of Parker, a professional thief who is keener on getting the job done than the moral implications of his actions. The book is filled with action, suspense, and an intricate plot that will keep you guessing until the very end. With Parker's cold personality and cunning demeanor, readers are taken on a thrilling journey through the world of heists and crime. This book is one of the best examples of the heist genre and is a must-read for anyone interested in the subject."

One book that should definitely be on your list of must-reads if you’re a fan of heist stories is “The Great Train Robbery” by Michael Crichton. This gripping novel takes its inspiration from the real-life events of the 1855 robbery of a train carrying gold bullion from London to Paris. Crichton’s historically accurate portrayal of the crime and its perpetrators make for a thrilling read, as the audacious thieves use their wit, cunning, and inside knowledge to pull off one of the most daring heists in history. Written in Crichton’s trademark fast-paced style, “The Great Train Robbery” is a true classic in the genre of heist literature.

The Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch is a thrilling heist fantasy novel that follows the story of Locke Lamora, a young thief from Camorr. Along with his crew, Locke pulls off some of the most daring heists imaginable, always staying one step ahead of the city's powerful nobles. But when a mysterious figure known only as the Gray King starts targeting Locke's gang, they must use all their wit and cunning to stay alive. This book is a must-read for anyone who loves fast-paced action, intricate plots, and memorable characters.

The Getaway is a classic heist novel that follows Doc McCoy, an experienced criminal who dreams of one last big score. With the help of his wife, Carol, he plans a daring robbery that could set him up for life. But when things go wrong and they are forced to make a run for it, the couple finds themselves pursued by both the law and a deadly mob boss who wants his share of the loot. Thompson's gripping plot and sharp, sparse prose make this a must-read for fans of the genre.

If you're looking for a thrilling true story of theft, you won't want to miss The Feather Thief. In 2009, a young musician named Edwin Rist broke into the Tring Museum in England and stole hundreds of rare bird specimens. Rist's motivation? To sell the feathers and use the profits to fund his love of fly-tying. But the crime didn't go as smoothly as planned. Johnson takes readers on a wild ride, tracing the history of Victorian-era feather trade and even attempting to solve the mystery of what happened to the missing birds. This book is a must-read for anyone fascinated by heists, true crime, or natural history.

The Italian Girl is a thrilling book that adds a unique spin to your typical heist story. Instead of focusing on a group of thieves, this novel follows a naive and innocent young woman named Emily who becomes embroiled in a complex heist involving stolen paintings. As Emily navigates this dangerous world, she realizes that things are not what they seem and she must use all her wit and cunning to survive. The plot twists and turns keep you on the edge of your seat, making this book a must-read for any heist enthusiast.

The Diamond Smugglers by Ian Fleming is a thrilling account of a real-life diamond heist that took place in Africa. The book follows the story of a group of smugglers who stole millions of dollars worth of diamonds and evaded authorities for months. Throughout the book, Fleming provides detailed descriptions of the methods used by the smugglers to elude capture and the high-stakes world of diamond smuggling. This book is a must-read for anyone who enjoys tales of daring heists and high-stakes crime.

This gripping novel tells the story of a charismatic and dangerous criminal, Harry Starks, and his involvement in a series of audacious heists in 1960s London. The book follows Starks' rise to power in the criminal underworld and his relationships with a variety of colorful characters. Arnott's vivid descriptions and masterful storytelling make this a must-read for anyone interested in heist stories and the criminal underworld.

The Score by Richard Stark is a classic heist novel that follows the meticulous planning and execution of a daring robbery at a mining company. The book is part of the popular Parker series and features the eponymous anti-hero as he leads a team of skilled thieves on a complex and dangerous job. The twists and turns of the plot, along with the tension and suspense that Stark is famous for, make The Score an engrossing read for anyone who loves heist stories. Whether you're a fan of classic crime fiction or just looking for a thrilling new read, The Score is sure to deliver.

The Two Minute Rule by Robert Crais is an exciting heist novel which follows the story of Max Holman, a former bank robber who is released from prison after serving eight years for a failed heist. As he tries to rebuild his life and reconnect with his estranged son, Max discovers that his former accomplice has been murdered and he becomes the prime suspect.

With his freedom at stake, Max decides to go on one last heist to clear his name and find the killer. He teams up with an unlikely group of allies, including a retired cop and a young hacker, to break into the vault of a wealthy businessman in downtown LA.

The Two Minute Rule is a fast-paced and gripping novel that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very last page. Crais does an excellent job of weaving together multiple plot threads and creating complex, three-dimensional characters that you can't help but root for.

The Cartel by Don Winslow is a thrilling novel about a heist gone wrong. Art Keller, a former DEA agent, is back in Mexico to track down Adán Barrera, the head of one of the most powerful drug cartels in the world. But as Keller gets closer to his target, he realizes that there's more at stake than just taking down a criminal organization. The Cartel is a gripping story of betrayal, vengeance, and greed that will keep you turning the pages until the very end.

The Outfit: The Role of Chicago's Underworld in the Shaping of Modern America by Gus Russo is a must-read book for anyone interested in heists and organized crime. This book goes beyond just detailing the history of the Chicago Outfit. It also explores how the Outfit was able to shape modern America through its influence in politics, labor unions, and the entertainment industry. With captivating storytelling and meticulous research, Russo delves into the lives of legendary figures like Al Capone, Tony Accardo, and Sam Giancana. This book is not just a thrilling account of incredible heists, but also an in-depth exploration of how organized crime can leave a lasting impact on a nation's history.

The Red Tent by Anita Diamant is not a book about heists in the traditional sense, but it is a story of the ultimate heist: women taking back their power and control in a patriarchal society. Set in biblical times, the novel tells the story of Dinah, the only daughter of Jacob, and the women of her tribe who gather in the red tent during menstruation. Through their stories and experiences, the women form a strong bond and create a secret world that belongs only to them. However, when Dinah falls in love with a prince from a neighboring tribe, her world is turned upside down and she must navigate the dangerous terrain of male-dominated cultures. The Red Tent is a compelling and beautifully written book that celebrates the power and resilience of women.

The Burglar in the Rye by Lawrence Block is an exciting heist tale that follows Bernie Rhodenbarr, a skilled burglar with a soft spot for literature. When Bernie discovers a rare edition of The Catcher in the Rye during a break-in, he can't resist taking it for himself. But when the book's true owner is murdered and Bernie becomes the prime suspect, he must use all his cunning and wit to clear his name and uncover the real culprit. This fast-paced and witty novel is a must-read for anyone who loves heist stories with a twist.

Join the "Bad Grandpas" on their last and most daring heist at the Hatton Garden Safe Deposit Company in London. This book is a thrilling non-fiction account of how a group of aging criminals executed one of the largest burglary heists in British history. Bilefsky's writing is captivating as he takes you on a journey through the planning, execution, and aftermath of this extraordinary heist. You'll learn how the grandpas carried out their meticulously planned burglary and how they were eventually caught by the police. A must-read for anyone looking for an exciting true-crime story.

“The Kill Society” is a thrilling novel about a group of criminals who band together to pull off the ultimate heist. Led by protagonist Sandman Slim, a magician turned monster-slayer, this team of misfits aims to steal a treasure that can give them unimaginable power. But as they navigate the dangerous underworld of Los Angeles, they find themselves up against rival gangs, vengeful psychopaths, and even the supernatural. With plenty of action, suspense, and dark humor, “The Kill Society” is a must-read for anyone who loves heist stories with a fantastical twist.

Frank W. Abagnale’s autobiography, “Catch Me If You Can,” is a thrilling account of his life as a teenage con artist who successfully executed multiple heists. He impersonated an airline pilot, a doctor and a lawyer and managed to steal millions of dollars through fraudulent activities. The book chronicles Abagnales’s escapades as he constantly outwits the FBI that is hot on his trail. The book is a must-read for anyone interested in the art of heists and con artistry. His audacious schemes were later immortalized in a Hollywood movie starring Leonardo DiCaprio.

The Parker Inheritance is a captivating heist story that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. The book follows the story of Candice Miller, a twelve-year-old girl who returns to her grandmother's hometown in South Carolina and discovers a mysterious letter that leads her on a dangerous treasure hunt to solve a decades-old mystery. Along with her new friend, Brandon, Candice unravels clues and uncovers secrets that involve stolen money and long-buried injustices.

The author, Varian Johnson, brilliantly weaves a compelling plot filled with unexpected twists and turns, vivid characters, and a rich historical context that makes the story even more engaging. Johnson's writing style is accessible and engaging, making it an ideal book for readers of all ages. Whether you're a fan of heist stories, mysteries, or just looking for a thought-provoking and entertaining read, The Parker Inheritance is a must-read that won't disappoint.

The League of Seven by Alan Gratz is a thrilling book that takes readers on a heist adventure to save the world from destruction. The story follows Archie Dent, a member of the League of Seven, a group of extraordinary individuals recruited by the President to stop the evil Mangleborn from unleashing a mechanical army and destroying the world. Archie and his comrades must use all their skills in heist tactics to infiltrate and steal back the necessary components to create a weapon to destroy Mangleborn's army. Filled with action, suspense, and clever heist planning, The League of Seven is a must-read for fans of heists and adventure.

The Diamond Setter by Moshe Sakal is a captivating novel about a heist that takes place in the diamond district of Tel Aviv. The story follows a young man named Fareed, who is entrusted with a rare diamond that is worth millions of dollars. However, things take a dramatic turn when the diamond is stolen and Fareed must navigate the dangerous world of diamond theft in order to retrieve it. This novel is a must-read for any fan of heist stories or anyone looking for a thrilling and engaging read.

The Man Who Robbed the Pierre by Ira Berkow is an enthralling account of the biggest hotel robbery in history. The book chronicles the life of Bobby Comfort - a career thief who meticulously planned and executed the heist at the Pierre Hotel in New York. This page-turner takes readers through the intricacies of the heist and its aftermath, including Comfort's arrest and trial. A must-read for anyone interested in real-life heists!

The Hot Rock by Donald E. Westlake is a classic heist novel that follows a team of professional crooks as they attempt to steal a valuable gem known as the Balabomo Emerald. However, their plans quickly unravel as they encounter numerous obstacles along the way, each requiring them to adapt and improvise in order to stay one step ahead of the law. With a cast of unforgettable characters and a plot filled with twists and turns, The Hot Rock is a must-read for anyone looking for a thrilling heist story.

"Gun Machine" by Warren Ellis is a thrilling heist novel that follows Detective John Tallow as he investigates a seemingly simple murder case that quickly unfolds into a complex web of stolen guns and heists. Along the way, Tallow discovers a secret room filled with over 200 guns, each linked to a different unsolved case. As he dives deeper into the mystery, Tallow must team up with a group of unlikely allies to solve the biggest heist of all. This book is a must-read for any heist lovers, offering a unique take on the genre and a thrilling page-turner from beginning to end.

The Great Train Robbery: The Untold Story from the Closed Investigation Files by Andrew Cook is a must-read for anyone interested in heists. This book delves into the incredible true story of the 1963 Great Train Robbery in England, revealing details that were previously unknown from the closed investigation files. Cook provides a thorough and engaging account of the planning, execution, and aftermath of the audacious heist, which saw a gang of thieves steal millions of pounds from a Royal Mail train. Through interviews with witnesses, police officers, and members of the gang, Cook paints a vivid picture of the crime and its impact on those involved. If you're a fan of true crime or heist stories, The Great Train Robbery is a book you won't want to miss.

The Falcon Thief is a nonfiction book that details the true story of a notorious wildlife smuggler who stole rare bird of prey eggs from remote nests all over the world. This gripping tale of international crime includes intricate details of the heists involved in stealing the eggs. The book is a thrilling page-turner that exposes the dark underworld of exotic animal trafficking and the lengths to which people will go to make money. Readers who enjoy heist stories and true crime will devour this book.

The Art Forger by B.A. Shapiro is a thrilling novel that centers around a heist involving infamous paintings. The story follows the protagonist, Claire Roth, a struggling artist who becomes embroiled in a scheme to forge several paintings by renowned artist, Edgar Degas. As the plot unfolds, readers are taken on a journey filled with deception, high stakes, and unexpected twists. The Art Forger is a must-read for anyone interested in heists and the art world.

"Stanley Park" by Timothy Taylor is a gripping novel about a young man named Jeremy who is an aspiring chef and art expert, but is also a skilled cat burglar. Set in the bustling city of Vancouver, the book follows Jeremy's thrilling adventures as he plans and executes a series of daring heists, all while navigating his complicated relationships with his colleagues and a mysterious woman named Sylvia. "Stanley Park" is a page-turner that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

This book may not be about a heist in the traditional sense, but it provides a fascinating insider's look into the world of one of the greatest criminal organizations in history. Roberto Escobar, brother of the notorious drug lord Pablo Escobar, was the accountant for the Medellín Cartel and helped manage their immense fortune. In this memoir, he recounts his experiences and provides details about the operations, including money laundering and violent tactics used to maintain control. This book offers a unique perspective on the criminal underworld, perfect for those interested in intrigue and high-stakes operations.

"The Feather Men" by Ranulph Fiennes is a thrilling novel about a group of ex-special forces soldiers who attempt to steal a fortune from a criminal organization. The book is packed with action and suspense as the team navigates through dangerous situations to pull off the heist of a lifetime. The story is unique as it is based on real events, adding a level of realism to the already captivating plot. For anyone who is a fan of heist stories, this book is a must-read.

The Blue Fox by Sjón is not your typical heist book, but it does involve a clever and daring attempt to capture a mythical creature. Set in Iceland in the late 19th century, the book weaves together the stories of a priest who is on the hunt for the fox, a young man who has been wronged by the priest, and a woman who is trying to find her place in the world. Their stories come together in a stunning conclusion that will leave you breathless. The Blue Fox is a beautifully written and hauntingly atmospheric novel that will have you turning pages late into the night.

"The Fourth Durango" by Ross Thomas is a masterful heist novel that should be on every fan's reading list. Set in a sleepy California town, it follows Mack, the town's unofficial self-appointed mayor, as he assembles a team to pull off a daring robbery of a corrupt businessman's mansion. The plot is full of twists and turns, and the characters are all fascinating and complex. Thomas is an excellent writer, and his prose is both lively and humorous, making for a highly enjoyable read. If you're a fan of heist stories, you won't want to miss this one.

The Five is a non-fiction book that exposes the untold story of the women who were murdered by Jack the Ripper in Victorian London. However, this book is so much more than just a retelling of their tragic deaths. Author Hallie Rubenhold explores the lives of these women – Mary Ann Nichols, Annie Chapman, Elizabeth Stride, Catherine Eddowes and Mary Jane Kelly – and the circumstances they faced that led them to the dark and dangerous alleyways of Whitechapel. Through meticulous research, Rubenhold uncovers the harsh realities of poverty, homelessness and prostitution that these women endured, painting a vivid and detailed picture of their lives. This book is a fascinating insight into the lives of those who were victims of one of the most famous heists in history.

"The Bank Robber Diaries" by Danny King is a thrilling account of a real-life heist. The book follows the protagonist as he carries out a series of daring robberies, with each job becoming more dangerous than the last. King's writing captures the adrenaline rush and high-stakes tension of each heist, drawing readers in and leaving them on the edge of their seats. Through the protagonist's diary entries, readers get an inside look at the planning, execution, and aftermath of each robbery. This book is a must-read for anyone who loves stories about heists and the criminal underworld."

American Tabloid by James Ellroy is a riveting novel that revolves around the events leading up to the assassination of JFK. It follows the lives of three individuals: an FBI agent, a CIA operative, and a mobster – all of whom are involved in heists, blackmail, and various other illegal activities. As the story unfolds, the reader is taken on a wild ride through the seedy underbelly of American politics, where everyone has a hidden agenda and nothing is what it seems. The vividly descriptive writing style of Ellroy brings the characters and the setting to life, making for a truly captivating read. If you're a fan of heist novels and enjoy a good conspiracy theory, American Tabloid is a must-read!

The Stowaway: A Young Man's Extraordinary Adventure to Antarctica by Laurie Gwen Shapiro isn't necessarily about a heist, but it does involve an audacious young man who stows away on a perilous expedition to Antarctica in the 1920s. This true story is full of twists and turns as the protagonist, Billy Gawronski, manages to sneak aboard the ship and endure the harsh conditions of the icy continent while trying to avoid detection. This captivating tale of adventure and determination is a must-read for anyone who loves a good story of daring and survival.

"Heist Society" by Ally Carter is a thrilling young adult novel that follows the story of Katarina Bishop, a teenage girl who comes from a long line of skilled thieves. When she discovers that her father has been accused of stealing a valuable artwork, she must gather a team of fellow con artists to pull off a heist to clear his name. Along the way, Katarina must navigate dangerous situations, trust issues, and unexpected twists and turns. This book is a must-read for anyone who loves stories about daring heists and complex characters.

The Heist by Janet Evanovich and Lee Goldberg is a thrilling addition to the list of books about heists. The story follows FBI agent Kate O'Hare as she teams up with charming con artist Nick Fox to take down a corrupt investment banker. With twists and turns at every corner, The Heist will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

“The Thief” by Megan Whalen Turner is a thrilling tale of a master thief named Gen who is imprisoned and offered a chance to earn his freedom by stealing an ancient artifact. Set in a fantasy world inspired by ancient Greece, this book is filled with intrigue, twists, and turns as Gen navigates through a complex heist that involves outsmarting the gods themselves. Fans of heist stories will enjoy the clever plotting, memorable characters, and unexpected reveals that make “The Thief” a standout in the genre.

Lies That Bind Us by Andrew Hart is a thrilling heist novel that follows a group of criminals and a woman who unwittingly gets caught up in their scheme. The story is full of twists and turns as the crew plans the perfect heist and the woman, who is drawn to one of the members, tries to uncover their true intentions. The tension builds as the plan unfolds and they race against time to grab the loot and flee the scene. Hart’s writing is gripping and keeps you guessing until the very end.

The Mourner by Richard Stark is a thrilling story about Parker, a professional thief, who is hired to steal a priceless statue from an art collector's yacht. However, things don't go as planned and Parker discovers there is more to this heist than meets the eye. Set in the criminal underworld of the 1960s, this book is a page-turner that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end. It is a must-read for anyone who loves books about heists and crime.