The Hot Rock

Donald E. Westlake

Apr 2024 · Dortmunder Novels Book 1 · Highbridge Audio · Narrated by Justin Price

About this audiobook

Edgar Award Finalist: A comical crime caper "filled with action and imagination" (The New York Times Book Review). John Dortmunder leaves jail with ten dollars, a train ticket, and nothing to make money on but his good name. Thankfully, his reputation goes far. No one plans a caper better than Dortmunder. His friend Kelp picks him up in a stolen Cadillac and drives him away from Sing-Sing, telling a story of a $500,000 emerald that they just have to steal. Dortmunder doesn't hesitate to agree. The emerald is the crown jewel of a former British colony, lately granted independence and split into two nations: one for the Talabwo people, one for the Akinzi. The Akinzi have the stone, the Talabwo want it back, and their UN representative offers a fine payday to the men who can get it. It's not a simple heist, but after a few years in stir, Dortmunder could use the challenge.

About the author

Donald E. Westlake (1933-2008) was one of the most prolific and talented authors of American crime fiction. His most well-known characters were John Dortmunder, an unlucky thief, and a ruthless criminal named Parker. His writing earned him three Edgar Awards and a Grand Master Award from the Mystery Writers of America.

Justin Price is a noir-themed storyteller with a penchant for comedy and dark thoughts. His devotion to creeping inside the minds of characters shows in his colorful narration. He lives in sunny Florida with his loving family, but longs for a haunted mansion somewhere dreary and destitute.