Robert J. Randisi Books in Order

Picture a Brooklyn-born wordsmith who churned out over 650 novels, spinning tales of gritty detectives and rugged cowboys—meet Robert J. Randisi! Known as 'the last of the pulp writers' by Booklist...

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Publication Order of Angel Eyes Books

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Publication Order of Rat Pack Mysteries Books

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Publication Order of The Gunsmith Giant Books

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Publication Order of The Gunsmith Books

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Picture a Brooklyn-born wordsmith who churned out over 650 novels, spinning tales of gritty detectives and rugged cowboys—meet Robert J. Randisi! Known as 'the last of the pulp writers' by Booklist, Randisi’s prolific career in Western and detective fiction has left an indelible mark on genre storytelling. From founding the Private Eye Writers of America to crafting the nostalgic Rat Pack Mysteries, his work pulses with sharp dialogue and neon-lit intrigue.

Born in 1951, Randisi’s journey from a New York kid to a literary legend is as captivating as his stories. With a typewriter as his weapon, he’s been a trailblazer, earning accolades like the Southwestern Mystery Convention’s Life Achievement Award. Ready to dive into his world of private eyes and dusty trails? Let’s go!

The Making of Robert J. Randisi

Robert J. Randisi was born on August 24, 1951, in Brooklyn, New York, where the city’s hustle shaped his storytelling grit. A self-proclaimed 'private eye nut,' he began writing at 15, submitting his first piece at 18 and landing a sale by 23. Before writing full-time, he worked as a civilian employee for the NYPD from 1973 to 1981, soaking up the raw energy of Brooklyn’s 67th Precinct. This real-world experience fueled his authentic, street-smart narratives. By 1982, Randisi quit his day job, launching a streak of publishing a book every month for over three decades—an almost superhuman feat!

Robert J. Randisi’s Unforgettable Stories

Randisi’s bibliography is a treasure trove of over 650 novels, spanning detective and Western genres with a pulp-inspired flair. His Rat Pack Mysteries series, starting with Everybody Kills Somebody Sometime (2006), transports readers to 1960s Las Vegas, where pit boss Eddie Gianelli solves crimes alongside Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin. The series blends historical fiction with noir, capturing the era’s glitz and grit. Another gem, The Gunsmith series, written under the pseudonym J.R. Roberts, boasts over 400 books, following the adventures of Clint Adams with fast-paced action.

His Miles Jacoby series, featuring a former boxer turned private eye, showcases Randisi’s knack for sharp dialogue and vivid New York settings. Titles like Eye in the Ring (1982) brim with hard-boiled charm. Randisi’s Westerns, like Vengeance Creek from the Sons of Daniel Shaye series, weave family drama with frontier justice. His style—witty, concise, and packed with clever plotting—earned praise from peers like T. Jefferson Parker, who called his work 'sacred' for Rat Pack fans.

Beyond novels, Randisi edited over 30 anthologies, including The Shamus Winners (2010), amplifying other mystery writers’ voices. His versatility shines in collaborations, like mystery novels with soap opera star Eileen Davidson, blending soap opera drama with crime-solving flair.

Why Robert J. Randisi Matters

Randisi’s impact transcends his staggering output. In 1981, he founded the Private Eye Writers of America, creating the Shamus Award to honor excellence in private eye fiction. This move elevated the genre’s prestige, ensuring it remained 'vital and potent,' as noted by The Thrilling Detective. He co-founded the American Crime Writers League and Mystery Scene Magazine, fostering a community for mystery enthusiasts. His Western Fictioneers group and Peacemaker Award further cemented his influence in Western literature.

His awards—'The Eye' Lifetime Achievement from PWA (2009), Peacemaker Lifetime Achievement (2016), and others—reflect his legacy. Randisi’s stories, blending nostalgia, humor, and suspense, continue to captivate readers, proving pulp fiction’s enduring appeal.

  • Born: August 24, 1951, Brooklyn, New York
  • Key Works: Rat Pack Mysteries, The Gunsmith, Miles Jacoby series
  • Awards: Shamus Award (2009), Southwestern Mystery Convention Life Achievement (1993), Peacemaker Lifetime Achievement (2016)
  • Pseudonyms: J.R. Roberts, Tom Cutter, Robert Lake, and more

Snag Everybody Kills Somebody Sometime and dive into Robert J. Randisi’s dazzling world of neon noir and Western grit!

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Robert J. Randisi?

Robert J. Randisi (1951–2024) was a Brooklyn-born author of over 650 detective and Western novels, dubbed 'the last of the pulp writers.' He founded the Private Eye Writers of America, created the Shamus Award, and wrote the Rat Pack Mysteries, blending noir with 1960s Vegas flair.

What are Robert J. Randisi’s best books?

Randisi’s top works include Everybody Kills Somebody Sometime (Rat Pack Mysteries), Eye in the Ring (Miles Jacoby series), and The Gunsmith series (over 400 books as J.R. Roberts). His novels mix sharp dialogue, noir, and Western action.

What inspired Robert J. Randisi’s writing?

Randisi’s love for private eye fiction and his Brooklyn upbringing, plus his NYPD civilian work from 1973–1981, shaped his gritty, authentic stories. The pulp era’s fast-paced style and 1960s Vegas culture fueled his Rat Pack Mysteries.

Why did Robert J. Randisi create the Shamus Award?

In 1981, Randisi founded the Private Eye Writers of America and created the Shamus Award to celebrate excellence in private eye fiction, elevating the genre’s respect and encouraging new talent in mystery writing.

What is the Rat Pack Mysteries series about?

Randisi’s Rat Pack Mysteries, starting with Everybody Kills Somebody Sometime, follows pit boss Eddie Gianelli solving crimes in 1960s Las Vegas alongside Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin, blending historical fiction with noir suspense.