Description
5 Jotas
Book Summary
A crime novel that delves into the underworld of the outskirts, where the theft of high-quality hams becomes the focus of a heist as bizarre as it is dangerous. El Charli, an ex-convict with no future, and Banderines, his former, more intelligent sidekick, assemble a most picturesque gang to pull off a heist that promises a significant haul. The reader will find a story of crime and suspense with authentic, marginal characters, written by an author who knows the world he portrays inside out.
What is it about?
The plot centers on El Charli, a tough guy whose past is marked by crime and drugs, and whose present is consumed by alcohol and cigarettes. After receiving a tip, he seeks out Banderines, his former colleague and mastermind of previous jobs, to propose a new heist. The mission: steal hams. Although Banderines is hesitant at first, the confirmation that the loot is substantial convinces him. To carry out the plan, El Charli is in charge of recruiting a colorful cast of crime experts, while Banderines meticulously designs the job. However, in a heist, the outcome is always unpredictable, and nothing goes as expected.
Main themes
- The heist and criminal planning as the driving force of the plot.
- Marginality and the underworld of the urban outskirts.
- Friendship and loyalty among characters with a criminal past.
- Impossible redemption and the search for a future in a hostile environment.
- Black humor and irony in high-tension situations.
Who is it recommended for?
For readers of crime and detective fiction who are looking for stories set away from major urban centers, with authentic characters and a classic heist plot but with an original twist. It is ideal for those who enjoy suspense, direct language, and sordid atmospheres, as well as fans of the publisher's Noir collection.
What this book offers
- A realistic immersion into the criminal underworld from the perspective of its protagonists.
- Memorable and well-constructed characters, far from the usual stereotypes.
- A heist plot that combines suspense, action, and a touch of black humor.
- The author's firsthand knowledge of peripheral neighborhoods and their codes.
- An agile and entertaining read, with a pace that maintains tension until the end.
Technical Specifications
- Author: Gómez Escribano, Paco
- Publisher: EDITORIAL ALREVES, S.L.
- Language: Spanish
- Subject: CRIME AND MYSTERY GENRE, MYSTERY AND SUSPENSE WORK
- Collection: NOIR
- Binding: Paperback
- Publication date: October 2020
- Number of pages: 304
- Weight: 636 g
Editorial Assessment
A solid entry in the noir genre that stands out for its authenticity. Paco Gómez Escribano builds a heist story with marginal characters who are believable and relatable, avoiding idealization. The plot, centered on the theft of something as everyday as hams, provides a point of originality that hooks the reader. It is a recommended read for those looking for a noir novel with a street flavor, with no concessions and a narrative pulse that keeps the interest from beginning to end.