Rogues

by Patrick Radden Keefe
Rogues cover
Good Books rating 4.58
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  • ID: 2753
  • Added: 2025-10-16
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • ISBN: 9781035001774
  • Publisher: Pan Macmillan
  • Published: 2022-07-07
  • Formats: 4
  • Reviews: 3

Patrick Radden Keefe, the award-winning author of *Say Nothing* and *Empire of Pain*, presents a captivating collection of twelve stories that delve into the darker corners of human behavior. From the forgery of vintage wines to the complexities of international arms dealing, Keefe's meticulously researched articles, originally published in *The New Yorker*, offer a fascinating exploration of crime, corruption, and the people caught in their web. This anthology not only showcases Keefe's masterful storytelling but also his ability to humanize even the most unsavory characters. Whether profiling a passionate death-penalty attorney or examining the moral ambiguities of a Swiss bank whistleblower, Keefe's work is both enthralling and thought-provoking. His writing, described as 'eminently bingeable' and 'seductively globetrotting,' ensures that *Rogues* is a must-read for fans of investigative journalism and literary nonfiction.

Reviews
Books Are My Favourite and Best · 2022-12-18
great 4.50

The collection is described as a fascinating grouping of rascals, with each story written as a long-form investigative piece for The New Yorker.

The reviewer expresses their admiration for the author's writing style, which they find beautifully crafted and engaging. They appreciate the variety of stories and the author's ability to make each one compelling. The reviewer also notes that the book is a great introduction to the author's work for those who are not familiar with it. They find the stories to be well-researched and thought-provoking, making it a worthwhile read for anyone interested in true crime or investigative journalism.

Quick quotes

    Rogues is a collection of true stories of grifters, killers, rebels and crooks, all written as long-form investigative pieces for The New Yorker.

    Keefe's writing is always so beautifully crafted, and Rogues does not disappoint.

    A totally fascinating grouping of rascals profiled by Keefe, each story is a gem in its own right.

NPR · 2022-06-27
brilliant 4.75

The book is praised for its masterful prose and the author's unique ability to read people, making the stories both fascinating and deeply human.

The reviewer highlights the author's exceptional talent for understanding and portraying the complexities of human nature. They find the stories to be not only fascinating but also deeply moving, as the author delves into the motivations and psyches of the rogues. The reviewer appreciates the author's ability to make each story feel personal and relatable, despite the often extreme circumstances. They also note that the book is a testament to the power of storytelling, as it keeps the reader engaged from start to finish.

Quick quotes

    Rogues is a wonderful book, not only because Keefe's prose is masterful, but because he has a preternatural gift for reading people.

    Keefe's ability to make the extraordinary feel intimate is what sets this collection apart.

    The stories are not just about the crimes or the criminals; they are about the human condition in all its complexity.

The Guardian · 2022-06-19
excellent 4.50

The collection showcases the author's relentless pursuit of truth and his ability to weave compelling narratives. The stories are engaging and well-researched, highlighting the author's investigative prowess.

The reviewer praises the author's dedication to uncovering the truth in each story, noting that the collection is a testament to his investigative skills. They appreciate the vivid details and the way the author brings each character to life. The reviewer finds the stories to be both thrilling and insightful, making it a compelling read for those interested in true crime and investigative journalism. The reviewer also highlights the author's ability to maintain a balanced perspective, presenting both the rogues and their victims with nuance.

Quick quotes

    In this 'greatest hits' collection, the author of the acclaimed Empire of Pain stops at nothing in pursuit of the truth.

    Keefe's reporting is meticulous, and his prose is engaging, making even the most complex stories accessible.

    The book is a masterclass in investigative journalism, showcasing Keefe's ability to uncover the hidden truths behind each story.

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