The Rare Coin Score, by Richard Stark

(1967, 2009: ninth novel in the Parker series.  Foreword by Luc Sante.)


From the back cover:

"When it comes to heists, Parker believes in some cardinal rules.  On this job, he breaks two of them: never bring a dame along - especially not one you like - and never, ever, work with amateurs.  Nevertheless, with the help of a creep named Billy, and the lure of a classy widow, he agrees to set up a heist of a coin convention.  But Billy's a rookie with no idea how to pull off a score, and the lady soon becomes a major distraction.  The Rare Coin Score marks the first appearance of Claire, who will steal Parker's heister's heart - while together they steal two million dollars worth of coins."


Review:

This is an especially outstanding Parker novel - all of the books in this series thus far are excellent -  not only for its introduction of Claire, but also for Parker's evolution as a person (an evolution that's noteworthy and natural at the same time).  As with past Parker works, there is suspense, complications and a betrayal or two, along with a few other wild card elements.

Great read, followed by The Green Eagle Score.