What do you think?
Rate this book
L'ultimo colpo
Rapinare quel casinò è assolutamente impossibile. Ed è proprio questo che rende l’idea irresistibile per un leggendario rapinatore che rischia di trascorrere il resto della propria vita in prigione. Ma in fondo, quello che conta davvero è
L’ultimo colpo
.
Per raggranellare qualche soldo, un adolescente ambizioso e intraprendente consegna alcolici illegali alle persone che compaiono su quella che lui chiama La lista della domenica ; finché un poliziotto corrotto, un’affascinante cliente e un falso guru non minacciano di infrangere i suoi sogni.
In una tavola calda, due uomini della mala raccontano Una storia vera . Sembrano solo battute e pettegolezzi, ma poi si scopre che toccherà a qualcun altro pagare il conto.
Un poliziotto solitamente onesto si trova a dover scegliere tra la lealtà al suo lavoro e l’affetto per un cugino scansafatiche il cui destino è L’ala nord .
Per il surfista-detective Boone Daniels e la sua squadra, la star del cinema che sono incaricati di sorvegliare durante La pausa pranzo è un problema. Ma anche lei ha un qualcuno la vuole morta...
E per finire, un singolo, terribile errore manda in prigione un devoto uomo di famiglia e mette in rotta di Collisione l’uomo che vuole essere e l’assassino che è costretto a diventare.
Sei storie dinamiche e profondamente incisive in cui Don Winslow fonde umanità, umorismo e azione, catturando ancora una volta l’essenza del mondo criminale e le sue sfumature.
Per raggranellare qualche soldo, un adolescente ambizioso e intraprendente consegna alcolici illegali alle persone che compaiono su quella che lui chiama La lista della domenica ; finché un poliziotto corrotto, un’affascinante cliente e un falso guru non minacciano di infrangere i suoi sogni.
In una tavola calda, due uomini della mala raccontano Una storia vera . Sembrano solo battute e pettegolezzi, ma poi si scopre che toccherà a qualcun altro pagare il conto.
Un poliziotto solitamente onesto si trova a dover scegliere tra la lealtà al suo lavoro e l’affetto per un cugino scansafatiche il cui destino è L’ala nord .
Per il surfista-detective Boone Daniels e la sua squadra, la star del cinema che sono incaricati di sorvegliare durante La pausa pranzo è un problema. Ma anche lei ha un qualcuno la vuole morta...
E per finire, un singolo, terribile errore manda in prigione un devoto uomo di famiglia e mette in rotta di Collisione l’uomo che vuole essere e l’assassino che è costretto a diventare.
Sei storie dinamiche e profondamente incisive in cui Don Winslow fonde umanità, umorismo e azione, catturando ancora una volta l’essenza del mondo criminale e le sue sfumature.
336 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 27, 2026
869 people are currently reading
2292 people want to read
About the author
Don Winslow
115 books7,587 followersDon Winslow is the author of twenty-one acclaimed, award-winning international bestsellers, including the New York Times bestsellers The Force and The Border, the #1 international bestseller The Cartel, The Power of the Dog, Savages, and The Winter of Frankie Machine. Savages was made into a feature film by three-time Oscar-winning writer-director Oliver Stone. The Power of the Dog, The Cartel and The Border sold to FX in a major multimillion-dollar deal to air as a weekly television series beginning in 2020.
A former investigator, antiterrorist trainer and trial consultant, Winslow lives in California and Rhode Island.
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
A former investigator, antiterrorist trainer and trial consultant, Winslow lives in California and Rhode Island.
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 142 reviews
February 3, 2026
In a Nutshell: A collection of six short novels, each a character-oriented story of moral conflicts and misdemeanours. Excellent in variety, plot development, writing, pacing, and endings. Much recommended! Don’t read the GR blurb.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The blurb calls author Don Winslow "America's King of Crime Fiction" and “America’s greatest living crime writer”. But I had never even heard of him! 🤭 (Put this down to my relative abstinence from the thriller genre in recent years.) Those two labels were impossible to resist, so with the assurance of this having ‘six short novels’ instead of one full-length novel, I decided to give this collection a go. Now that I read it, I am wondering why I haven’t ever read him before!
It’s important to remember that the book promises six short novels, not short stories. With the total page count being about 300 pages, each entry gets more than enough place to develop properly, with a steady progression, intricate plots, outstanding character development, and a well-developed ending.
The characters make the collection shine even better because of how real they feel and because how much they make us root for them even when they are doing unsavoury things. Almost all the main characters have nuanced personalities instead of the usual 2D portrayal we see in short fiction. Every protagonist displays plenty of emotions and vulnerability, even if they happen to be tough guys.
The writing is literary in nature, so the focus of each story is more on the characters than on the action. Despite this, the stories have enough action to help us feel an adrenaline rush. The stories contain some solid twists that take us by surprise without feeling out of the blue or over the top. Some of the stories contain a dash of wit, but on the whole, the dominant mood is more dramatic.
In the foreword, three-time Edgar-award nominee Reed Farrel Coleman calls the author “a chameleon in the best possible sense for not being tied to a genre or style”. After reading the collection, I can only agree with this assessment. None of the stories feels like an action replay of the earlier entry. Each has a clear distinctness in terms of plot, setting and characters. As the stories are not interconnected and contain (in most cases) a proper start-middle-end, the ‘short novel’ label is justified.
The only aspect in which the stories might have created an even bigger impact is by not having such smooth endings. I don’t mind this that much because I am looking for happier reads these days, which isn't easy to find outside of the romance/uplit genres. Even if I get my shot of joy from stories of crime, I shall take it gladly. But readers more attuned to hardcore crime stories might find the endings in some of these tales too neat.
As always, I rated the ‘stories’ individually. Since there are only six entries, I shall include my brief feedback on each of them. You can see for yourself how high-performing this set was in general.
Overall, I had high expectations from this collection because of the praise showered on the author in the GR blurb, and my actual experience turned out to be even better. I am not a regular reader of the mystery thriller genre because it goes too OTT for my taste and because it focusses more on the plot than on anything else, including prose and character development. Don Winslow’s collection proved that all of this can be built convincingly without losing the impact or momentum of the narrative.
This is my first time reading this author, and I can assure you, it won't be the last.
I stopped reading the GR blurb after the two introductory paras; thank heavens for that! It reveals a bit too much about each of the six stories, which actually would be best discovered by going in blind. So don’t read the blurb. Just go for the book.
Definitely recommended to crime-mystery fans. As these are short novels, they are developed mostly in a traditional way, and hence they ought to work even for readers who don’t enjoy short stories.
4.33 stars. (If you are familiar with my ratings, you know that an average that goes to 4 stars and beyond is outstanding for an anthology.)
My thanks to HarperCollins UK, HarperFiction, and Hemlock Press for providing the DRC of “The Final Score” via NetGalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I follow the Goodreads rating policy:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Lifelong favourite!
⭐⭐⭐⭐ - I loved the book.
⭐⭐⭐ - I liked the book.
⭐⭐ - I found the book average.
⭐ - I hated the book.
The decimals indicate the degree of the in-between feelings.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog || The StoryGraph || Instagram || Facebook ||
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The blurb calls author Don Winslow "America's King of Crime Fiction" and “America’s greatest living crime writer”. But I had never even heard of him! 🤭 (Put this down to my relative abstinence from the thriller genre in recent years.) Those two labels were impossible to resist, so with the assurance of this having ‘six short novels’ instead of one full-length novel, I decided to give this collection a go. Now that I read it, I am wondering why I haven’t ever read him before!
It’s important to remember that the book promises six short novels, not short stories. With the total page count being about 300 pages, each entry gets more than enough place to develop properly, with a steady progression, intricate plots, outstanding character development, and a well-developed ending.
The characters make the collection shine even better because of how real they feel and because how much they make us root for them even when they are doing unsavoury things. Almost all the main characters have nuanced personalities instead of the usual 2D portrayal we see in short fiction. Every protagonist displays plenty of emotions and vulnerability, even if they happen to be tough guys.
The writing is literary in nature, so the focus of each story is more on the characters than on the action. Despite this, the stories have enough action to help us feel an adrenaline rush. The stories contain some solid twists that take us by surprise without feeling out of the blue or over the top. Some of the stories contain a dash of wit, but on the whole, the dominant mood is more dramatic.
In the foreword, three-time Edgar-award nominee Reed Farrel Coleman calls the author “a chameleon in the best possible sense for not being tied to a genre or style”. After reading the collection, I can only agree with this assessment. None of the stories feels like an action replay of the earlier entry. Each has a clear distinctness in terms of plot, setting and characters. As the stories are not interconnected and contain (in most cases) a proper start-middle-end, the ‘short novel’ label is justified.
The only aspect in which the stories might have created an even bigger impact is by not having such smooth endings. I don’t mind this that much because I am looking for happier reads these days, which isn't easy to find outside of the romance/uplit genres. Even if I get my shot of joy from stories of crime, I shall take it gladly. But readers more attuned to hardcore crime stories might find the endings in some of these tales too neat.
As always, I rated the ‘stories’ individually. Since there are only six entries, I shall include my brief feedback on each of them. You can see for yourself how high-performing this set was in general.
💰 The Final Score: I love heist movies but am wary of reading heist stories as the action somehow doesn't translate to visuals that effectively through mere words. This story proved me so wrong! I absolutely loved it from start to end. It was everything a heist tale should be. - ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🍾 The Sunday List: An impressive character-oriented experience. Went somewhat all over the place at first, but every little bit of info made sense at the end. The last line made me smile, which earned it an extra half-star. - ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🚓 The North Wing: Not my kind of characters, but definitely my kind of writing. Gripping plot from start to end. It's a story that's sad and realistic, which hits harder. - ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
💬 True Story: This entire novella is nothing but one wild conversation between a duo. Their names aren't mentioned except when they refer to each other in their dialogues. The start was really interesting, but after a point, I kept losing track of who was speaking until some cue brought me back. This might work for some readers, but I don't do too well with extended conversations. Plus, with the slight overdose of repartee, I felt like I was reading a comedy routine. It was a decent work, but it might have worked better for me if it were written in regular prose or in play script format. - ⭐⭐✨
🏄🏻♂️ The Lunch Break: A good story. I might not remember this in the long run, but while it was on, it was quite entertaining. Loved the characters more than the plot. - ⭐⭐⭐⭐
💥 Collision: I simply couldn’t predict where this story would go. Its characters and plotline kept me captivated throughout. This would have been outstanding as a novel, but even as a short novel, it packs quite the punch. - ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨
Overall, I had high expectations from this collection because of the praise showered on the author in the GR blurb, and my actual experience turned out to be even better. I am not a regular reader of the mystery thriller genre because it goes too OTT for my taste and because it focusses more on the plot than on anything else, including prose and character development. Don Winslow’s collection proved that all of this can be built convincingly without losing the impact or momentum of the narrative.
This is my first time reading this author, and I can assure you, it won't be the last.
I stopped reading the GR blurb after the two introductory paras; thank heavens for that! It reveals a bit too much about each of the six stories, which actually would be best discovered by going in blind. So don’t read the blurb. Just go for the book.
Definitely recommended to crime-mystery fans. As these are short novels, they are developed mostly in a traditional way, and hence they ought to work even for readers who don’t enjoy short stories.
4.33 stars. (If you are familiar with my ratings, you know that an average that goes to 4 stars and beyond is outstanding for an anthology.)
My thanks to HarperCollins UK, HarperFiction, and Hemlock Press for providing the DRC of “The Final Score” via NetGalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I follow the Goodreads rating policy:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Lifelong favourite!
⭐⭐⭐⭐ - I loved the book.
⭐⭐⭐ - I liked the book.
⭐⭐ - I found the book average.
⭐ - I hated the book.
The decimals indicate the degree of the in-between feelings.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog || The StoryGraph || Instagram || Facebook ||
December 7, 2025
I’m thrilled to share my thoughts on The Final Score, a dynamic and insightful collection of crime writing that showcases the incredible talent of Don Winslow, a true luminary in the literary world. With an engaging foreword by the award-winning crime author Reed Farrel Coleman, this book promises to be nothing short of spectacular.
Winslow’s mastery shines brightly in this collection of six enthralling short stories. He hooks you from the very first page, immersing you in rich narratives and unforgettable characters that feel strikingly real. For those who loved his previous work, Broken , you’re in for a treat! One of my favourites from that collection, “Crime 101,” is set to be adapted into a film in February 2026, and I can’t contain my excitement!
This new collection is a testament to Winslow’s remarkable versatility and profound depth of knowledge across various themes in the crime genre. Each story is a gem, demonstrating his keen understanding of the intricacies of criminal life and the captivating dialogue that flows through the narratives. Despite the violence that often accompanies these stories, Winslow has a unique ability to weave humour into even the most intense moments, making you chuckle while holding your breath.
If this indeed marks the end of Winslow’s literary journey—as hinted at—it’s a grand finale that solidifies his legacy at the peak of his powers. His backlist is a treasure trove that I eagerly look forward to revisiting.
In the title story, we follow a career criminal determined to pull off one last audacious casino heist to secure his beloved wife’s future before his surrender. “The Sunday List” offers a delightful glimpse into Rhode Island’s Sunday alcohol ban, showcasing a clever teenager who navigates the secret world of supply and demand. “True Story” is a brilliant, dialogue-driven narrative that crackles with wit as wiseguys share their outrageous tales over diner coffee. Meanwhile, “The Lunch Break” features a seasoned PI trying to manage a diva-esque actress, blending humour with tension in an entertaining way. Finally, “Collision” delivers an emotional punch as a celebratory night spirals into tragedy, ultimately leading a high-flying family man to a life-altering moment in prison.
I found myself wishing that these stories would never end—a delightful indulgence for any crime fiction enthusiast. I highly recommend grabbing a copy and adding it to the top of your TBR list. Expected publication date in the UK: January 29, 2026. Expected publication date in Canada and the US
A special thank you to Netgalley, HarperCollins UK, HarperFiction | Hemlock Press for providing the ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Winslow’s mastery shines brightly in this collection of six enthralling short stories. He hooks you from the very first page, immersing you in rich narratives and unforgettable characters that feel strikingly real. For those who loved his previous work, Broken , you’re in for a treat! One of my favourites from that collection, “Crime 101,” is set to be adapted into a film in February 2026, and I can’t contain my excitement!
This new collection is a testament to Winslow’s remarkable versatility and profound depth of knowledge across various themes in the crime genre. Each story is a gem, demonstrating his keen understanding of the intricacies of criminal life and the captivating dialogue that flows through the narratives. Despite the violence that often accompanies these stories, Winslow has a unique ability to weave humour into even the most intense moments, making you chuckle while holding your breath.
If this indeed marks the end of Winslow’s literary journey—as hinted at—it’s a grand finale that solidifies his legacy at the peak of his powers. His backlist is a treasure trove that I eagerly look forward to revisiting.
In the title story, we follow a career criminal determined to pull off one last audacious casino heist to secure his beloved wife’s future before his surrender. “The Sunday List” offers a delightful glimpse into Rhode Island’s Sunday alcohol ban, showcasing a clever teenager who navigates the secret world of supply and demand. “True Story” is a brilliant, dialogue-driven narrative that crackles with wit as wiseguys share their outrageous tales over diner coffee. Meanwhile, “The Lunch Break” features a seasoned PI trying to manage a diva-esque actress, blending humour with tension in an entertaining way. Finally, “Collision” delivers an emotional punch as a celebratory night spirals into tragedy, ultimately leading a high-flying family man to a life-altering moment in prison.
I found myself wishing that these stories would never end—a delightful indulgence for any crime fiction enthusiast. I highly recommend grabbing a copy and adding it to the top of your TBR list. Expected publication date in the UK: January 29, 2026. Expected publication date in Canada and the US
A special thank you to Netgalley, HarperCollins UK, HarperFiction | Hemlock Press for providing the ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
February 10, 2026
‘The Final Score” is actually billed as six short novels, not one full length novel, consisting of The Final Score, The Sunday List, the North Wing, True Story, the Lunch Break and Collision. None are connected and only one has a connection to Winslow’s novels. They are often dark and bleak, but ultimately are tales of survival and fortitude.
The first story, the Final Score, is a classic caper tale of John Highland, out on bail, awaiting sentencing, but wanting one last big score to take care of his wife, Jewel, while he’s behind bars. The target is a tribal casino where the cartels launder millions upon millions of dollars brought in through the kitchen and passed on to “lucky” gamblers. Winslow takes us through the planning right through execution.
The second story is “The Sunday List.” It offers a glimpse into the past of Nick McKenna, who in the heady summer between high school and college, was the Sunday driver for Tillman’s Liquor in a state with Sunday liquor laws. It is a time when a kid has a choice between Vietnam, college, and something else, an age when Mrs. Robinson is on the big screen. Nick has to be the Sunday driver, kind of the unofficial town bootlegger one day a week, when he canput away college money his hippie parents couldn’t give a rat’s ass about.
The third story, the North Wing, is the story of two New England cousins, one a patrolman and the other a drunk who ends 20-year-old Sarah Gaines’ young life on a dark sad night that changed everyone’s lives forever. It’s a lesson on how far the web reaches of cause and effect when you do things you shouldn’t and how many souls get compromised along the way.
The fourth story, True Story, is just a conversation about the jokers in the neighborhood like Bobby Bats and Lenny No Socks. It’s almost a stand-up routine the way these humorous stories are told.
The fifth story, “The Lunch Break” returns to some old favorites from the Dawn Patrol with Boone, Dave, and Tide taking turns playing bodyguards to mega-star Brittany McVeigh to keep her away from Boone and drugs and a possible stalker at least until she finishes filming.
The final selection is Collision, which is a story about how quickly life can change in an instant and all the plans you thought you had go up in smoke. It’s about what it takes to survive such collisions and where it takes you morally, metaphorically, and personally.
The first story, the Final Score, is a classic caper tale of John Highland, out on bail, awaiting sentencing, but wanting one last big score to take care of his wife, Jewel, while he’s behind bars. The target is a tribal casino where the cartels launder millions upon millions of dollars brought in through the kitchen and passed on to “lucky” gamblers. Winslow takes us through the planning right through execution.
The second story is “The Sunday List.” It offers a glimpse into the past of Nick McKenna, who in the heady summer between high school and college, was the Sunday driver for Tillman’s Liquor in a state with Sunday liquor laws. It is a time when a kid has a choice between Vietnam, college, and something else, an age when Mrs. Robinson is on the big screen. Nick has to be the Sunday driver, kind of the unofficial town bootlegger one day a week, when he canput away college money his hippie parents couldn’t give a rat’s ass about.
The third story, the North Wing, is the story of two New England cousins, one a patrolman and the other a drunk who ends 20-year-old Sarah Gaines’ young life on a dark sad night that changed everyone’s lives forever. It’s a lesson on how far the web reaches of cause and effect when you do things you shouldn’t and how many souls get compromised along the way.
The fourth story, True Story, is just a conversation about the jokers in the neighborhood like Bobby Bats and Lenny No Socks. It’s almost a stand-up routine the way these humorous stories are told.
The fifth story, “The Lunch Break” returns to some old favorites from the Dawn Patrol with Boone, Dave, and Tide taking turns playing bodyguards to mega-star Brittany McVeigh to keep her away from Boone and drugs and a possible stalker at least until she finishes filming.
The final selection is Collision, which is a story about how quickly life can change in an instant and all the plans you thought you had go up in smoke. It’s about what it takes to survive such collisions and where it takes you morally, metaphorically, and personally.
July 12, 2025
Winslow you sly dog you done done it again. Absolutely brilliant.
November 17, 2025
Six short stories described in one word, Solid!
First time reading a Winslow book and I'm impressed. Not being a huge fan of short stories I didn't expect to enjoy this collection as much as I did. One of the stories is completely dialogue based and that was a 5 star read. Full of smart humor, and playing with Mafia stereotypes, it was a joy to read.
All the stories were enjoyable with great characters and despite their short length they delivered an emotional impact.
If I had to complain about something, I would comment on the fact that the stories felt a bit predictable and that some of them could use a not so happy ending.
Thanks to NetGalley and to HarperCollins UK for providing me with an eArc
8,1/10
First time reading a Winslow book and I'm impressed. Not being a huge fan of short stories I didn't expect to enjoy this collection as much as I did. One of the stories is completely dialogue based and that was a 5 star read. Full of smart humor, and playing with Mafia stereotypes, it was a joy to read.
All the stories were enjoyable with great characters and despite their short length they delivered an emotional impact.
If I had to complain about something, I would comment on the fact that the stories felt a bit predictable and that some of them could use a not so happy ending.
Thanks to NetGalley and to HarperCollins UK for providing me with an eArc
8,1/10
January 31, 2026
Thank you William Morrow for an ARC
Actually such a solid short story collection!
Full review to come
Actually such a solid short story collection!
Full review to come
July 29, 2025
I was pretty thrilled when the announcement of Winslow's latest came across the ole newsfeed (like many, his retirement announcement a few years back left me literary depressed). Happy to say, with The Final Score, Winslow is at his best. All 6 of the stories within The Final Score showcase his better than all writing skills, which, for me, has always been his characterization. How he gets us to care so deeply, so quickly (and in SHORT stories) for people is astounding. It likely has something to do with the situations in which he places his characters, but their dialogue (True Story & The Lunch Break) is so sharp, so witty, so hilarious, so ... real, is the real gift. And fans of Winslow's other works will be happy they get to hang with Boone Daniels again. Perhaps it says something that I can't say I had a favorite of the 6 stories; all are equally weighted in character, but ... his use of "-uh," following most of Brittany McVeigh's sentences in "The Lunch Break" is a simple highlight. And if you don't find yourself rooting for Brad McAlister's plight in "Collision" then you might not get one of the overarching themes of his book - choices determine our fate.
Although I received a galley copy, I have still ordered myself a copy off of Barnes and Noble. Winslow deserves the support.
Thank you, Christopher Connolly and Harper, for the galley copy of the book.
Although I received a galley copy, I have still ordered myself a copy off of Barnes and Noble. Winslow deserves the support.
Thank you, Christopher Connolly and Harper, for the galley copy of the book.
August 24, 2025
I was very happy to see another release by Don Winslow as I had thought he’d retired from writing. This book was comprised of six short stories with interesting titles, characters, and storylines. I usually don’t feel super engaged in a short story but these progressively became more interesting as I read the next one. I haven’t really ever been disappointed in a Don Winslow book so another solid rating was in order for me!
Thank you to both Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to both Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
February 11, 2026
Escribir relatos siempre me ha parecido especialmente complicado. Conseguir calar en el lector en pocas páginas, hacerlo varias veces seguidas y con historias distintas no es nada fácil. Nunca he conectado del todo con este formato: suelo quedarme con la sensación de que no me da tiempo a entrar en las historias o a implicarme de verdad. Por eso me “sorprendió” tanto que Resultado final haya sido el libro que me reconciliara definitivamente con los relatos.
He puesto entre comillas “sorprendió” porque admito que Don Winslow tiene una habilidad especial: consigue que me guste todo lo que escribe, incluso aquí, cuando el formato no suele ir conmigo. No esperaba que un libro de relatos me atrapara de esta manera, me ha parecido un auténtico librazo.
Si no conocéis al autor, suele escribir thrillers sobre criminales, de bandas organizadas, atracos, corrupción, dr0ga, el cartel… En Resultado final encontramos pequeñas dosis de todo eso repartidas en seis relatos independientes entre sí y absolutamente brillantes.
No son muy largos, pero lo suficiente para engancharnos y darnos esa especie de adrenalina que hace que queramos leer la siguiente historia para ver con qué nos sorprende y dejarnos con pena al cerrar el libro.
Sin entrar en detalle de cada relato, sí que os diré que me han gustado todos. Son dinámicos, tensos y algunos incluso tienen ese toque de humor que es como la marca de la casa. También aparecen esos clichés del cine estadounidense que tanto le caracterizan, pero que aquí juegan a su favor y suman personalidad a cada historia.
Resultado final es un libro impecable. Don Winslow demuestra que no necesita cientos de páginas para construir historias potentes y memorables. Para mí, este libro es la prueba de que, cuando un autor sabe lo que hace, incluso un formato que no es el que nos guste puede convertirse en uno de nuestros mejores descubrimientos.
Poco más tengo que añadir… es un libro redondo y no le encuentro ninguna pega.
He puesto entre comillas “sorprendió” porque admito que Don Winslow tiene una habilidad especial: consigue que me guste todo lo que escribe, incluso aquí, cuando el formato no suele ir conmigo. No esperaba que un libro de relatos me atrapara de esta manera, me ha parecido un auténtico librazo.
Si no conocéis al autor, suele escribir thrillers sobre criminales, de bandas organizadas, atracos, corrupción, dr0ga, el cartel… En Resultado final encontramos pequeñas dosis de todo eso repartidas en seis relatos independientes entre sí y absolutamente brillantes.
No son muy largos, pero lo suficiente para engancharnos y darnos esa especie de adrenalina que hace que queramos leer la siguiente historia para ver con qué nos sorprende y dejarnos con pena al cerrar el libro.
Sin entrar en detalle de cada relato, sí que os diré que me han gustado todos. Son dinámicos, tensos y algunos incluso tienen ese toque de humor que es como la marca de la casa. También aparecen esos clichés del cine estadounidense que tanto le caracterizan, pero que aquí juegan a su favor y suman personalidad a cada historia.
Resultado final es un libro impecable. Don Winslow demuestra que no necesita cientos de páginas para construir historias potentes y memorables. Para mí, este libro es la prueba de que, cuando un autor sabe lo que hace, incluso un formato que no es el que nos guste puede convertirse en uno de nuestros mejores descubrimientos.
Poco más tengo que añadir… es un libro redondo y no le encuentro ninguna pega.
February 1, 2026
The Final Score is a sharp, highly entertaining collection of six long short stories that shows exactly why Don Winslow is so good at this. The writing is lean, confident, and tightly paced, with strong character work and none of the bloat or stylistic gimmicks that sink lesser crime fiction. Some stories are merely very good, a couple are excellent, but all of them feel purposeful and complete.
I especially enjoyed the Southern California settings—Winslow clearly knows the terrain. Two stories set in San Diego County (including an East County Indian casino heist and a bratty movie star tale in La Jolla and Pacific Beach) add a fun, grounded sense of place. Gritty, smart, and well executed. 4.25 stars.
I especially enjoyed the Southern California settings—Winslow clearly knows the terrain. Two stories set in San Diego County (including an East County Indian casino heist and a bratty movie star tale in La Jolla and Pacific Beach) add a fun, grounded sense of place. Gritty, smart, and well executed. 4.25 stars.
February 14, 2026
I had never read Don Winslow before. I knew him on social media — his tweets were fine, not spectacular — , and so I didn’t think he could be a very good writer. Oh, man…
It seems that he had announced his retirement. And then, after a while, he began writing… for no special reason… and he couldn’t stop. He wrote without deadlines. Without pressure. It just happened. So he says. He says that two of these little novellas are the best things he ever wrote. The Final Score and Collision. And some of the reviews I looked at seemed to agree. The first one, which is a caper, is very good. Reminds a little bit of Westlake. The second is just a noir knockout. Like David Hume, I like to say that often I don’t read books, I read *in* them. And with a collection like this, there is no compulsion to complete. So with this, I will stop.
It seems that he had announced his retirement. And then, after a while, he began writing… for no special reason… and he couldn’t stop. He wrote without deadlines. Without pressure. It just happened. So he says. He says that two of these little novellas are the best things he ever wrote. The Final Score and Collision. And some of the reviews I looked at seemed to agree. The first one, which is a caper, is very good. Reminds a little bit of Westlake. The second is just a noir knockout. Like David Hume, I like to say that often I don’t read books, I read *in* them. And with a collection like this, there is no compulsion to complete. So with this, I will stop.
February 6, 2026
Mira que a mi los libros hechos de sobras, o de multirelatos, no me convencen y huyo de ellos.
Pero este no es el caso. De Las 6 historias, 5 son cojonudas. Una, flojilla. Pero vamos muy buen libro.
El autor en ppio, estaba ya retirado,y me imagino que estos relatos los tendría hechos desde hace años y por cualquier motivo no salieron adelante. Y la editorial, pues no iba a dejar escapar un chollo así.
Muy recomendable. Vale que el autor, es de mis preferidos, pero es que no tiene libro malo.
Pero este no es el caso. De Las 6 historias, 5 son cojonudas. Una, flojilla. Pero vamos muy buen libro.
El autor en ppio, estaba ya retirado,y me imagino que estos relatos los tendría hechos desde hace años y por cualquier motivo no salieron adelante. Y la editorial, pues no iba a dejar escapar un chollo así.
Muy recomendable. Vale que el autor, es de mis preferidos, pero es que no tiene libro malo.
January 30, 2026
Any Winslow book is going to be an automatic 5 star read. I hope he stays out of retirement for more books.
Ranking of stories:
Collision
The Lunch Break
The Final Score
The North Wing
The Sunday List
True Story
Even True Story, ranked lowest, is an excellent story, told strictly through a conversation. But the highs of Collision and the Lunch Break and the Final Score… Winslow has done it again.
Ranking of stories:
Collision
The Lunch Break
The Final Score
The North Wing
The Sunday List
True Story
Even True Story, ranked lowest, is an excellent story, told strictly through a conversation. But the highs of Collision and the Lunch Break and the Final Score… Winslow has done it again.
September 4, 2025
I really liked these!
This was my first time reading Don Winslow and won’t be my last! This collection of short stories was a great introduction to the types of books he writes, which I think I’ll thoroughly enjoy! There are six stories total, each around 40 pages except for the last which was 90+. I liked every single story! The first story, which is about a heist, was so entertaining, I was wishing for more. The second story started off a little slow but had a fantastic ending, and has since stuck with me. Another story is purely dialogue between two men, and I absolutely loved the dark humor. The second to last has a beautiful character arc, but the final story (Collision) was my favorite. Collision is about a guy who makes one stupid, heat-of-the-moment mistake, and whose whole life, and his family’s, is irrevocably changed from it. I absolutely devoured that one.
Two of the stories touch on the horrors of prison. Most have a theme of redemption. And all had characters who had to deal with the consequences their choices led them to.
𝑾𝒉𝒐 𝑰'𝒅 𝑹𝒆𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒐:
Anyone that likes short story collections or crime fiction.
4.5/5 rounded up
This was my first time reading Don Winslow and won’t be my last! This collection of short stories was a great introduction to the types of books he writes, which I think I’ll thoroughly enjoy! There are six stories total, each around 40 pages except for the last which was 90+. I liked every single story! The first story, which is about a heist, was so entertaining, I was wishing for more. The second story started off a little slow but had a fantastic ending, and has since stuck with me. Another story is purely dialogue between two men, and I absolutely loved the dark humor. The second to last has a beautiful character arc, but the final story (Collision) was my favorite. Collision is about a guy who makes one stupid, heat-of-the-moment mistake, and whose whole life, and his family’s, is irrevocably changed from it. I absolutely devoured that one.
Two of the stories touch on the horrors of prison. Most have a theme of redemption. And all had characters who had to deal with the consequences their choices led them to.
𝑾𝒉𝒐 𝑰'𝒅 𝑹𝒆𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒐:
Anyone that likes short story collections or crime fiction.
4.5/5 rounded up
February 16, 2026
I’ll start with an appreciation for how difficult it is to write stories of this length (not quite as long as a novella, but longer than a short story), and this is the second time (the first being Broken) that Winslow had done so flawlessly.
This time it’s mostly completely new material, though we do get a delightful visit with our old pals from the Dawn Patrol.
Readers like me who love Winslow’s work but sometimes struggle with the moral brutally violent, visceral elements will find this one pleasantly easier to take. Aside from Bobby Z, I think this is the first time I’ve made it through a Winslow novel or collection without involuntarily squinting and cringing.
But don’t worry, that hasn’t lessened the intensity and suspense Winslow brings to the table. Other than True Story, which is all dialogue and only an okay read, these are all five-star stories.
My favorite was probably Collision, though it was very hard to choose.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
This time it’s mostly completely new material, though we do get a delightful visit with our old pals from the Dawn Patrol.
Readers like me who love Winslow’s work but sometimes struggle with the moral brutally violent, visceral elements will find this one pleasantly easier to take. Aside from Bobby Z, I think this is the first time I’ve made it through a Winslow novel or collection without involuntarily squinting and cringing.
But don’t worry, that hasn’t lessened the intensity and suspense Winslow brings to the table. Other than True Story, which is all dialogue and only an okay read, these are all five-star stories.
My favorite was probably Collision, though it was very hard to choose.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
February 14, 2026
quick read; great short stories
This was recommended by the Kindle editorial team and I really enjoyed it. I hesitated giving five stars: I generally reserve that for books I’m sure I’d read again and again, so 4.5 is probably more accurate - but either way, a great set of short stories. Good plots; you don’t always see the twists coming - I definitely didn’t in the mob story and had my head spinning a bit trying to follow all the characters (the names were hilarious tho), and then bam - the ending. You sometimes find yourself rooting for the “bad” guy but then trying to determine what really is “bad”.
I will definitely be looking for one of his full-length novels to read now.
This was recommended by the Kindle editorial team and I really enjoyed it. I hesitated giving five stars: I generally reserve that for books I’m sure I’d read again and again, so 4.5 is probably more accurate - but either way, a great set of short stories. Good plots; you don’t always see the twists coming - I definitely didn’t in the mob story and had my head spinning a bit trying to follow all the characters (the names were hilarious tho), and then bam - the ending. You sometimes find yourself rooting for the “bad” guy but then trying to determine what really is “bad”.
I will definitely be looking for one of his full-length novels to read now.
February 9, 2026
L’ultimo colpo di Don Winslow è una raccolta audace di sei racconti che mescolano suspense, ironia e umanità, offrendo come sempre uno sguardo variegato e appassionante sul mondo del crimine.
Le storie (che spaziano dal rapinatore leggendario a un adolescente ai margini, dal poliziotto in crisi di coscienza a i ben "noti" surfisti) sono tutte ben costruite e mantengono alta la tensione fino all’ultima pagina.
Winslow ha dimostrato ancora una volta la sua maestria nel creare personaggi moralmente complessi e situazioni imprevedibili, pur con qualche episodio che risulta meno memorabile di altri.
Le storie (che spaziano dal rapinatore leggendario a un adolescente ai margini, dal poliziotto in crisi di coscienza a i ben "noti" surfisti) sono tutte ben costruite e mantengono alta la tensione fino all’ultima pagina.
Winslow ha dimostrato ancora una volta la sua maestria nel creare personaggi moralmente complessi e situazioni imprevedibili, pur con qualche episodio che risulta meno memorabile di altri.
February 9, 2026
How have I only just discovered this gifted author? This collection of six short, hard-hitting crime stories is utterly compelling. The expertly constructed plots, sharp dialogue, and richly drawn characters make each story impossible to put down; I found myself reading the entire book in two sittings. Every vignette is meticulously crafted and leaves a lasting impression.
It is easy to see why he is an internationally acclaimed author and a master of the crime-thriller genre. I am very much looking forward to exploring his back catalogue.
It is easy to see why he is an internationally acclaimed author and a master of the crime-thriller genre. I am very much looking forward to exploring his back catalogue.
February 2, 2026
I started reading The Final Score some days ago and I'm glad I did.
I saw Don Wislow on the cover and he does not miss
The short stories in it were pretty cool.
"True Story" is the most interesting short story I've read in a while. I loved how it kept switching up. You won't understand until you read it.
Brittany and Dave's story was cool in "The Lunch Break"
I also loved "Collision". The suspense in it was a lot. I really wanted Brad to have a happy ending.
I dreaded that he was going to lose his life or his family and I'm glad that didn't happen.
I saw Don Wislow on the cover and he does not miss
The short stories in it were pretty cool.
"True Story" is the most interesting short story I've read in a while. I loved how it kept switching up. You won't understand until you read it.
Brittany and Dave's story was cool in "The Lunch Break"
I also loved "Collision". The suspense in it was a lot. I really wanted Brad to have a happy ending.
I dreaded that he was going to lose his life or his family and I'm glad that didn't happen.
January 31, 2026
One of the best crime writers ever at the peak of his talents. Every story here is worth multiple looks, and at least one - a lengthy conversation between two goombahs - would make a hell of a play. If this is how Winslow wants to spend his retirement from writing, I look forward to more great work in the years to come... just as Stephen King and Steven Soderbergh emerged from their retirements.
February 19, 2026
This originally appeared at The Irresponsible Reader. If you like this post, you might like others on that site. Consider checking it out!
---
SHORT NOVELS?
Let's address this thing that's been irking me. The title page calls these "Six Short Novels."
Nope. Just nope.
I know, there are no hard and fast rules about length of a novel, novella, etc. But five of these works clock in around 40 pages. That is not—no way, no how—a novel.
The sixth, "Collision," is around 90 pages. I'll buy that as a novella—or a "short novel." But even that feels like stretching things too much.
Just had to get that off of my chest—it's been bugging me since I read the Table of Contents.
Also, that's the last negative you're going to see in this post.
WHAT'S THE FINAL SCORE?
Don Winslow un-retires with this stunning collection of six crime stories. Beyond that, it's hard to describe them all as a group—they all differ in tone, voice, side of the law, style, and how much you'd like to see the protagonist punished/get away with something.
"THE FINAL SCORE"
We start off with the "title track"—a story about a man who's made a career of robbery, trying to go for his final score to provide for his wife as his career is ending. There's something sweet about it (if you ignore all the felonies and risks to human life).
But there are surprises waiting for him.
This is a solid start to the book—I liked the characters, the pacing, and story. It's not Winslow's best, but I'm not complaining about it.
"THE SUNDAY LIST"
This is only a crime story by technicality. But whatever it is, I really enjoyed it.
In the shadow of the Vietnam draft, Nick, a teenager with ambition beyond the hippie life his parents live, works hard to make it to college—and will do all sorts of things to get the money for it. Even if that means crossing a few lines.
"THE NORTH WING"
There's an old-school mafia vibe to this story. Family ties are tested when a police officer's cousin gets into legal trouble.
There are so many beats in this story that feel familiar—even if only from Winslow's oeuvre. But there's a freshness to it, and Winslow's ability to make you care about anything that separates this from the familiar.
"TRUE STORY"
Remember the part in Goodfellas where Henry Hill tells us all the names and nicknames of the men he works with? Imagine if that went on for pages and pages—with some digressions for stories about some of the men with those monikers.
In something that feels like it could've been a comic-relief in The Sopranos, this features two guys with some sort of mob ties in an extended conversation over breakfast. They're basically gossiping about various men they know—what they've been up to lately, where their nickname comes from, and whatnot.
It was ridiculously fun—and every time you start to think that the shtick might be getting tired, they say something else that makes you get over it.
I strongly suggest making sure that you have enough time to finish this one before you start it—the end of my lunch break interrupted things for me, and it took a little too much effort to get back into the flow of things when I got home. But it was so worth it.
If it weren't for the next story, I'd say it was the most entertaining entry in the collection.
"THE LUNCH BREAK"
But in any collection featuring Winslow's Dawn Patrol, just about everything else is going to pale in comparison—at least for me. Boone is hired to watch over a movie star to keep her from getting carried away with drugs, drink, carousing, or anything else that will derail filming of her current film. He brings along Dave the Love God and High Tide to provide around-the-clock observation.
Things get wild from there.
This might be my favorite Dawn Patrol story since the first novel. (in a perfect world, Winslow's next collection would be all his short Dawn Patrol stories with a few new ones thrown in)
"COLLISION"
The crowning achievement of the book. From the beginning you can tell that things are going too well, and that just can't last.
And it doesn't. What comes next will cause your stomach to drop. Your blood pressure to spike. Your heart to come close to breaking (if not further). I don't know what to say that won't take away from the experience for you—and I don't want to do that.
It's just so good.
WHY DID I PICK THIS UP? WHY DID I KEEP READING?
When I decided that I want to start talking about this kind of thing, I didn't really think it through. Sometimes, it's just this simple.
I picked it up because: Don Winslow.
I kept reading because: Don Winslow.
WHAT DOES THIS BOOK TELL US ABOUT HUMANITY?
One thing that seems prominent through all of these stories (with one possible exception) is the human potential, if not propensity, to change.
It's not always going to be for the best—or even for the better. Sometimes change will just be change. Sometimes change will be for the detriment of the person doing the changing—or those they love.
But the characters in this book are not static, even in these short pages, they evolve, they develop, they show that whatever their lives may be like at one point in their life (not always in their youth), they can—through their choices and actions (frequently pushed by choices and actions of others), their stories, their lives, are not set in stone—they can change the direction they head in.
It's both inspiring and a warning.
SO, WHAT DID I THINK ABOUT THE FINAL SCORE?
Reed Farrel Coleman pays tribute to Winslow in the Foreword to this collection, talking about Winslow's dedication to the craft, his gifted writing, and the diversity of stories he tells. Which is incredibly fitting for this book—which really just shows off that ability of Winslow's.
Every story in this collection was a winner, will likely end up in your personal "all time short story canon," and will make you want to re-read them again and again to fully appreciate them.
I can't recommend this enough.
---
SHORT NOVELS?
Let's address this thing that's been irking me. The title page calls these "Six Short Novels."
Nope. Just nope.
I know, there are no hard and fast rules about length of a novel, novella, etc. But five of these works clock in around 40 pages. That is not—no way, no how—a novel.
The sixth, "Collision," is around 90 pages. I'll buy that as a novella—or a "short novel." But even that feels like stretching things too much.
Just had to get that off of my chest—it's been bugging me since I read the Table of Contents.
Also, that's the last negative you're going to see in this post.
WHAT'S THE FINAL SCORE?
Don Winslow un-retires with this stunning collection of six crime stories. Beyond that, it's hard to describe them all as a group—they all differ in tone, voice, side of the law, style, and how much you'd like to see the protagonist punished/get away with something.
"THE FINAL SCORE"
We start off with the "title track"—a story about a man who's made a career of robbery, trying to go for his final score to provide for his wife as his career is ending. There's something sweet about it (if you ignore all the felonies and risks to human life).
But there are surprises waiting for him.
This is a solid start to the book—I liked the characters, the pacing, and story. It's not Winslow's best, but I'm not complaining about it.
"THE SUNDAY LIST"
This is only a crime story by technicality. But whatever it is, I really enjoyed it.
In the shadow of the Vietnam draft, Nick, a teenager with ambition beyond the hippie life his parents live, works hard to make it to college—and will do all sorts of things to get the money for it. Even if that means crossing a few lines.
"THE NORTH WING"
There's an old-school mafia vibe to this story. Family ties are tested when a police officer's cousin gets into legal trouble.
There are so many beats in this story that feel familiar—even if only from Winslow's oeuvre. But there's a freshness to it, and Winslow's ability to make you care about anything that separates this from the familiar.
"TRUE STORY"
Remember the part in Goodfellas where Henry Hill tells us all the names and nicknames of the men he works with? Imagine if that went on for pages and pages—with some digressions for stories about some of the men with those monikers.
In something that feels like it could've been a comic-relief in The Sopranos, this features two guys with some sort of mob ties in an extended conversation over breakfast. They're basically gossiping about various men they know—what they've been up to lately, where their nickname comes from, and whatnot.
It was ridiculously fun—and every time you start to think that the shtick might be getting tired, they say something else that makes you get over it.
I strongly suggest making sure that you have enough time to finish this one before you start it—the end of my lunch break interrupted things for me, and it took a little too much effort to get back into the flow of things when I got home. But it was so worth it.
If it weren't for the next story, I'd say it was the most entertaining entry in the collection.
"THE LUNCH BREAK"
But in any collection featuring Winslow's Dawn Patrol, just about everything else is going to pale in comparison—at least for me. Boone is hired to watch over a movie star to keep her from getting carried away with drugs, drink, carousing, or anything else that will derail filming of her current film. He brings along Dave the Love God and High Tide to provide around-the-clock observation.
Things get wild from there.
"She sounds like trouble, bruddah."
"She's about five-three, can't go more than a buck-five," Dave said. "How much trouble could she be?"
Now he knows.
Bad things come in small packages.
This might be my favorite Dawn Patrol story since the first novel. (in a perfect world, Winslow's next collection would be all his short Dawn Patrol stories with a few new ones thrown in)
"COLLISION"
The crowning achievement of the book. From the beginning you can tell that things are going too well, and that just can't last.
And it doesn't. What comes next will cause your stomach to drop. Your blood pressure to spike. Your heart to come close to breaking (if not further). I don't know what to say that won't take away from the experience for you—and I don't want to do that.
It's just so good.
WHY DID I PICK THIS UP? WHY DID I KEEP READING?
When I decided that I want to start talking about this kind of thing, I didn't really think it through. Sometimes, it's just this simple.
I picked it up because: Don Winslow.
I kept reading because: Don Winslow.
WHAT DOES THIS BOOK TELL US ABOUT HUMANITY?
One thing that seems prominent through all of these stories (with one possible exception) is the human potential, if not propensity, to change.
It's not always going to be for the best—or even for the better. Sometimes change will just be change. Sometimes change will be for the detriment of the person doing the changing—or those they love.
But the characters in this book are not static, even in these short pages, they evolve, they develop, they show that whatever their lives may be like at one point in their life (not always in their youth), they can—through their choices and actions (frequently pushed by choices and actions of others), their stories, their lives, are not set in stone—they can change the direction they head in.
It's both inspiring and a warning.
SO, WHAT DID I THINK ABOUT THE FINAL SCORE?
Reed Farrel Coleman pays tribute to Winslow in the Foreword to this collection, talking about Winslow's dedication to the craft, his gifted writing, and the diversity of stories he tells. Which is incredibly fitting for this book—which really just shows off that ability of Winslow's.
Every story in this collection was a winner, will likely end up in your personal "all time short story canon," and will make you want to re-read them again and again to fully appreciate them.
I can't recommend this enough.
August 28, 2025
As the forward mentions, no one does dialogue like this author. The dialogue sparkles like polished tin in the far east throughout each of these immaculate short stories, bringing each and every story to mesmerising life.
Never the world’s biggest short story fan, I was fortunate and grateful for the publisher to allow me to read this collection before publication. Each story is very vivid and interesting, compelling throughout without a dud in sight.
Never the world’s biggest short story fan, I was fortunate and grateful for the publisher to allow me to read this collection before publication. Each story is very vivid and interesting, compelling throughout without a dud in sight.
February 13, 2026
He doesn't want to go out a loser.
My issue with Don Winslow's The Final Score is that most of these 'short novels' feel like little more than outtakes from other projects, and the stakes throughout are too often either minimal, nonexistent or third-party, taking any semblance of urgency or tension away from the reading experience.
The title story, The Final Score, isn't necessarily bad, but it's too damn light, and probably the main offender when it comes down to nonexistent stakes. Plus, the generic way he goes about the assembling of the crew kept me thinking of Rick and Morty. I would’ve lost my shit if their pilot just looked at them wearily when they showed up, waited a beat, then broke out with a “You son of a bitch… I’m in.” I hate and love Rick and Morty for “ruining” that whole trope for me. Again, though, it’s just too damn light. There’s no real consequences aside from those already in place going in, and the whole thing is executed in a way that—despite admittedly being feather-light fun—never feels as 'impossible' as they kept saying.
The Sunday List is a coming-of-age story about a kid saving up for college by illegally delivering booze on Sundays in 1970 Rhode Island. It’s about the people we meet in life and the lessons they teach us, knowingly or not. This one hit me more than expected, and has some really good small-town vibes and plenty of effective moments between Nick (our protagonist) and the people he delivers to each Sunday. It's probably my second favorite of the bunch. The North Wing is a story about a townie cop whose cousin kills a beloved local girl in a drunk driving accident. After his cousin gets 10 years—which he definitely won’t make, as he’s a weak little shit—the cop makes a deal with the devil to get his cousin put in the mafia's wing of the prison. But now they own him. I rated this one higher than I probably should have because it's well written and I liked the ending, but overall it's mostly forgettable.
The next two, True Story & The Lunch Break are the main offenders when it comes down to these stories feeling like outtakes, but they mostly get a pass because they're both so thoroughly entertaining. True Story is a dialogue between two wise guys tell stories over breakfast on their way to whack a guy. This wholly feels like a chapter introducing two heavies in a larger piece, but I did get a kick out of their 'true stories'. And The Lunch Break feels like a side quest of sorts; the type mid-novel departure that would find its main characters in situations that would become relevant later in the story or some shit like that. But the characters and scenario likable and set in the world of filmmaking, so I still enjoyed it quite a bit.
Finally, there's Collision, which is the longest—and easily the best—of the bunch. It's part prison story, part survival/revenge story about a loving family man who accidentally kills someone and gets a serious bid in a serious prison. He gets through his time by doing what needs to be done, and when he's released and the inside comes knocking on the outside, he does what needs to be done once again. Nobody’s just one thing. This one probably could've been expanded on to make one hell of a full-length novel, but even where it's at, it's propulsive and unpredictable and one hell of a final act.
We think we live in one world, but we live in many.
Those worlds can collide.
7/10
[3.5 Stars, Rounded Down]
My issue with Don Winslow's The Final Score is that most of these 'short novels' feel like little more than outtakes from other projects, and the stakes throughout are too often either minimal, nonexistent or third-party, taking any semblance of urgency or tension away from the reading experience.
The title story, The Final Score, isn't necessarily bad, but it's too damn light, and probably the main offender when it comes down to nonexistent stakes. Plus, the generic way he goes about the assembling of the crew kept me thinking of Rick and Morty. I would’ve lost my shit if their pilot just looked at them wearily when they showed up, waited a beat, then broke out with a “You son of a bitch… I’m in.” I hate and love Rick and Morty for “ruining” that whole trope for me. Again, though, it’s just too damn light. There’s no real consequences aside from those already in place going in, and the whole thing is executed in a way that—despite admittedly being feather-light fun—never feels as 'impossible' as they kept saying.
The Sunday List is a coming-of-age story about a kid saving up for college by illegally delivering booze on Sundays in 1970 Rhode Island. It’s about the people we meet in life and the lessons they teach us, knowingly or not. This one hit me more than expected, and has some really good small-town vibes and plenty of effective moments between Nick (our protagonist) and the people he delivers to each Sunday. It's probably my second favorite of the bunch. The North Wing is a story about a townie cop whose cousin kills a beloved local girl in a drunk driving accident. After his cousin gets 10 years—which he definitely won’t make, as he’s a weak little shit—the cop makes a deal with the devil to get his cousin put in the mafia's wing of the prison. But now they own him. I rated this one higher than I probably should have because it's well written and I liked the ending, but overall it's mostly forgettable.
The next two, True Story & The Lunch Break are the main offenders when it comes down to these stories feeling like outtakes, but they mostly get a pass because they're both so thoroughly entertaining. True Story is a dialogue between two wise guys tell stories over breakfast on their way to whack a guy. This wholly feels like a chapter introducing two heavies in a larger piece, but I did get a kick out of their 'true stories'. And The Lunch Break feels like a side quest of sorts; the type mid-novel departure that would find its main characters in situations that would become relevant later in the story or some shit like that. But the characters and scenario likable and set in the world of filmmaking, so I still enjoyed it quite a bit.
Finally, there's Collision, which is the longest—and easily the best—of the bunch. It's part prison story, part survival/revenge story about a loving family man who accidentally kills someone and gets a serious bid in a serious prison. He gets through his time by doing what needs to be done, and when he's released and the inside comes knocking on the outside, he does what needs to be done once again. Nobody’s just one thing. This one probably could've been expanded on to make one hell of a full-length novel, but even where it's at, it's propulsive and unpredictable and one hell of a final act.
We think we live in one world, but we live in many.
Those worlds can collide.
7/10
[3.5 Stars, Rounded Down]
January 31, 2026
4 1/2 Stars
Author Don Winslow has written some of the grittiest literary crime fiction of the past couple decades but with his latest release, THE FINAL SCORE, he gets to show how he can also create magic in the form of short story fiction.
This collection opens with a Foreword from another respected crime writer, Reed Farrel Coleman. He writes that Winslow ‘is a chameleon in the best possible sense’, alluding to his ability to create successful stories in multiple genres. Coleman also refers to the song by Bruce Springsteen “For You” which features the lyric: ‘You could laugh and cry in a single sound.’ He then compares this to Winslow’s writing, which he feels is capable of containing so much with each sentence.
This short story collection indeed lives up to the words that Reed Farrel Coleman so eloquently used to describe Winslow’s work, with stories that range from high octane crime to literary fiction that leave you feeling good. Here is a brief description of some of the highlights in this collection:
• The Final Score – John Highland was found guilty of armed robbery and understands that he is going to die in prison. Before he is put inside, he needs to ensure that his family is taken care of. He and a small group of colleagues plan a final score involving a local Casino that will require intricate planning to succeed. Highland does not know who he can trust and not everything goes to plan, making for an intense read.
• The Sunday List – In 1970 Rhode Island, High Schooler Nick McKenna works for a local liquor store and is responsible for delivering the Sunday List. With a state that is legally dry on Sundays, it is his job to deliver the liquor to private clients that pay in cash for the service of having their booze on Sunday. However, his personal life is a mess as his mother runs away with her guru after wiping out his College fund and his dreams of escaping to a different life seem to have disappeared with it. A complex and ultimately uplifting tale.
• The North Wing – Rhode Island Police Officer Doug Pritchett was the first on the scene the night his young cousin, Chrissy Pritchett, killed Sarah Gaines in a drunk driving accident. Chrissy gets the maximum sentence, and Doug knows his fragile cousin will not survive on the inside. Doug has heard of a special part of the prison where inmates can live out their sentence fully protected, the area known as The North Wing. However, the price to pay for admission may be too much for Doug to make.
• Collision – Winslow switches to the West Coast for a tragic tale involving a man named Brad McCallister who has it all and loses it in a moment of violence. He is an executive for a local Hotel chain and happily married with a young son. When he gets into a verbal road rage altercation with a driver that nearly struck his vehicle with his family inside things escalate to physical confrontation. Brad throws the first punch and the other driver falls, striking his head on the curb and dying from his injuries a few days later. Convicted of the maximum for manslaughter, Brad must find ways to survive as a privileged white man within the hell that is prison life if he ever wants to see his family again. He will learn that certain collisions in life have high price tags attached to them which will follow him for the rest of his life.
I have enjoyed everything that Don Winslow has written and have no problem including his reputation alongside the three crime writers I most suggest to readers --- Michael Connelly, Dennis Lehane, and George Pelecanos. THE FINAL SCORE is a collection equal to the finest writing I have seen from Winslow, who is currently enjoying seeing the film adaptation of his short novel “Crime 101” on the big screen starring Chris Hemsworth. I feel he will be equally celebrating the reception he receives for THE FINAL SCORE.
Reviewed by Ray Palen for Book Reporter
Author Don Winslow has written some of the grittiest literary crime fiction of the past couple decades but with his latest release, THE FINAL SCORE, he gets to show how he can also create magic in the form of short story fiction.
This collection opens with a Foreword from another respected crime writer, Reed Farrel Coleman. He writes that Winslow ‘is a chameleon in the best possible sense’, alluding to his ability to create successful stories in multiple genres. Coleman also refers to the song by Bruce Springsteen “For You” which features the lyric: ‘You could laugh and cry in a single sound.’ He then compares this to Winslow’s writing, which he feels is capable of containing so much with each sentence.
This short story collection indeed lives up to the words that Reed Farrel Coleman so eloquently used to describe Winslow’s work, with stories that range from high octane crime to literary fiction that leave you feeling good. Here is a brief description of some of the highlights in this collection:
• The Final Score – John Highland was found guilty of armed robbery and understands that he is going to die in prison. Before he is put inside, he needs to ensure that his family is taken care of. He and a small group of colleagues plan a final score involving a local Casino that will require intricate planning to succeed. Highland does not know who he can trust and not everything goes to plan, making for an intense read.
• The Sunday List – In 1970 Rhode Island, High Schooler Nick McKenna works for a local liquor store and is responsible for delivering the Sunday List. With a state that is legally dry on Sundays, it is his job to deliver the liquor to private clients that pay in cash for the service of having their booze on Sunday. However, his personal life is a mess as his mother runs away with her guru after wiping out his College fund and his dreams of escaping to a different life seem to have disappeared with it. A complex and ultimately uplifting tale.
• The North Wing – Rhode Island Police Officer Doug Pritchett was the first on the scene the night his young cousin, Chrissy Pritchett, killed Sarah Gaines in a drunk driving accident. Chrissy gets the maximum sentence, and Doug knows his fragile cousin will not survive on the inside. Doug has heard of a special part of the prison where inmates can live out their sentence fully protected, the area known as The North Wing. However, the price to pay for admission may be too much for Doug to make.
• Collision – Winslow switches to the West Coast for a tragic tale involving a man named Brad McCallister who has it all and loses it in a moment of violence. He is an executive for a local Hotel chain and happily married with a young son. When he gets into a verbal road rage altercation with a driver that nearly struck his vehicle with his family inside things escalate to physical confrontation. Brad throws the first punch and the other driver falls, striking his head on the curb and dying from his injuries a few days later. Convicted of the maximum for manslaughter, Brad must find ways to survive as a privileged white man within the hell that is prison life if he ever wants to see his family again. He will learn that certain collisions in life have high price tags attached to them which will follow him for the rest of his life.
I have enjoyed everything that Don Winslow has written and have no problem including his reputation alongside the three crime writers I most suggest to readers --- Michael Connelly, Dennis Lehane, and George Pelecanos. THE FINAL SCORE is a collection equal to the finest writing I have seen from Winslow, who is currently enjoying seeing the film adaptation of his short novel “Crime 101” on the big screen starring Chris Hemsworth. I feel he will be equally celebrating the reception he receives for THE FINAL SCORE.
Reviewed by Ray Palen for Book Reporter
February 15, 2026
Not many authors can make you laugh as well as fear what’s coming next, but Winslow can and does in this collection of six short novels.
In Final Score, an aging criminal knows that this stint in prison will be his last, that he’ll die there. Which is okay with him if he can commit one more armed robbery that will benefit his beloved wife. So he gathers a crew to help him pull off this final heist, which has an unexpected ending. THE SUNDAY LIST tells the story of a young man about to enter college. He gets no help from his hippie, stoned parents, and must raise tuition costs himself. Which he does by delivering booze to people in Rhode Island in 1970 on Sundays, which is illegal. A corrupt cop, an arrogant customer and his seductive wife make this particular delivery day rather difficult for the lad. The third selection is called TRUE STORY. It’s fascinating because there is no narrative, just dialogue between two mob guys at a diner before they pull off yet another job.
THE NORTH WING finds an honest police officer having to make a decision between loyalty to the job and helping his ne’er-do-well nephew who is facing prison time for a DUI that resulted in the death of a teenage girl. THE LUNCH BREAK features some California surfers who are hired to keep a rising starlet from ruining her career through alcohol, drugs and hissy fits. Oh, and there is a stalker around too. The final story is COLLISION where the perfect world of a man and his family is destroyed by one inebriated moment. Time in Folsom Prison is described in brutal detail, and readers find out what a good man must do to survive.
The writing in these stories is graphic, colorful and wonderful. Winslow paints such vivid pictures that you expect to find these characters in your kitchen when you put the book down. The format lends itself to cozy evenings by a fire, taking in one story each time. A great read.
In Final Score, an aging criminal knows that this stint in prison will be his last, that he’ll die there. Which is okay with him if he can commit one more armed robbery that will benefit his beloved wife. So he gathers a crew to help him pull off this final heist, which has an unexpected ending. THE SUNDAY LIST tells the story of a young man about to enter college. He gets no help from his hippie, stoned parents, and must raise tuition costs himself. Which he does by delivering booze to people in Rhode Island in 1970 on Sundays, which is illegal. A corrupt cop, an arrogant customer and his seductive wife make this particular delivery day rather difficult for the lad. The third selection is called TRUE STORY. It’s fascinating because there is no narrative, just dialogue between two mob guys at a diner before they pull off yet another job.
THE NORTH WING finds an honest police officer having to make a decision between loyalty to the job and helping his ne’er-do-well nephew who is facing prison time for a DUI that resulted in the death of a teenage girl. THE LUNCH BREAK features some California surfers who are hired to keep a rising starlet from ruining her career through alcohol, drugs and hissy fits. Oh, and there is a stalker around too. The final story is COLLISION where the perfect world of a man and his family is destroyed by one inebriated moment. Time in Folsom Prison is described in brutal detail, and readers find out what a good man must do to survive.
The writing in these stories is graphic, colorful and wonderful. Winslow paints such vivid pictures that you expect to find these characters in your kitchen when you put the book down. The format lends itself to cozy evenings by a fire, taking in one story each time. A great read.
February 13, 2026
Don said he was retired. He lied. Thank the spirit of Elmore Leonard for that.
This one is 4.5 stars, rounded up to five because when Don Winslow drops a book, the curve gets generous. The Final Score is a six-story collection, and five of them feel like Don came out of retirement, cracked his knuckles, and decided to remind everyone who runs the crime aisle. Lean, mean, prose that burns hot and fast.
The sixth story? Solid, gripping, familiar turf. Still swings, just not nuclear.
For longtime fans and recent initiates alike, The Final Score is Winslow flexing without looking like he’s trying. You want crime fiction clean and sharp? This is it. Crime lit needs kings. Winslow keeps the crown polished and the blood fresh.
This one is 4.5 stars, rounded up to five because when Don Winslow drops a book, the curve gets generous. The Final Score is a six-story collection, and five of them feel like Don came out of retirement, cracked his knuckles, and decided to remind everyone who runs the crime aisle. Lean, mean, prose that burns hot and fast.
The sixth story? Solid, gripping, familiar turf. Still swings, just not nuclear.
For longtime fans and recent initiates alike, The Final Score is Winslow flexing without looking like he’s trying. You want crime fiction clean and sharp? This is it. Crime lit needs kings. Winslow keeps the crown polished and the blood fresh.
February 14, 2026
The Final Score (published January 2026) by Don Winslow is a gritty collection of six interconnected novellas that showcase his signature crime fiction prowess, blending action, moral conflict, and sharp dialogue across varied American settings. From a career criminal seeking one last impossible casino heist before prison to a loyal patrolman torn between duty and family, a college-bound teen delivering illegal booze, wiseguys trading stories in a diner, a surfer/PI babysitting a self-destructive starlet, and a devoted family man whose life unravels after a split-second mistake, each story explores loyalty, consequence, and survival with immersive prose and compelling characters.
February 2, 2026
Book Review: The Final Score by Don Winslow
Don Winslow doesn’t just write crime fiction—he writes pressure. The Final Score is another reminder of how masterfully he compresses violence, loyalty, and moral compromise into a story that feels less like a novel and more like a ticking clock.
From the opening pages, Winslow establishes a world where every decision carries weight and every favor comes due. The prose is lean, sharp, and unsentimental, yet it hums with emotion just beneath the surface. This is classic Winslow territory: professionals operating by their own codes, systems that grind people down, and characters who know the rules are rigged but play anyway because they don’t know how to stop..
What makes The Final Score stand out is its momentum. The pacing is relentless—short chapters, clipped dialogue, and scenes that end just a beat earlier than you expect. Winslow trusts the reader to keep up, and the result is a propulsive read that’s nearly impossible to put down. There’s no wasted motion here; every scene advances the tension or deepens the stakes..
Thematically, the book grapples with consequences—personal, institutional, and generational. Winslow has always been fascinated by how systems corrupt even well-intentioned people, and that theme resonates strongly here. No one escapes clean, and victories, when they come, feel costly and earned rather than triumphant.
Fans of Winslow will recognize his trademarks: muscular realism, dark humor, and an unflinching look at power and violence. Newcomers will find The Final Score an excellent entry point—tight, gripping, and emotionally grounded without being indulgent.
In the end, The Final Score delivers exactly what Don Winslow does best: a hard, fast, intelligent crime story that entertains while quietly asking uncomfortable questions. It’s tough, smart, and lingers long after the last page—proof that Winslow remains one of the genre’s most commanding voices.
Don Winslow doesn’t just write crime fiction—he writes pressure. The Final Score is another reminder of how masterfully he compresses violence, loyalty, and moral compromise into a story that feels less like a novel and more like a ticking clock.
From the opening pages, Winslow establishes a world where every decision carries weight and every favor comes due. The prose is lean, sharp, and unsentimental, yet it hums with emotion just beneath the surface. This is classic Winslow territory: professionals operating by their own codes, systems that grind people down, and characters who know the rules are rigged but play anyway because they don’t know how to stop..
What makes The Final Score stand out is its momentum. The pacing is relentless—short chapters, clipped dialogue, and scenes that end just a beat earlier than you expect. Winslow trusts the reader to keep up, and the result is a propulsive read that’s nearly impossible to put down. There’s no wasted motion here; every scene advances the tension or deepens the stakes..
Thematically, the book grapples with consequences—personal, institutional, and generational. Winslow has always been fascinated by how systems corrupt even well-intentioned people, and that theme resonates strongly here. No one escapes clean, and victories, when they come, feel costly and earned rather than triumphant.
Fans of Winslow will recognize his trademarks: muscular realism, dark humor, and an unflinching look at power and violence. Newcomers will find The Final Score an excellent entry point—tight, gripping, and emotionally grounded without being indulgent.
In the end, The Final Score delivers exactly what Don Winslow does best: a hard, fast, intelligent crime story that entertains while quietly asking uncomfortable questions. It’s tough, smart, and lingers long after the last page—proof that Winslow remains one of the genre’s most commanding voices.
February 5, 2026
Don Winslow is one of my favorite authors. This collection was not what I expected, but that isn't necessarily a bad thing. I was prepared to dive into the dark, ultraviolent crime noir that made The Power of the Dog and The Force impossible to put down. But the stories in The Final Score reflect a much different tone. Not only is the violence toned way down, but tone of just about every story is so much more hopeful than I expected. The bleakness of Winslow's novels, oddly enough, is one of the things that's kept me coming back. Writers like Winslow, Elroy, S.A. Cosby - they bring a grittiness and a darkness to the work that transports you into that world. The stories in The Final Score are slicker, glossier. There's almost an "old Hollywood" element to them, injecting far more humor than bloodshed. The characters are unique and endearing, the dialogue is razor-sharp, and there's enough action to keep the pages moving at a brisk pace. This was a quick and (surprisingly) fun read.
February 6, 2026
Buenas historias, estupenda y afilada pluma, algo de nostalgia en la recuperación de Boone Daniels y sus amigos para una última aventura y, sobre todo, esa mezcla de humor ácido y crimen que hacen muy disfrutable este libro de relatos con el que Don Winslow se despide de su carrera literaria… o al menos eso es lo que hacen dicho. Me gustaron los seis textos, especialmente los dos relacionados con temas carcelarios que son el segundo y el último, por cierto, más largo que los otros cinco. También el cuarto me pareció muy divertido y con un toque a lo Tarantino. Buen cierre para una carrera muy interesante de un escritor que he leído durante más de 15 años y a quien voy a extrañar.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 142 reviews