<<I think Donald Westlake, has pretty consistently
written quality books, but he has done that by writing stand
alone books and those in very unlike series.>>
To judge by recent books like _The Ax_ and _The Hook_, both
masterpieces of noir writing, Westlake is peaking right now.
But I agree that he has maintained a consistently
(very) high level throughout. By the way, Willeford wrote
high quality stuff until the end of his life, as did Ross
Thomas.
About _The Hook_, which I read very recently: the author
managed to make the book both scary and moving. He really
makes those two writers live. It's one of his most heartfelt
books. All the suspense gimmicks are perfectly integrated. I
am surprised that this book is not better known.
About Chandler, production and batting averages: one should
not forget that Chandler started writing relatively late in
his life.
Regards,
MrT
=====
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