Riding the Rap was published by Delacorte Press in 1995. Raylan Givens, the laconic Kentucky-born U.S. Marshal introduced in Pronto, returns when Harry Arno disappears and is presumed kidnapped. Raylan works the case — largely outside official channels — tracking Harry through the demi-monde of Palm Beach psychics, small-time criminals, and incompetent kidnappers.
The novel deepens Raylan’s character: his patience, his code of conduct, his willingness to shoot when the situation demands it, and his fundamental decency. These qualities would later make him the perfect television protagonist when Justified adapted the character for FX.
The Kidnappers
The kidnappers are classic Leonard creations: incompetent, self-deluding, and unable to work together. Their plan — hold Harry for ransom — falls apart through a combination of greed, stupidity, and mutual suspicion. The Palm Beach psychic Reverend Dawn Navarro, who is involved in the scheme, adds a uniquely Florida element of spiritual charlatanism to the crime plot.
Raylan’s Method
This novel most clearly establishes Raylan’s investigative method: he doesn’t follow procedure; he follows instinct, asks questions that seem naive but aren’t, and waits patiently for people to reveal themselves. His willingness to operate outside official channels — and to use his gun when the situation demands — makes him both an effective lawman and a problematic one.
Collecting Riding the Rap
First edition (1995, Delacorte Press, New York): Boards with dust jacket.
Approximate market values:
- Fine/Fine in dust jacket: $30–$75
- Signed first edition: $75–$200
- Without jacket: $5–$15
Value trajectory (2016–2026): Moderate appreciation, boosted by Justified.
Projected values (2026–2036): Modest. Signed copies should reach $200–$500.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this the best Raylan Givens novel? It is the most focused on Raylan as a character — Pronto uses him as a supporting player, and Raylan (2012) is structured as novellas. For readers who want the most concentrated Raylan experience in novel form, this is the one.
How does Raylan compare between the novels and the TV show? Timothy Olyphant’s Raylan is more tortured and conflicted; Leonard’s Raylan is cooler, more self-assured, and less troubled by his own violence. Both versions are compelling.