Is James Ellroy A-List?
No — James Ellroy is currently ranked B tier — a well-known figure with a strong career but not quite a household name.
Reached A-list in 1990
L.A. Confidential Published
Lost A-list status in 2009
Dropped to B tier — Blood's a Rover
Ranking Timeline
Mother's Murder
Mother's unsolved murder becomes life obsession.
Brown's Requiem Published
Debut crime novel marks entry into genre.
The Black Dahlia
Breakthrough novel based on famous murder.
L.A. Confidential Published
Critical acclaim and commercial success for novel.
L.A. Confidential Film
Film adaptation wins Oscars, boosts fame.
Blood's a Rover
Continues writing, solidifying legacy.
Perfidia Published
First book in the second L.A. Quartet.
This Storm Published
Second book in the second L.A. Quartet.
Noir Master Legacy
Remains a respected figure in crime fiction.
Last updated: February 25, 2026