* The central conflict: The novel revolves around the ambitious but morally compromised ex-con, "The Finger" (a.k.a. Larry "The Finger" Green), who seeks to escape his past by building a successful career as a bookmaker. However, he is plagued by his past and the dangerous world he once inhabited.
* The catalyst: "The Finger" falls in love with a beautiful, but manipulative woman named "The Blonde" (a.k.a. Lauren), who is already entangled with other powerful figures, including "The Lieutenant" (a corrupt cop). "The Finger" becomes desperate to win her, leading him to a series of morally questionable decisions.
* The escalating tensions: "The Finger" uses his skills to climb the criminal ladder, but his actions draw the attention of the police and ruthless criminals. He becomes increasingly desperate and entangled in a web of deceit, blackmail, and violence. He also becomes deeply entangled with the corrupt Lieutenant, who uses him for his own ends.
* The climax: The climax sees "The Finger" caught in a deadly game of cat and mouse with the Lieutenant and other criminals. The line between right and wrong blurs as he desperately tries to protect himself and the woman he loves.
The main conflict ultimately centers on the battle between "The Finger's" ambition for a better life and his descent into the darkness of his past. It is a conflict that defines not just his fate, but the fate of those around him.
It's important to note that "Criss Cross" is a noir novel, which means the conflict is often ambiguous and morally gray. There is no clear-cut hero or villain, and the reader is left to grapple with the complexities of the characters' choices and the consequences of their actions.