The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 5 letter word TOMES
T
O
M
E
S
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "works" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case works = tomes.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does TOMES mean?
TOMES noun- One in a series of volumes.
- A large or scholarly book.