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1990 First Edition: Three Blind Mice, by Ed McBain
Three Blind Mice by Ed McBain is a gripping crime thriller set in New York. Published in 1990 by Arcade Publishing, this first edition spans 233 pages and is presented in a black hardcover volume with a striking red spine. Both the dust jacket and book body are in mint condition, exhibiting a clean and tightly bound copy.
McBain’s masterful storytelling takes readers on a suspenseful journey as a series of murders unfold, leaving the detectives to unravel the truth behind the elusive killer.
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1988 First Edition: A Victim Must Be Found, A Benny Cooperman Mystery, by Howard Engel
A Victim Must Be Found is a gripping mystery novel by Howard Engel featuring his beloved detective Benny Cooperman. Set in Canada, the story follows Benny as he investigates the disappearance of a young woman named Linda. The case becomes increasingly complex as Benny uncovers a web of secrets and lies, and he must use all his skills to solve the mystery before it’s too late.
Engel’s writing is masterful, drawing the reader into the story with vivid descriptions and well-crafted characters. The tension builds steadily throughout the book, keeping the reader on the edge of their seat until the final reveal. A Victim Must Be Found is a must-read for fans of mystery and suspense, and a testament to Engel’s skill as a writer.
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1969: Maigret and the Killer, by Georges Simenon
Maigret and the Killer is a crime fiction novel by Georges Simenon, first published in 1969. The book follows the story of Chief Inspector Maigret, who is tasked with investigating a series of murders in Paris. As he delves deeper into the case, Maigret finds himself drawn into a web of deceit and betrayal, and must use all his skills to uncover the truth behind the killings.
Simenon’s writing is known for its atmospheric descriptions of Paris, and Maigret and the Killer is no exception. The book captures the gritty, noirish feel of the city in the late 1960s, and is full of vivid characters and unexpected twists. Fans of classic crime fiction will enjoy this gripping tale of murder and intrigue, which is sure to keep them guessing until the very end.
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1989 first trade edition: The Killing Man, by Mike Hammer (Mikey Spillane)
The Killing Man is a crime fiction novel written by the renowned author, Mikey Spillane, under the pseudonym Mike Hammer. The story follows the protagonist, Mike Hammer, a private investigator, as he investigates a series of murders that seem to be linked to a notorious criminal organization. Along the way, Hammer encounters various obstacles and challenges, including corrupt law enforcement officials and dangerous criminals. As he delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of deceit and betrayal that threatens to unravel his investigation and put his life in danger.
The novel is a classic example of the hard-boiled detective genre, characterized by its gritty realism, tough-talking protagonists, and intricate plots. Spillane’s writing style is fast-paced and action-packed, with vivid descriptions of violence and suspenseful scenes that keep readers on the edge of their seats.
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1968 First Edition – So Young to Burn: a Superintendent West Story, by John Creasey
So Young to Burn is a crime fiction novel written by John Creasey and published in 1968. The book features Superintendent West, a recurring character in Creasey’s novels, who is tasked with solving a murder case involving a young woman. The story takes place in London and follows Superintendent West as he navigates through the city’s seedy underworld to find the killer. Along the way, he encounters various suspects and witnesses, each with their own secrets and motives.
The book is a classic example of the crime fiction genre, with a gripping plot, well-developed characters, and a twist ending. Creasey’s writing style is concise and engaging, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.
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1984 The Will of the Tribe: An Inspector Napoleon Bonaparte Mystery, by Arthur W. Upfield, First Paperback Edition
The Will of the Tribe is a gripping murder mystery novel by Arthur W. Upfield, featuring Inspector Napoleon Bonaparte as the lead character. Set in the Australian outback, the story follows Inspector Bonaparte as he investigates the brutal murder of a wealthy cattle rancher. The case takes him on a dangerous journey through the rugged terrain of the outback, as he uncovers a web of lies, deceit, and betrayal. With his sharp wit and analytical mind, Bonaparte must navigate through the complex social dynamics of the local tribe, who may hold the key to solving the case.
Upfield’s vivid descriptions of the Australian landscape and his insightful portrayal of the indigenous culture make this book a fascinating read. The Will of the Tribe is a masterful blend of mystery, adventure, and cultural commentary, and is a must-read for fans of crime fiction.