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Set of Two Detective Book Club volumes: Eberhart, James, Allbeury, Johnston, Ferrars, Simenon
$80.00The Detective Book Club, produced by Walter J. Black, Inc., was a popular series that provided readers with a steady supply of mystery and detective novels. Launched in the 1940s, this book club was known for publishing condensed versions of three mystery novels in a single volume, offering readers a variety of crime and detective stories in a convenient format. These compilations were typically hardcover books, making them durable and collectible.
Walter J. Black, Inc. was a publishing firm that specialized in producing book series and book club editions, and the Detective Book Club was one of their most popular offerings. The club operated similarly to other book clubs of the time, where subscribers would receive new books periodically. This model of distribution was particularly appealing to avid readers of mystery and detective genres, as it ensured a regular and diverse stream of content.
The books selected for the Detective Book Club covered a broad range of mystery and detective stories, from classic whodunits and police procedurals to thrillers and noir fiction. These selections often included works by well-known authors in the genre, as well as introducing readers to emerging writers. The club played a significant role in popularizing mystery and detective novels among the American reading public.
While the Detective Book Club is no longer active, its publications are cherished by collectors and enthusiasts of the genre. The club’s format of combining multiple novels in one volume was innovative for its time and provided a unique way for readers to discover a wide array of mystery and detective stories. The Detective Book Club series remains a notable part of the history of mystery literature publishing.
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1963: The Ace of Spades: A Luis Mendoze Mystery, by Elizabeth Linington
$45.00The Ace of Spades: A Luis Mendoze Mystery, by Elizabeth Linington, is a mystery novel that follows the titular detective as he investigates a series of murders in Los Angeles. Set against the backdrop of the 1960s, the novel delves into the seedy underbelly of the city and the complexities of the human psyche. As Mendoze delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of deceit, betrayal, and greed, leading to a thrilling and unexpected conclusion. This book is a must-read for fans of classic detective fiction and offers a compelling portrayal of the time period.
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2005 First Edition: Christ the Lord: Out of Egypt, by Anne Rice
$35.00Christ the Lord: Out of Egypt is a historical fiction novel by Anne Rice, published by Alfred Knopf in New York in 2005. The book follows the story of Jesus Christ as a young boy, as he and his family flee to Egypt to escape King Herod’s order to kill all young boys. The novel explores themes of faith, family, and the struggle to understand one’s destiny.
This first edition hardcover volume is in excellent condition, with a mint book block and a dustjacket that shows minor wear and rubbing, as well as slight unevenness at the bottom consistent with exposure to dampness.
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1990 First Edition: Three Blind Mice, by Ed McBain
$75.00Three 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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1980 Signed First Edition: Who Stole Kathy Young? by Margaret Goff Clark
$135.00Who Stole Kathy Young? by Margaret Goff Clark is a mystery novel published in 1980. The story revolves around the disappearance of a young girl named Kathy Young and the subsequent investigation to find her. The book is written in a classic whodunit style, with multiple suspects and twists and turns throughout the plot. The first edition of the book is signed by the author and is in excellent condition, making it a valuable collectible for fans of the genre.
Who Stole Kathy Young? is a gripping and well-written mystery novel that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. The author’s attention to detail and skillful character development make for a compelling and engaging read. Fans of classic mystery novels will appreciate the book’s intricate plot and clever twists, while those new to the genre will find it to be an excellent introduction to the world of mystery fiction. With its rare first edition signed by the author, this book is a must-have for collectors and fans alike.
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1988 First Edition: A Victim Must Be Found, A Benny Cooperman Mystery, by Howard Engel
$135.00A 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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1971 First Edition: The House of the Deer, by D. E. Stevenson
$105.00The House of the Deer, written by D. E. Stevenson, is a novel that was first published in 1971. The story is set in Scotland and follows the lives of the Ayrton family, who have lived in the same house for generations. The main character, Harriet Ayrton, inherits the house from her uncle and decides to move there with her husband and children. However, they soon discover that the house is in need of repairs and they struggle to make ends meet. As they work to restore the house, they also uncover secrets about their family’s past and must confront the challenges that come with it.
This vintage first edition of The House of the Deer features a blue cloth hardcover with white leaf-shaped ornamentation on the spine and cover, and red stamped lettering on the spine. While the book body is almost as good as new, there is some fading on the cover and a small stain on the top front cover. The dust jacket has wear around the edges and evidence of moisture/dampness on the outside of the back side. Inside the dust jacket, there are blue areas where the book cover has stained the dust jacket.
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1966 First Edition: The House on the Cliff, D. E. Stevenson
$75.00The House on the Cliff by D. E. Stevenson is a gripping mystery novel that follows the story of Emily Dennistoun, a young woman who inherits a house on the Scottish coast from her late cousin. Emily is excited to start a new chapter in her life, but soon discovers that the house holds dark secrets and a mysterious past. As she delves deeper into the history of the house and its former inhabitants, Emily uncovers a web of lies, deceit, and betrayal that threatens to destroy her newfound happiness.
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1992 First Edition: China Lake, by Anthony Hyde
$45.00China Lake by Anthony Hyde is a gripping thriller that follows the story of a photojournalist, John Wells, who stumbles upon a conspiracy involving the U.S. Navy and a top-secret military base in California’s Mojave Desert. As Wells delves deeper into the mystery, he uncovers a sinister plot involving mind control experiments and a dangerous cult. Along the way, he must confront his own past and the demons that haunt him.
Set against the backdrop of the Cold War and the Vietnam War, China Lake is a fast-paced and suspenseful novel that explores themes of power, corruption, and redemption. With its vivid descriptions of the California desert and its well-drawn characters, the book is a must-read for fans of the thriller genre.
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1969: Maigret and the Killer, by Georges Simenon
$45.00Maigret 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)
$85.00The 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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1959: Bull Dog Drummond, His Four Rounds With Carl Peterson, Described by Sapper
$75.00Bull Dog Drummond, His Four Rounds With Carl Peterson, Described by Sapper is a collection of the first four novels in the Bull Dog Drummond series, written by Sapper. The series follows the adventures of Captain Hugh “Bulldog” Drummond, a former British Army officer who becomes a private detective. In this volume, readers are introduced to Drummond’s arch-nemesis, Carl Peterson, who provides a recurring antagonist throughout the series. The four novels included in this volume are: “Bull Dog Drummond”, “The Black Gang”, “The Third Round”, and “The Final Count”.
The book is a classic example of early 20th-century pulp fiction, with fast-paced action, daring heroics, and larger-than-life characters. Despite being written in the 1920s, the stories have a timeless quality that still resonates with readers today.
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1999 uncorrected proof: McNally’s Dilemma, by Lawrence Sanders Limited edition
$85.00McNally’s Dilemma by Lawrence Sanders is a mystery novel that follows the story of Archy McNally, a private investigator who works for his father’s law firm in Palm Beach, Florida. The novel begins with Archy being hired by a wealthy widow to retrieve a stolen painting that holds sentimental value. However, things take a dark turn when the widow is found dead and Archy becomes the prime suspect in her murder. As he tries to clear his name and solve the case, Archy uncovers a web of deceit and betrayal that threatens to destroy the wealthy elite of Palm Beach.
Lawrence Sanders’ McNally’s Dilemma is a thrilling and suspenseful novel that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The uncorrected proof edition, with its yellow softcover and black lettering, is a rare and valuable find for collectors.
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1996: Alias Grace, by Margaret Atwood
$65.00Alias Grace by Margaret Atwood is a historical fiction novel that tells the story of Grace Marks, a young Irish immigrant who was convicted of murder in Canada in 1843. The novel is based on a true story and explores themes of memory, identity, and the nature of truth. The story is told from the perspectives of Grace and a young doctor who is trying to uncover the truth about the murders. As the doctor delves deeper into Grace’s past, he begins to question whether she is truly guilty or if she has been wrongly accused. The novel is a masterful blend of fact and fiction, and Atwood’s writing is both beautiful and haunting.
This early edition of Alias Grace is in excellent condition, with a beige hardcover and impressed ornamentation. The book is tightly bound and very clean, although the front blank paper is missing.
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1949: A Graveyard to Let, Another Adventure of Sir Henry Merrivale, by Carter Dickson (John Dickson Carr)
$45.00A Graveyard to Let is a mystery novel by Carter Dickson (John Dickson Carr) that follows the adventures of Sir Henry Merrivale. The story takes place in a small village in England, where a group of people gather to investigate a haunted graveyard. However, things take a sinister turn when a murder occurs, and Sir Henry Merrivale is called upon to solve the case. The novel is full of twists and turns, and the reader is kept guessing until the very end.
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1968 First Edition – So Young to Burn: a Superintendent West Story, by John Creasey
$60.00So 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
$45.00The 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.
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1986 First edition: Heartbreak Hotel, by Gabrielle Burton – Winner of Maxwell Perkins Prize
$150.00Heartbreak Hotel by Gabrielle Burton is a novel that tells the story of a young woman named Sarah who sets out on a journey to find her father. Her father, who was a famous musician, abandoned her and her mother when Sarah was just a baby. Sarah is determined to find him and learn more about him and her own identity. She travels to various cities and meets a range of interesting characters along the way. The novel explores themes of family, identity, and the search for meaning in life.
The book was the winner of the Maxwell Perkins Prize and was published in 1986 by Charles Scribner’s Sons. The first edition is a hardcover with a dust jacket in near mint condition. The original Coles price sticker is still on the front cover. There is a slight separation from the spine on the inside cover, which appears to be a manufacturing defect. Heartbreak Hotel is a captivating novel that takes readers on a journey of self-discovery and explores the complexities of family relationships.
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1967, 2nd Printing: Manitoulin Manhunt, by Fred Swayze
$35.00Manitoulin Manhunt, by Fred Swayze, is a Canadian fiction novel published in 1967. The story follows the protagonist, Bill, as he embarks on a manhunt on Manitoulin Island in Ontario. Bill is a conservation officer who is tasked with finding a dangerous criminal who has escaped from prison and is hiding on the island. As Bill navigates the rugged terrain and encounters various obstacles, he must also grapple with his own inner demons and past traumas.
The novel is a thrilling adventure that showcases the beauty and harshness of the Canadian wilderness. Swayze’s vivid descriptions of the landscape and the characters’ actions make for a gripping read. Manitoulin Manhunt also touches on themes of redemption and forgiveness, as Bill confronts his own mistakes and learns to let go of his past.
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1981 Set of 2: The Scarlatti Inheritance by Robert Ludlum and Shall We Tell The President? by Jeffrey Archer
$125.00This collectible set of two books includes The Scarlatti Inheritance by Robert Ludlum and Shall We Tell The President? by Jeffrey Archer, both published by Heron Books in 1981. The Scarlatti Inheritance is a thriller novel that follows a man named Michael Havelock as he tries to uncover the truth about his father’s death and a mysterious organization called Inver Brass. Meanwhile, Shall We Tell The President? is a political thriller that imagines what would happen if a woman were elected as the first female President of the United States, and then faced an assassination plot.
Both books are hardcover volumes bound in red leatherette, with gilt ornamentation on the cover and spine. While the gilt is intact on the Archer volume, it is partially worn off on the Ludlum volume. Despite this, neither book has been read or fully opened and both are in near mint condition. This set is a wonderful vintage collectible for fans of Ludlum and Archer or collectors of classic thriller novels.