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1947 First Edition – Adversary in the House: a Biographical Novel by Irving Stone
Adversary in the House is a biographical novel by Irving Stone that was published in 1947. The book tells the story of the life of Claude Debussy, a French composer who is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the world of music. The novel is set in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and follows Debussy’s life from his childhood in Paris to his rise as a prominent composer. The book is written in a narrative style and provides a detailed account of Debussy’s personal life, his relationships, and his struggles as an artist.
Stone’s writing style is engaging and immersive, and he does an excellent job of bringing Debussy’s world to life. The book is well-researched and provides a fascinating insight into the life of one of the most celebrated composers of all time. Adversary in the House is a must-read for anyone interested in music, history, or biographical novels.
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1985 First Edition: Conquering Heroes, by Elizabeth Phillips
Conquering Heroes is a novel written by Elizabeth Phillips and published in 1985. The story revolves around a group of soldiers who return home after fighting in the Falklands War. The book explores the challenges they face as they try to reintegrate into civilian life, and the impact of their experiences on their relationships and mental health. The novel also delves into the political and social climate of the time, as well as the attitudes towards the war and those who fought in it.
Phillips’ writing is praised for its vivid descriptions and realistic portrayal of the characters’ emotions and struggles. The book is a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of the aftermath of war, and the toll it takes on those who serve.
$205.00 -
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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1971 First Edition: The House of the Deer, by D. E. Stevenson
The 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.
$135.00 -
1966 First Edition: The House on the Cliff, D. E. Stevenson
The 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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1988 First Edition – Equator: A Journey, by Thurston Clarke
Equator: A Journey was written by Thurston Clarke, and published in 1988. The book is a travelogue that chronicles the author’s journey along the equator, covering a distance of 25,000 miles across four continents. Clarke’s journey takes him through a diverse range of cultures and landscapes, from the Amazon rainforest to the deserts of Africa, and from the bustling cities of Asia to the remote islands of the Pacific.
Throughout the book, Clarke provides vivid descriptions of the people, places, and experiences he encounters on his journey. He also reflects on the history and significance of the equator, and how it has shaped the cultures and societies that lie along its path.
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1992 First Edition: China Lake, by Anthony Hyde
China 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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1988 First edition: Waltz for a Pagan Drum, by Munroe Scott
Waltz for a Pagan Drum, a novel by Munroe Scott, is a gripping tale that takes readers on a journey through the life of a young man named David, who is struggling to find his place in the world. Set against the backdrop of the 1960s, the novel explores themes of love, loss, and self-discovery, as David navigates the complexities of his relationships with family, friends, and lovers. From his idyllic childhood in rural Ontario, to his rebellious teenage years in Toronto, to his travels across Canada and beyond, David’s story is one of adventure, passion, and ultimately, redemption.
With its vivid descriptions of the Canadian landscape, its evocative portrayal of the counterculture of the 1960s, and its compelling characters, Waltz for a Pagan Drum is a must-read for anyone who loves literary fiction.
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1930 RARE: All Our Yesterdays, by H. M. Tomlinson, Numbered and Signed Limited Edition Book
All Our Yesterdays is a rare and influential anti-war novel written by H. M. Tomlinson in 1930. The limited edition book features a portrait front piece from a drawing by Percy Smith and is signed and numbered by the author. This particular copy is numbered 837 out of 1025 copies for sale in Great Britain and Ireland. The hardcover beige cloth volume is adorned with gilt stamped ornamentation on the cover and lettering on the spine, with the top edge gilt and fore-edges and bottom edge untrimmed. Although there are minor instances of occasional foxing, the book is in very fine condition and comes with a clear plastic sleeve and ribbon marker. However, the original slipcase is present but shows considerable rubbing, fading, and signs of wear.
This book is a must-have for a WWI historian or collector, as it offers a rare glimpse into the anti-war sentiment of the time. Tomlinson’s novel provides a unique perspective on the devastating effects of war on individuals and society as a whole.
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1974 First Edition: Waverly Root’s The Best of Italian Cooking
Waverly Root’s The Best of Italian Cooking is a vintage cookbook that provides a comprehensive guide to Italian cuisine. Published in 1974, this first edition book includes a variety of classic Italian recipes, from appetizers and soups to pasta dishes and desserts. The book is presented in a large format softcover with color illustrations, making it an aesthetically pleasing addition to any chef’s library.
Despite being almost 50 years old, this vintage cookbook is in excellent condition, with only minor rubbing and wear on the back cover and slight bending to the cover corners. The recipes included in the book are timeless and provide a glimpse into the traditional flavors and techniques of Italian cooking.
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1964: You Only Live Twice, by Ian Fleming – James Bond Novel
You Only Live Twice by Ian Fleming is a classic James Bond novel that was published in 1964. This book club edition is a hardcover volume with lettering on the spine. The book has three stamps belonging to the Birmingham Area Seniors Coordinating Council in Michigan, and what appears to be three tiny bullet holes going through the front cover. Despite the bullet holes and stamps, the book is in fine condition with no other marks and tightly bound. The dust jacket is present but has moderate signs of wear.
The story follows James Bond as he travels to Japan to investigate the disappearance of a spacecraft and uncovers a sinister plot by the criminal organization SPECTRE.
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1971 First Edition: Escape from Meerut, by Juliet Smith
Escape from Meerut is a thrilling adventure novel written by Juliet Smith and first published in 1971. The story follows the journey of a young British couple, Peter and Sally, who find themselves caught up in a dangerous game of espionage and betrayal in India during the 1940s. When Peter is falsely accused of murder, the couple must flee from the authorities and navigate their way through a treacherous landscape filled with spies, rebels, and corrupt officials. Along the way, they encounter a cast of colorful characters, including a wise old guru, a beautiful Indian princess, and a cunning British agent, all of whom help them in their quest for freedom.
The novel is a fast-paced and exciting read, full of suspense and intrigue. Smith’s vivid descriptions of the Indian landscape and culture add depth and richness to the story, and her characters are well-drawn and engaging.
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1965: The Purple Quest, a vivid novel of seafaring adventure by Frank G. Slaughter
The Purple Quest is a thrilling novel of seafaring adventure by Frank G. Slaughter. Set in the ancient world, the story follows the journey of Captain Demetrios and his crew as they embark on a dangerous quest to find the rare purple dye that is coveted by royalty. Along the way, they encounter treacherous storms, fierce pirates, and political intrigue, all while battling their own personal demons. As they navigate through the Mediterranean Sea, the crew must overcome numerous obstacles and challenges in order to succeed in their mission.
Slaughter’s vivid descriptions of the ancient world and the dangers of seafaring make for a thrilling read.
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1981 First Edition: The White Hotel, by D. M. Thomas
The White Hotel explores the life of a young woman named Lisa Erdman, who is a patient of Sigmund Freud. The story is told through a series of dreams and memories that Lisa experiences, which reveal her traumatic past and the events that led her to seek treatment from Freud.
The book is a haunting and powerful exploration of trauma, memory, and the human psyche. It is a beautifully written and deeply moving work that has been praised for its vivid imagery, lyrical prose, and complex characters. The White Hotel is a must-read for anyone interested in the human condition and the ways in which we cope with the traumas of our past.
The present volume is the first edition of the book and is in mint condition.
$335.00 -
1952: Tai-Lu Talking, by Shelagh Fraser and Billy Thatcher
Tai-Lu Talking is a children’s book written by Shelagh Fraser and Billy Thatcher, and illustrated by Janet Johnstone and Anne Grahame-Johnstone.
The story follows the adventures of Princess Tai-Lu, who has the ability to communicate with animals. She sets out on a journey to save her kingdom from a wicked sorcerer who has cast a spell on the land. Along the way, she meets a variety of animals who help her on her quest. The book is beautifully illustrated and is sure to captivate the imaginations of young readers.
$65.00 -
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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1959: Bull Dog Drummond, His Four Rounds With Carl Peterson, Described by Sapper
Bull 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
McNally’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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1974 First Edition: The Pirate, by Harold Robbins
The Pirate, written by Harold Robbins, is a novel that was first published in 1974. The story follows the life of a young man named Devin Patrick O’Malley, who is forced to flee from Ireland after getting involved in a political conflict. He becomes a pirate and travels the world, seeking adventure and fortune. Along the way, he encounters various characters and faces numerous challenges, including a love triangle and a battle with a ruthless drug lord.
This first edition copy of The Pirate is in excellent condition, with a clean and tightly bound brown cloth hardcover. The dust jacket is also in pristine condition, although it has been price clipped. With its full number line, this copy is presumed to be a first edition, making it a rare find for collectors and fans of Harold Robbins. The Pirate is a thrilling adventure novel that takes readers on a journey across the high seas, filled with action, romance, and danger.