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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While the Detective Book Club is no longer active, its publications are cherished by collectors and enthusiasts of the genre.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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1942: The Bobbsey Twins In the Land of Cotton, by Laura Lee Hope
$20.00“The Bobbsey Twins in the Land of Cotton,” authored by Laura Lee Hope is one of the many installments in the beloved Bobbsey Twins series, a popular children’s book series in the early to mid-20th century. The series features the adventures of two sets of twins in the Bobbsey family – Bert and Nan, who are twelve years old, and Flossie and Freddie, who are six. Each book takes the twins on various adventures, often involving mysteries and exciting discoveries, and this particular title is no exception.
Set in the Southern United States, “The Bobbsey Twins in the Land of Cotton” explores the culture and lifestyle of the region through the eyes of the Bobbsey family. The story, like others in the series, is characterized by its wholesome and light-hearted nature, aimed at imparting moral lessons and entertaining young readers. The book’s portrayal of the South, however, is reflective of the time it was written, and modern readers may find some depictions outdated or stereotypical. The Bobbsey Twins series has been noted for its cultural and historical value, offering insights into the societal norms and attitudes of its time. This particular book, with its engaging narrative and exploration of new environments, continues to be a charming read for those interested in classic children’s literature.
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1967: The Shape of Things to Come, by H. G. Wells
$20.00“The Shape of Things to Come,” authored by H.G. Wells and originally published in 1933, is a visionary science fiction novel that explores the future of humanity through speculative foresight. The narrative is framed as a historical account written from the future, specifically the year 2106, by a character named Dr. Philip Raven, who bases his account on a series of dream visions. Wells’s ambitious narrative spans from the 1930s to the 22nd century, detailing a series of catastrophic events, including global wars, plagues, and the eventual collapse of existing political and social structures. Notably, the novel predicts the occurrence of a second world war and various technological advancements, such as air warfare and a global communication network akin to the internet.
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1968: Sacred and Profane: A Novel of the Life and Times of Mozart, by David Weiss
$65.00Sacred and Profane is a historical novel by David Weiss that delves into the life and times of the famous composer, Mozart. The book offers a unique perspective on Mozart’s life, exploring both his sacred and profane sides. Through vivid descriptions and well-researched historical details, Weiss takes readers on a journey through 18th century Europe, where Mozart’s music was both celebrated and controversial. It’s a must-read for anyone interested in classical music and the life of one of its greatest composers.
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1983: The Pyrates, by George MacDonald Fraser
$65.00The Pyrates, by George MacDonald Fraser, is a swashbuckling adventure novel set in the Golden Age of piracy. The story follows the exploits of the notorious pirate, Captain Ben Avery, as he embarks on a perilous journey to find a legendary treasure. Filled with action, humor, and memorable characters, The Pyrates is a thrilling tale that captures the spirit of the high seas. Fraser’s meticulous research and vivid storytelling make this book a must-read for fans of historical fiction and pirate lore.
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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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1980: The Stone Angel, by Margaret Laurence
$45.00The Stone Angel is a classic Canadian novel that explores themes of aging, regret, and the search for identity. Set in the fictional town of Manawaka, the story follows the life of Hagar Shipley, an independent and stubborn woman in her nineties. As she reflects on her past and confronts her own mortality, Hagar’s journey becomes a poignant examination of the human spirit. With its lyrical prose and rich characterization, The Stone Angel is a timeless literary masterpiece that delves into the complexities of family relationships and the universal struggle to find meaning in one’s life.
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1965: The Tide in The Attic, by Aleid Van Rhijn
$30.00The Tide in The Atti is a historical novel written by Aleid Van Rhijn. The book explores the lives of a Dutch family living in a small coastal town. The story revolves around a family trying to survive the real life flood and storm in Holland in 1953, in the attic and on the roof of their farmhouse as the water flooded first the ground floor and then upstairs, forcing them onto the roof in the storm. The author delves into themes of resilience, family bonds, and the impact of external forces on individual lives.
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1936: Anthony Adverse by Hervey Allen
$75.00Anthony Adverse by Hervey Allen is a classic historical novel published by Farrar and Rinehart in New York in 1936. The hardcover volume is bound in silver-colored cloth with dark lettering on the cover and spine. Despite minor wear to the cover, the book is in very good condition, with no markings or writing. The fading to page color and occasional foxing due to the age of the book add to its vintage charm. The deckled fore-edges and grey-colored top edges give the book an elegant touch. Set in the 18th century, the novel follows the life of the eponymous protagonist as he navigates through love, loss, and adventure. With its rich historical detail and compelling characters, Anthony Adverse is a valuable addition to any historical fiction collection.
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1981 Second Printing – Bennet #3: People in Glass Houses, by Elliott Lewis
$20.00People in Glass Houses by Elliott Lewis, a vintage paperback published by Pinnacle Books in 1981. This second printing edition is in almost new condition, with only a crease along the spine on the front cover. The book is tightly bound and has never been fully opened, indicating that it has never been read.
The plot of the book revolves around the lives of the characters in a glass house, exploring themes of transparency, vulnerability, and the consequences of hidden secrets.
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1974: I Heard the Owl Call My Name, by Margaret Craven
$25.00I Heard the Owl Call My Name is a thought-provoking novel by Margaret Craven, published by Pan Books in London in 1974. Set in a remote Native American village in British Columbia, the story follows a young vicar who is sent to the village to learn about life and death. The novel explores themes of cultural clash, spirituality, and the meaning of life. This vintage paperback edition is in very good condition, with clean pages and minor rubbing to the cover consistent with its age. A valuable addition to any collection of classic literature.
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1926 First Edition: Labels, by A. Hamilton Gibbs
$25.00Labels by A. Hamilton Gibbs is a first edition published by McClelland and Stewart in 1926. This 295-page black hardcover volume with red lettering on the cover and spine shows moderate wear, with the top of the spine missing and a moderate forward tilt. The inside front cover contains two inserts – instructions for borrowing the book from Burton’s Limited circulation library and a newspaper clipping about Major Gibbs, dated 1958 and marked by Wallace Library, Booth No. 9. The back inside cover contains nearly 60 library borrowing stamps from October 1926 to May 1927. This historical fiction novel is a valuable addition to any collection and provides a glimpse into the popularity of literature in the early 20th century. The book’s condition is accurately depicted in the provided photos.
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1946: The Valley of Decision, by Marcia Davenport
$25.00The Valley of Decision, written by Marcia Davenport and published in 1946, is a 640-page historical novel set in Pittsburgh during the 19th century. The story follows the Scott family and their struggles during the rise of the steel industry, touching on themes of love, ambition, and social class. This black hardcover volume is in good condition, with slight wear on the front cover and clean pages. The deckled fore-edges add to the vintage charm of the book, making it a valuable addition to any historical fiction collection.
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1972: Old Tales Retold, by Lu Hsun
$40.00Old Tales Retold by Lu Hsun, second edition published by Foreign Language Press in Peking in 1972. This compact softcover volume consists of 137 pages and offers a collection of retold tales.
The book explores various themes and provides a fresh perspective on traditional stories.
With minor rubbing, wear, and staining on the cover, the book is in very good condition overall. It is clean, without any writing or markings, and tightly bound. A red stamp belonging to the National Publications Centre can be found on the bottom back cover.
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1978: Another Fine Myth, by Robert Asprin
$35.00Another Fine Myth, by Robert Asprin, is a first edition contemporary fantasy novel published by Donning in Norfolk in 1978. The story follows the adventures of Skeeve, a young magician’s apprentice, who is unexpectedly thrown into a world of magic and mayhem when his master is assassinated. As Skeeve navigates through this new realm, he teams up with a colorful cast of characters, including a demon named Aahz, to unravel a mysterious plot and save the day. With its witty humor and imaginative world-building, Another Fine Myth is a must-read for fans of the fantasy genre.
This pictorial softcover volume is in very good condition, with only minor wear to the cover corners. The only notable flaw is the absence of the front blank page. Otherwise, this book is nearly as good as new.
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1965: Prime Minister’s Daughter, by Maurice Edelman
$25.00Prime Minister’s Daughter by Maurice Edelman is a thought-provoking political novel set in 1960s England. Published by Random House in New York in 1965, this 246-page book offers readers an insightful exploration of power, family dynamics, and the complexities of political life.
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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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1964: Edge of Manhood, by Thomas Fall, illustrated by Henry C. Pitz
$55.00Edge of Manhood is a coming-of-age novel written by Thomas Fall and illustrated by Henry C. Pitz. The story follows the journey of a young man named David as he navigates the challenges of growing up and finding his place in the world. Set in the early 20th century, the book explores themes of masculinity, family, and identity, as David struggles to reconcile his own desires and ambitions with the expectations of those around him.
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1947 First Edition – Adversary in the House: a Biographical Novel by Irving Stone
$135.00Adversary 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
$175.00Conquering 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.
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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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1988 First edition: Waltz for a Pagan Drum, by Munroe Scott
$50.00Waltz 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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1964: You Only Live Twice, by Ian Fleming – James Bond Novel
$47.00You 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
$40.00Escape 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
$35.00The 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.