Books

A Near Fine copy of the book that suffers from light to moderate foxing throughout (and on the front cover illustration). Original black cloth with mounted cover illustration and pictorial endpapers. Complete with the full complement of illustrations by Maxfield Parrish, his last and most brilliant book illustration project. Oddly, the title page of this copy is printed out of register, so that the font and images are blurry. We have never seen a copy like this and suspect that it was an error caught very early on in the print run. Parrish worked for three years on the illustrations for the book, creating an elaborate model of the castle to use for his inspiration. In agreeing to work on the project, Parrish wrote: "You must understand all this layout to be in gorgeous color. The landscapes back of the figures in the cover lining - a very beautiful affair illuminated by a golden late afternoon sun: castles, waterfall, rocks and mountains." (Letter from Oct. 24, 1920 to H. Chapin of Scribner's). Near Fine.

"The Knave of Hearts" by Louise Saunders is a whimsical romantic fantasy novel published in 1925. Set in a fairy-tale world, the story revolves around the titular character, the Knave, and his adventures. The Knave is on a quest to win the heart of the princess, and the narrative unfolds with a blend of humor, adventure, and romance. The novel explores themes of love, identity, and the fantastical elements of a fairy-tale realm, providing readers with a delightful escape into a charming and imaginative world. Saunders' storytelling captivates the reader with vivid descriptions, engaging characters, and a plot that combines elements of classic fairy tales with a unique and modern twist. As the Knave navigates through enchanting landscapes, encounters magical beings, and faces various challenges, readers are taken on a journey that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. The author's prose is rich with wit and charm, creating a timeless story that continues to enchant readers with its timeless appeal. "The Knave of Hearts" remains a delightful classic that showcases Saunders' storytelling prowess and her ability to transport readers to a magical world where love, adventure, and whimsy intertwine in a captivating narrative.