Books

New York, London: Alfred A. Knopf, 1929. First edition. Small inked number at the upper left corner of the front free endpaper. Just a hint of dust soiling to cloth, a square, tight, clean, very good copy. A very presentable copy. No dust jacket. (#151298) (16847). Octavo, pp. [1-10] [1-3] 4-272 [273: colophon] [274-278: blank] [note: the first and last two leaves are blanks], title page printed in brown and black, original decorated tan cloth, front and spine panels stamped in red and brown, running Borzoi stamped in brown on rear panel,top edge stained brown, fore and bottom edges rough trimmed. The author's second book. Hard-boiled detective novel first published in BLACK MASK. Filmed in 1978 as a television mini-series with James Coburn. [Reference: Pronzini and Muller, 1001 Midnights, pp. 334-5. Layman A.2.1.a].

"The Dain Curse" by Dashiell Hammett is a thrilling mystery novel that introduces readers to the no-nonsense Continental Op, a private detective tasked with uncovering the truth behind a series of perplexing events connected to the Dain family. The story kicks off with Gabrielle Dain Leggett, who seeks the Op's help after her father, a wealthy art collector, dies under mysterious circumstances. The death appears to be linked to a family curse that has plagued the Dains for generations. As the investigation progresses, the Continental Op delves into a complex and twisted world filled with murder, deceit, and multiple puzzling incidents that seem to defy rational explanation. His inquiry leads him down a path involving a religious cult, opium addiction, and a string of seemingly unrelated deaths, all intricately connected to the enigmatic Dain family. Throughout the novel, the Continental Op encounters a range of colorful characters, each with their own motives and secrets. His relentless pursuit of the truth unveils shocking revelations and unexpected alliances, challenging his wit and resourcefulness at every turn. Amidst the danger and intrigue, the detective navigates a maze of lies and treachery, gradually piecing together the puzzle while facing constant threats to his own safety. As the story reaches its climax, the Continental Op's perseverance and keen investigative skills lead to a gripping confrontation where all the pieces of the intricate mystery fall into place. Hammett masterfully weaves a tale that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, delivering a satisfying resolution that untangles the complex web of deception surrounding the Dain family. "The Dain Curse" stands as a classic example of Dashiell Hammett's skill in crafting gripping mysteries, filled with suspense, vivid characters, and unexpected twists that captivate readers from start to finish.

First edition copies of 'The Dain Curse' can be identified by their blue cloth cover with yellow lettering and no mention of subsequent printings on the copyright page.