THE FINGER MAN AND OTHER STORIES (In Murder Mystery Monthly # 43)

New York: Avon Book Company, 1947. Softcover. Fair. A magazine format publication (7 1/2 in. x 5 1/2 in.),card covers, quite worn, with a shallow 1/2 in. edge tear extending throughout the first 89 pages, shelfwear, yellowed but still supple pages. Previous owner's stamp (from Hawaii, which might explain it's rougher condition) to top of title page. Previous owner's penciled signature. 126 pp. "This book of stories by the author of "The Big Sleep" presents a real treat for all addicts of fastmoving, hard-boiled detective fiction. The title story itself is in the straight Chandler tradition -- a shrewd and aggressive private investigator, a big-shot politician with sinister connections,m a beautiful red-heard in a heap of trouble, assorted gamblers, con-men and thugs, and an unusual quota of chills and murders. Here is a thrilling, action-packed tale full of excitement and suspense, with a neat twist to the ending.

"In addition you will find 'Smart-Aleck Kill,' a colorful murder yarn with a Hollywood setting: 'The Bronze Door,' wherein the mysterious East manifests itself in a p;rosaic LKondon neighborhood; and 'the Simple Art of Murder,' Chandler's famous essay on the murder mystery novel, which should have terrific appeal to all followers of this unique form of reacing entertainment.

"The author is widely known for the vigor, intensity and color of his writing. The reader will find here a richly satisfying collection of stories." (From.