"This beautiful book will prove irresistible to both serious collectors of detective fiction first editions as well as to lovers of the artwork of the 1920s, 30s and 40s. A nostalgic survey of the artwork of detective fiction dustwrappers, it features intriguing chapters such as 'Damsels in Distress', 'Murder on the Move' and 'Pastimes in Purgatory'." "Lavishly illustrated with a 12 page colour section and over 300 large black and white illustrations, this book provides a unique opportunity to see first edition dustwrappers rarely available to the public. The wrappers are fully described, dated with credit to the publisher and the artist, if known. A wide range of famous detective writers is represented along with their detectives. Included in this fascinating volume is a chapter devoted solely to the artists, a consideration of their styles, and references to further examples of their work."--BOOK JACKET.Title Summary field provided by Blackwell North America, Inc. All Rights Reserved