discount
First edition of Van Dine's 1936 book, The Kidnap Murder Case. The first edition is marked by an A on the copyright page. Overall this book is in really good vintage shape. There's slight discoloration and fraying on the outside cover (spine) and corners. I didn't notice any tears on the pages. I'm happy to send any additional photos to potential buyers.
“A member of the wealthy Kenting family is kidnapped, and Philo Vance's suspicions lead him to the victim's home, the "Purple House" on New York's 86th Street. A mysterious ransom note and the family collection of gems both play a part in the plot, which ends with the murderer's suicide with the connivance of Vance. "To be sure, the motive for the crime, or, I should say, crimes, was the sordid one of monetary gain ... through Vance's determination and fearlessness, through his keen insight into human nature and his amazing flair for the ramifications of human psychology, he was able to penetrate beyond the seemingly conclusive manifestations of the case."