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The Continental OpSeries

This series plunges readers into the gritty world of a private investigator working for a major detective agency. Operating out of San Francisco, the unnamed operative takes on cases that lead him through the city's underbelly. With a sharp mind and a strong sense of justice, he navigates a dangerous landscape of crime, corruption, and betrayal. Each story offers a thrilling dive into classic detective fiction.

The Continental Op
Hammett Crime Stories and Other Writings
Nightmare Town
Red Harvest
Arson Plus
Nightmare Town

Recommended Reading Order

  1. 1

    Red Harvest

    • 224 pages
    • 8 hours of reading
    3.9(1953)Add rating

    From one of the great pioneers of detective stories, a classic novel reissued with a new introduction by S.A. Cosby The steadfast and sturdy Continental Op has been summoned to the town of Personville—known as Poisonville—a dusty mining community splintered by competing factions of gangsters and petty criminals. The Op has been hired by Donald Willsson, publisher of the local newspaper, who gave little indication about the reason for the visit. No sooner does the Op arrive, than the body count begins to climb . . . starting with his client. With this last honest citizen of Poisonville murdered, the Op decides to stay on and force a reckoning—even if that means taking on an entire town. Red Harvest is more than a superb crime novel: it is a classic exploration of corruption and violence in the American grain.

    Red Harvest
  2. 2

    The Dain Curse

    • 188 pages
    • 7 hours of reading
    3.7(318)Add rating

    Everything about the Leggett diamond heist indicated to the Continental Op that it was an inside job. From the stray diamond found in the yard to the eyewitness accounts of a "strange man" casing the house, everything was just too pat. Gabrielle Dain-Leggett has enough secrets to fill a closet, and when she disappears shortly after the robbery, she becomes the Op's prime suspect. But her father, Edgar Leggett, keeps some strange company himself and has a dark side the moon would envy. Before he can solve the riddle of the diamond theft, the Continental Op must first solve the mystery of this strange family.

    The Dain Curse

  • Nightmare Town

    Stories

    • 432 pages
    • 16 hours of reading
    4.0(211)Add rating

    The book showcases Hammett's groundbreaking hard-boiled writing style, which has influenced countless authors. Known for its gritty realism and sharp dialogue, the narrative delivers a powerful impact that resonates with readers. This original work stands out in the genre, capturing the essence of crime and moral ambiguity in a way that continues to inspire and captivate.

    Nightmare Town

  • Arson Plus

    3.0(4)Add rating

    Set in the early 20th century, this story showcases Dashiell Hammett's pioneering style in hardboiled detective fiction. Originally published in 1923, it exemplifies the gritty realism and complex characters that define the genre. As one of Hammett's early works, it reflects the evolution of mystery writing, making it a significant piece for both collectors and new readers. This edition aims to preserve the original text and artwork, offering an accessible glimpse into the roots of modern detective stories.

    Arson Plus

  • Nightmare Town

    This collection showcases the finest short stories by Hammett, including a special introduction by Colin Dexter.

    Nightmare Town

  • Hammett Crime Stories and Other Writings

    • 934 pages
    • 33 hours of reading
    4.4(537)Add rating

    This edition features the Continental Op's most thrilling adventures, showcasing the gritty and suspenseful storytelling of Dashiell Hammett. Newly restored, these crime stories capture the essence of early detective fiction as they originally appeared in "Black Mask," highlighting the clever plots and complex characters that define Hammett's work. Fans of classic noir will appreciate the authenticity and charm of these iconic tales.

    Hammett Crime Stories and Other Writings