Leonardo Cassuto - Hard-Boiled Sentimentality

The premise of Leonardo Cassuto’s Hard-Boiled Sentimentalism is intriguing, exploring the sentimental dimension of a genre usually associated with cynicism, violence, and emotional detachment. However, the book gradually becomes monotonous as it moves through numerous examples, from Raymond Chandler to Travis McGee. For readers already familiar with hard-boiled fiction, much of the material may feel repetitive, and the initial interest of the subject begins to wear off. The idea is worthwhile, but the discussion could have benefited from a more concise approach.

Harry Stephen Keeler - The Sharkskin Book

The Sharkskin Book is a typical Harry Stephen Keeler novel. The story opens with an attempt to extort a confession from a man accused of murdering a certain Pedelton, using torture to force him to admit his guilt. However, the narrative soon jumps to another subject, revolving around a mysterious book called The Way Out, a collection of Chinese wisdom. As expected, Keeler eventually delivers one of his characteristic twists: the accused man clears himself of the murder and ends up marrying the judge’s daughter.

Although the novel is not among Keeler’s strongest works, the Ramble House edition is beautifully produced. It is hand made by Fender Tucker and features a lovely illustration by Gavin O’Keefe. For Keeler collectors, the appeal of this edition extends beyond the novel itself.