Arson Plus - A Classic Detective Makes His Debut
Channel: Voices of Great Works
Date: 2024-02-08

"Arson Plus," authored by American detective fiction writer Dashiell Hammett, appeared in Black Mask magazine in 1923. It was the first appearance of Hammett's Continental Op, one of the earliest "hardboiled" detectives. The Op would serve as the prototype for other hardboiled sleuths, such as Sam Spade and Philip Marlowe. While these characters would be better known for their cinematic features, the Continental Op was the protagonist of one of the greatest detective novels of the twentieth century, Red Harvest.

In this story, the Op investigates a suspicious fire. As the title suggests, foul play clearly is afoot. But just how bad is it, and who is involved? These are the questions that face the Op and his partner.

Enjoy listening to this recording of the story!