Black Dog Books has just published another winner: Race Williams’ Double Date and Other Stories. The stories were selected by Stephen Mertz who also provides a savvy Foreward showing that Race Williams stories launched the hard-boiled detective genre. Our own Evan Lewis provides an informative Introduction to Carroll John Daly’s career and the Race Williams legend. The stories in this volume were published between 1947 and 1954. My favorite piece in this collection is Carroll John Daly’s advice to would-be writers, “The Ambulating Lady.” If you’re a fan of hard-boiled detectives, this book is a must-buy. If you’re a casual reader of the genre, you’ll find plenty of entertainment and excitement between these covers!
TABLE OF CONTENTS:
Introduction by Evan Lewis
Forward by Stephen Mertz
“This Corpse One Me”
“Avenging Angel”
“Race Williams’ Double Date”
“Murder Yet to Come”
“”This Corpse is Free!”
“Gas”
“Manhunter”
“You’ll Remember Me”
“I’ll Feel Better When You’re Dead”
APPENDIX A
“The Ambulating Lady”
George, I draw a blank with Race Williams and his creator, Carroll John Daly, of whom I have only heard of. Thanks for writing about this book.
Prashant, you need to get a copy of SNARL OF THE BEAST. It’s mind-blowing!
I must admit I’m not a big fan of Daly’s but I have read a few of his Race Williams and other stories. They certainly fit my definition of hardboiled.
Jeff, Daly and Race Williams led directly to Mickey Spillane.
I am going to get this one, I just haven’t gotten around to it yet. The Race Williams I’ve read, courtesy of Evan Lewis, have been enjoyable.
Rick, you’re going to enjoy RACE WILLIAMS’ DOUBLE DATE!
You have impeccable taste, Mr. K.
Evan, I enjoyed your informative Introduction! Nice work!