S. S. Van Dine Ordine dei libri (cronologico)

Ostatnia powieść słynnego amerykańskiego cyklu z detektywem Philo Vance'm w roli głównej. Prokurator Markham prosi Vance'a o przyjazd zimą do rezydencji Rexonów. Syn nestora familii niebawem ma wziąć ślub i przygotowuje przyjęcie dla swoich znajomych, połączone z różnymi atrakcjami na śniegu. Stary Rexon obawia się o swoją wyjątkowo cenną kolekcję szmaragdów ukrytą w Pokoju Klejnotów. Już niebawem ginie dozorca posiadłości. Kto i dlaczego miałby chcieć go zamordować? Książka zawiera także słynny artykuł S. S. Van Dine'a: Dwadzieścia zasad pisania kryminałów.

Nowy Jork, lata 30. Słynny detektyw Philo Vance otrzymuje telefon z zaszyfrowaną wiadomością, której autor sugeruje, że niebawem może być popełniona zbrodnia w rodzinie Gardenów. Nestorem tej familli jest profesor chemii Ephraim Garden, a pozostali jej członkowie są zapalonymi hazardzistami - grają na wyścigach konnych. Aby rozeznać się w sytuacji rodzinnej Philo Vance umawia się z nimi na wspólną grę. W apartamencie Gardenów w jednym z wieżowców Nowego Jorku spotyka się kilka osób. Jedna z nich niebawem postawi wszystko na jedną kartę, a chwilę później popełni samobójstwo w ogrodzie na dachu wieżowca. Ale czy na pewno było to samobójstwo? Sprawa morderstwa w ogrodzie to klasyczny kryminał zamkniętego kręgu z czasów Złotej Ery Kryminału.

Znany detektyw Philo Vance otrzymuje tajemniczy list zapowiadający zbrodnię w rodzinie Llewellynów. Być może ofiarą padnie Lynn Llewellyn, którego nowy system gry pozwala na wygranie sporych sum w Kasynie. Philo Vance wyczuwa szykującą się zbrodnię. I rzeczywiście, autor listu ma rację. Vance jednak nie przewidział, że ucierpią aż trzej członkowie rodziny w jednym momencie... Sprawa morderstwa w Kasynie to typowy kryminał zamkniętego kręgu z czasów Złotego Wieku Kryminału. Jego autor - S. S. van Dine - spisał słynne 20 reguł budowania powieści kryminalnych, do których także sam się stosował. Książka należy do 13-tomowego cyklu z detektywem Philo Vance'm. Z pewnością odnajdą się tu miłośnicy angielskich kryminałów z Agathą Christie na czele.

The book explores the deep, often unrecognized purpose behind great art, emphasizing its role in addressing complex issues of the creative will and aesthetic consciousness. It argues that the animating desire in artistic creation is not just a personal endeavor but a significant aspect of human psychology, reflecting profound problems that few outside the art world fully appreciate. This investigation aims to illuminate the intricate relationship between art and the deeper psychological motivations that drive artists.

Exploring the nuances of crime fiction, S. S. Van Dine offers a comprehensive analysis of the elements that contribute to an exceptional detective story. The book examines storytelling techniques, character development, and plot construction, providing readers with insights into the art of crafting compelling mysteries. Through this critique, Van Dine illuminates the standards and expectations that define the genre, making it a valuable resource for both writers and enthusiasts of detective fiction.

This publication focuses on making historical works accessible through large print, catering specifically to individuals with impaired vision. The Megali publishing house emphasizes the importance of preserving and reproducing these texts to enhance readability and ensure that a broader audience can enjoy and engage with historical literature.

W momencie gdy słynny detektyw Philo Vance zamierza wybrać się na wystawę psów rasowych przyjeżdża do niego prokurator Markham w sprawie porwania. Zaginionym jest Kaspar Keating, nałogowy hazardzista i utracjusz, przepijający majątek swojego ojca. Vance, Van Dine, Markham oraz niezawodny sierżant Heath udają się do rezydencji Keatingów, do Purpurowego Domu. Większość policjantów stawia tezę, że Kaspar uprowadził się sam, żeby nie odpowiadać za swoje długi. Jedynie Vance uważa, że to brudna sprawa i wcale nie dotyczy ona porwania, tylko morderstwa. Jak jest naprawdę? Sprawa porwania i morderstwa to kryminał zamkniętego kręgu napisany według rygorystycznych reguł czasów złotej ery kryminału, spisanych przez Van Dine'a, a stosowanych m.in. w kryminałach Agathy Christie z Herkulesem Poirotem. Przedstawiamy pierwsze tłumaczenie tego tytułu na język polski.

Z więzienia ucieka niejaki Benny Myszołów, seryjny morderca, który poprzysiągł zemstę oskarżającemu go prokuratorowi Johnowi F. X. Markhamowi. Zaniepokojony sierżant Heath stawia na nogi cały wydział zabójstw. Philo Vance proponuje pół żartem odstrzelić mordercę. Niebawem w biurach podejrzanej kawiarni Domdaniel zostaje znaleziony trup Phillipa Allena, pomocnika kuchennego. Jak się tam znalazł i co ma wspólnego z Myszołowem? W śledztwie oprócz Vance'a weźmie udział tym razem siostra zamordowanego, urokliwa i bardzo rozgadana Gracie Allen.

Gracie Allen breaks the Philo Phormula in a number of ways. First is its title: this is the only book in the series to modify "Murder Case" with more than one word, much less with the name of a character. And then there's that character: Gracie Allen was a very real, much-loved comedienne in the 1930s, famous for her double act with George Burns, and in fact the plot revolves around her. Gracie's centrality is no accident: Van Dine wrote the story as a vehicle for Allen, and actually created the novel only after the film had come out. So do all these departures pay off? We'd be lying if we said that Gracie hits every single mark, but Van Dine does a surprisingly entertaining job of translating Ms. Allen's delicious Ditzy Blonde persona to the page, and she makes a charming foil for Philo's evergreen erudition.

Like The Gracie Allen Murder Case before it, Winter was first written as a screenplay, in this case a vehicle for the figure skater Sonja Henie. However, while Allen's scatterbrained persona made a charming foil for Philo's stuffed-shirt pretensions, Ms. Henie provided no such inspiration. Van Dine did not live long enough to see her outed as a Nazi supporter, but her ice-princess act offered less for Philo to play against. It should be noted that Winter was published posthumously to close out the series, and though it went to press without Van Dine's usual repeated revisions, it is true vintage Philo--utterly distinctive in style and its own very genuine kind of pleasure.

According to one review, Garden runs on "passion, avarice, ambition and horse-racing." It also runs on pure 1930s octane, because this is a classic house-party murder mystery, that staple of the Golden Age. As befitting a Philo yarn, of course, it's a very Manhattan house-party, with an actress and a socialite on hand, and a bookie on the telephone. There's also a losing bet on the ponies, and an ensuing suicide...but Philo, natch, is not sure just who pulled the trigger. A joy, as always, for readers who delight in Philo's spectacular brand of awfulness--is there anyone snootier? Snobbier? More taken with himself?--but also for fans of the Impossible Crime.

"Philo Vance: Man of Action," said nobody never. And yet Kidnap shows real signs of Van Dine's responding both to the changing times--friends, it's not the Jazz Age any more--and to the public's changing tastes, as Philo does much less sitting around pontificating and much more running around chasing bad guys. To accommodate this new, Action Philo, the plot is somewhat simplistic, featuring not only a purloined playboy but also a demand that the ransom be left at midnight in a hollow tree. However, Philo's newfound skills with a pistol are additions to his bag of tricks, rather than replacements for the tricks we know and love; rest assured that he retains every ounce of his customary implausible charm. Kidnap is the last of the Philo Vance novels to have been written as a book, with a film to follow (the remaining two were written after the movies were made). Given the ability that Van Dine shows here to adapt his style--and his protagonist's--as the times dictate, it's a great pity that we never got a chance to see Philo go up against the Nazis.

Friedrich Nietzsche's philosophical novel explores the fictional journey and teachings of Zarathustra, a reinterpretation of the Persian prophet Zoroaster. The narrative challenges traditional morality and introduces key concepts such as the Übermensch, eternal recurrence, and the will to power. Nietzsche employs an experimental style to convey his moral philosophy, which he further develops in later works. This edition features a translation by Thomas Common, along with introductions and notes that enhance the reader's understanding of Nietzsche's provocative ideas.

Set against the vibrant backdrop of New York City, this collection features two captivating murder mysteries that delve into the complexities of crime and justice. Each story weaves intricate plots filled with suspense, intriguing characters, and unexpected twists, inviting readers to solve the puzzles alongside the protagonists. The urban setting adds a rich layer of atmosphere, making for an engaging and thrilling reading experience.

The narrative follows renowned detective Philo Vance as he investigates the Greene family mansion, where a series of murders drastically reduces the family members. Titled the "Greene Murder Case," the story unfolds with escalating tension and intrigue. The subsequent tale, "The Bishop Murder Case," features a chilling connection to nursery rhymes, beginning with the death of Christopher Robin, reminiscent of Cock Robin's fate. As Vance navigates these complex cases, more characters fall victim, leading to a gripping resolution.

Set against a backdrop of intrigue, this story intertwines the thrill of games of chance with the enigmatic character of Philo Vance. As Vance navigates a world filled with dragons—both literal and metaphorical—he confronts a deadly game that tests his intellect and resolve. The narrative explores themes of strategy, deception, and the high stakes of competition, as Vance seeks to unravel the mysteries surrounding the deadly game while facing formidable opponents and unexpected twists.

In the concluding adventures of Philo Vance, the renowned detective faces a series of complex mysteries that challenge his intellect and deductive skills. As he navigates through intricate plots and a cast of intriguing characters, Vance must unravel clues that lead to unexpected revelations. The stories delve into themes of justice and morality, showcasing Vance's unique approach to solving crimes. Fans of classic detective fiction will appreciate the clever twists and the culmination of Vance's investigative journey.

In this engaging narrative, a sophisticated New Yorker embarks on his fifth and sixth investigative adventures. As he navigates through intriguing mysteries, the story unfolds with a blend of wit and charm, revealing the complexities of urban life and the eccentric characters he encounters. The cases challenge his intellect and offer a glimpse into the vibrant tapestry of city living, showcasing the protagonist's keen observational skills and his knack for solving puzzles amidst the bustling backdrop of New York.

New York, un misterioso caso sembra proiettare gli investigatori in un fosco e irreale regno di demoni e di superstizioni; un regno pieno di mostri e orribili vendette... Nella tenuta degli Stamm un uomo si immerge nello "Stagno del Drago" e scompare: è l'inizio di una sequela di tragici avvenimenti, e Philo Vance si trova alle prese con vecchie, terrificanti credenze.

This novel opens with the death of playboy stockbroker, Alvin Benson, who is found in his brownstone mansion with a bullet through his head. First on the scene is Philo Vance, amateur detective, who is at once intrigued by the absence of Alvin's toupee and his false teeth. These odd clues set him in pursuit of an elusive murderer. He confronts a host of suspects and uncovers a number of family skeletons in his quest for the truth. S.S. van Dine is the pen name of Willard Huntington Wright (1888-1939) who wrote this novel in 1926. He wrote 13 best-selling crime novels and his amateur detective, Philo Vance was later immortalized on screen by William Powell in "The Canary Murder Case".

1927. Illustrated with scenes from the Paramount photoplay. Around 1925 Willard Huntington Wright, critic and writer, underwent a long illness. As part of his convalescence he wrote The Benson Murder Case, in which he created the character of Philo Vance, a master sleuth. So that the book would not be compared to his other works he adopted the pseudonym S.S. Van Dine. By the time The Canary Murder Case, the second in the series was published, Van Dine had become a best seller. He wrote a total of twelve Philo Vance novels. The book begins: In the offices of the Homicide Bureau of the Detective Division of the New York Police Department, on the third floor of the Police Headquarters building in Center Street, there is a large steel filing cabinet; and within it, among thousands of others of its kind, there reposes a small green index-card on which is typed: ODell, Margaret. 184 West 71st Street. Sept. 10. Murder: Strangled about 11 p.m. Apartment ransacked. Jewelry stolen. Body found by Amy Gibson, maid.

Philo Vance, erfolgreicher Amateurdetektiv, erhält einen mysteriösen Brief, der ihn in das berühmte New Yorker Kinkaids Kasino an der West 73rd Street lockt. Dort wird er Zeuge, wie der junge Lynn Llewellyn zusammenbricht. In derselben Nacht stirbt Llewellyns Frau. In beiden Fällen war offensichtlich Gift im Spiel. Ein wahrhaft giftiger Fall für den berühmten Detektiv.

DuMonts Digitale Kriminal-Bibliothek: Der Mordfall Terrier »Aber das widerspricht sich doch«, wandte Markham ein. »Wer außer Coe könnte die Tür denn von innen verriegelt haben?« »Anscheinend niemand«, antwortete Vance mit einem wehmütigen Seufzen. »Das ist ja das Interessante an der Sache. Die Lage ist folgende: Ein Mann wird ermordet; der Mörder geht, das Opfer erhebt sich und verschließt die Tür hinter ihm; dann setzt sich der Tote in den Sessel und richtet alles ein, dass es wie Selbstmord aussieht.« So beginnt der raffinierteste und verblüffendste Fall, der Meisterdetektiv Philo Vance je untergekommen ist – ein Fall, der ihm zugleich teuflisch und verwirrend vergnüglich erscheint. »Mord als schöne Kunst betrachtet« – unter diesem Motto präsentiert DuMonts Digitale Kriminal-Bibliothek Meilensteine anglo-amerikanischer Spannungsliteratur in der Tradition des literarischen Detektivromans. Vom Serientäter bis zum perfekten Mord, von den Golden-Age-Klassikern bis zur »Grande Dame« der Kriminalliteratur Charlotte MacLeod: DuMonts Digitale Kriminal-Bibliothek versammelt das Beste des Genres – mit originellen Plots, fantasievollen Settings und charakterstarken Ermittlern. »Knarrende Geheimtüren, verwirrende Mordserien, schaurige Familienlegenden und, nicht zu vergessen, beherzte Helden (und bemerkenswert viele Heldinnen) sind die Zutaten, die die Lektüre zu einem Lese- und Schmökervergnügen machen.« Neue Presse/Hannover

Philo Vance becomes involved in the Scarab murder case by chance, though it’s likely that New York's District Attorney, John F.-X. Markham, would have sought his expertise eventually. The complexity of the murder, which involved the brutal killing of philanthropist Benjamin H. Kyle in a renowned Egyptologist's museum, posed a significant challenge. Vance's keen analytical skills and understanding of human psychology were crucial, particularly since he was the first to examine the crime scene. His initial observations revealed misleading clues that ultimately led him to understand the murderer's mindset. The case garnered attention due to the rare blue scarabaeus found beside the victim's mutilated body, which became central to the investigation. While the police viewed the scarab as a straightforward piece of evidence pointing to its owner, Vance was skeptical. He noted that murderers typically do not leave such obvious markers. He emphasized the importance of understanding why the archaeological artifact was placed with the body, believing that uncovering this motive would reveal the true nature of the crime. Vance's pursuit of the underlying reasons behind the murder would prove essential in solving one of the most intricate criminal cases in modern history.

Slavný detektiv Philo Vance řeší téměř dokonalý zločin. Dandy Philo Vance s detektivními schopnostmi vyšetřuje napínavý případ rodiny Greenů, jejíž členové byli postupně s úděsnou přesností vražděni. Jedná se tu o jeden z toho druhu zločinu, které bývají řazeny mezi téměř dokonalé.

Philo Vance obdrží anonymní dopis, ve kterém ho neznámý úpěnlivě prosí, aby nazítří večer navštívil místní kasino, protože se tam má stát zločin. Vance se do kasina vypraví a opravdu je tam otráven mladý příslušník známé rodiny. Ve stejnou dobu je zároveň v rodinném sídle otrávena i jeho žena. Kostky byly vrženy a Vance se s vervou sobě vlastní vrhá do rozplétání tenkých nitek, ze kterých byl zločin utkán, aby nakonec stanul tváří v tvář překvapující pravdě. V tom mu pomáhají již tradiční pomocníci - státní návladní John F. X. Markham, seržan Ernest Heath a v neposlední řadě sám S. S. Van Dine, který vystupuje v roli zapisovatele příběhu a vypravěče.

Dandy Philo Vance s detektivními schopnostmi vyšetřuje napínavý případ rodiny Greenů, jejíž členové byli postupně s úděsnou přesností vražděni. Jedná se tu o jeden z toho druhu zločinu, které bývají řazeny mezi téměř dokonalé.

This early work by S. S. Van Dine was originally published in 1928 and we are now republishing it with a brand new introduction. 'The Bishop Murder Case' is one of Van Dine's novels of crime and mystery. S. S. Van Dine was born Willard Huntington Wright in Charlottesville, Virginia in 1888. He attended St. Vincent College, Pomona College and Harvard University, but failed to graduate, leaving to cultivate contacts he had made in the literary world. At the age of twenty-one, Wright began his professional writing career as literary editor of the Los Angeles Times. In 1926, Wright published his first S. S. Van Dine novel, The Benson Murder Case. Wright went on to write eleven more mysteries. The first few books about his upper-class amateur sleuth, Philo Vance, were so popular that Wright became wealthy for the first time in his life. His later books declined in popularity as the reading public's tastes in mystery fiction changed, but during the late twenties and early thirties his work was very successful.