Murder, kidnapping, and theft are the principal crimes committed in these twelve American detective stories. The victim may be an innocent baby or a double-crossing mobster, the setting a department store or death cell at the state prison. However, the detectives intellectual and intuitive powers must be unfailing, whether the important clue is a single bullet or a tiny splinter of wood.Twelve American Detective Stories is a virtual cornucopia of whodunits from the true masters of the craft including Edgar Allan Poe, Mary Roberts Rinehart, Craig Rice, Ellery Queen, and Raymond Chandler. Edited by acclaimed mystery writer Edward D. Hoch, this anthology is the first stop for newcomers to the genre. Containing some genuine rarities, Twelve American Detective Stories is also an intriguing volume for the seasoned reader.