"A brilliantly original, surprising plot in one of the best crime novel series ever written. This is straight-up, hardboiled crime fiction, written in a tight, evocative voice with a wicked, dark sense of humor. It's wonderful!" Lee Goldberg, #1 New York Times bestselling author The ninth adventure in the legendary detective series that inspired some of the best crime and thriller authors of our time.Unlicensed P.I. Jim Hardman's buddy Hump Evans, a former NFL player, drops a one dollar bet in the friendly, neighborhood football pool for a possible $100 pot...and, against all odds, he wins. But when Hump goes to collect, he discovers he's been cheated out of his small jackpot. Chasing that hundred bucks leads the two friends into a maze of arson, embezzlement, and murder that will force them into staging a daring con game to snare a master swindler and a desperate killer.

This new edition includes the long-lost Ralph Dennis short story Wind Spirit.

"A lightning-paced crime story packed with irreverence and loads of action." Publishers Weekly

"Everything one expects from a private eye novel: exceptional characterization, strong and vigorous prose." Mystery Scene Magazine

"Ralph Dennis has mastered the genre and supplied top entertainment." The New York Times