Over his long and illustrious career, Elmore Leonard was recognized as one of the greatest crime writers of all time, the author of dozens of bestselling books—many adapted for the big screen—as well as a master of short fiction. Leonard remains the standard for popular fiction and a literary model for writers of every genre.

Marked by his unmistakable humor and grit, the stories in this collection—produced early in his career—reveal a writer in transition. In these tales Leonard explores new voices and locations, and introduces us to classic Leonard characters, such as aging lawman Charlie Martz, who must face an old rival who returns seeking revenge.

Devoted Leonard aficionados and fans new to his fiction will marvel at these early works revealing a developing artist on the cusp of greatness.

“Fascinating and inspiring.”—New York Journal of Books