The High Window (1942)

Raymond Chandler's third novel offers readers a different look at detective Philip Marlowe than afforded in his first two outings while expanding on themes of spiritual decay and corruption. A missing wife, a lost doubloon and a frightened secretary are three early clues that our protagonist follows as his case for the grizzled matriarch, Mrs Murdock, gains traction. What unfolds is a story of grotty forgery, sinister blackmail and deep family secrets. Josh and Scott also take a look at a new "Stories of Southern Humor and Crime" anthology.