Serenade

New York: Alfred A. Knopf, 1937. Publisher's prospectus for the First Edition.

A perhaps unique and certainly rare piece advertising the release of Cain's second novel, containing the title-page, first chapter, and a specifications leaf.

In a custom clamshell box with dark red cloth, quarter bound in dark red leather, titles in gilt. Box Very Good with some wear along the front hinge fold.

From the collection of Otto Penzler.

Cain's bleakest noir, and his final masterpiece, telling the tale of an opera tenor who runs to Mexico to flee from professional disgrace, meets a local girl there, and then attempts a triumphant return to Hollywood with her as his semi-legal bride. But the glory of his return is brutally stonewalled by the reality of his poor decisions and the pitiless backlash of fame.

Purple and teal illustrated wrappers. Fine.

7.5 x 5.125 inches.

[Book #145570]