As far as Im concerned, Richard S. Prather was the King of the paperback P.I writers of the 60s. Shell Scott should be in the Top Ten of any readers list of favorite private eyes. --Robert J. RandisiFor four decades, Richard S. Prather published over 40 works of detective fiction, most featuring his clever, cad-about-town hero, Shell Scott. Known for their arched humor, punchy dialogue, and sunny Southern California locale, the Shell Scott books represent one of the greatest private eye collections ever produced.Death is just around the coroner...uh, corner, when youre Shell Scott -- roaming the streets with a nose for danger and a sharp eye for the dames. On a trail leading from the high-class mortuary to the local cemetery, hes about to realize the mob wanted him exactly where he was--as a permanent resident! But theres always another corner, always another solution other than death. At least, when it comes to his.Honored with the Life Achievement Award by the Private Eye Writers of America!(Shell Scott is) as amusingly blithe a figure as the field has seen since the Saint. --Anthony Boucher