The 39 Steps Author:John Buchan One of the most exciting 'chase thrillers' ever published, and a huge influence not only on spy fiction, but on Hollywood as well, "The 39 Steps" is a book which has captured the imagination of audiences for decades. It was written by acclaimed Scottish author John Buchan, who inspired the writing of other great British novelists, including Grah... more »am Greene, Ian Fleming and John le Carre. "The 39 Steps" remains his most famous work. It is the first of five novels featuring Richard Hannay, an all-action hero with a steely determination and an extraordinary knack for getting himself out of sticky situations; the original, archetypal 'man-on-the-run' character, which has been a staple in literature and film in subsequent decades. The novel charts the electrifying story of an ordinary man caught up in a sinister international plot. Repackaged as a striking hardback, it is an edition to be cherished by any fan of the book, or anyone just discovering Buchan's work.« less
Just read this story, though not this edition. I found it suspenseful even though the chapter headings gave hints as to what would happen next. A short novel. Enjoyed it very much!
"Thirty-nine steps--I counted them..." This cryptic message, scrawled in a dead man's hand was all that Richard Hannay had to go on. It was the only clue to the dread cult called Black Stone, and to the man with eyes lidded like a hawk. Hannay himself was a fugitive, wanted for murder. But he knew that unless he solved the riddle of the thirty-nine steps, the life of a nation--and Richard Hannay--would soon be finished.