Awarded the H.R.F. Keating Award for the best biography or critical book related to crime fiction in 2019!

A rich, colored celebration of 2000 books by more than 250 authors published by the iconic Crime Club between 1930 and 1994. The Hooded Gunman was the notorious figure that, appearing in various versions on the covers of the different mystery and detective series of Collins in the 1920s, was eventually recognized with the launch of Collins' Crime Club, becoming the definitive logo on more than 2000 books published by this famous imprint between 1930 and 1994.

From Agatha Christie to Reginald Hill, the Hooded Gunman was a guarantee of a first-class crime novel for almost 65 years, and these books are now highly sought after and collectible, with many commanding high prices and being almost impossible to find. During the year that Collins - the publisher founded by William Collins in Glasgow in 1819 - celebrates its 200th anniversary, this book celebrates probably its most famous publishing imprint.

Written and researched by Agatha Christie author and archaeologist Dr. John Curran, this lavish coffee-table book looks back on the history of the Crime Club and its authors, showing the covers of every book published by the imprint over seven decades, as well as descriptions of each book, ranging in more than 350,000 words.

Featuring facts, figures, and lists, and drawing from rare archival photographs, correspondence, and promotional materials, it is the first time anyone has attempted to chronicle the publication of the Crime Club - the ultimate book for fans of crime fiction and also of twentieth-century cover design.

The Hooded Gunman won the H.R.F. Keating award for best biography or critical book related to crime fiction in 2019 and was also shortlisted for the Edgar award by the Mystery Writers of America.