Malice Aforethought. The Story of a Commonplace Crime - Francis Iles (pseud. Anthony Berkeley Cox) 1931 - Mundanus Ltd. Victor Gollancz Publisher, London - First Edition It was not until several weeks after he had decided to murder his wife that Dr. Bickleigh took any active steps in the matter. Murder is a serious business.’

Outstandingly original, a notable and influential example of the inverted detective story, subtly presented by Anthony Berkeley’s alter ego, Iles, Ingenious, subtle, unconventional and a favourite of Alfred Hitchcock.

An exceptional example of the first printing which was published in delicate wrappers using Gollancz’s ‘Mundanus’ imprint.
  First Edition, First Printing (preceding the later hardback editions). The Mundanus imprint was introduced by the publisher Victor Gollancz to publish new books in paperback format at a price of 3/-, rather than the 7/6 usual for hardback books.

Provenance: Robert Ogilvie Crombie (1899-1975), also known as ROC, a Scottish scientist, writer and esotericist, with his stamp to the half title.

Reference: Haycraft,
Murder for Pleasure, 148. Symons, Bloody Murder 132.

Octavo (book size 18.4 x 12.4 cm) pp. 288. In publisher’s cream-yellow coloured wrappers, spine and panels lettered in black, title on front panel bordered in orange.
  Condition: Near fine, light toning to spine and minor wear to tail of spine.   Ref: 109361   Price: HK$ 6,000