Dashiell Hammett (May 27, 1894 January 10, 1961) is widely recognized as one of the finest mystery writers of all time and, along with Raymond Chandler and others, is considered to be a founder of the hard-boiled school of detective fiction. Hammett drew heavily on his experience as a Pinkerton operative to create such indelible characters as The Thin Man s Nick and Nora Charles, Sam Spade, and the Continental Op. Among his best-known works are The Maltese Falcon, Red Harvest, and The Dain Curse, all of which have been adapted for film or television.

Richard Ferrone, an Audie Award winner, has consistently received high praise from critics and fans alike for his audiobook performances for over twenty years. He has performed on and off Broadway and in regional theaters. His television appearances include "Law & Order", " Against the Law", "Guiding Light", and "One Life to Live".