Checkmate. London: Downey & Co., 1898. Reprint. Pp, 416, A Good copy in original green cloth with gilt decoration. With new endpapers. A fine bright copy.

First published in 1871, this is an early reprint of Le Fanu’s pioneering detective novel, the first to use plastic surgery and dental records in criminal identification.

“a mystery story which centres on a strange and mysterious man with a disfigurement and a ‘dark’ past which he reveals to no-one.”