Characters and Plots in the Fiction of James M. Cain

A pioneer in hard-boiled fiction, James Mallahan Cain achieved fame with his first novel, The Postman Always Rings Twice. His Double Indemnity and Mildred Pierce soon followed, as did successful movie versions of all three novels. With his seventeen other novels and numerous short stories, Cain remains one of the most influential writers of the twentieth century. This reference guide to Cain's oeuvre offers a chronology detailing his life as reporter, Hollywood scenarist and best-selling author. Entries for his fiction follow, with plot synopses, identification of more than 900 characters, and critical commentaries, many citing works for further reading. An introduction to Cain's fiction and a resource for scholars and aficionados, this compendium provides the most thorough exploration to date of this major American writer.