A Virago Modern Classic: A Dog's Ransom

Highsmith blends savage humour with brilliant social satire in this dark tale.

'Dear Sir, I suppose you are pretty pleased with yourself? Superior to everyone, you think. A fancy apartment and a snob dog. You are a disgusting little machine, nothing else. Your days are numbered.'

Ed Reynolds, an editor at a prestigious publishing house, has received a number of anonymous poison pen letters. He has no idea who could bear him such a grudge. Returning home one night, he finds a ransom note for his wife's beloved French poodle: 'I have your dog Lisa. She is well and happy . . . I gather the dog is important to you? We'll see!'

The criminal has hit the Manhattan couple where it hurts most. And so, with this bizarre event, their nightmare begins. A DOG'S RANSOM captures the fragility of middle-class life in this riveting, scathing tale.