Nevada Gas by Raymond Chandler

Name: Nevada Gas
Author: Raymond Chandler

The narrative follows the intertwining lives of several characters in a noir setting, primarily focusing on a prominent lawyer, Hugo Candless, who becomes embroiled in a deadly scheme. The story begins with Candless, a large man with a commanding presence, engaging in a squash game with George Dial, a handsome and suave figure. Their camaraderie hints at underlying tensions, particularly regarding Candless's wife, Naomi. As the plot unfolds, Candless is kidnapped and murdered in a meticulously planned operation involving a gas car, a vehicle rigged to release cyanide gas. The orchestrators of this crime are revealed to be connected to a criminal underworld, including a tough boy named Zapparty and a scheming woman named Francine Ley, who is romantically linked to Dial. The narrative explores themes of betrayal, greed, and the moral ambiguities of its characters. Dial, who initially appears to be a friend, is revealed to have ulterior motives, seeking to exploit Candless's past misdeeds for financial gain. The tension escalates as De Ruse, a private investigator, becomes involved, uncovering the layers of deception surrounding Candless's death. De Ruse's investigation leads him to confront various characters, including the dead chauffeur and the manipulative Francine, who plays a pivotal role in the unfolding drama. The climax reveals the intricate web of relationships and betrayals, culminating in a confrontation that exposes the true nature of each character's motivations. De Ruse's determination to seek justice for Candless leads to a violent showdown, where loyalties are tested, and the consequences of greed and ambition are laid bare. Ultimately, the story serves as a commentary on the darker aspects of human nature, illustrating how ambition can lead to moral decay and the tragic consequences that follow. The narrative's resolution leaves lingering questions about justice and the price of betrayal, encapsulating the essence of classic noir literature.

By Raymond Chandler · First published 1942 · Genre: Crime Fiction, Hardboiled, Mystery · 12 chapters · 19,601 words

First lines

Hugo Candless stood in the middle of the squash court bending his big body at the waist, holding the little black ball delicately between left thumb and forefinger. He dropped it near the service line and flicked at it with the long-handled racket.

The black ball hit the front wall a little less than halfway up, floated back in a high, lazy curve, skimmed just below the white ceiling and the lights behind wire protectors. It slid languidly down the back wall, never touching it enough to bounce out.

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Nevada Gas is listed on Textopian as a novel by Raymond Chandler, dated 1942 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Novel
Author: Raymond Chandler
Date: 1942 CE
Language: English
Genres: Crime Fiction, Hardboiled, Mystery, Noir, Thriller
Length: 19,601 words
Structure: 12 chapters, 587 paragraphs
Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)

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Similar titles

Genres

Crime Fiction — The plot revolves around criminal activities and investigations typical of Chandler's work.
Hardboiled — The writing style features gritty realism and a tough protagonist, characteristic of hardboiled fiction.
Mystery — The narrative includes elements of mystery as characters seek to uncover hidden truths.
Noir — The themes often explore moral ambiguity and the darker aspects of human nature.