While investigating a diamond theft from the Leggett family, the Continental Op stumbles on a bizarre yet deadly family curse. Causing sudden and violent death, the Dain curse is said to affect beautiful Gabrielle Leggett. But as a morphine addict and member of a mysterious religious cult, Gabrielle may be involved with more than just a family curse. With time running out and a body-count that continues to rise, the Continental Op must get to the truth behind the Dain curse.

One of Dashiell Hammett's best-known characters, the Continental Op is an original man of mystery, known only by his title, and is modeled on Hammet's own experience as a Pinkerton detective.

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