Ashenden by W. Somerset Maugham First Edition William Heinemann Ltd 1928. A near fine copy that has no previous owner's inscriptions or markings. Clean throughout and no foxing to contents or edges. Covers are bright, unblemished and have no dulling to gilt lettering nor toning to spine. In a near fine dust jacket with some minor (imperceptible) conservation. Still very much vibrant and with no fading. Publisher's printed price of 7/6 to spine. A Haycraft-Queen Cornerstone. Queen's Quorum 78.

"Ashenden" by W. Somerset Maugham is a collection of interconnected short stories that provide a glimpse into the world of espionage during World War I. The titular character, Ashenden, is a British writer who becomes a spy for the British Secret Service. Set against the backdrop of Europe during the war, the stories follow Ashenden's experiences as he undertakes various undercover missions, navigates through treacherous situations, and interacts with a range of colorful characters. Maugham's narrative offers a realistic and often cynical portrayal of the espionage world, highlighting the moral complexities and personal challenges faced by those involved in the covert activities of wartime intelligence.