Hunter (Huggins novel)

Hunter, published in 1951, is a novel by American author Evan Hunter (writing under the pseudonym Evan Thomas). The novel is a hardboiled crime story set in a gritty urban landscape. It centers on the character of "Hunter," an ex-Army sergeant haunted by his wartime experiences and struggling to readjust to civilian life. He becomes embroiled in a dangerous criminal underworld when he is hired to find a missing woman. The narrative explores themes of post-war disillusionment, moral ambiguity, and the challenges of reintegration into society. Hunter is considered an early example of Hunter's exploration of urban realism and social issues, later developed more fully in his novels written under the name Ed McBain. The book is notable for its fast-paced plot, tough-guy dialogue, and depiction of violence and corruption.