Note: This is an encore post from 2006.

My goodness, one never knows what will turn up on Ebay. This morning I found a copy of “Black Dahlia Avenger” inscribed by Steve Hodel to James Ellroy, who wrote the introduction to the paperback, praising Hodel’s work and endorsing his solution.

And bidding started at $19.99.

Nice way to treat your “blood brother,” James. I don’t know whether the gods are laughing–but I am.

But wait!

Can it be?

Here’s the paperback version of “Avenger” inscribed to Ellroy, which carries Ellroy’s forward to the case!

With bids starting at $19.99? That’s only $5.04 over the original price. I just have to put in a 50-cent bid on this puppy. The happy face alone is worth it.