The Glass Key (1931) is one of Dashiell Hammett's most acclaimed works, a quintessential novel of the hard-boiled crime genre. Set in a corrupt, politically charged world, it explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and moral ambiguity, all wrapped in Hammett's trademark tough-guy style. Here's a more detailed breakdown:

The novel centers around Ned Beaumont, a cynical, street-smart man who works as a fixer for Paul Madvig, a powerful political boss in a corrupt city. Madvig is involved in a series of shady dealings, and his influence extends throughout the political and criminal spheres. When Madvig's sister, Janey, is caught up in a shooting, the story spirals into a complex tale of manipulation, deception, and murder.