Mystery, Inc. — Joyce Carol Oates

A book lover's lust for acquisition drives him to murder in this short tale from the New York Timesâ€"bestselling author of Beautiful Days.

Identified only by the hastily -- and clumsily -- chosen alias Charles Brockden, the narrator of this story finds a bookstore that instantly piques his desire. He must call it his own; he must add it to his already-extensive collection of bookstores. But surely the owner of such a fine shop wouldn't easily part with it. Brockden forms a plan to acquire the store in such a way that no one would ever suspect foul play: untraceable murder. And he knows he will be successful -- because he has done it before.

The Bibliomysteries are a series of short tales about deadly books, by top mystery authors.