NEW YORK – The iconic character Sam Spade, created by Dashiell Hammett, is set to be revived in a new novel by award-winning crime writer Max Allan Collins.

Hard Case Crime announced the upcoming release of “The Return of the Maltese Falcon” in January 2026, coinciding with the entry of Hammett’s classic novel “The Maltese Falcon” into the public domain. Known for its gritty realism, “The Maltese Falcon” has long been considered a masterpiece of the hard-boiled detective genre.

Collins expressed his admiration for Hammett’s work, stating, “Not that writing about the world Hammett created, and those immortal, sometimes immoral characters isn’t challenging — Hammett’s best mystery also happens to be one of the greatest American novels, period.”

With the expiration of copyright protection, Collins will bring back Spade, Joel Cairo, and other beloved characters in the new book, alongside a mysterious new femme fatale. This continuation of the story promises to be a thrilling addition to the legacy of Hammett’s work.

Collins, known for his work on “Road to Perdition” and Dick Tracy, is no stranger to working with iconic literary figures. He expressed his humility in following in the footsteps of such legends as Hammett and Spillane.

This announcement comes on the heels of other iconic works entering the public domain, paving the way for new interpretations and adaptations of beloved stories. The resurgence of classic characters like Sam Spade is a testament to their enduring appeal.

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