"The Longest Second" is a noir novel by Bill S. Ballinger, published in 1957. It gained recognition as a finalist for the 1958 Edgar Award for Best Mystery novel. The story employs a split narration technique, with one half of the book written from the perspective of the main character and the other half from the third-person point of view of the police investigating the protagonist's situation.
The plot revolves around a man who wakes up in a hospital room in New York City, realizing that he has suffered a severe neck injury resulting from a vicious attack. His throat had been slit, but he was fortunate enough to be found and saved by a compassionate stranger. However, the man's memory has been wiped clean, leaving him with amnesia. As he struggles to regain his identity and understand why someone would want to kill him, he is haunted by recurring nightmares and an overwhelming sense of anticipation and fear.
The narrative explores the protagonist's journey to uncover the truth about his past while grappling with the limitations imposed by his injury and memory loss. It delves into themes of identity, suspense, and the pursuit of answers amidst a shadowy and dangerous backdrop.
"The Longest Second" is recognized for its atmospheric noir setting and its skillful use of multiple perspectives to heighten the mystery and tension of the story. With its blend of psychological depth and a gripping plot, the novel showcases Bill S. Ballinger's talent for crafting compelling and suspenseful narratives within the crime fiction genre.
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