Before Midnight is an enticing mystery novel penned by the talented author, Rex Stout. This captivating story revolves around the brilliant detective, Nero Wolfe, who finds himself thrust into the center of a perplexing murder case on an opulent estate. With its intriguing characters, intricate plot, and skillfully written dialogue, Before Midnight is a must-read for fans of the genre.
Set against the backdrop of the 1960s, Before Midnight introduces readers to a host of fascinating characters, including the enigmatic millionaire, Paul Jerin. Impelled by the need for answers, Jerin enlists Nero Wolfe's services to unravel the truth behind a murder that occurs during a lavish party on his sprawling property. As Wolfe immerses himself in the investigation, he encounters a diverse array of suspects, ranging from affluent businesspersons to socialites and their conniving relatives, all harboring their own hidden motives and secrets.
Rex Stout's writing style truly shines in Before Midnight. The author crafts a complex and engrossing plot, skillfully keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page. The narrative's pacing is exceptional, with each clue and revelation intensifying the suspense and intrigue. Stout exhibits meticulous attention to detail, painting vivid descriptions that transport readers into the heart of the story.
Available on Audible
The dialogue in Before Midnight is particularly noteworthy. Rex Stout brings his characters to life through their interactions, showcasing their distinctive personalities, idiosyncrasies, and motivations. The banter shared between Nero Wolfe and his capable assistant, Archie Goodwin, adds a delightful touch of humor and wit amidst the gravity of the investigation.
In conclusion, Before Midnight is an impeccably written and captivating mystery novel. Rex Stout's masterful storytelling, intriguing characters, and engaging dialogue make it an essential addition to any enthusiast's reading list. Whether you are a longtime fan of Nero Wolfe or new to the series, this book promises to enthrall and entertain from beginning to end.
What are readers saying?
The reception of "Before Midnight" by Rex Stout amongst readers has been varied. This book, a part of the Nero Wolfe series, follows the famous detective and his sidekick Archie Goodwin as they delve into a murder case. While some reviewers commended the engaging mystery and the cleverly crafted plot, others criticized the lack of suspense and character development.
Numerous readers thoroughly enjoyed the intricacies of the mystery presented in "Before Midnight." They found the puzzle-like nature of the plot, filled with unexpected twists and turns, to be captivating. These reviewers were impressed by Rex Stout's skill in constructing complex mysteries that kept them guessing until the very end.
On the other hand, some readers felt that "Before Midnight" lacked the necessary suspense and tension. They found the pacing to be sluggish at times and felt the story dragged unnecessarily. These reviewers were disappointed by the absence of excitement and desired more action and suspense to drive the narrative forward.
Another point of contention amongst readers lay in the character development within the book. Some reviewers praised Stout's ability to create memorable and multi-dimensional characters, particularly Nero Wolfe and Archie Goodwin. They appreciated the witty dialogue and the dynamic between the two detectives. However, others perceived the characters as shallow and lacking depth and nuance.
The writing style of "Before Midnight" also received mixed feedback from readers. Many appreciated the author's vivid descriptions and clever wordplay, which enriched their reading experience. Conversely, a few reviewers considered the prose to be dense and excessively verbose, hindering their complete immersion in the story.
BeforeMidnightBook BookLovers MustRead