Murder by the Book : Book Review

"Murder by the Book" by Rex Stout is an enthralling mystery novel that introduces the brilliant detective Nero Wolfe and his quick-witted assistant Archie Goodwin. The story revolves around the perplexing murder of a popular author, whose lifeless body is found in his office with a gun nearby. As Wolfe takes on the case, he faces a tangled web of deception and multiple suspects, each with their own motives for wanting the author dead.

Stout's writing style is captivating, immediately grabbing the reader's attention and holding it until the very end. The author seamlessly blends various elements of the story to create a complex and engrossing plot, keeping readers guessing and on the edge of their seats. Furthermore, Stout excels at developing intricate characters that add depth and authenticity to the narrative.

A major highlight of "Murder by the Book" is the dynamic between Wolfe and Goodwin. Their banter and interactions inject a delightful touch of humor amidst the tension of the murder investigation. With their contrasting personalities and investigative methods, they form a captivating duo that readers can't help but root for.

In addition, Stout's meticulous attention to detail and extensive research shine through in the novel. His thorough knowledge of the publishing industry adds an extra layer of authenticity and richness to the story. Readers with an interest in the inner workings of the publishing world will find this aspect particularly fascinating.

Overall, "Murder by the Book" is a superb mystery novel that will captivate fans of the genre. With its clever plot, well-crafted characters, and intriguing setting, Stout delivers a compelling and satisfying read. Whether you are new to Nero Wolfe's adventures or a longtime fan, this book is guaranteed to entertain and keep you guessing until the very end.

What are readers saying?

There is a variety of opinions on "Murder by the Book" by Rex Stout among readers. Generally, it is considered to be a decent mystery, although some readers found it slightly less impressive compared to the author's other works.

One reviewer commended Stout's engaging and immersive writing style. They appreciated the well-crafted characters and intricate plot, which kept them guessing until the very end. Another reader valued the attention to detail in the book, as it added depth and made the story more captivating.

However, some readers felt that "Murder by the Book" was slower-paced in comparison to other books in the series. They found certain parts of the plot to drag and the mystery itself to be less captivating. Some reviewers also mentioned the absence of the usual wit and humor found in Stout's works, making it seem somewhat dull.

Despite these criticisms, many readers still enjoyed "Murder by the Book". They appreciated the complex characters and the way different storylines intertwined. The book was also commended for incorporating social issues and commentary, which added an intriguing layer to the overall mystery.

Overall, the reviews for "Murder by the Book" by Rex Stout are mixed. While some readers found it engaging, others felt that it fell short compared to the author's other works. However, most readers still found it to be a solid mystery with well-developed characters and a captivating plot.

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