Seven Complete Nero Wolfe Novels (The Silent Speaker, Might As Well Be Dead / If Death Ever Slept / Three at Wolfe's Door / Gambit / Please Pass the Guilt/ A Family Affair) : Book Review

"Seven Complete Nero Wolfe Novels" is a captivating compilation of seven mystery novels penned by the acclaimed author, Rex Stout. This book brings together a selection of the most cherished and iconic tales featuring the brilliant detective Nero Wolfe and his trusted sidekick, Archie Goodwin. Stout's undeniable mastery of the mystery genre is on full display in each of these novels, with their compelling plots, intricate puzzles, and unforgettable characters.

The first novel in this collection, "Over My Dead Body," presents Wolfe with the challenging task of solving a murder that occurs during a family gathering. As the investigation unfolds, Wolfe must navigate through a maze of family secrets and hidden motives to uncover the truth. In "Where There's a Will," Nero Wolfe is faced with the intricate puzzle of a murder disguised as a suicide, all while untangling the complexities surrounding a contested will. The third novel, "Black Orchids," transports Wolfe and Goodwin to a flower show where they become entangled in a murder case involving rare orchids.

"The Silent Speaker" sees Wolfe summoned to testify before a Senate subcommittee investigating organized crime, only to find himself embroiled in a murder investigation. In "Too Many Cooks," Wolfe and Goodwin are invited to a prestigious cooking competition that takes a deadly turn. "And Be a Villain" sees Wolfe enlisted to help clear an old friend of a crime he did not commit, uncovering a complex web of deception and intrigue. Finally, "The Second Confession" presents a tense courtroom drama as Wolfe strives to uncover the truth in a murder trial.

In summary, "Seven Complete Nero Wolfe Novels" is a comprehensive and captivating collection that showcases Stout's timeless and ingenious mystery stories. Each novel is filled with suspense, wit, and brilliant detective work, making it a must-read for fans of the genre. Stout's portrayal of Nero Wolfe as a brilliant and eccentric detective, coupled with Archie Goodwin's charismatic narrative voice, brings depth and charm to the stories. Whether you are a devoted Nero Wolfe fan or new to the series, this collection promises to entertain and captivate you from beginning to end.

Seven Complete Nero Wolfe Novels by Rex Stout is a collection of detective novels that has received mixed reviews from readers. With an average rating of 3.96 out of 5 stars, opinions on its merits vary.

Many readers appreciate the collection for its engaging mysteries and compelling characters. They commend Stout's talent for crafting intricate and clever plots that keep them guessing until the end. The dynamic between the brilliant detective Nero Wolfe and his loyal assistant Archie Goodwin is particularly well-received, with readers enjoying their banter and undeniable chemistry.

However, some reviewers express disappointment with the collection. They note that although the individual novels may be enjoyable, the book as a whole suffers from repetition and a lack of storytelling variety. Some feel that the stories follow a predictable formula, which they find tiresome and lacking originality.

Another common critique is the length of the book. Some readers find it too lengthy, which can make it challenging to remain engaged throughout. Additionally, a few reviewers find Stout's writing style outdated and slow-paced, making it harder for them to fully immerse themselves in the stories.

Despite these criticisms, many readers highly recommend Seven Complete Nero Wolfe Novels to fans of detective fiction. They consider it a solid introduction to the Nero Wolfe series and believe it offers great value for the price. The collection is praised for its intelligence, wit, and timeless appeal, cementing Rex Stout as a respected figure in the genre.

NeroWolfeMystery ClassicDetectiveNovels BookLovers