"Trio for Blunt Instruments" by Rex Stout is a collection of three gripping mystery novellas featuring the beloved detective duo, Nero Wolfe and Archie Goodwin. Encased in the realm of classic detective fiction, these stories offer an enthralling and captivating read for fans of the genre. Each novella presents a unique puzzle for Wolfe and Goodwin to solve, with Stout's impeccable writing style holding readers captive from start to finish.
The first story, "Kill Now - Pay Later," centers around the murder of a young woman and the mysterious disappearance of her boyfriend. Tasked with unraveling the truth behind the crime, Wolfe and Goodwin find themselves entangled in a deceptive web of hidden motives and deceit. Stout's meticulous plotting and well-developed characters heighten the allure of this novella, making it a standout in the collection.
In "Murder is Corny," Wolfe reluctantly undertakes a case involving a corn chip manufacturer who fears becoming the next victim of a serial killer. As the investigation unfolds, Wolfe faces bizarre twists and turns, leaving readers guessing until the thrilling climax. Stout's ability to generate suspense and deliver unexpected plot developments shines brilliantly in this story.
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The final novella, "Blood Will Tell," delves into a suspected case of paternity fraud and the murder of a wealthy man. Wolfe and Goodwin must navigate a convoluted web of family secrets and conflicting interests to unearth the truth. Stout's sharp dialogue and keen attention to detail further enhance the appeal of this mystery.
Overall, "Trio for Blunt Instruments" showcases Rex Stout's mastery of storytelling and his gift for crafting memorable characters. Detective fiction enthusiasts will be thoroughly entertained by the engaging mysteries and the dynamic relationship between Wolfe and Goodwin. Stout's concise yet immersive writing style, combined with his ability to construct intricate plots, will keep readers eagerly turning the pages until the very end.
What are readers saying?
"Trio for Blunt Instruments" by Rex Stout is a collection of three detective stories featuring the renowned sleuth Nero Wolfe and his assistant, Archie Goodwin. The book has garnered mostly favorable reviews from readers.
The first story, titled "Kill Now, Pay Later," follows Wolfe and Goodwin as they investigate the murder of a young woman. Readers praised the clever plot and intricate details, as well as the well-developed characters. Many found the story captivating and enjoyed the unexpected twist at the end.
In the second story, "Murder Is Corny," Wolfe and Goodwin delve into a murder case involving a corn chip tycoon. Readers appreciated the unique setting and the witty dialogue between the characters. The mystery was found to be engaging, keeping readers guessing until the final reveal.
The final story, "Blood Will Tell," revolves around the murder of a corrupt politician. Readers found this story particularly intriguing, praising its intelligent and well-executed plot. They also applauded the author's ability to create dynamic and memorable characters.
Overall, "Trio for Blunt Instruments" comes highly recommended to fans of detective fiction. Rex Stout's writing style is described as crisp and engaging. The stories are commended for their intricate plots, solid pacing, and unexpected twists. Many readers also enjoyed the interactions between Nero Wolfe and Archie Goodwin, finding their relationship and banter to be one of the highlights of the book.
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