Trouble in Triplicate : Book Review

"Trouble in Triplicate" is an enthralling collection of three detective novellas that feature the brilliant investigator Nero Wolfe and his trusted assistant, Archie Goodwin. Each novella presents a unique and intricately woven mystery, making it a compelling read for fans of the detective genre.

The first novella in the collection, "Before I Die," introduces us to a wealthy businessman who is facing death threats. Nero Wolfe takes on the case, determined to uncover the identity of the culprit before tragedy strikes. The story is filled with clever twists and turns that keep readers on the edge of their seats until the final revelation.

In "Help Wanted, Male," the second novella, Nero Wolfe investigates a suspected case of embezzlement. This story dives into the complex world of high finance, showcasing Wolfe's unparalleled deductive skills. Rex Stout's writing truly shines in this novella, as he crafts a complex plot and develops enthralling characters that captivate readers from beginning to end.

The final novella, "Instead of Evidence," presents Nero Wolfe with a puzzling murder case that delves into the realm of politics and personal rivalries. This adds a layer of intrigue and suspense to the collection, keeping readers guessing until the very end. Stout's mastery of character development is once again evident, as he creates a vivid and unforgettable cast of supporting characters that enriches the story.

Stout's writing style is concise, engaging, and heavily focused on dialogue and character interactions. The dynamic relationship between Nero Wolfe and Archie Goodwin is particularly captivating as they navigate the challenges of each case with wit and intelligence. The novellas are filled with memorable supporting characters who add depth and richness to the stories.

What are readers saying?

"Trouble in Triplicate" by Rex Stout is a collection of three captivating detective stories featuring the renowned duo of detectives, Nero Wolfe and Archie Goodwin. The book has garnered a range of opinions from readers.

The first story, "Before I Die," received high praise for its engaging plot and Stout's ability to create suspense. Readers admired the unfolding mystery and the clever twists and turns that kept them guessing until the end. However, some expressed a desire for more depth in the resolution and character development.

Opinions on the second story, "Help Wanted, Male," were more divided. Some found it a satisfying and well-crafted mystery that showcased Stout's talent for intricate plots. They appreciated the well-developed characters and the interactions between Wolfe and Goodwin. Conversely, a few readers felt that the story was slow-paced and overly focused on unnecessary details, dampening their overall enjoyment.

The final story, "Instead of Evidence," generated mixed reactions as well. Some appreciated the complexity of the plot and the skillful writing, while others found it convoluted and confusing. Additionally, readers mentioned feeling less connected to the characters in this particular story compared to the previous ones.

Overall, readers favored the book's classic detective style and the dynamic between Wolfe and Goodwin. They commended Stout's ability to construct intricate mysteries and maintain suspense. However, some readers felt that certain stories lacked depth or were excessively intricate in their complexity. Despite these varying opinions, fans of the Nero Wolfe series may still find "Trouble in Triplicate" an enjoyable addition to their collection.

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