The first book of the Nero Wolfe series. When the series opens, Archie Goodwin has worked for Nero Wolfe for seven years, and the book reads with assured detail, as if a book has been written for every one of those seven years. Archie and Wolfe are a variety of odd couple, deeply familiar with each other's quirks, working smoothly together, riling up at each other.The language is wonderful. Wolfe deeply appreciates words and uses them well, and Archie isn't afraid to look them up if he doesn't understand.The mystery in the story is based on true detective work, combined with flashes of Wolfe-ian inspiration, and does not rely on further attempts by the murderer to reveal that person's identity.I hold back on 5 stars for this book because I found the method of murder itself to be convoluted and senseless, unlikely to have safeguarded the murderer from suspicion at all.
