A good Nero Wolfe, off premises, for once, and it includes the debut appearance of Lily Rowan. I should warn you that the murder, and the discussions about it, are a little gory, be warned.
If I were the clever mystery reader I think I am, I should have figured this one out early, but Stout lulls one onto the tale easily--having Wolfe leave the brownstone makes all the difference.
Nero Wolfe is still the most pompous ass since Poirot. Archie Goodwin, as picturesque and lovable as ever, throws his wit and muscle around: he's not quite Philip Marlowe but entertaining enough. The police are never quite up to the task, so nothing's new in detective fiction. At least no one breaks down on the witness stand and confesses to the crime. And, the plot it is somewhat plausible. This is an easy read for an afternoon, or evening.
