Reviews

Black Orchids/The Silent Speaker: Nero Wolfe Mysteries by Rex Stout

kkw24's review

funny mysterious medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.5

ferrisscottr's review

1.0

Had to force myself to finish this book...so slow and uninterestingg.

iambicwinter's review

funny mysterious medium-paced

4.0

judythereader's review against another edition

4.0

This is a story about what could drive Nero Wolfe to leave the brownstone. There isn't much, but a totally new type of orchid can do it. There is a second story in here that also features a black orchid and that's what keeps them together.

I love Nero Wolfe and Archie Goodwin. I think they are the best team in the Private Eye business. The world in which they live and function is always rich and well drawn. Rex Stout's love of the English language always makes for an interesting study. To this day, I will catch myself thinking about Nero Wolfe when I use the word contact as a verb. Nero Wolfe will not allow that in his house.

The mysteries were involving, with characters doing their best to keep their secrets. You can't do that around Wolfe.

That's a bunch of thoughts with no cohesiveness. I just enjoy these books and it's been so long since I read one that I forgot how much.

booksuperpower's review

5.0

Two really good Nero Wolfe novels in one book. Archie is as fussy as ever and Wolfe is as difficult as always, still adhering to his strict agenda. All Rex Stout mysteries are good in my opinon. You won't be disappointed.