3.79 AVERAGE


Trouble in the Brownstone is another delightful installment in the Nero Wolfe series, and it doesn’t disappoint. As always, Archie Goodwin steals the show—his sharp wit and quick comebacks make him one of the most memorable and engaging characters in any series. His dynamic with Laun, the newspaper man and poker buddy, is a particular highlight. Their playful banter is a joy to read, and it adds a layer of humor that balances out the more serious aspects of the mystery.

The plot itself is tightly woven, with the usual blend of intriguing detective work and witty dialogue. Wolfe’s brilliance is on full display, but it’s the chemistry between Archie and the supporting characters that makes this one stand out. The pacing is just right, and the ending ties everything up nicely without feeling rushed.

While I’d give this one a solid 4.25 stars, it’s certainly one of the more enjoyable books in the series for me. It’s hard not to get lost in the world of Nero Wolfe and Archie Goodwin—if you’re a fan of clever mysteries and sharp-tongued characters, this one is definitely worth your time.

Audiobook- Chirp

In a post war New York City, you don't mess with Nero Wolfes family. Trouble at the Brownstone starts with that Theodore Horstman, Wolfes gardner is brutally beaten for no apparent reason. This leads to Archie being sent to investigate, and it seems that a lot of Displaced persons are hanging around a bar and appartment building in Hells Kitchen where Horstman lives. Who are these people and what's up with the longshoremen? The nosing around leads to murder and Goodwin being assaulted, which leads to Nero getting angrier. Inspector Cramer don't know what to think about the situation and Nero summons Saul, Fred, Orrie and even Del Bascomb to help with the mystery. I have been a fan of Rex Stouts work since I was really young and am glad that Robert Goldsborough has taken up the series. I always enjoy a Nero Wolfe story.

This started off really strong with the stakes raised for Wolfe and co but the ending kind of fizzled out.

In a post war New York City, you don't mess with Nero Wolfes family. Trouble at the Brownstone starts with that Theodore Horstman, Wolfes gardner is brutally beaten for no apparent reason. This leads to Archie being sent to investigate, and it seems that a lot of Displaced persons are hanging around a bar and appartment building in Hells Kitchen where Horstman lives. Who are these people and what's up with the longshoremen? The nosing around leads to murder and Goodwin being assaulted, which leads to Nero getting angrier. Inspector Cramer don't know what to think about the situation and Nero summons Saul, Fred, Orrie and even Del Bascomb to help with the mystery. I have been a fan of Rex Stouts work since I was really young and am glad that Robert Goldsborough has taken up the series. I always enjoy a Nero Wolfe story.
mysterious slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: No

All my normal criticisms for Goldsborough's Wolfe books aside, this was a mildly amusing but very meandering and overly long mystery.