Welcome to the peculiar world of nero Wolfe, where the scent of orchids mingles with the whiff of murder. In Fade to Black, the fifth thrilling installment of the Nero Wolfe Mysteries series by Robert Goldsborough, you'll find that the criminal underbelly of New York City is about as safe as a cat in a room full of rocking chairs. Buckle up, because this is one wild ride through intrigue, deception, and a breakfast-loving detective who would rather do nothing all day than leave his comfort zone.
So, let's set the stage: our dear, rotund detective, Nero Wolfe, is your classic "don't-bother-me-unless-someone-is-dead" type - and surprise, surprise, that's exactly how things get rolling! Someone is indeed dead. Enter stage left: a talented but not-so-beloved filmmaker named Franklin D. "Frankie" Mack. He's been shot, and as is the custom in these mysteries, it's time for Wolfe and his trusty sidekick, Archie Goodwin, to dig their oversized hats into the case.
Here's where things get interesting. Wolfe prefers to solve crimes without leaving his beloved chair (we can all relate to that, right?). But Archie, the ever-enthusiastic legman, prefers to go out and shake some trees (and by trees, I mean suspects). After some classic Wolfe-style reluctance, our favorite detective just can't resist the allure of a well-crafted plot - especially when it involves a glamorous femme fatale and a lineup of potential murderers that reads like a Hollywood roster of suspects who are much too dramatic for their own good.
The joy of Wolfe's world is the bickering between him and Archie, who often finds himself juggling various colorful characters, all while trying to keep his boss from turning into a hermit crab. Spoiler alert: Wolfe is not about to budge from his penthouse, thank you very much!
As the duo begins to untangle the web of deceit, they uncover a motive thicker than a Manhattan fog on a dreary day. We're talking about jealousy, betrayal, and a handful of secrets that would make even Shakespeare roll his eyes. Characters pop in and out like bad CGI, and just when you think you've figured it all out, Goldsborough flips the script and directs us toward a shocking conclusion that makes you wonder if Wolfe does, in fact, have a hidden talent for screenwriting!
Oh, and let's not forget Wolfe's one true love: food. The man has a relationship with culinary delights that rivals his relationship with solving crimes. Sadly, we're left to drool over the descriptions of his elaborate meals while he outsmarts everyone around him. Who knew crime-solving could be done on a full stomach?
In the end, Fade to Black offers food (literally and figuratively) for thought, while keeping readers guessing until the very last page. It's a tale packed with enough suspense to keep your heart racing and your stomach growling. And as for Archie? He'll have enough stories to tell at the bar for a lifetime.
So, if you're looking for a mystery that pairs perfectly with a glass of wine and possibly a plate of pasta, then Fade to Black is your go-to choice. Just remember, don't be shocked if you find yourself compelled to put your feet up, refuse to leave the house, and embrace your inner Wolfe!