Maigret in der Liberty Bar (George Simenon 17)

The atmosphere of the Liberty Bar feels so vivid and authentic. I'm curious whether the setting was inspired by a real place or a fictional creation to serve the story.

The story's tension builds up beautifully, but some chapters felt a bit slower. I'm wondering if this was a deliberate choice to deepen character development or mood.

The characters' inner struggles add so much complexity. Does this make the mystery more compelling or did it sometimes distract from the plot for others?