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The dialogue feels so sharp and distinctive—what inspired the author's style for these characters? I wonder how much of Wolfe's personality was based on real detectives.

I found myself getting a bit impatient during the detailed descriptions of the case, but maybe that was intentional to build tension. What did others think about the story's rhythm?

The New York City backdrop feels so vivid, I’m curious whether Rex Stout drew from actual places or created this world from imagination. How does the setting influence the story’s mood?