Death of a Doxy

Publisher's Summary

Blackmail is such an ugly word. But then again, so is murder. Unfortunately, both terms have been laid at the feet of one of Nero Wolfe's oldest acquaintances, a fellow P.I. with a knack for finding trouble, and stepping straight into it. He's been accused of murdering a kept woman, and now Nero's on the case.

So far he and his sidekick Archie Goodwin have turned up no leads to a mysterious blackmailing episode that ends in cold-blooded murder. Their only hope is to find a sexy chanteuse who should be singing the blues. But can they find her before death calls the next tune?

Stout fellow: listen to all of our Nero Wolfe mysteries, including classic radio programs!

©1966 Rex Stout (P)1998 Books on Tape Inc.

Critic Reviews

"Michael Prichard's reading is excellent....His erudite Nero Wolfe is right on the money. Prichard's style of narration gives the story a somewhat hard-boiled interpretation that is enjoyable. Even if you've read the book, this one is worth a listen." (AudioFile)

One of the best of a great series

I really like most Nero Wolfe stories, but I particularly liked Death of a Doxy. It has a lot of inside-detective material which was fun and great characters and a wonderful story. This, along with the wonderful normal cast of characters makes this a great novel. This is one of Rex Stout’s best full length Nero Wolfe novels.

4 of 5 people found this review helpful

One of the funniest Wolfe mysteries

What did you love best about Death of a Doxy?

Wolfe has to deal with not only an odd case but one of the funniest characters that Stout ever wrote. When Julie sang a song about Wolfe being a big man, I was sold on her.

Which scene was your favorite?

When Julie sang to Wolfe about being a 'Big Man'.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Yes

1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Typically great performance of Nero Wolfe

Love the story and reading. But I'm pretty sure this recording is a bit too fast. Still great.

1 of 1 people found this review helpful

A Doxy of a Read!

Would you listen to Death of a Doxy again? Why?

Yes, I love hearing the Characters come to life. It is so interesting with the frequently called on Specialty Operatives on the Front line. Orrie Cather, is truely brought to life. We get to know Him intimately, ways we never considered.

Who was your favorite character and why?

Why Nero Wolfe and Archie and the Orchids and the Food. Orrie Cather is the best character in this book. He is in a world of Hurt, yet, you learn about him from the other characters, because Inspector Cramer, Pinches Orrie as the killer.

Which scene was your favorite?

When Julie Jaquetter dances in to Wolfe's office and then Wolfe stands as she leaves. Unbelievable.

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

It made me listen. I brought words one no longer hears in the English language back to life. It gives back the value of study and memorization or true learning so that your mind brings the information back to you fresh and alive. The name Thales.

Any additional comments?

I love the way all the characters have such wonderful purpose to bring the story to life. It would be grand to see Nero Wolfe produced on stage. Like one a month in order of publication.

1 of 1 people found this review helpful

One of Stout’s best

Of all the Nero Wolfe stories this is definitely one of the best. Narrated by Michael Prichard, who does an outstanding performance, this is a great listen.

A good one to sink your teeth into!

This is one one of Rex Stout's better offerings with regard to his Nero Wolf series. The plot keeps you guessing...and then you find out who did it...and you are still in suspense! Truly a masterful work of fiction and belongs along side any other classical mystery.

Nero hosts a woman in his home & isn't exasperated

An excellent story with a spectacular supporting character that even Wolfe has a regard for, which is amazing considering his view regarding women staying in his home.

Hard to care

Would you try another book from Rex Stout and/or Michael Prichard?

Yes

What could Rex Stout have done to make this a more enjoyable book for you?

It seemed to me Stout only had an idea for a crime that needed to be solved. I never really cared about any of the characters.

Any additional comments?

If I had started with this story I probably would never have read/listened to another Nero Wolfe mystery.

Who needs evidence if you know who did it.

Another excellent story about that fat tricky detective and his employee, side-kick, gadfly Archie. How can they save Cather and get the real murder with out a bit of evidence? Read on only Nero Wolf would stand a chance.

Solid entry in the Nero Wolfe series

Would you listen to Death of a Doxy again? Why?

Yes. It is a fine, complex puzzle with a satisfying resolution. Good strong characters, too, and some nicely evil ones.

What other book might you compare Death of a Doxy to and why?

Stout's Death of a Dude, for no good reason other than similarity of title.

What about Michael Prichard???s performance did you like?

After several of Pritchard's readings of the Wolfe books, I can't imagine anyone else reading them.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

The interaction between Wolfe and Jacquette, the night club singer is priceless.