A RIGHT TO DIE

Rex Stout created a decidedly odd-fellow partnership in Nero Wolfe, fiction's most self-absorbed and eccentric sleuth, and Archie Goodwin, his laid-back, slyly wise-mouthed assistant. This audio production follows his formula to the letter, with Michael Prichard portraying both main characters brilliantly. Wolfe's gruff, huffy belligerence is right on key while Goodwin plays counterpoint in adagio, always observant and displaying a surprising humor. Prichard delivers well on the secondary players, both men and women. Thank heaven for Archie and Michael Prichard. Goodwin's glints of wit save Nero Wolfe's personality from becoming totally unbearable while Prichard's ability retains the listener's interest through a dreary mystery. P.H.M. © AudioFile 2003, Portland, Maine [Published: DEC 03/JAN 04]