The Broth That Hid a Lie | A Nero Wolfe Story

The holiday season fills the city with warmth, routine, and polite distractions — but behind one carefully prepared meal, something quietly poisonous begins to surface. When an apparently harmless broth becomes the center of suspicion, a brilliant but reclusive detective senses that this is no simple misunderstanding.

What looks like a minor domestic concern soon spirals into a calculated deception, hidden beneath courtesy, tradition, and impeccable manners. A death follows — brushed off as unfortunate timing — yet the truth refuses to stay buried. A single lie, dissolved into conversation and custom, begins to reveal a much larger design.

As the city hums with seasonal noise, an unassuming investigator moves through crowded streets and half-finished sentences, uncovering absences, evasions, and details most people overlook. From the quiet safety of a private office, ruthless logic is applied piece by piece, stripping away charm and exposing motive.

This classic-style noir mystery unfolds slowly, favoring sharp deduction over action, atmosphere over shock. A perfect listen for fans of vintage detective fiction, understated danger, and thoughtful storytelling — ideal for evening relaxation or late-night listening.

🎧 Classic detective audiobook
🕯️ Slow-burn noir mystery
📚 Golden Age–inspired crime fiction
🌙 Calm, immersive narration for relaxation

Disclaimer:
This is a fan-made fictional story inspired by the works of Rex Stout, created purely as a respectful tribute to classic Nero Wolfe mysteries. All original characters and settings belong to their respective rights holders.