Robert Goldsborough

Robert Goldsborough is an American journalist and mystery novelist best known for continuing Rex Stout's Nero Wolfe detective series after Stout's death. He wrote his first Nero Wolfe novel, Murder in E Minor, in 1986, and has since authored multiple books featuring the iconic detective and his assistant Archie Goodwin. Prior to his fiction writing career, Goldsborough worked as a journalist for the Chicago Tribune and Advertising Age. His background in journalism and publishing influenced some of his work, particularly Death on Deadline, which centers on the murder of a newspaper publisher. The author's style closely adheres to Rex Stout's original characterizations while bringing the Nero Wolfe series into more contemporary settings. Goldsborough received the blessing of Rex Stout's estate to continue the series, making him one of the few authorized continuation authors of a major mystery franchise. Beyond the Nero Wolfe series, Goldsborough has written other mystery novels including Three Strikes You're Dead and Shadow of the Bomb, which are set in 1930s Chicago and feature reporter Snap Malek.

Readers appreciate Goldsborough's attempt to continue Rex Stout's Nero Wolfe series while maintaining the established characters and writing style. Many note his attention to period details and faithful recreation of Archie Goodwin's narrative voice. Readers like: - Accurate portrayal of the Wolfe/Archie dynamic - Preservation of familiar supporting characters - Well-researched New York City settings Readers dislike: - Less complex plots compared to Stout's originals - Dialogue that sometimes feels forced or mechanical - Too much exposition and explanation On Goodreads, Goldsborough's Nero Wolfe novels average 3.7-3.9 stars. Amazon reviews trend slightly higher at 4.0-4.2 stars. Several readers note these books are "good but not great" and "satisfying for fans missing Stout." A common review sentiment is "better than no Nero Wolfe at all." The non-Wolfe mysteries receive lower ratings (3.2-3.5 stars) with readers citing weaker characterization and less engaging plots.

Murder in E Minor - A famous orchestral conductor is murdered shortly before a major performance, prompting Nero Wolfe to investigate the classical music world.

Death on Deadline - Nero Wolfe must solve the murder of a newspaper tycoon who was attempting a hostile takeover of the New York Gazette.

Fade to Black - Wolfe and Archie investigate the death of a television executive found dead in his office during network ratings season.

Three Strikes You're Dead - Chicago Tribune reporter Steve "Snap" Malek investigates murders connected to a 1938 baseball gambling scandal.

Shadow of the Bomb - Reporter Snap Malek becomes entangled in a mystery surrounding the Manhattan Project scientists in 1930s Chicago.

The Last Coincidence - Wolfe investigates when a young woman is murdered after rejecting the advances of a wealthy Manhattan socialite.

The Missing Chapter - A true crime author is killed while writing a book about an unsolved murder, leading Wolfe to investigate both deaths.

Archie Meets Nero Wolfe - The origin story of how young Archie Goodwin came to work as Nero Wolfe's assistant in 1930s New York.

Murder in the Ball Park - Wolfe and Archie investigate when a state senator is shot dead while watching a Giants baseball game.

Stop the Presses! - The murder of a gossip columnist forces Wolfe to examine the dark side of newspaper journalism.

Archie in the Crosshairs - Archie Goodwin becomes the target of an unknown shooter, compelling Wolfe to protect his assistant while solving the case.

Rex Stout wrote the original Nero Wolfe series that Goldsborough continued, featuring the eccentric detective and his assistant Archie Goodwin. His books established the core characters and style that influenced Goldsborough's continuation novels.

Ross Macdonald created the Lew Archer detective series with complex plots and psychological depth similar to the Wolfe mysteries. His work features recurring characters and intricate investigations that unfold through detailed interviews and deductions.

Dorothy L. Sayers authored the Lord Peter Wimsey detective series, which shares similarities in its focus on an intellectual detective and their methodical investigation process. Her books feature strong character development and attention to detail in solving crimes.

John D. MacDonald wrote the Travis McGee series combining detective work with social commentary and complex characters. His books contain detailed investigations and character relationships that mirror aspects of the Wolfe-Goodwin dynamic.

Robert B. Parker developed the Spenser series featuring a detective duo relationship similar to Wolfe and Goodwin. His work contains comparable elements of continuing characters and methodical crime-solving processes.