Retired detective Nick Charles is spending Christmas in New York with his wealthy, witty wife Nora when he is pulled into the disappearance of an eccentric inventor and a murder that follows. Nick would rather drink and joke, but old acquaintances, nervous relatives and Nora's curiosity draw him in. The novel is Hammett's last, lighter in mood than his earlier work, with sparkling banter and a marriage at its heart. It was a great success and inspired a popular film series.
Quotes
The important thing is the rhythm. Always have rhythm in your shaking. Now a Manhattan you shake to foxtrot time, a Bronx to two-step time, but a dry martini you always shake to waltz time.
[Threatened by a man with a gun] Hey, would you mind putting that gun away? My wife doesn't care, but I'm a very timid fellow... All right, shoot. I mean, uh, what's on your mind?
The murderer is right in this room. Sitting at this table. You may serve the fish.
Honey, it's that man again...