Interesting mystery let down by poor execution. The characters aren't likeable, the prose is a touch dull and the twist ending fails to satisfactorily close the plot. Most of the figures are two dimensional, given no backstory and very little character development. They play into stereotypes, with Hammet seeming to think that making his villain overweight will atone for the fact that he has no personality whatsoever. Other than the contemptible characters and poor ending, it was fine, but I was glad when it ended.