50 pages • 1 hour read
The Maltese Falcon
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Book Brief
213
Novel • Fiction
San Francisco • 1930s
1930
Adult
16+ years
760L
Super Short Summary
The Maltese Falcon by Dashiell Hammett follows private detective Sam Spade as he investigates the murder of his partner, Miles Archer, while becoming entangled in a web of lies, deceit, and double-crossing centered around a mysterious and allegedly valuable falcon statuette. The novel includes instances of violence, murder, and biased depictions of various groups.
Mysterious
Gritty
Suspenseful
Dark
Reviews & Readership
115,289 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Dashiell Hammett’s The Maltese Falcon is broadly celebrated for its intricate plot and sharp dialogue, solidifying its place as a cornerstone of the noir genre. Critics praise its compelling protagonist, Sam Spade, and the atmospheric depiction of 1920s San Francisco. However, some find the reliance on stereotypes dated and the narrative’s complexity occasionally overwhelming.
Who Should Read The Maltese Falcon?
A reader who would enjoy The Maltese Falcon by Dashiell Hammett appreciates hard-boiled detective fiction, intricate plot twists, and morally complex characters. Fans of Raymond Chandler's The Big Sleep or Arthur Conan Doyle's Sherlock Holmes series may also find this novel compelling for its gritty atmosphere and sharp dialogue.
115,289 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
213
Novel • Fiction
San Francisco • 1930s
1930
Adult
16+ years
760L
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