One of the greatest writers of the twentieth century . . . Simenon was unequalled at making us look inside, though the ability was masked by his brilliance at absorbing us obsessively in his stories. The Guardian(London) I love reading Simenon. He makes me think of Chekhov. William Faulkner The greatest of all, the most genuine novelist we have had in literature. Andre Gide A supreme writer . . . unforgettable vividness. The Independent(London) Superb . . . the most addictive of writers . . . a unique teller of tales. The Observer(London) Compelling, remorseless, brilliant. John Gray A truly wonderful writer . . . marvellously readable lucid, simple, absolutely in tune with the work he creates. Muriel Spark A novelist who entered his fictional world as it he were a part of it. Peter Ackroyd Extraordinary masterpieces of the twentieth century. John Banville"

The most exasperating of all was the head clerk at reception, in his elegant morning coat and stiff collar, which was not wilting with a drop of perspiration. He was treating Maigret in a cordial way, or possibly feeling sorry for him, as from time to time he flashed him a smile, intended to be both complicit and encouraging.