Just re-read this book after many years; it turns out that the story line does make sense (in its convoluted way), more so than the Bogart film version, which I also really enjoy. But don't make me explain how Marlowe makes the connections between the Sternwoods, Eddie Mars, Joe Brody, Geiger, Canino, et al.

It's so much fun to read about 1930's-era Los Angeles, where buildings were known by their names ("Hobart Arms") and prohibition has recently ended.