As in so many of the Maigret books, this one begins with the discovery of a murder victim, Maigret’s being called to the scene, and then a long, complex, meandering process by which the Chief Inspector learns and deduces facts about the victim’s life and personhood which leads him to the killer.  This book, like the one I read recently, begins with an unknown victim who is identified through a photograph being placed in the newspaper.  The 20 year old girl’s life is then pieced together through the combination of good police work, psychological insight, and skillful scrutiny of both evidence and those who knew the victim.  The story is, as usual, a bit of a stretch, but Maigret’s methods, his drinking, his relationship with his wife, his relationships with his younger colleagues (introduction of Lognon, The Old Grouch), and over and over again the Paris of Montmartre’s clubs, seedy bars, streets, parks, hotels, and apartments make for an enjoyable read.  Must read with Google Maps at hand!