Most Popular Books by AGATHA CHRISTIE

Who poisoned the wealthy Emily Inglethorpe, and how did the murderer penetrate and escape from her locked bedroom? Sus-pects abound in the quaint village of Styles St. Mary--from the heiress''s fawning new husband to her two stepsons, her volatile housekeeper, and a pretty nurse who works in a hospital dispensary. Making his unforgettable debut, the brilliant Belgian detective Hercule Poirot is on the case. "The key to the success of this style of detective novel," writes Elizabeth George in her Introduction, "lies in how the author deals with both the clues and the red herrings, and it has to be said that no one bettered Agatha Christie at this game."

Hercule Poirot returns to Styles, the scene of his first great case, to prevent a dangerous mass murderer from striking again. But the esteemed detective does not know that this will be the most dangerous case of his illustrious career--and perhaps the last.

A BBC Radio full-cast dramatization starring John Moffatt as Hercule Poirot, with Stephanie Cole and Donald Sinden. Hercule Poirot, along with three other luminaries from the world of crime detection, is invited to dinner by the renowned London socialite Dr. Shaitana. Also on the guest list are four members of what Shaitana calls his Black Museum--a collection of murderers who have each succeeded in "getting away with it." After midnight, when the guests prepare to leave, they make a terrible discovery. Their host is dead in his armchair, stabbed in the chest. The four sleuths are thus faced with one murder and a quartet of likely suspects. Working both together and independently, they investigate the past of the Black Museum''s finest in order to determine the most likely killer. Poirot finds that many distractions are thrown in his way, as he attempts to read the meaning of the cards which each suspect has placed on the table.

Just after midnight, a snowdrift stops the Orient Express in its tracks. The luxurious train is surprisingly full for the time of the year, but by the morning it is one passenger fewer. An American tycoon lies dead in his compartment, stabbed a dozen times, his door locked from the inside. Isolated and with a killer in their midst, detective Hercule Poirot must identify the murderer – in case he or she decides to strike again.

The legendary detective saves his best for last as he races to apprehend a five-time killer before the final curtain descends in Curtain: Poirot’s Last Case, the last book Agatha Christie published before her death. The crime-fighting careers of Hercule Poirot and Captain Hastings have come full circle—they are back once again in the rambling country house in which they solved their first murder together. Both Hercule Poirot and Great Styles have seen better days—but, despite being crippled with arthritis, there is nothing wrong with the great detective and his “little gray cells.” However, when Poirot brands one of the seemingly harmless guests a five-time murderer, some people have their doubts. But Poirot alone knows he must prevent a sixth murder before the curtain falls.

Why Would People Drink Strychnine For Their Health? What Does ‘English Beef and Brawn’ Mean? What Are Land Smocks? Spill Vases? Patience Cards? What Did Agatha Christie Think Of Jews? How Did A 25-Year-Old Woman Create One Of Mystery’s Greatest Detectives? Best-selling mystery writer Agatha Christie created intricate stories of murder and mayhem that have enchanted readers worldwide. Bill Peschel, author of "The Complete, Annotated Whose Body?" (by Dorothy L. Sayers) and "Writers Gone Wild," illuminates the obscure references in Christie’s debut novel and tells the fascinating stories behind it and its creator. "The Complete, Annotated Mysterious Affair at Styles" contains: ● Nearly 500 footnotes describing words, idioms, people, places and contemporary events. ● Essays on Christie’s life and the world of Styles. ● A detailed chronology of her life and work. ● Lists of her novels and short-story collections, organized by year of publication and by detective. ● A bibliography of resources, including books about Christie that will delight fans. “Though this may be the first published book of Miss Agatha Christie, she betrays the cunning of an old hand.” — The New York Times, Dec. 26, 1920

In this follow-up to The Murder of Roger Ackroyd, renowned private detective Hercule Poirot sets out to break up an international group of four criminal masterminds whose aim is world domination.

Normally, a mere outbreak of petty thefts in a youth hostel wouldn''t be enough to interest the great detective Hercule Poirot. However, the warden of the hostel is sister to Poirot''s secretary Miss Lemon, and concern for her sister is interfering with Miss Lemon''s typing abilities. Poirot finds himself with an intriguing puzzle on his hands, and before long, murder increases the mystery.

In ''British Murder Mysteries - The Agatha Christie Collection'', Agatha Christie masterfully weaves an intricate tapestry of suspense and intrigue, showcasing her unparalleled ability to blend complex plotting with compelling character studies. This collection, encompassing some of her most celebrated works, reflects the interwar period''s fascination with the macabre and the psychological undercurrents that drive human behavior. Christie''s distinctive literary style—marked by sharp dialogue, vivid settings, and a keen eye for detail—invites readers into a world where nothing is as it seems, and every seemingly mundane element could hold the key to solving the mystery. Agatha Christie, known as the "Queen of Crime," was profoundly influenced by her own experiences and the social dynamics of her time, including the effects of World War I and the shifting roles of women in society. Her personal love for archeological digs and travel, often shared with her husband, fueled her imagination and fed into the rich locales and vibrant characters that populate her stories. This background not only enhanced her storytelling but also provided insights into the complexities of human relationships and moral dilemmas that underpin her narratives. For both seasoned Christie aficionados and newcomers alike, this collection is an essential exploration of the art of the British mystery. It invites readers to savor each twist and turn while engaging with timeless themes of justice, deception, and the darker sides of human nature. Dive into this collection and unravel the enigmas crafted by one of literature''s most iconic figures.

And Then There Were None is the signature novel of Agatha Christie, the most popular work of the world''s bestselling novelist. It is a masterpiece of mystery and suspense that has been a fixture in popular literature since it was originally published in 1939. First there were ten-a curious assortment of strangers summoned to a private island off the coast of Devon. Their host, an eccentric millionaire unknown to any of them, is nowhere to be found. The ten guests have precious little in common except that each has a deadly secret buried deep in their own past. And, unknown to them, each has been marked for murder. Alone on the island and trapped by foul weather, one by one the guests begin to fall prey to the hidden murderer among them. With themselves as the only suspects, only the dead are above suspicion.

Sir George and Lady Stubbs, the hosts of a village fete, hit upon the novel idea of staging a mock murder mystery. In good faith, Ariadne Oliver, the well-known crime writer, agrees to organize their murder hunt. Despite weeks of meticulous planning, at the last minute Ariadne calls her friend Hercule Poirot for his expert assistance. Instinctively, she senses that something sinister is about to happen….

In 1920 Agatha Christie introduced a quirky little Belgian detective to the world in this book she wrote on a dare from her sister. The time is World War I and Poirot is one of a small group of Belgian refugees who has come to live in a rural English village. With his egg-shaped head and well-groomed moustache, Hercule Poirot enters and soon becomes one of fiction''s best-loved detectives. Also in this novel, the reader is introduced to his cohort, Captain Arthur Hastings, recovering from a war injury at the upper-class household known as Styles Court. The mistress of the manor is Emily Inglethorpe, an elderly woman who has just married a much younger man. The family members occupying the house all become suspects when Mrs. Inglethorpe is murdered and it is up to Poirot''s little grey cells to sift through all the red herrings and, in the final chapter, reveal all in true detective fashion. High on Poirot''s list of suspects are: John Cavendish, the elder stepson; Mary Cavendish, his wife; Lawrence Cavendish, the younger stepson; Evelyn Howard, Mrs. Inglethorpe''s companion; Cynthia Murdoch, her protege; and Dr. Bauerstein, a mysterious stranger who lives in Essex. All have motive and opportunity but only Poirot can discover the truth. "The Mysterious Affair at Styles" sets the tone for many Christie novels to follow. The wealthy family inhabiting a country house, the non-violent method of murder (poisoning) so favored by Mrs. Christie, and the light-hearted but often serious romance all became hallmarks of many of her later works. Have a cup of hot chocolate with Hercule Poirot and enjoy the adventure.

Poirot Investigates Agatha Christie - First there was the mystery of the film star and the diamond... then came the "suicide" that was murder... the mystery of the absurdly cheap flat...a suspicious death in a locked gun room... a million dollar bond robbery... the curse of a pharaoh''s tomb... a jewel robbery by the sea... the abduction of a prime minister... the disappearance of a banker... a phone call from a dying man... and, finally, the mystery of the missing will. What links these fascinating cases? Only the brilliant deductive powers of Hercule Poirot!

The Mysterious Affair at Styles is a detective novel by British writer Agatha Christie. It was written in the middle of the First World War, in 1916, and first published by John Lane in the United States in October 1920[1] and in the United Kingdom by The Bodley Head (John Lane''s UK company) on 21 January 1921.[2]Styles was Christie''s first published novel. It introduced Hercule Poirot, Inspector (later, Chief Inspector) Japp, and Arthur Hastings.[3] Poirot, a Belgian refugee of the Great War, is settling in England near the home of Emily Inglethorp, who helped him to his new life. His friend Hastings arrives as a guest at her home. When the woman is killed, Poirot uses his detective skills to solve the mystery.The book includes maps of the house, the murder scene, and a drawing of a fragment of a will. The true first publication of the novel was as a weekly serial in The Times, including the maps of the house and other illustrations included in the book. This novel was one of the first ten books published by Penguin Books when it began in 1935.This first mystery novel by Agatha Christie was well received by reviewers. An analysis in 1990 was positive about the plot, considered the novel one of the few by Christie that is well-anchored in time and place, a story that knows it describes the end of an era, and mentions that the plot is clever. Christie had not mastered cleverness in her first novel, as "too many clues tend to cancel each other out"; this was judged a difficulty "which Conan Doyle never satisfactorily overcame, but which Christie would."

Agatha Mary Clarissa, Lady Mallowan, DBE (15 September 1890 - 12 January 1976), commonly known as Agatha Christie, was an English crime fiction writer. She also wrote romance novels under the name Mary Westmacott, but is best remembered for her 80 detective novels and her successful West End theatre plays. Her works, particularly featuring detectives Hercule Poirot or Miss Jane Marple, have given her the title the ''Queen of Crime'' and made her one of the most important and innovative writers in the development of the genre. Christie has been called - by the Guinness Book of World Records, among others - the best-selling writer of books of all time, and the best-selling writer of any kind together with William Shakespeare. Only the Bible sold more with about 6 billion copies. An estimated four billion copies of her novels have been sold. UNESCO states that she is currently the most translated individual author in the world with only the collective corporate works of Walt Disney Productions superseding her. As an example of her broad appeal, she is the all-time best-selling author in France, with over 40 million copies sold in French (as of 2003) versus 22 million for Emile Zola, the nearest contender. Her stage play, The Mousetrap, holds the record for the longest initial run in the world, opening at the Ambassadors Theatre in London on 25 November 1952, and as of 2007 is still running after more than 20,000 performances. In 1955, Christie was the first recipient of the Mystery Writers of America''s highest honor, the Grand Master Award, and in the same year, Witness for the Prosecution was given an Edgar Award by the MWA, for Best Play. Most of her books and short stories have been filmed, some many times over (Murder on the Orient Express, Death on the Nile, 4.50 From Paddington), and many have been adapted for television, radio, video games and comics. In 1998, the control of the rights to most of the literary works of Agatha Christie passed to the company Chorion, when it purchased a majority 64% share in Agatha Christie Limited.

Alice Ascher from Andover is the first victim. Next to her corpse is a spellbinding clue. It seems that a killer is knocking off his victims one-by-one, A through Z. Alphabetically speaking, Hercule Poirot fears that it''s a matter of one down, twenty-five to go.

Miss Marple investigates the death of a stylish blonde who is found murdered in front of a library hearth at Grossington Hall.

Soon to be a limited streaming series starring Anna Chancellor and Bill Nighy Considered by critics the one of the best of Agatha Christie’s later novels, and a personal favorite for Christie herself, Ordeal by Innocence is a psychological thriller involving crimes from both past and present. According to the courts, Jacko Argyle bludgeoned his mother to death with a poker. The sentence was life imprisonment. But when Dr. Arthur Calgary arrives with the proof that confirms Jacko’s innocence, it is too late—Jacko died behind bars following a bout of pneumonia. Worse still, the doctor’s revelations reopen old wounds in the family, increasing the likelihood that the real murderer will strike again.

In this short story, Agatha Christie presents the problem of unpunished crimes. During one meeting of the Tuesday Night Club. Henry Clithering, former commissioner of Scotland Yard, exposes an unsolved case. The mystery involves a murder with four suspects. It is only known that one of them worked in a terrorist organization bent on murdering the victim. Thanks to a series of clues, Miss Marple will be able to identify the true culprit and unravel the mystery.

Gipsy S Acre Was A Truly Beautiful Upland Site With Views Out To Sea And In Michael Rogers It Stirred A Child-Like Fantasy. There, Among The Dark Fir Trees, He Planned To Build A House, Find A Wonderful Girl And Live Happily Ever After, Yet, As He Left The Village, A Shadow Of Menace Hung Over The Land. For This Was The Place Where Accidents Happened. Perhaps Michael Should Have Heeded The Locals Warnings: There S No Luck For Them As Meddles With Gipsy S Acre .

The world''s bestselling author Another classic Poirot--Agatha Christie''s most beloved detective... Hercule Poirot makes a house call to cure the mystery of a doctor shot dead--and a killer who''s out of patience...

Detective Hercule Poirot hunts for a killer aboard a luxurious train Just after midnight, the famous Orient Express is stopped in its tracks by a snowdrift. By morning, the millionaire Samuel Edward Ratchett lies dead in his compartment, stabbed a dozen times, his door locked from inside. One of his fellow passengers must be the murderer. Isolated by the storm, detective Hercule Poirot must find the killer among a dozen of the dead man''s enemies, before the murderer decides to strike again.

The Mysterious Affair at Styles is a detective novel by British writer Agatha Christie. It was written in the middle of the First World War, in 1916, and first published by John Lane in the United States in October 1920[1] and in the United Kingdom by The Bodley Head (John Lane''s UK company) on 21 January 1921.[2]Styles was Christie''s first published novel. It introduced Hercule Poirot, Inspector (later, Chief Inspector) Japp, and Arthur Hastings.[3] Poirot, a Belgian refugee of the Great War, is settling in England near the home of Emily Inglethorp, who helped him to his new life. His friend Hastings arrives as a guest at her home. When the woman is killed, Poirot uses his detective skills to solve the mystery.The book includes maps of the house, the murder scene, and a drawing of a fragment of a will. The true first publication of the novel was as a weekly serial in The Times, including the maps of the house and other illustrations included in the book. This novel was one of the first ten books published by Penguin Books when it began in 1935.This first mystery novel by Agatha Christie was well received by reviewers. An analysis in 1990 was positive about the plot, considered the novel one of the few by Christie that is well-anchored in time and place, a story that knows it describes the end of an era, and mentions that the plot is clever. Christie had not mastered cleverness in her first novel, as "too many clues tend to cancel each other out"; this was judged a difficulty "which Conan Doyle never satisfactorily overcame, but which Christie would."

Hercule Poirot is a fictional Belgian detective created by British writer Agatha Christie. Poirot is one of Christie''s most famous and long-running characters, appearing in 33 novels, two plays and more than 50 short stories. The Poirot books take readers through the whole of his life in England, from the first book (The Mysterious Affair at Styles), where he is a refugee staying at Styles, to the last Poirot book (Curtain), where he visits Styles before his death. Contents: The Murder Of Roger Ackroyd Hercule Poirot. Poirot Investigates The Adventure of the Western Star The Tragedy at Marsdon Manor The Adventure of the Cheap Flat The Mystery of the Hunters Lodge The Million Dollar Bond Robbery The Adventure of the Egyptian Tomb The Jewel Robbery at the Grand Metropolitan The Kidnapped Prime Minister The Disappearance of Mr. Davenheim The Adventure of the Italian Nobleman The Case of the Missing Will Hercule Poirot. Poirot''s Early Cases The Affair at the Victory Ball The Adventure of the Clapham Cook The Cornish Mystery The Adventure of Johnnie Waverly The Double Clue The King of Clubs The LeMesurier Inheritance The Lost Mine The Plymouth Express The Chocolate Box The Submarine Plans The The Veiled Lady Market Basing Mystery

"The Mystery of the Blue Train" is a captivating detective novel by Agatha Christie featuring the famous Belgian detective Hercule Poirot. First published in 1928, the story is set against the glamorous backdrop of the French Riviera and the luxurious Blue Train that travels from London to Nice. The novel combines elements of mystery, intrigue, and romance, making it a delightful read for fans of classic detective fiction. The plot begins with the murder of wealthy American heiress Ruth Kettering on the Blue Train. Ruth is found dead in her compartment, and her valuable ruby necklace is missing. The circumstances surrounding her death are shrouded in mystery, as the train was full of passengers, each with their own secrets and motives. Hercule Poirot is called upon to investigate the case and uncover the truth behind the crime. As Poirot delves into the investigation, he encounters a cast of intriguing characters. Among them is the enigmatic Mrs. Daisy Armstrong, who becomes a key figure in the unfolding drama. Poirot''s keen powers of observation and psychological insight allow him to piece together the clues and unravel the tangled web of relationships surrounding the victim. The interactions between the characters are filled with tension and suspense, as each person reveals different facets of their personalities. The novel explores themes of deception and betrayal. Christie skillfully weaves a narrative that keeps readers guessing about the true nature of each character. As Poirot interviews the passengers and examines the evidence, he uncovers hidden motives and long-held grudges. The reader is drawn into the investigation, eager to discover who committed the murder and why. Christie''s writing shines in "The Mystery of the Blue Train." Her vivid descriptions of the luxurious train and the glamorous lifestyle of the characters create an immersive atmosphere. The contrast between the opulence of the Blue Train and the darkness of the crime adds depth to the story. The setting serves as a backdrop for the unfolding drama, enhancing the sense of intrigue. The pacing of the novel is expertly crafted, with twists and turns that keep readers engaged. Christie employs her signature style of misdirection, leading readers down false paths before revealing the truth. The resolution of the mystery is both surprising and satisfying, showcasing Poirot''s brilliance as a detective. In addition to the central mystery, the novel also touches on the complexities of love and relationships. Ruth Kettering''s life is marked by tumultuous romantic entanglements, and her relationships with the men in her life are explored throughout the narrative. The exploration of love, jealousy, and betrayal adds emotional depth to the story, making it more than just a straightforward whodunit. "The Mystery of the Blue Train" is a testament to Agatha Christie''s mastery of the mystery genre. Her ability to create compelling characters, intricate plots, and a sense of place is evident throughout the novel. The book is a perfect blend of suspense, romance, and psychological insight, appealing to a wide range of readers. Fans of Hercule Poirot will find much to enjoy in this installment of his adventures. Poirot''s character is as charming and astute as ever, and his interactions with other characters provide moments of humor and insight. His determination to seek justice and uncover the truth drives the narrative forward, making him a beloved figure in detective fiction. "The Mystery of the Blue Train" is a captivating mystery that showcases Agatha Christie''s exceptional storytelling skills. With its intriguing plot, rich characterizations, and luxurious setting, the novel invites readers to join Poirot on a thrilling journey of discovery. Whether you are a longtime fan of Agatha Christie or new to her work, this novel promises an engaging and entertaining experience. It is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a well-crafted mystery filled with surprises and depth.

In Heroes, Peter C. Newman gives us incisive analysis of dozens of Canadians, past and present, who have defined this country, drawing on fifty years of writing. He writes about iconic Canadians such as Terry Fox, Margaret Atwood and June Callwood. From the political ring, he discusses the legacies of Pierre Trudeau, Christina McCall and Lester B. Pearson, among others. And from the world of business, Newman includes some of the most active entrepreneurs on the planet, including Jimmy Pattison and Paul Desmarais. The grand literary master at the top of his game shares the inside stories of these pivotal characters whose lives and times set examples for all of us.

The Mysterious Affair at Styles is a detective novel by Agatha Christie. It was written in the middle of the First World War

"Two people rarely see the same thing." ― Agatha Christie, The Murder on the Links Experienced Belgian detective, Hercules Poirot is called in to a client but when he arrives is given notice of the man''s death earlier that day. The victim lay face down in a grave located within a golf course. He was wearing his son''s overcoat and a love letter within. Cause of death, a letter opener. Soon Poirot''s case is flipped over by the discovery of another identical corpse.