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Today, I’m excited to share my thoughts on Agatha Christie’s novels, explored chronologically. If you’re a fan of clever plot twists and charismatic detectives, you’re in for a treat. Let’s take a stroll down memory lane, starting from her very first publication in 1920, all the way through the 1990s.
A Complete List
1920 – The Mysterious Affair at Styles
Ah, where it all began! “The Mysterious Affair at Styles” introduces us to none other than the meticulous Hercule Poirot. Set during World War I, this novel lays the groundwork for many classic Christie tropes. Personally, I found it fascinating to see how Poirot’s character was initially shaped.
The solution to the murder felt a bit clunky, perhaps because Christie was still finding her feet. Yet, it’s undeniably charming to see the origins of her style.
1922 – The Secret Adversary
Moving on, we meet Tommy and Tuppence in “The Secret Adversary”. This duo brings a refreshing energy that’s different from the intellectual Poirot. Their adventurous spirit is infectious, while their debut is a delightful romp through post-war Britain, filled with espionage and high stakes.
1923 – Murder on the Links
Back to Poirot, and honestly, “Murder on the Links” hits closer to the mark for me. The setting on a French golf course provides a picturesque backdrop to a rather intricate murder case. Poirot is in top form here, and the twist is one of Christie’s best. It’s definitely a step up in plotting from her first.
1924 – The Man in the Brown Suit & Poirot Investigates
1924 was a busy year for Christie. “The Man in the Brown Suit” is thrilling but leans heavily into the adventure genre. It’s not my favorite as it diverges from the whodunit style I prefer.
On the other hand, “Poirot Investigates” offers a collection of short stories that are perfect for those who enjoy bite-sized mysteries. These stories showcase Poirot’s cleverness beautifully.
1925 – The Secret of Chimneys
This one, I’ll admit, I haven’t gotten around to reading yet. From what I’ve gathered, “The Secret of Chimneys” introduces some political intrigue, which sounds quite exciting. I’m looking forward to diving into it soon.
1926 – The Murder of Roger Ackroyd
Now, this book is a masterpiece. “The Murder of Roger Ackroyd” is often lauded as one of Christie’s finest works, and rightly so. The narrative technique, the twist, it’s all brilliantly executed.
If you’re new to Christie, this is a must-read. It completely flipped my expectations on their head!
1927 – The Big Four
Honestly, “The Big Four” felt like a bit of a letdown. It strays into somewhat ludicrous territory with an over-the-top villain. It’s a departure from the usual Christie formula, and not one of her best, in my opinion.
1928 – The Mystery of the Blue Train
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Returning to form, “The Mystery of the Blue Train” features Poirot in a luxurious setting that Christie describes wonderfully. While the plot isn’t as tight as some of her others, the atmosphere of the French Riviera is compelling.
1929 – The Seven Dials Mystery & Partners in Crime
“The Seven Dials Mystery” provides a fun, albeit convoluted, adventure. It’s lighter fare and quite enjoyable if you don’t take it too seriously. “Partners in Crime”, meanwhile, brings back Tommy and Tuppence in a series of parodic homages to famous detectives of the time. It’s clever and amusing, though not particularly deep.
1930 – The Mysterious Mr Quin & The Murder at the Vicarage
“The Mysterious Mr Quin” is another book I haven’t read yet but am curious about, especially since it introduces Mr. Harley Quin, a character said to be Christie’s favorite. On the other hand, “The Murder at the Vicarage” marks the first appearance of Miss Marple.
1931 – The Sittaford Mystery
“The Sittaford Mystery” offers a fascinating foray into the supernatural with a seance that predicts a murder. What stands out here is the setting—a remote, snowed-in village, which creates an intense, claustrophobic atmosphere.
Although it doesn’t feature Christie’s famous detectives, it’s a compelling standalone mystery that really shows her ability to craft suspense out of the simplest elements.
1932 – Peril at End House & The Thirteen Problems
“Peril at End House” confirms why I adore Hercule Poirot. His sharp wit and keen observation skills are on full display as he unravels a very clever plot against the backdrop of the Cornish coast. It’s pure Poirot at his best.
Meanwhile, “The Thirteen Problems” introduces Miss Marple in a series of short stories that are perfect for those who love puzzles. Each story is a delightful little enigma, proving Marple’s quiet yet fierce intellect.
1933 – Lord Edgware Dies & The Hound of Death
“Lord Edgware Dies” features another intriguing case for Poirot. It’s a classic setup with a twist that I didn’t see coming, and it’s thrilling to follow Poirot as he pieces everything together.
“The Hound of Death,” on the other hand, is a collection of short stories that veer more into the supernatural. Some stories are hits, deeply engaging and eerie; others, however, missed the mark for me.
1934 – A Year of Hits and Misses
Murder on the Orient Express
Certainly one of Christie’s most famous novels, “Murder on the Orient Express” is as close to perfect as a mystery novel gets. The confined setting of the train, the international assortment of characters, and the ingenious solution make this an unforgettable read.
The Listerdale Mystery & Why Didn’t They Ask Evans?
Both of these are lesser-known works. “The Listerdale Mystery” is a light, entertaining collection of short stories, none particularly memorable but all pleasant. “Why Didn’t They Ask Evans?” is fun and engaging with a spirited duo leading the investigation. It’s not Christie’s most complex, but it’s certainly enjoyable.
Parker Pyne Investigates & Three-Act Tragedy
“Parker Pyne Investigates” introduces an unconventional detective who specializes more in personal problems than in criminal puzzles, which is a nice twist. “Three-Act Tragedy” has Poirot in an interesting setup involving a murder during a party, which I found quite clever although not top-tier Poirot.
1935 – Death in the Clouds
A classic locked-room mystery, but set on a plane! “Death in the Clouds” showcases Christie’s knack for choosing unique settings. Poirot is as delightful as ever, though the solution is a bit more convoluted than usual.
1936 – The ABC Murders, Murder in Mesopotamia, Cards on the Table
This year was a highlight. “The ABC Murders” is a fantastic novel with a serial killer twist that feels modern even today. “Murder in Mesopotamia” brings an exotic setting and a complex plot, while “Cards on the Table” is pure genius, focusing more on the psychology of the suspects than on physical clues.
1937 – Dumb Witness, Death on the Nile, Murder in the Mews
“Dumb Witness” allows Poirot to solve a case with the help of a dog—quite charming. “Death on the Nile” is another definitive Poirot mystery, rich with characters and a setting that is both lush and menacing.
“Murder in the Mews” presents a few shorter stories that are neat, though not particularly standout.
1938 – Appointment with Death, Hercule Poirot’s Christmas
Both books offer classic Christie entertainment. “Appointment with Death” involves a psychological depth that is compelling, while “Hercule Poirot’s Christmas” is a festive treat with a family gathering gone very wrong.
1939 – Murder is Easy, And Then There Were None, The Regatta Mystery
“Murder is Easy” seems a bit more straightforward than Christie’s usual, but still a good read. “And Then There Were None” is arguably her best, a masterpiece of suspense and terror with an ending that leaves you stunned, trust me. “The Regatta Mystery” contains some nice short stories, albeit lighter fare.
1940 – Sad Cypress, One, Two, Buckle My Shoe
“Sad Cypress” is an emotional, slightly melodramatic mystery with a strong female protagonist (whom we all love to see, right), while “One, Two, Buckle My Shoe” features Poirot in a dentist-related murder that’s clever but a tad forgettable compared to his other cases.
1941 – Evil Under the Sun & N or M?
Evil Under the Sun
Set in a seaside resort, “Evil Under the Sun” features Hercule Poirot at his best, untangling the complex relationships surrounding a murder. It’s classic Christie with a setting that perfectly enhances the tense atmosphere. The clever misdirections made this one a personal favorite.
N or M?
Tommy and Tuppence return in “N or M?” during the backdrop of World War II, tasked with uncovering spies. This one feels more like a spy thriller than a typical mystery, which is a refreshing change. However, it lacks the tight plotting of Christie’s best detective works.
1942 – A Year of Intrigue
The Body in the Library
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“Miss Marple shines in “The Body in the Library,” dealing with the classic scenario of a mysterious corpse appearing in a home. The simplicity of the setup contrasts beautifully with the complexity of the solution. It’s one of those stories that remind you why Marple is such an enduring character.
Five Little Pigs
This is an interesting one as it involves Poirot solving a murder that happened many years ago based only on interviews and accounts. “Five Little Pigs” feels more like a psychological study, and the emotional depth here is richer than in many other Christie novels.
The Moving Finger
A shift to a more personal narrative, “The Moving Finger” involves poisonous pen letters in a small town that lead to death. It’s less about the whodunit and more about the destructive power of rumors and lies. It’s gripping and wonderfully atmospheric.
1944-1945 Diverse Storytelling
Towards Zero
1944 brought us “Towards Zero,” which intriguingly starts at the end—focusing on what leads up to a murder rather than the murder itself. It’s a clever twist on the traditional format and showcases Christie’s ability to innovate within her genre.
Death Comes as the End
Set in ancient Egypt, “Death Comes as the End” is a unique entry in Christie’s work, merging historical fiction with mystery. It’s fascinating to see her apply her trademark plotting skills to such a different setting.
Sparking Cyanide
Revisiting the setting of an earlier novel, “Sparking Cyanide” revolves around a deadly dinner party. The revisitation of the theme of poison at a gathering is well-executed, and the character development is particularly strong here.
1946-1947 – Classic Christie
The Hollow
In “The Hollow,” Christie crafts a complex emotional landscape within a seemingly straightforward country house murder. The characters are deeply developed, making the ultimate revelation more impactful.
The Labours of Hercules
This collection of short stories has Poirot tackling cases that echo the ancient Greek myths of Hercules. It’s an amusing conceit that allows Christie to have a bit of thematic fun with Poirot’s cases.
1948-1949 High Stakes and Twisted Plots
Taken at the Flood
Another post-war setting, “Taken at the Flood” delves into a family’s dark secrets being unearthed after the war. It’s dense with plot and has a slightly darker tone than typical for Christie.
Witness for the Prosecution
Originally a play, this story shines with its dramatic court scenes and a twist that is one of Christie’s most famous. “Witness for the Prosecution” is a must-read for its brilliant dialogue and courtroom drama.
Crooked House
In “Crooked House,” a twisted family drama unfolds around the murder of a wealthy patriarch. This standalone novel is often noted for its surprising ending, and it remains one of Christie’s most admired works for its bold plot twist.
1950 – A Murder is Announced & Three Blind Mice
1950 introduced “A Murder is Announced,” where Miss Marple solves a crime that begins with a newspaper announcement—an innovative hook that delivers a classic Marple mystery. “Three Blind Mice,” meanwhile, became famous as the radio play and then the stage play “The Mousetrap,” the longest-running play in history.
1951 – They Came to Baghdad & The Under Dog
1951’s “They Came to Baghdad” veers into adventure-spy territory, showcasing Christie’s flair for exotic locales and espionage. “The Under Dog” collects lesser-known Poirot short stories, which, while not groundbreaking, offer satisfying puzzles for hardcore fans.
1952 – Mrs. McGinty’s Dead & They Do It with Mirrors
Mrs. McGinty’s Dead
This novel is a quintessential Poirot mystery, where he delves into the seemingly mundane murder of a charwoman that turns out to be anything but simple. The charm of “Mrs. McGinty’s Dead” lies in its exploration of the past lives of seemingly ordinary villagers. It’s classic Christie, delivering a satisfying puzzle.
They Do It with Mirrors
Featuring Miss Marple, “They Do It with Mirrors” uses a clever metaphor that’s reflected in its plot structure. Set in a rehabilitation home for delinquent boys, the story mixes a social mission with mystery, which results in a layered narrative. It’s an intriguing setup, though not the strongest Marple mystery.
1953 – After the Funeral & A Pocket Full of Rye
After the Funeral
In “After the Funeral,” the reading of a will leads to a family gathering where accusations of murder are thrown. Poirot is brilliant here, uncovering long-buried family secrets with astute observations that lead to a dramatic revelation.
A Pocket Full of Rye
This novel sees Miss Marple solving a murder with clues straight out of a nursery rhyme. It’s cleverly plotted, with Marple at her best, using her deep understanding of human nature to solve the crime. The nursery rhyme connection adds a delightful twist to the narrative.
1954 – Destination Unknown
In “Destination Unknown,” Christie takes a detour into the realm of espionage rather than pure mystery. It’s a thrilling read but lacks the intricate plotting typical of her detective stories. Still, it’s a refreshing change that showcases her versatility.
1955 – Hickory Dickory Dock
A unique Poirot mystery set in a student hostel, “Hickory Dickory Dock” delves into the microcosm of post-war youth culture. The setting is modern and offers a different societal view, making it a standout in terms of context within her work.
1956 – Dead Man’s Folly
Featuring a murder hunt that becomes a real murder, “Dead Man’s Folly” sees Poirot summoned by Ariadne Oliver, a recurring character based loosely on Christie herself. The self-referential nature and the classic country house setting make it a fan favorite.
1957 – 4.50 from Paddington
A fantastic Miss Marple mystery where she solves a crime that only she believes happened, thanks to a story from a friend who witnessed a murder from a passing train. It’s ingenious, with Marple using her network of old ladies to uncover the truth.
1958 – Ordeal by Innocence
Considered one of Christie’s best works in terms of psychological depth, “Ordeal by Innocence” questions the impact of wrongful accusations on a family. The intense exploration of guilt and familial obligation adds a darker tone to her usual plotting.
1959 – Cat Among the Pigeons
Set in an exclusive girls’ boarding school, “Cat Among the Pigeons” mixes murder with international espionage, creating a compelling narrative that keeps you guessing. It’s one of Christie’s more ambitious plots, incorporating broader political themes.
1960 – The Adventure of the Christmas Pudding
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This charming holiday collection features Poirot solving minor crimes and mysteries, including recovering a stolen ruby during Christmas. It’s light and enjoyable, perfect for the festive season.
1961 – The Pale Horse & Double Sin
“The Pale Horse” involves a series of murders seemingly caused by witchcraft, offering a chilling mystery that combines the supernatural with Christie’s razor-sharp plotting. “Double Sin” is a collection of short stories that showcase Christie’s ability to deliver concise and impactful mysteries.
Agatha Christie’s Final Novels
1962 – The Mirror Crack’d from Side to Side
This Miss Marple mystery is set in the familiar St. Mary Mead, which has undergone changes reflective of the evolving modern world. The story, inspired by a real-life tragedy of a Hollywood actress, combines societal commentary with a compelling whodunit.
Personally, I find the mix of old village charm and the intrusion of celebrity culture brilliantly executed, making it one of my favorite later Marples.
1963 – The Clocks
Featuring Hercule Poirot, albeit in a more advisory role, “The Clocks” has an intriguing premise involving multiple clocks as a clue to a murder. The setup is intriguing, but the resolution feels somewhat tangled. For me, it wasn’t as tight as Christie’s usual work, though it’s enjoyable for its classic espionage undertones.
1964 – A Caribbean Mystery
Miss Marple takes a vacation in the Caribbean, but of course, she gets drawn into a murder investigation. The setting is a refreshing change, and Marple shines as she untangles the threads of an old crime to solve a new one.
I adore how Christie manages to keep Marple sharp as ever against such a vibrant backdrop.
1965 – At Bertram’s Hotel
Miss Marple visits a hotel that perfectly preserves the Edwardian era, only to find that this façade masks sinister underpinnings. “At Bertram’s Hotel” blends nostalgia with a critique of surface appearances. It’s a delightful read, though some might find the plot moves slower compared to her more action-driven mysteries.
1966 – Third Girl
“Third Girl” features a young woman who believes she may be a murderer, seeking Poirot’s help. This novel reflects more contemporary (for the 60s) themes and settings, and while Poirot remains his usual astute self, the story feels a bit disjointed at times. Nevertheless, it’s a fascinating look at generational gaps and changing societal norms.
1967 – Endless Night
One of Christie’s personal favorites, and mine as well, “Endless Night” is different from her usual puzzle mysteries. It’s more of a psychological thriller with a slow build-up and a chilling climax. The less traditional structure and darker tone make it stand out sharply in her body of work.
1968 – By the Pricking of My Thumbs
Tommy and Tuppence return in this novel, where a chance encounter at a nursing home leads to a spine-tingling adventure involving a possible serial killer. It’s a thrilling ride, though the plot can feel convoluted. However, the chemistry between the aging but still adventurous couple is a treat.
1969 – Hallowe’en Party
A murder at a Halloween party calls Poirot to investigate dark secrets hidden in an apparently tranquil village. The atmosphere is perfectly spooky, and the plot twists are classic Christie. “Hallowe’en Party” successfully captures the essence of uncovering past sins that haunt the present.
1970 – Passenger to Frankfurt
An espionage thriller that veers into the territory of global conspiracies, “Passenger to Frankfurt” is often considered one of Christie’s less successful experiments. The plot is ambitious, but arguably, it spreads too thin and lacks the intimate, meticulous setup of her best works. I found it a challenging read, though interesting for its historical context during the Cold War.
1971 – Nemesis & The Golden Ball
“Nemesis” gives us Miss Marple in her final adventure, where she’s bequeathed a task that makes her revisit an old unsolved case. It’s a fitting and beautifully crafted finale for Marple, combining a reflective tone with a satisfying resolution.
“The Golden Ball and Other Stories” is a collection of lighter, romantic tales that diverge from her typical mystery genre. While they are enjoyable, they don’t pack the same punch as her iconic mysteries.
1972 – Elephants Can Remember
“Elephants Can Remember” revolves around Hercule Poirot and the novelist Ariadne Oliver delving into a decades-old double suicide—or was it murder? This story excels in exploring the theme of memory and how different perspectives can alter the truth of the past.
While not as tightly woven as her earlier mysteries, this book is poignant in its reflection on the past, making it a memorable read.
1973 – Postern of Fate
Tommy and Tuppence return in their final adventure, “Postern of Fate.” They discover an old book with a hidden message that leads them on a quest to solve a long-forgotten spy case.
While the premise is intriguing, the execution is somewhat disjointed, likely due to Christie’s health during this period. However, the enduring charm of Tommy and Tuppence still shines through, capturing their lifelong partnership in detection.
1974 – Poirot’s Early Cases
“Poirot’s Early Cases” is a collection of short stories that feature a younger Poirot solving various mysteries. These tales are brisk and entertaining, showcasing Poirot’s sharp intellect and attention to detail. It’s a delightful journey back to his earlier days, and each story is a perfect little gem of puzzle-solving.
1975 – Curtain: Poirot’s Last Case
“Curtain” marks Hercule Poirot’s dramatic and poignant finale. Returning to Styles, where readers first met him, Poirot tackles his final case involving a cunning murderer who has managed to remain undetected.
The story is beautifully crafted, with an air of finality and melancholy that suits the ending of such a legendary character’s career. It’s a profound goodbye to Poirot, filled with nostalgia and a fitting conclusion to his brilliant detective work.
1976 – Sleeping Murder
Miss Marple’s last case, “Sleeping Murder,” was written during the same period as “Curtain” but published later. It features Miss Marple helping a young woman who discovers her new home may have been the setting for a murder.
1979 – Miss Marple’s Final Cases
This collection of short stories includes some not featuring Miss Marple but still presents Christie’s talent for concise and engaging storytelling. The stories vary in setting and tone, offering a broad look at Christie’s range. “Miss Marple’s Final Cases” serves as a gentle reminder of her versatility and enduring appeal.
1991 – Problem at Pollensa Bay
“Problem at Pollensa Bay” is another collection of short stories, published posthumously. These stories, written earlier in Christie’s career, vary from the charming to the intriguing, with each providing a quick, satisfying puzzle.
The title story is particularly enjoyable, featuring Parker Pyne in a beautifully described Mallorcan setting.
1997 – The Harlequin Tea Set and While the Light Lasts
Another posthumous collection, “The Harlequin Tea Set,” offers a mix of romance, mystery, and the supernatural. The title story is a standout, with its slightly eerie and whimsical tone. “While the Light Lasts” includes a collection of early stories that reveal Christie’s growth as a storyteller.
These stories provide a fascinating insight into her development, showing rawer, sometimes grittier edges to her usual polished narratives.
Closing Thoughts
Reading these stories, one can’t help but appreciate the depth and breadth of Christie’s imagination, her ability to craft compelling narratives that stood the test of time, and her profound impact on the mystery genre.
