If there’s anything I love better than historical fiction, it’s a good murder mystery. I love Agatha Christie’s books so much because they combine a trip into another era with clever plots. There are many other redoubtable mystery writers out there, but Christie feels like an old friend to me. I always reach for her books when I need a little escapism.
Christie was a prolific writer, which might leave those new to her writings a little overwhelmed with choice. I’ve rounded up my top three from Christie’s list to get you started on your murder mystery journey.
The ABC Murders
The ABC Murders has a special place in my heart, as one of the first books I read from this author. This is a great introduction to Christie, with an intriguing murder, skillfully solve by the famous Hercule Poirot. You don’t need any previous knowledge of the characters in this story. You’ll love the traveling back to a time when the British aristocracy still had manor houses and went to Ascot religiously.
Death on the Nile
Ah, this book. You could enjoy this just for the trip to another country and another time. Floating down the Nile on a 1920s pleasure cruise is enjoyable reading by itself. But throw in a murder, a mystery and a dash of true love and you’ve got an absolute winner. I highly recommend this for a light read while sunning at the beach, or to warm up a cold winter’s night with images of warmer climes.
The Murder at the Vicarage
While the previous two books feature Hercule Poirot, The Murder at the Vicarage is from the Miss Marple collection. This mystery takes place in a little village among ordinary people, giving you a sense of Christie’s versatility: it isn’t all distant lands and wealthy aristocrats. Sweet Miss Marple is a joy to follow as she appears to bumble her way into the gory business, only to shrewdly break the case and only just in time!
Once you’ve read these three, I’m sure you’ll be hungry for more of this great author. If you’ve already gotten into Christie, which is your favourite? Would you change any of the three I’ve listed here? Let me know in the comments.
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