Hailed as the “Queen of Crime,” Agatha Christie boldly challenged the human complexities in her stories.
She effortlessly merged mystery, suspense, and drama, crafting characters who navigated numerous plot twists skillfully.
Be it the clever Hercule Poirot or the keen Miss Marple, her characters jump from the page into our imaginations. Curious about her standout tales?
Join us as we explore Agatha Christie’s best works. Remember, each page is a hidden clue awaiting your detective’s eye!
Best Agatha Christie Books
• Reader’s Choice: And Then There Were None
• Most Underrated: Crooked House
• Editor’s Choice: Curtain
1. And Then There Were None
This book will transport you to Soldier Island, where ten strangers, all with a guilty secret, are lured under different pretenses. Soon after arrival, a mysterious voice accuses each of them of a crime they’ve escaped justice for.
As the hours unfold, one by one, they face their doom, mirroring the verses of a nursery rhyme that seems to mock their desperate situation. Who is behind these sinister games?
As you dive deeper, you’re a detective, a suspect, and a potential victim. This is a story that will make you reflect on human nature and the gray areas of morality. If you are new to the world of Agatha Christie, this one’s a crown jewel.
What you might love:
- The remote island setting creates a palpable sense of suspense and isolation, enhancing the story’s mood.
- Each of the ten individuals has a rich backstory, making them multifaceted and intriguing.
- Beyond just a mystery, the book delves into the psyche of its characters, providing a profound look into human nature.
What might not be for everyone:
- Written in the 1930s, some language and societal views are dated and might not sit well with modern readers.
- There are ten main characters, and it can be a bit challenging initially to keep track of everyone and their backgrounds.
- The story is undeniably dark, dealing with themes of guilt, judgment, and mortality, which might be heavy for some.
2. Murder on the Orient Express — Hercule Poirot #10
Set aboard the luxurious Orient Express, the story takes off when a passenger is murdered in his locked sleeping car. Among the passengers is our famed detective, Hercule Poirot.
Poirot anticipates a calm journey, but fate calls on his skills urgently. Stranded in a blizzard, he must solve the mystery before the killer strikes again.
This book stands out in Christie’s collection due to its surprising ending. It’ll catch you off guard, challenging traditional detective fiction norms and testing your moral compass.
And if you’ve never met Hercule Poirot before, you’re in for a treat. His meticulous methods and charismatic charm will make you an instant fan!
What you might love:
- Characters hail from various backgrounds and nationalities, making every interaction layered and intriguing.
- Conversations between characters are sharp, revealing, and sometimes humorous, driving the plot while offering character insights.
- Through interviews with each passenger, readers get a multifaceted view of the crime.
What might not be for everyone:
- The novel is set in the 1930s, and its pacing reflects a bygone era, which might not appeal to those who prefer contemporary settings.
- The entire story unfolds in the confined space of a train, which might feel claustrophobic or limiting to some.
- Hercule Poirot, with his self-assuredness and grand claims about his “little grey cells”, might come off as arrogant to some.
3. The Murder of Roger Ackroyd — Hercule Poirot #4
This story is set in the quiet village of King’s Abbot, where everything’s normal until a wealthy widower, Roger Ackroyd, is found murdered in his study. The list of suspects? Nearly everyone he knew.
With rumors, secrets, and scandals lurking around every corner, who can you trust? Enter Hercule Poirot, the detective genius. As he solves the mystery, you’ll find yourself doubting everything and everyone.
And just when you think you have it all figured out, Christie throws in a twist that has left readers gasping for almost a century.
If you’re eager to challenge your detective skills and experience a story that broke all the rules, this is your book!
What you might love:
- The story is narrated by Dr. Sheppard, a seemingly trustworthy voice, making it intimate.
- Every character is multifaceted, harboring secrets and potential motives that add layers to the mystery.
- The novel’s beauty is in its details—tiny observations and throwaway comments that gain significance as the story progresses.
What might not be for everyone:
- The dialogue, true to its time, might come off as formal or stiff to modern readers.
- Despite being a Poirot mystery, the detective doesn’t appear immediately, which might disappoint die-hard Poirot fans.
- Those new to the mystery genre might struggle with the conventions and pacing that seasoned readers expect and enjoy.
4. Death on the Nile — Hercule Poirot #18
Ever thought a serene river cruise could harbor deadly secrets? Set in enchanting Egypt, this story unfolds on a Nile cruise ship where wealthy heiress Linnet Ridgeway is mysteriously killed.
With a boat full of potential culprits, who’s the murderer? Thankfully, Detective Hercule Poirot is present. Using his sharp wit and keen instincts, he aims to solve the mystery.
Christie’s portrayal of twisted love and the extreme steps taken out of jealousy reveals her deep grasp of human nature. The vibrant setting and compelling characters truly bring this story to life.
If a blend of travel and mystery sounds right up your alley, “Death on the Nile” should be your next read.
"I think human beings matter more than stones." "But they do not endure as well."
What you might love:
- Beneath the murder mystery, the novel delves into themes of love, betrayal, and obsession.
- The story builds steadily, keeping the reader hooked from the first page to the last.
- Aspects of both British and Egyptian societies of the era offer readers a rich cultural experience.
What might not be for everyone:
- While Christie is known for her meticulous plotting, some might feel the build-up is a tad slow before the central mystery takes off.
- Not everyone enjoys romance mixed with mystery, and the love triangle central to this story might not appeal to pure mystery aficionados.
5. The Murder at the Vicarage — Miss Marple Mysteries #1
St. Mary Mead is a place where everyone knows everyone. Yet, when Colonel Protheroe is discovered dead, trust becomes a luxury.
As suspicions rise, Miss Marple, a keen-eyed elderly lady, proves that age is no barrier to solving crimes. As you flip through, her deductions will both surprise and intrigue you.
Moreover, this book is the birthplace of Miss Marple, one of Christie’s most endearing detectives. Through her, we see that appearances can be deceiving, revealing that even the most unassuming places can hide deep secrets.
What you might love:
- The characters in ‘The Murder at the Vicarage’ are well-rounded, boasting complex personalities that add depth to the story.
- Despite the societal expectations of her time, Miss Marple is unapologetically sharp, independent, and observant, making her a feminist icon.
- There are side mysteries, secrets, and scandals that will keep you engaged throughout.
What might not be for everyone:
- The quaint English village setting might not appeal to those looking for more exotic or urban mysteries.
- The story relies on human observation and deduction rather than modern forensic techniques, which differs from contemporary crime novels.
6. The A.B.C. Murders — Hercule Poirot #13
Imagine a murderer who turns the alphabet into a lethal weapon.
Step into the shoes of Hercule Poirot, who finds himself outwitted by an anonymous letter signed “A.B.C.” From Alice Ascher in Andover to others, murders fall in a chilling alphabetic sequence.
In “The A.B.C. Murders,” Christie plays with the reader’s mind. Instead of her usual closed circle of suspects, we get an entire nation in panic. The suspense is not just in the identity of the killer but in the pattern he’ll follow next.
If you are looking for a mystery that redefines the genre, “The A.B.C. Murders” awaits. Join Poirot as he navigates this unique puzzle, one letter at a time.
What you might love:
- Christie uses a mix of third-person narrative and first-person diary entries, giving readers varied perspectives.
- The range of characters, from victims to suspects, is varied and well-developed.
- Christie subtly touches upon societal issues of the time, including the effects of war on individuals, adding depth.
What might not be for everyone:
- Readers seeking a romantic subplot won’t find a strong one here, which might be disappointing for those who enjoy such layers in a mystery.
- The deep dives into psychology and Poirot’s methodical breakdowns might feel tedious for readers who prefer action-packed sequences.
7. The Murder on the Links — Hercule Poirot #2
Golf courses are usually for peaceful games, right? But what if the fairways hide a dark secret? “The Murder on the Links” mixes leisurely sport with cold-blooded murder.
As Hercule Poirot prepares to swing his golf club, a cry for help interrupts. Before you know it, a millionaire lies dead on the golf course, and Poirot faces one of his most baffling cases.
More than the murder mystery, the plot is filled with jealousy, desperation, and hidden pasts. Poirot’s sharp mind and Hastings’ flawed perspective deepen their bond, adding a unique charm to the narrative.
Why should this be your next read? It’s a timeless blend of suspense and style, characteristic of Christie’s golden era, that stands the test of time.
What you might love:
- Beyond the mystery, the novel delves into deeper themes like love, betrayal, and honor, making it more than a detective story.
- There’s a lot of misdirection that even seasoned mystery readers might not see coming.
- The introduction of a rival detective offers a fresh challenge to Poirot’s methods and adds an extra layer of tension.
What might not be for everyone:
- Some of the French phrases and terms aren’t translated, which might be confusing for readers unfamiliar with the language.
- Written in the 1920s, some societal attitudes and opinions can feel outdated to modern readers.
8. The Mysterious Affair at Styles — Hercule Poirot #1
This book serves as a perfect introduction to the genius detective Hercule Poirot. Set in the heart of the English countryside, Styles Court holds more secrets than it appears.
With the sudden death of Emily Inglethorp, whispers of murder echo through its corridors. Poirot, with his unmatched observation and wit, steps onto the scene.
There’s something special about a writer’s first significant work, and this book is no exception. It introduces us to Poirot and sets the tone for many mysteries.
As you navigate this tale, expect red herrings and shifting suspicions. Join the detective as he pieces together a puzzle that’s as mesmerizing today as it was nearly a century ago.
What you might love:
- Written just after World War I, it provides insights into post-war English society, giving it historical significance.
- The novel is like a jigsaw puzzle, where every detail matters, rewarding attentive readers.
- The wide range of characters ensures readers have someone to root for or suspect.
What might not be for everyone:
- As Christie’s first novel, some might find her writing style less polished than in her later works.
- The novel contains references and terminologies that might seem outdated to the modern reader.
- The multiple narratives can be confusing to some readers, making it hard to keep track of the story.
9. Crooked House
Set in the grand mansion, teeming with family secrets and hidden motives. This book will draw you into a household where everyone, mysteriously, has something to hide.
After wealthy Aristide Leonides dies suddenly, the family suspects murder within. Everyone seems to have a motive. But who could it be? Was it the young wife, an unhappy son, or someone else close to him?
“Crooked House” stands apart in Christie’s works as she herself considered it one of her best works. Its sharp plot, twists, and memorable characters showcase her narrative talent.
Want to plunge into a world where family ties are tested and trust is a rare thing? Crooked House might just be the book that you need.
What you might love:
- Unlike many of Christie’s works, this isn’t part of a series, offering a fresh set of characters and a unique plotline.
- Alongside the murder plot, there’s a romantic storyline, adding another dimension to the tale.
- Christie delivers one of her most shocking endings, which many fans regard as one of her best.
What might not be for everyone:
- The book delves into more somber familial themes, which can be heavier than some of Christie’s other works.
- Some might find certain character motivations to be too complex or unrealistic.
- The story deals with some mature elements that may not be suitable for younger readers or those seeking a lighter mystery.
10. The Secret Adversary
The Secret Adversary blends mystery and adventure, introducing you to Tommy and Tuppence, young adventurers who start a business to take on any legal task for a fee.
It seems like a playful venture until they’re swept into a storm of espionage, kidnapping, and political conspiracy.
Their mission? Locate the elusive Jane Finn, who disappeared with critical government documents, threatening England’s safety if misused.
The charm of this story lies in Tommy and Tuppence’s chemistry. They are youthful and spirited, and their banter, bravery, and camaraderie make the tale captivating.
What you might love:
- The dialogues, especially between the lead pair, are sharp, playful, and often humorous.
- The novel delves into the world of espionage and political intrigue, adding an extra layer of excitement.
- Tuppence’s assertiveness and resourcefulness, in an era where women were still fighting for many rights, are inspiring and enjoyable to read.
What might not be for everyone:
- Those seeking a straight-up mystery might find the romantic subplot between Tommy and Tuppence distracting.
- The light-hearted and sometimes comedic elements might not appeal to those who prefer their mysteries dark and serious.
11. Peril at End House — Hercule Poirot #8
At Peril at End House, you’ll immediately be swept into a world of suspense as you follow the story of Nick, a woman living in a house where someone’s trying to murder her.
Fueled by Poirot’s cleverness, the story unfolds. He jumps right into the mystery list of suspects. Every clue, every character, and every twist Christie introduces is a challenge to your detective senses.
It’s a thrilling read, devoid of gruesome violence yet brimming with suspense. The overall feel of the book is classic Christie—ingenious, unpredictable, yet completely logical.
What you might love:
- The novel delves into human emotions, desires, and motivations.
- The numerous misdirections will challenge even the most avid mystery enthusiasts, making the eventual reveal all the more satisfying.
- The dynamic between Poirot and his loyal friend, Captain Hastings, is always delightful, and their banter adds a layer of warmth to the story.
What might not be for everyone:
- Parts of the novel can be considered slow-paced, which might not sit well with those expecting a rapid-fire detective story.
- Portraying gender roles reflective of the times might put off some modern readers.
12. Five Little Pigs — Hercule Poirot #25
In ‘Five Little Pigs’, you’re thrust into a tale of past murder and timeless mystery.
Here’s the scene: An old crime, a painter murdered, and his wife, Caroline Crale, accused and convicted. Sixteen years later, her daughter is adamant: her mother is innocent. Who does she turn to? The legendary detective—Hercule Poirot.
Five accounts from five people, each like a piece of a jigsaw puzzle. But here’s the catch – memories warp with time, colored by emotions and personal biases
Five Little Pigs delves deep into the mind and the unreliability of memory. Want a book that challenges your views on the past? This is it.
What you might love:
- As this book isn’t part of a series, it offers a fresh set of characters and a unique plotline.
- Delves into deeper, darker themes of familial relationships, making it more intense than some of her other works.
- Though written decades ago, the emotional dynamics, suspense, and central mystery remain universally relatable.
What might not be for everyone:
- The book takes its time to set up the scene and characters.
- Some might find the moral lessons or the black-and-white depiction of right and wrong too pronounced or simplistic.
13. The Body in the Library — Miss Marple Mysteries #2
Colonel and Mrs. Bantry wake up to shocking news—a young woman’s body is found in their home library. But who is she? And how did she end up there? Enter our unassuming detective, the brilliant Miss Marple.
With Christie’s classic touch, this story will take you on twists, turns, and clever observations. As you follow Miss Marple’s deductions, you’ll appreciate the simplicity yet depth of the narrative.
In the lineup of Christie’s best, this book holds its own. If you’re looking for a straightforward yet captivating mystery, here’s your read and see where the clues lead.
What you might love:
- It touches on issues of class, relationships, and the masks people wear in society.
- From the enigmatic victim to the multifaceted suspects, each character is painted vividly.
- The book explored human psychology, revealing intricate motives behind actions and the complexities of human nature.
What might not be for everyone:
- The English village setting, so common in Christie’s novels, might feel repetitive to some.
- The narrative follows a straight line without many subplots, which some might find plain.
14. A Murder is Announced — Miss Marple Mysteries #4
In the cozy village of Chipping Cleghorn, residents find an odd advertisement in the local gazette: a murder will occur at Little Paddocks at 6:30 PM. Sounds like a quirky party game, must be someone’s idea of a dark joke, right?
But, as the community gathers to witness the “event,” darkness falls, shots fire, and fiction becomes a frightening reality.
With a crime scene and no shortage of suspects, it’s a job for the observant Miss Marple. She taps into her deep understanding of human nature, piecing together clues others overlook to solve this mystery.
A Murder is Announced isn’t just about finding the culprit. This book also brilliantly captures the post-war changes in England, making it more than a mere mystery.
What you might love:
- From retirees to housemaids, the cast is diverse and meticulously crafted, each hiding their own secrets.
- Multiple subplots and mini-mysteries make the main plot’s resolution even more satisfying.
- There’s a subtle exploration of post-WWII English society, its changes, and the struggles of its people.
What might not be for everyone:
- The clues are often nuanced, requiring careful reading.
- Some British idioms or older terms might be confusing or feel out-of-place to non-British or younger readers.
15. Sleeping Murder — Miss Marple Mysteries #12
For Gwenda Reed, a new house was supposed to be a fresh start. But shadows of the past soon cloud her present. Haunting flashbacks of a crime that seems to have never occurred leave her perplexed.
Confused and scared, Gwenda turns to the only person who might help—the brilliant Miss Marple. With her unparalleled observational skills, Marple seeks to unearth a past shrouded in mystery and darkness.
“Sleeping Murder,” apart from its detective story, is also a journey into the human psyche, probing the shadows of our memories and the skeletons in our closets.
This is a reading experience that will show you that sometimes, the scariest ghosts are the ones lurking in our minds.
What you might love:
- In Christie’s last Miss Marple novel, there’s a sense of nostalgia and fondness for the beloved detective.
- Exploring suppressed memories and their impact is thought-provoking and adds depth to the mystery.
- The novel’s emphasis on intuition, especially Miss Marple’s, adds an intriguing layer to the process of solving the mystery.
What might not be for everyone:
- The eerie old home setting, a staple in many mysteries, might feel clichéd to some.
- The novel’s deep exploration of childhood trauma could be distressing for some readers.
16. A Pocket Full of Rye — Miss Marple Mysteries #6
When wealthy businessman Rex Fortescue dies mysteriously, the cause seems baffling. That is, until a handful of rye is found in his pocket, and deaths start mirroring the old nursery rhyme, “Sing a Song of Sixpence.”
Who else but Miss Marple to solve a mystery tied to childhood? With her sharp mind and keen observations, she steps in, peeling back the layers of a dysfunctional family with more secrets than they’d like to admit.
“A Pocket Full of Rye” is a story where innocence turns malevolent, and rhymes turn deadly. After all, with Christie, even child’s play isn’t as innocent as it seems!
What you might love:
- The narrative wastes no words, ensuring every chapter drives the story forward and keeps readers hooked.
- Beyond the mystery, there’s a subtle commentary on societal norms and expectations of the time.
- The sense of time and place is tangible, making readers feel as though they’ve stepped into another era.
What might not be for everyone:
- Unlike some modern thrillers, this story unfolds methodically, which could feel slow to those craving immediate action.
- Being a classic detective story, it follows a particular structure that modern readers might find a tad predictable.
17. Evil Under the Sun
Who said holidays were relaxing? In “Evil Under the Sun,” Christie proves that sometimes danger is just a beach towel away.
The Jolly Roger Hotel, with its waters and golden beaches, seems like a slice of heaven. But when the stunning Arlena Marshall is discovered lifeless under the sun, paradise suddenly feels more like a trap.
Enter Hercule Poirot. Vacationing might be his goal, but he’s never off duty when murder is afoot. As Poirot sifts through lies and alibis, you’ll be at the edge of your seat, trying to piece together the puzzle before he does.
This book explores human desires and the masks we wear. It also reminds you that behind each smile can hide a secret, and even a sun hat conceals a motive.
What you might love:
- The reasons behind the crime delve deep into human nature.
- The book delves into the darker aspects of love, jealousy, and desire, themes that are eternally relevant.
- The detective’s philosophical musings and witty remarks offer memorable quotes that fans often cherish.
What might not be for everyone:
- The novel is more about the psychology behind the crime than action, which might not be everyone’s cup of tea.
- For a Poirot novel, there are scenes in the narrative where he’s notably absent, which might disappoint his avid fans.
18. Hallowe’en Party — Hercule Poirot #36
Halloween usually means fun, frolic, and a little harmless spookiness. But in “Hallowe’en Party”, the chills are all too real.
When a young girl talks about having witnessed a murder, it’s dismissed as youthful exaggeration. Yet, by the end of the party, she’s found dead.
Summoned by the ever-insightful Ariadne Oliver, the master detective Hercule Poirot ventures into a town with deep-hidden secrets. Here, old wounds and shadows from the past prove a challenge even for the great detective.
As you flip the pages, the line between Halloween pranks and deadly intentions blur. So, as you settle down with this book, maybe keep the lights on. After all, with Christie, Halloween isn’t just for kids—it’s for killers, too!
What you might love:
- The characters’ sharp dialogues are both enlightening and entertaining.
- Beyond the main plot, the novel explores topics like childhood memories, the impact of gossip, and the idea that evil deeds can’t stay hidden forever.
- The village setting gives readers an intimate look at close community dynamics, where everyone seems to know everyone else’s business.
What might not be for everyone:
- This novel takes time to build the plot, which might test the patience of some.
- This novel dives into some heavy topics, including the murder of a child, which some readers may find distressing.
19. After the Funeral — Hercule Poirot #29
After an Abernethie family death is labeled natural, Aunt Cora’s claim at the funeral, “He was murdered, wasn’t he?” shocks everyone. The very next day, she’s found dead. Is it just a coincidence?
This book explores the tension of family secrets and deep resentments, making every family member a suspect. Imagine a grand house with hidden motives and a mystery to solve—classic Christie!
And guess who’s on the case? None other than Hercule Poirot, with his impeccable logic, dives into this puzzling family saga, unraveling layers of deception.
This is a story where family bonds can become the thing that entraps you. Surrounded by secrets in a grand home, you question who benefits or suffers. Because in this tale, trust is a luxury few can afford.
What you might love:
- Beyond the mystery, the novel delves into the family’s generational clashes.
- Each family member is uniquely crafted, with their own motives and secrets, adding layers to the narrative.
- Amidst the suspense, there are touching moments of reflection, grief, and understanding that lend depth to the story.
What might not be for everyone:
- Themes of inheritance, familial duty, and societal expectations might not appeal to those looking for a light read.
- The book, reflecting the times, sometimes delves into moral judgments that might seem out of place or overly traditional to today’s readers.
20. Curtain — Hercule Poirot #39
Ever wondered how a grand journey concludes? In “Curtain”, Agatha Christie presents the climactic end to Hercule Poirot’s brilliant detective career. And trust us, you won’t see it coming.
At Styles Court, where his journey started, an older Poirot calls Hastings to tackle a new mystery. Though aging, his mind remains sharp. Together, they confront a hidden killer in a tale of time, friendship, and sacrifice.
Why pick up “Curtain”? Because it’s Christie at her finest, bidding adieu to her most beloved creation.
As the curtain falls on Poirot’s journey, you’ll realize that every great story deserves an unforgettable finale.
What you might love:
- The story challenges readers to ponder ethical dilemmas, making it not just a mystery but also a thought-provoking read.
- The book goes deep into Poirot’s character, showing his vulnerabilities, determination, and ultimate dedication to justice.
- Knowing this is Poirot’s last case gives every moment added weight and significance, making it a memorable read for fans.
What might not be for everyone:
- The fact that this is Hercule Poirot’s final case can be quite emotional and unsettling for dedicated fans of the character.
- The conclusion challenges traditional ideas of justice and might leave some readers with more questions than answers.
21. Sparkling Cyanide
22. The Big Four — Hercule Poirot #5
23. N or M?
24. Ordeal by Innocence
25. Endless Night
26. By the Pricking of My Thumbs
27. The Mystery of the Blue Train — Hercule Poirot #6
28. Lord Edgware Dies — Hercule Poirot #9
29. Three Act Tragedy — Hercule Poirot #11
30. Death in the Clouds — Hercule Poirot #12
31. Murder in Mesopotamia — Hercule Poirot #14
32. Cards on the Table — Hercule Poirot #15
33. Dumb Witness — Hercule Poirot #16
34. At Bertram’s Hotel — Miss Marple Mysteries #10
35. Hercule Poirot’s Christmas — Hercule Poirot #20
36. One, Two, Buckle My Shoe — Hercule Poirot #22
37. Sad Cypress — Hercule Poirot #21
38. The Hollow — Hercule Poirot #25
39. Taken at the Flood — Hercule Poirot #27
40. Mrs. McGinty’s Dead — Hercule Poirot #28
41. The Sittaford Mystery
42. Dead Man’s Folly — Hercule Poirot #31
43. Cat Among the Pigeons — Hercule Poirot #32
44. The Clocks — Hercule Poirot #34
45. Third Girl — Hercule Poirot #35
46. Elephants Can Remember — Hercule Poirot #37
47. The Monogram Murders
48. The Moving Finger — Miss Marple Mysteries #3
49. They Do It with Mirrors — Miss Marple Mysteries #5
50. 4:50 From Paddington — Miss Marple Mysteries #7
Final Thoughts
Whether it’s a gathering in a grand mansion or a chilling tale on a stranded island, from cover to cover, Agatha Christie’s stories never disappoint.
After reading through her most brilliant works, it’s clear that her legacy is built on an unparalleled ability to explore the depths of the human psyche coupled with suspense and mystery.
Whether you’re an avid detective fiction fan or new to the genre, her books offer an unforgettable experience. Believe me, you’ll be connecting clues long after finishing the book!