Wednesday, September 12, 2007

Two by Agatha Christie

Thirteen at Dinner

This story was a little disappointing. I’d already guessed the identity of the criminal even before the murder was committed. I kept hoping I was wrong, but no. It’s an interesting story with many twists in plot…but not exactly subtle.

The ABC Murders

Most of the Hercule Poirot mysteries are written in the first person, narrated by the sleuth’s friend Hastings. This is no exception; however, there’s a twist: interspersed throughout the narrative are short sections written in the third person. I did not care for this at first—I, like Poirot, enjoy consistency of style. It was not until the end of the story that I glimpsed a possible reason for Christie’s decision. I cannot reveal my guess, however, without giving away the solution to the mystery. Suffice it to say that I was led down the proverbial path. It’s a good thing I don’t read mysteries in order to feel smart!

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