The undisputed mystery and crime fiction queen, Agatha Christie has left an indelible mark on the literary world. With a career spanning over six decades, she crafted an extensive body of work, delighting readers with her ingenious plots, iconic characters, and impeccable storytelling. In this article, we will delve into the world of Agatha Christie books and unveil the best Agatha Christie books that continue to captivate readers worldwide.
Born on 15 th September 1890, Dame Agatha Mary Clarissa Christie Mallowan became the world’s most famous mystery writer and one of the best-selling novelists, of all time. Writing 75 novels- 66 detective novels and 14 short stories is no child’s play.
Agatha Christie is the perfect author for budding true crime or mystery thriller lovers. While reading her books, it’s not just the characters inside the universe investigating, but you as a reader do too. Confusing, misleading, only to hit you with the greatest plot twist of all times, that’s what the best Agatha Christie books are.
“She loved reading mysteries so much, she herself became one.” ~John Green
- “Murder on the Orient Express” (1934)
Let’s start our journey through the best Agatha Christie books with a classic – “Murder on the Orient Express.” This novel introduces readers to one of Christie’s most beloved characters, the brilliant Belgian detective, Hercule Poirot. Set aboard the luxurious Orient Express, the story unfolds as Poirot investigates a murder that takes place during a snowstorm. The intricate web of clues, multiple suspects, and a jaw-dropping resolution make this book an enduring masterpiece in the world of crime fiction. “Murder on the Orient Express” is a prime example of Agatha Christie’s skill at crafting intricate puzzles that keep readers guessing until the very end.
- “And Then There Were None” (1939)
“And Then There Were None” is a suspenseful and chilling masterpiece that remains one Agatha Christie’s most celebrated works. Ten strangers are invited to a remote island, each harboring a dark secret. As they start dying one by one, the tension and paranoia escalate, leaving readers in a state of suspense and bewilderment. Christie’s narrative prowess shines as she expertly weaves a tale of psychological torment and moral dilemma. The final reveal is nothing short of breathtaking, solidifying this book’s status as one of the best Agatha Christie books ever written.
- “The Murder of Roger Ackroyd” (1926)
No list of the best Agatha Christie books would be complete without “The Murder of Roger Ackroyd.” This novel marked a turning point in detective fiction, with its groundbreaking narrative technique. Narrated by Dr. James Sheppard, the story revolves around the murder of Roger Ackroyd, a wealthy widower. Hercule Poirot is called in to solve the case, and the ingenious twist at the end leaves readers in awe. Christie’s mastery of misdirection and her ability to manipulate the reader’s perspective make this book a true gem in the world of crime fiction.
- “Death on the Nile” (1937)
Set against the exotic backdrop of Egypt, “Death on the Nile” is another brilliant creation by Agatha Christie. Hercule Poirot finds himself on a luxurious cruise along the Nile River when a murder occurs on board. The intricate plot, the vividly drawn characters, and the stunning Egyptian setting combine to create a riveting tale of jealousy, greed, and betrayal. The intricate relationships and cleverly placed clues make this novel an unputdownable classic in the Agatha Christie canon.
- “The ABC Murders” (1936)
“The ABC Murders” showcases Agatha Christie’s mastery in creating complex and intriguing puzzles for her detective, Hercule Poirot, to solve. In this novel, Poirot receives a series of letters from a mysterious killer who announces his murders in alphabetical order. As the body count rises, Poirot races against time to decipher the killer’s pattern and prevent further bloodshed. The meticulous planning and execution of the murders, along with Poirot’s brilliant deduction skills, make “The ABC Murders” a standout in Christie’s vast bibliography.
- “A Murder is Announced” (1950)
“A Murder is Announced” introduces another beloved Christie character, Miss Marple, an astute elderly spinster with a knack for solving crimes. The book begins with an unusual announcement in the local newspaper: a murder is set to take place at Little Paddocks, a charming village house. Naturally, Miss Marple is drawn into the mystery, and as she pieces together the clues, she unravels a complex web of secrets and deception. With its clever plotting and memorable characters, “A Murder is Announced” is a testament to Agatha Christie’s ability to craft intricate mysteries that keep readers hooked.
- “The Body in the Library” (1942)
“The Body in the Library” is another brilliant Miss Marple mystery that showcases Agatha Christie’s talent for constructing a tightly woven plot. When the body of a young woman is found in the library of Colonel and Mrs. Bantry’s home, Miss Marple is called upon to help solve the case. As the investigation progresses, hidden motives and family secrets come to light. Christie’s ability to create a multitude of suspects and provide subtle clues makes this book a prime example of her storytelling prowess.
- “Evil Under the Sun” (1941)
“Evil Under the Sun” takes readers to the picturesque Jolly Roger Hotel on the English coast, where Hercule Poirot is on vacation. However, a murder soon disrupts his plans for relaxation. Christie’s intricate character studies and the idyllic seaside setting create an engaging backdrop for a complex murder investigation. Poirot’s sharp intellect is on full display as he navigates through a web of jealousy, greed, and hidden motives. “Evil Under the Sun” is a must-read for any Agatha Christie fan.
- “Five Little Pigs” (1942)
“Five Little Pigs” is a standout in Agatha Christie’s body of work due to its unique structure and intricate storytelling. Poirot is asked to reinvestigate a murder that occurred sixteen years earlier. The suspects include the five people who were present at the scene when the crime took place. Each of them provides their own account of the events, and it’s up to Poirot to sift through the testimonies and uncover the truth. Christie’s ability to craft a complex narrative and maintain suspense is on full display in this compelling tale of murder and deception.
- “The Secret Adversary” (1922)
“The Secret Adversary” is the first novel to feature Tommy and Tuppence, a charming and dynamic detective duo created by Agatha Christie. Set in the aftermath of World War I, the story follows the adventurous pair as they stumble upon a conspiracy that could have dire consequences for England. This book marks a departure from Christie’s more traditional mysteries and showcases her versatility as a writer. Tommy and Tuppence’s witty banter and daring escapades add a delightful dimension to this classic tale of espionage and intrigue.
Agatha Christie’s contribution to the world of literature is immeasurable, and her books continue to captivate readers of all ages. The best Agatha Christie books mentioned in this article are just a glimpse into her vast and impressive body of work. Whether you prefer the meticulous deductions of Hercule Poirot, the astute observations of Miss Marple, or the daring adventures of Tommy and Tuppence, Agatha Christie has something to offer every mystery enthusiast. Her timeless stories, intricate plots, and unforgettable characters ensure that her books will remain cherished classics for generations to come. So, if you’re looking to dive into the world of mystery and intrigue, pick up one of these best Agatha Christie books and prepare to be enthralled by the genius of the queen of crime fiction.
Probably meant to be that Christie and Mystery rhyme.