10 Must-Read Novels by Agatha Christie

Dive into the gripping world of Agatha Christie’s finest mysteries. Here are list of 10 Must-Read Novels by Agatha Christie. From Hercule Poirot’s ingenious deductions to Miss Marple’s astute investigations, explore thrilling plots and unexpected twists that have enthralled readers for generations.

“Murder on the Orient Express” (1934)

Set aboard the opulent Orient Express, Agatha Christie’s “Murder on the Orient Express” unfolds as Hercule Poirot investigates a perplexing homicide. Amidst a snow-trapped train, an American tycoon is found slain, each passenger entwined in the tangled web of motives and secrets. Poirot’s astute deductions unearth unexpected connections, leading to a resolution where justice takes an unforeseen, collective form. The confined setting intensifies the suspense, culminating in a conclusion that challenges conventional notions of right and wrong.

“And Then There Were None” (1939)

In Agatha Christie’s gripping tale, ten strangers gather on an isolated island, each carrying a dark secret. As the guests mysteriously start dying one by one, suspicion and fear escalate. Cut off from the mainland, they realize the killer is among them. With a chilling nursery rhyme dictating their fate, the tension mounts, driving the survivors to confront their guilt and race against time to uncover the murderer before none are left alive.

“The Murder of Roger Ackroyd” (1926)

In Agatha Christie’s “The Murder of Roger Ackroyd” (1926), a wealthy man’s death in a quaint village sets the stage for Hercule Poirot’s investigation. Narrated by Dr. James Sheppard, the story unfolds with surprising twists, challenging conventional mystery tropes. Poirot’s involvement uncovers a labyrinth of secrets among the household, including hidden relationships and motives, culminating in an unexpected revelation that redefines the essence of the murder mystery genre.

“Death on the Nile” (1937)

Set amidst the captivating backdrop of a Nile River cruise, “Death on the Nile” unveils the murder of wealthy heiress Linnet Ridgeway. Hercule Poirot, aboard the ship, confronts a labyrinth of secrets and motivations among the passengers. Romantic entanglements and financial disputes intertwine, leading Poirot to sift through intricate relationships and hidden animosities in his quest to expose the true identity of the killer lurking amidst the luxurious setting of the cruise.

“The A.B.C. Murders” (1936)

A serial killer taunts Hercule Poirot by sending letters foretelling murders in alphabetical order, baffling authorities. Poirot, aided by his friend Hastings, pursues the cunning murderer across England. As the baffling pattern unfolds, Poirot’s methodical approach and sharp insight into human psychology unearth the intricate scheme behind the seemingly random killings, leading to a surprising climax that challenges both Poirot’s deductive prowess and the reader’s expectations.

“A Murder is Announced” (1950)

In the quaint village of Chipping Cleghorn, an unexpected announcement in the local paper foretells a murder at Letitia Blacklock’s residence. Curiosity brings a group of intrigued locals together, only for an actual murder to transpire as per the announcement. Miss Marple, armed with her perceptive insights into human behavior, dives into the intricate web of secrets, hidden motives, and complex identities, skillfully unraveling the truth behind the unexpected and cryptic announcement-turned-reality.

“The Mysterious Affair at Styles” (1920)

Set in an English country estate, “The Mysterious Affair at Styles” marks Hercule Poirot’s debut case. Poirot, a Belgian detective and a retired Belgian police officer, assists in solving the murder of wealthy Emily Inglethorp. He employs his unique method of deduction, analyzing clues and motives among family members and staff, ultimately unraveling the intricacies of the murder mystery, showcasing his brilliant investigative skills in this captivating tale of deception and intrigue.

“Five Little Pigs” (1942)

In “Five Little Pigs” by Agatha Christie, Hercule Poirot revisits a sixteen-year-old murder case at the request of a woman eager to clear her late mother’s name. Poirot interviews the five individuals present on the day of the crime, each providing their recollection of events. With meticulous analysis and a keen eye for details, Poirot unearths buried truths, revealing concealed motives and the surprising reality behind the long-past tragedy.

“The Body in the Library” (1942)

In Agatha Christie’s “The Body in the Library,” Miss Marple is drawn into a perplexing case when a young woman’s corpse is discovered in the Bantrys’ library. As the investigation unfolds, Miss Marple keenly observes the residents of the household and visitors, unraveling hidden secrets and motives concealed behind a facade of respectability. Her astute analysis of human behavior and clever deductions lead her to expose the truth behind the puzzling murder, resolving the enigmatic circumstances surrounding the victim’s death.

“Evil Under the Sun” (1941)

Set against a stunning seaside backdrop, “Evil Under the Sun” unravels as Hercule Poirot finds himself entangled in a murder case involving actress Arlena Marshall. Amidst a web of deceit and hidden motives among the guests at the island resort, Poirot employs his razor-sharp intellect to uncover the truth behind the heinous crime. The secluded location intensifies suspicion, offering multiple suspects and challenging Poirot’s deductive skills to solve the intricacies of the murder.

Also Read: Agatha Christie Biography | Life | Books | Movies and Facts