I haven’t always been an avid reader, but as a kid, the books I chose to read were always mysteries. Of course, I read popular books like Harry Potter, Rainbow Magic, and The Land of Stories, but my favorites were always books like Carolyn Keene’s Nancy Drew novels. When I was nine years old my best friend at the time and I watched Murder on the Orient Express, knowing that it was originally a book, but not knowing Agatha Christie, the author behind the masterpiece.
Christie’s first novel, The Mysterious Affair at Styles, is a classic mystery that introduces Belgian detective, Hercule Poirot. When the wealthy Emily Cavendish is found deceased in her manor, Poirot is tasked with investigating her untimely death. He becomes forced to rely on his sharp intellect to solve the complex case. Amidst the complexity of deceit that consumes Styles Place, Poirot is forced to rely on his observation skill to piece together the clues and uncover the truth. The story dives into the web of relationships in the Cavendish Manor, uncovering deep secrets, connections, and shocking motives. As Poirot slowly uncovers the mystery the reader is kept on their toes, never knowing where the book goes next. This book is a great introduction to the over eighty stories about Detective Hercule Poirot.
Agatha Christie’s The Mysterious Affair at Styles – Rubric Review
Writing Style (4.5/5):
Christie’s writing draws the reader further and further into the mystery. It is clear and easy to understand, and despite the twists and turns it is not overwhelming.
Character Development (4/5):
Throughout the series, Poirot develops as a character; nevertheless, in this novel, he seems flat. The series watches him grow as a person and detective, there isn’t so much change, in the first book. The other characters remain distinct, with easy to follow relationships.
Plot Complexity & Pacing (4.5/5):
As in some of Christie’s other works, the book starts a bit slow. However, once it gets going it becomes fast-paced. Christie incorporates red herrings and twists to keep the plot interesting and engaging.
Mystery & Suspense (5/5):
Christie has always been skilled at misdirection, and this book shows it, keeping the reader intrigued throughout the novel with her expertly crafted twists, as she gradually reveals clues to find the killer, creating a rewarding reveal to the reader.
Overall Enjoyment (4.5/5):
While this is not my favorite of Christie’s novels, it is an engaging introduction to not only Poirot but also Christie. The imperfections can be overlooked, to see the amazing work the author created as well as what she went on to create after.
Final Score: 4.5/5
The Mysterious Affair at Styles is a strong start to the very long Poirot series, showcasing Christie’s talent for suspense and deduction, her works are a must-read for all mystery lovers.
Christie went on to write 66 books and 14 short story collections before she died in 1976. The author is most known for And Then There Were None, Crooked House, and the 33 novels in her Hercule Peroit series.
I didn’t connect the movie I watched when I was nine to what would later become one of my favorite books until my freshman year when my English teacher recommended And Then There Were None to the class. I started the book at the end of the school year and fell in love. Reading the Poirot series has been a rollercoaster of emotions, from determination to finish them all to never wanting to put the book down, to counting how many I have left and just wanting to end because 33 books is a lot–and of course, there’s also 51 short stories.