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Szerelmi bűnügyek
A szerelem furcsa dolgokra képes. Néha a legjobbat, olykor pedig a legrosszabbat hozza ki belőlünk. Agatha Christie, az emberi lélek páratlan ismerője e kötet novelláiban is mesterien fonja szerelmi bűnügyeinek szálait. Kedvenc detektíveinkkel meglepő helyszíneken találkozhatunk - Mr. Satterthwaite az operába látogat Mr. Harley Quinnel, Parker Pyne hajókázik (de ez egy másik halál a Níluson!), Poirot vidéken időzik, és a darázsfészkek kiirtásának módjait tanulmányozza, Miss Marple egy falusi szerelmi gyilkosságot old meg, Tommy és Tuppence egy apróhirdetés nyomán bálba megy. Megtudhatjuk, miért fontos a bridzsben a treff király, hogy mit nem bocsát meg soha egy máskülönben elnéző feleség, és hogy mihez kezdhet a millióival egy életunt gazdag hölgy.
Ez a kötet csupa-csupa szerelem és szenvedély...
De a szerelem néha sötét, és nem mindig boldogít. És ezt a krimi királynőjénél senki sem tudta jobban.
Ez a kötet csupa-csupa szerelem és szenvedély...
De a szerelem néha sötét, és nem mindig boldogít. És ezt a krimi királynőjénél senki sem tudta jobban.
294 pages, Hardcover
First published January 4, 2022
853 people are currently reading
15998 people want to read
About the author
Agatha Christie
5,792 books74.9k followersAgatha Christie also wrote romance novels under the pseudonym Mary Westmacott, and was occasionally published under the name Agatha Christie Mallowan.
Dame Agatha Mary Clarissa Christie, Lady Mallowan, DBE (née Miller) was an English writer known for her 66 detective novels and 14 short story collections, particularly those revolving around fictional detectives Hercule Poirot and Miss Marple. She also wrote the world's longest-running play, the murder mystery The Mousetrap, which has been performed in the West End of London since 1952. A writer during the "Golden Age of Detective Fiction", Christie has been called the "Queen of Crime". She also wrote six novels under the pseudonym Mary Westmacott. In 1971, she was made a Dame (DBE) by Queen Elizabeth II for her contributions to literature. Guinness World Records lists Christie as the best-selling fiction writer of all time, her novels having sold more than two billion copies.
This best-selling author of all time wrote 66 crime novels and story collections, fourteen plays, and six novels under a pseudonym in romance. Her books sold more than a billion copies in the English language and a billion in translation. According to Index Translationum, people translated her works into 103 languages at least, the most for an individual author. Of the most enduring figures in crime literature, she created Hercule Poirot and Miss Jane Marple. She atuhored The Mousetrap, the longest-running play in the history of modern theater.
Associated Names:
Agata Christie
Agata Kristi
Агата Кристи (Russian)
Агата Крісті (Ukrainian)
Αγκάθα Κρίστι (Greek)
アガサ クリスティ (Japanese)
阿嘉莎·克莉絲蒂 (Chinese)
Dame Agatha Mary Clarissa Christie, Lady Mallowan, DBE (née Miller) was an English writer known for her 66 detective novels and 14 short story collections, particularly those revolving around fictional detectives Hercule Poirot and Miss Marple. She also wrote the world's longest-running play, the murder mystery The Mousetrap, which has been performed in the West End of London since 1952. A writer during the "Golden Age of Detective Fiction", Christie has been called the "Queen of Crime". She also wrote six novels under the pseudonym Mary Westmacott. In 1971, she was made a Dame (DBE) by Queen Elizabeth II for her contributions to literature. Guinness World Records lists Christie as the best-selling fiction writer of all time, her novels having sold more than two billion copies.
This best-selling author of all time wrote 66 crime novels and story collections, fourteen plays, and six novels under a pseudonym in romance. Her books sold more than a billion copies in the English language and a billion in translation. According to Index Translationum, people translated her works into 103 languages at least, the most for an individual author. Of the most enduring figures in crime literature, she created Hercule Poirot and Miss Jane Marple. She atuhored The Mousetrap, the longest-running play in the history of modern theater.
Associated Names:
Agata Christie
Agata Kristi
Агата Кристи (Russian)
Агата Крісті (Ukrainian)
Αγκάθα Κρίστι (Greek)
アガサ クリスティ (Japanese)
阿嘉莎·克莉絲蒂 (Chinese)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 439 reviews
October 1, 2022
4.5/5
A Deadly Affair by Agatha Christie, is a compilation of 13 short stories each featuring one or more of her famous characters- Hercule Poirot, Miss Marple, Tommy and Tuppence, to name just a few. In addition to the stories, there is an autobiographical chapter titled “Affairs of the Heart: Agatha’s Early Courtships” which is an entertaining account of the author’s “two near escapes from getting married”.
While these stories might not be viewed as ‘love stories’ per se, they do revolve around the theme of love, albeit, the darker side. The crimes, for the most part, are motivated by infidelity, unrequited love, rejection and other not-so-pleasant aspects of love such as jealousy and possessiveness. Agatha Christie’s trademark simplicity, masterful storytelling and intriguing plotlines reel you in from the very first sentence and keep you engaged in trying to figure out the solution to the puzzle till you reach the very end. Each of these stories is engaging and the selection is varied to not come across as repetitive. Each of the author’s detectives possesses his/her unique style of sleuthing, deduction and dry humor. My personal favorites were “The Face of Helen,” “The Case of the Caretaker” and “The Love Detectives”.
It has been decades since I've read an Agatha Christie mystery. Though I’ve read many of Agatha Christie’s novels, her short stories were unexplored territory for me. I throroughly enjoyed this selection and will be looking out for more while also revisiting some old favorites. There's no doubt to the fact that her writing is simply brilliant and truly timeless. Whether you’re an old fan of the Queen of Mystery or a first-time reader who wants to give her cozy mysteries a try, you won’t be disappointed with this wonderful collection.
A Deadly Affair by Agatha Christie, is a compilation of 13 short stories each featuring one or more of her famous characters- Hercule Poirot, Miss Marple, Tommy and Tuppence, to name just a few. In addition to the stories, there is an autobiographical chapter titled “Affairs of the Heart: Agatha’s Early Courtships” which is an entertaining account of the author’s “two near escapes from getting married”.
While these stories might not be viewed as ‘love stories’ per se, they do revolve around the theme of love, albeit, the darker side. The crimes, for the most part, are motivated by infidelity, unrequited love, rejection and other not-so-pleasant aspects of love such as jealousy and possessiveness. Agatha Christie’s trademark simplicity, masterful storytelling and intriguing plotlines reel you in from the very first sentence and keep you engaged in trying to figure out the solution to the puzzle till you reach the very end. Each of these stories is engaging and the selection is varied to not come across as repetitive. Each of the author’s detectives possesses his/her unique style of sleuthing, deduction and dry humor. My personal favorites were “The Face of Helen,” “The Case of the Caretaker” and “The Love Detectives”.
It has been decades since I've read an Agatha Christie mystery. Though I’ve read many of Agatha Christie’s novels, her short stories were unexplored territory for me. I throroughly enjoyed this selection and will be looking out for more while also revisiting some old favorites. There's no doubt to the fact that her writing is simply brilliant and truly timeless. Whether you’re an old fan of the Queen of Mystery or a first-time reader who wants to give her cozy mysteries a try, you won’t be disappointed with this wonderful collection.
September 29, 2022
This is a collection of Agatha Christie's short stories with a lovers theme.
Some of them are ill-fated lovers and some of them managed to be less ill-fated.
The King of Clubs
The King of Clubs is one of those fun Poirot shorties where he discovers what really happened but the police never do.
The Face of Helen
This is a Harley Quin mystery, so it's Mr. Sattherwaite to the rescue of an extremely beautiful young woman who attracts what we would call stalkers these days. She's found a nice man she wants s to marry, but Sattherwaite can't help but think that not all is right. There was another man who was interested in her, and even though he says he wishes her well, Sattherwaite can't shake the feeling that he was missing something.
What is it Mr. Quin wants him to do?!
Death on the Nile: a Parker Pyne Short Story
Not to be confused with Christie's more famous full-length novel of the same name.
A wealthy and demanding woman is floating down the Nile on the same boat as Parker Pyne. At first, she's upset that her family doesn't have the boat to themselves, but then she realizes who he is and asks for his help. She thinks someone is poisoning her and wants Pyne to see if it's actually her husband making her sick.
Death by Drowning
Miss Marple uses her pull with her Tuesday Night Club friend, Sir Henry Clithering, to keep the wrong person from hanging for murder.
I thought the characters were well done in this for such a short story.
The Double Clue
Double Clue!? <--That's 2 clues too many, bitches.
And everyone's favorite Belgium detective is onto that shit.
Someone from a house party made off with a goodie bag full of jewels stolen from their host. And it's up to Poirot to ferret out which guest has sticky fingers.
Countess Vera Rossakoff stars in this one, and I'm pretty sure Poirot's eyes turn into actual hearts and bulge out of his head.
It's cute.
Finessing the King & The Gentleman Dressed in Newspaper are two parts of the same story.
A woman is stabbed by a man wearing newspaper, and dies in Tuppence's arms after telling her, Bingo did it.
Seems pretty cut and dry once they find out who Bingo is, but neither Inspector Marriot nor our adorable detectives feel good about it and Tuppence proceeds to continue her investigation.
Whodunnit?
Even when the mysteries aren't very good, I still love the Tommy and Tuppence stuff.
A Fruitful Sunday
Meh.
A couple on a date pull off the side of the road and buy a basket of fruit and find a ruby necklace. They also find a newspaper and read about a big jewel robbery
Now they've got to decide what to do with it.
It's a morality tale and not a very interesting one.
Wasps' Nest
Is it a murder mystery if you prevent the murder?
Close enough, I say.
The gist of it is that Poirot stops someone from fulfilling their dying fantasy.
BOO! <-you think.
But this isn't some sweet Make-A-Wish thing. No, someone wants to frame their spouse's lover using the poison they supposedly bought to take out some flying pests.
Clever.
But not clever enough to fool Hercule Poirot.
And in the end, I think they realize that's probably a good thing.
The Case of the Caretaker
Miss Marple, recovered from a bad bout of the flu, was feeling depressed.
I guess that's a thing?
Anyway, it took a lot out of her and she'd started to fall into a funk. So her good friend and physician, Doctor Haydock, brings her a file with a case he recently had so she can solve the whodunnit.
The Man in the Mist
Tommy & Tuppence solve the mystery of an airhead actress.
In this one, Tommy is dressed as G.K. Chesterton's Father Brown.
Not one of my favorites, but still a decent short.
The Case of the Rich Woman
A wealthy middle-aged woman is bored with life.
She comes across an advertisement in that paper that says, Are you happy? If not consult Mr. Parker Pyne., and decides to give it a try.
She goes to Pyne's office to see if he can help her find the happiness she use to have before she could afford everything she wanted.
She soon finds out that Mr. Pyne doesn't always use conventional means.
Magnolia Blossom
A woman is leaving her husband and running away with her lover when she gets news that her husband is in serious trouble.
His business has collapsed and he is losing everything.
She goes back to him because she feels it is her duty to stand by him.
But in the coming days, more things are revealed and you get a real sense of why she was leaving him in the first place.
A very melancholy story about love and duty.
The Love Detectives: A Harley Quin Short Story
Sir James Dwighton is found dead, the victim of a vicious murder.
His wife and her lover should be the obvious suspects but after they both clumsily confess to the murder in what looks like an effort of each to protect the other, the police begin to think that there may be someone else running around with a motive to kill.
As you all know, things are never what they seem.
Mr. Satterwaite is visiting his friend, Colonel Melrose, and the two of them tag along with the authorities to the site of the murder. <--as you used to be able to do, apparently.
Luckily for True Love, Mr. Quin shows up in time to push Mr. Satterthwaite, & the police in the right direction.
And as an added bonus?
Affairs of the heart: Agatha's early courtships is apparently an excerpt from her autobiography where she talks about two men she almost married when she was young.
It was a nice addition to this collection.
This was a pretty good collection of her short stories.
Recommended for a Valentine's Day read.
Some of them are ill-fated lovers and some of them managed to be less ill-fated.
The King of Clubs
The King of Clubs is one of those fun Poirot shorties where he discovers what really happened but the police never do.
The Face of Helen
This is a Harley Quin mystery, so it's Mr. Sattherwaite to the rescue of an extremely beautiful young woman who attracts what we would call stalkers these days. She's found a nice man she wants s to marry, but Sattherwaite can't help but think that not all is right. There was another man who was interested in her, and even though he says he wishes her well, Sattherwaite can't shake the feeling that he was missing something.
What is it Mr. Quin wants him to do?!
Death on the Nile: a Parker Pyne Short Story
Not to be confused with Christie's more famous full-length novel of the same name.
A wealthy and demanding woman is floating down the Nile on the same boat as Parker Pyne. At first, she's upset that her family doesn't have the boat to themselves, but then she realizes who he is and asks for his help. She thinks someone is poisoning her and wants Pyne to see if it's actually her husband making her sick.
Death by Drowning
Miss Marple uses her pull with her Tuesday Night Club friend, Sir Henry Clithering, to keep the wrong person from hanging for murder.
I thought the characters were well done in this for such a short story.
The Double Clue
Double Clue!? <--That's 2 clues too many, bitches.
And everyone's favorite Belgium detective is onto that shit.
Someone from a house party made off with a goodie bag full of jewels stolen from their host. And it's up to Poirot to ferret out which guest has sticky fingers.
Countess Vera Rossakoff stars in this one, and I'm pretty sure Poirot's eyes turn into actual hearts and bulge out of his head.
It's cute.
Finessing the King & The Gentleman Dressed in Newspaper are two parts of the same story.
A woman is stabbed by a man wearing newspaper, and dies in Tuppence's arms after telling her, Bingo did it.
Seems pretty cut and dry once they find out who Bingo is, but neither Inspector Marriot nor our adorable detectives feel good about it and Tuppence proceeds to continue her investigation.
Whodunnit?
Even when the mysteries aren't very good, I still love the Tommy and Tuppence stuff.
A Fruitful Sunday
Meh.
A couple on a date pull off the side of the road and buy a basket of fruit and find a ruby necklace. They also find a newspaper and read about a big jewel robbery
Now they've got to decide what to do with it.
It's a morality tale and not a very interesting one.
Wasps' Nest
Is it a murder mystery if you prevent the murder?
Close enough, I say.
The gist of it is that Poirot stops someone from fulfilling their dying fantasy.
BOO! <-you think.
But this isn't some sweet Make-A-Wish thing. No, someone wants to frame their spouse's lover using the poison they supposedly bought to take out some flying pests.
Clever.
But not clever enough to fool Hercule Poirot.
And in the end, I think they realize that's probably a good thing.
The Case of the Caretaker
Miss Marple, recovered from a bad bout of the flu, was feeling depressed.
I guess that's a thing?
Anyway, it took a lot out of her and she'd started to fall into a funk. So her good friend and physician, Doctor Haydock, brings her a file with a case he recently had so she can solve the whodunnit.
The Man in the Mist
Tommy & Tuppence solve the mystery of an airhead actress.
In this one, Tommy is dressed as G.K. Chesterton's Father Brown.
Not one of my favorites, but still a decent short.
The Case of the Rich Woman
A wealthy middle-aged woman is bored with life.
She comes across an advertisement in that paper that says, Are you happy? If not consult Mr. Parker Pyne., and decides to give it a try.
She goes to Pyne's office to see if he can help her find the happiness she use to have before she could afford everything she wanted.
She soon finds out that Mr. Pyne doesn't always use conventional means.
Magnolia Blossom
A woman is leaving her husband and running away with her lover when she gets news that her husband is in serious trouble.
His business has collapsed and he is losing everything.
She goes back to him because she feels it is her duty to stand by him.
But in the coming days, more things are revealed and you get a real sense of why she was leaving him in the first place.
A very melancholy story about love and duty.
The Love Detectives: A Harley Quin Short Story
Sir James Dwighton is found dead, the victim of a vicious murder.
His wife and her lover should be the obvious suspects but after they both clumsily confess to the murder in what looks like an effort of each to protect the other, the police begin to think that there may be someone else running around with a motive to kill.
As you all know, things are never what they seem.
Mr. Satterwaite is visiting his friend, Colonel Melrose, and the two of them tag along with the authorities to the site of the murder. <--as you used to be able to do, apparently.
Luckily for True Love, Mr. Quin shows up in time to push Mr. Satterthwaite, & the police in the right direction.
And as an added bonus?
Affairs of the heart: Agatha's early courtships is apparently an excerpt from her autobiography where she talks about two men she almost married when she was young.
It was a nice addition to this collection.
This was a pretty good collection of her short stories.
Recommended for a Valentine's Day read.
February 1, 2022
I love the concept of grouping Dame Christie’s stories together by genre or theme. I have read a couple where the author herself had put a collection together with an overarching narrative (The Labors of Hercules (Poirot) and The Thirteen Problems (Miss Marple)). This anthology however does not just focus on one of her detectives, but instead features her many detectives throughout the years. Hercule Poirot and Miss Marple are here, but so too are Tommy and Tuppence, Parker Pine, and Harley Quin (not to be confused with the DC character).
The theme is love, but as the title indicates, the focus is mainly on the darker side of love. Luckily, for the more romantically inclined, there are a few happy endings to be found here as well. Overall, I really enjoyed this collection and felt the diversity of the stories, both in terms of plot as well as the multiple detectives featured, made this feel a bit more fresh than many of her other short story groupings. And as an extra treat for readers, there is an excerpt from Ms. Christie’s autobiography featuring tales of her own early loves gone wrong.
Many thanks to NetGalley and William Morrow and Custom House for a copy of this title for review.
The theme is love, but as the title indicates, the focus is mainly on the darker side of love. Luckily, for the more romantically inclined, there are a few happy endings to be found here as well. Overall, I really enjoyed this collection and felt the diversity of the stories, both in terms of plot as well as the multiple detectives featured, made this feel a bit more fresh than many of her other short story groupings. And as an extra treat for readers, there is an excerpt from Ms. Christie’s autobiography featuring tales of her own early loves gone wrong.
Many thanks to NetGalley and William Morrow and Custom House for a copy of this title for review.
July 19, 2022
This anthology from the Queen of Mystery features such well-known characters such as Hercule Poirot and Miss Marple, as well as Tommy and Tuppence and Parker Pyne.
The stories all have a common theme – Love, as in the darker side of love. Agatha Christie’s keen eye into human nature, her perfect plotting, brilliant writing, humor and memorable characters, made this a delight from start to finish. Some of these were written nearly 100 years ago, and stand the test of time very well. Technology and our sensibilities have changed, but human nature remains the same.
I still prefer full-length novels to short stories but this is a great introduction to her writing and her characters. The last story is a real treat: “Affairs of the Heart: Agatha’s Early Courtships.”
Each story on audio had a different narrator, and all were excellent. A must read for fans of Christie!
The stories all have a common theme – Love, as in the darker side of love. Agatha Christie’s keen eye into human nature, her perfect plotting, brilliant writing, humor and memorable characters, made this a delight from start to finish. Some of these were written nearly 100 years ago, and stand the test of time very well. Technology and our sensibilities have changed, but human nature remains the same.
I still prefer full-length novels to short stories but this is a great introduction to her writing and her characters. The last story is a real treat: “Affairs of the Heart: Agatha’s Early Courtships.”
Each story on audio had a different narrator, and all were excellent. A must read for fans of Christie!
February 13, 2022
It's February so a book of love stories (many with mysterious leanings) seemed a good thing to choose. This is not a bad collection of short stories from Agatha Christie. As with most collections, some stories I liked others I was neutral on (YMMV) but I'm glad I read these. I don't know that Id recommend this as a place to begin with Christie or short stories but for those already in, its a good comprehensive collection.
The King of Clubs - in which Poirot solves a murder and is almost thrown off but for a card that wasn't played in the alibi given. Poirot called in to help by a prince in love with an actress. the lady didn't come off very nicely.
The Face of Helen - in which spurned suitor concocts a novel plot to kill the object of his affection. Thwarted by an older man (Mr. Satterthwaite) who himself was not chosen by one he loved in his youth. The suitor suicides in the river. A fine enough story but characters too often placed the blame of men's failing deeds on the woman because she was physically beautiful. I didn't think much of the suitor whose proposal Gillian accepted either. Never figured out what the deal was with Mr. Harley Quin.
A quote from the off-putting suitor: “You’ve had a bit of trouble too,” said Burns. “A girl wants someone to look after her. Gillian’s had a lot of unpleasantness, Mr. Satterthwaite. Altogether she’s had a lot of unpleasantness. She’s a good-looker, as you can see, and—well, that often leads to trouble for a girl.” Between them, Mr. Satterthwaite became enlightened as to various happenings which were vaguely classed by Burns under the heading of “unpleasantness.” A young man who had shot himself, the extraordinary conduct of a Bank Manager (who was a married man!), a violent stranger (who must have been balmy!), the wild behaviour of an elderly artist. A trail of violence and tragedy that Gillian West had left in her wake, recited in the commonplace tones of Charles Burns. “And it’s my opinion,” he ended, “that this fellow Eastney is a bit cracked. Gillian would have had trouble with him if I hadn’t turned up to look after her.”
A quote from a constable after the would-be murderer jumps into the river: "it's not always their fault, but some women cause a lot of trouble"
Death on the Nile - Parker Pyne is the sleuth here and this short is not to be confused with the full-length Poirot novel of the same name (Why Agatha?!). The players are somewhat similar here as well, a wealthy and difficult woman with a husband.
Death by Drowning - Jane Marple solves the case when an unmarried pregnant woman is drowned by a bridge. A poor but jilted lover is suspected and has a tidy alibi but Jane susses out who did the deed and why. An appearance of the Bantrys is here also. Dolly's gardening is mentioned. LOL
The Double Clue - In which Poirot susses out a jewel theft. This is his first meeting with the Russian Countess. A good beginning.
Finessing the King - Tommy & Tuppence in a mystery that was a bit flat for me even though the impetus and the solution of the mystery is clues in a newspaper.
Fruitful Sunday - Another story with jewels at the center and a couple who are trying to determine how they came to be where they were. The is a cute story but not terribly memorable.
Wasps' Nest - Poirot is trying to stop a murder centred on a love triangle. A very good story that I wish Christie had expanded into a novel. Short and very good.
The Case of the Caretaker - In which the best cure for Jane Marple while recuperating from a bad flu is a mystery to solve prescribed by her clever doctor. A very good story.
The Man in the Mist - In which Tommy mostly solves a mystery with hardly any Tuppence at all. This is very short however a good T&T.
The Case of the Rich Woman - Parker Pyne helps a wealthy woman find happiness in an interesting way. It has what I'd consider a sweet though somewhat impractical end.
Magnolia Blossom - In which a woman who attempts to leave her husband for her lover returns to her husband after his financial ruin and learns a lot about everyone involved. I liked this story and it felt so familiar as i read and then I realized that I'd watched an adaptation of this in the Agatha Christie Hour (part of my pandemic streaming time). A very good story.
The Love Detectives - In which Harley Quin, Mr. Sattherthwaite & Inspector Curtis try to suss out a murder with a love triangle attached. It's the second Quin/Satthertwaite appearance in this book and I'm still not sure what to make of Harley Quin. Must read more of them I think.
Affairs of the Heart : Christie has an inclusion of her own reflections on being twice proposed to when a young woman and how it was a good thing both never advanced any further. I was waiting for her to muse on the proposal of the man she did marry but alas, it wasn't included. A very neat read and insight into the woman. Made me chuckle too.
This is a good comprehensive collection and I love that someone's thought to make thematic collections of her many and varied short stories. Happy Valentine's Day!
Recommended.
The King of Clubs - in which Poirot solves a murder and is almost thrown off but for a card that wasn't played in the alibi given. Poirot called in to help by a prince in love with an actress. the lady didn't come off very nicely.
The Face of Helen - in which spurned suitor concocts a novel plot to kill the object of his affection. Thwarted by an older man (Mr. Satterthwaite) who himself was not chosen by one he loved in his youth. The suitor suicides in the river. A fine enough story but characters too often placed the blame of men's failing deeds on the woman because she was physically beautiful. I didn't think much of the suitor whose proposal Gillian accepted either. Never figured out what the deal was with Mr. Harley Quin.
A quote from the off-putting suitor: “You’ve had a bit of trouble too,” said Burns. “A girl wants someone to look after her. Gillian’s had a lot of unpleasantness, Mr. Satterthwaite. Altogether she’s had a lot of unpleasantness. She’s a good-looker, as you can see, and—well, that often leads to trouble for a girl.” Between them, Mr. Satterthwaite became enlightened as to various happenings which were vaguely classed by Burns under the heading of “unpleasantness.” A young man who had shot himself, the extraordinary conduct of a Bank Manager (who was a married man!), a violent stranger (who must have been balmy!), the wild behaviour of an elderly artist. A trail of violence and tragedy that Gillian West had left in her wake, recited in the commonplace tones of Charles Burns. “And it’s my opinion,” he ended, “that this fellow Eastney is a bit cracked. Gillian would have had trouble with him if I hadn’t turned up to look after her.”
A quote from a constable after the would-be murderer jumps into the river: "it's not always their fault, but some women cause a lot of trouble"
Death on the Nile - Parker Pyne is the sleuth here and this short is not to be confused with the full-length Poirot novel of the same name (Why Agatha?!). The players are somewhat similar here as well, a wealthy and difficult woman with a husband.
Death by Drowning - Jane Marple solves the case when an unmarried pregnant woman is drowned by a bridge. A poor but jilted lover is suspected and has a tidy alibi but Jane susses out who did the deed and why. An appearance of the Bantrys is here also. Dolly's gardening is mentioned. LOL
The Double Clue - In which Poirot susses out a jewel theft. This is his first meeting with the Russian Countess. A good beginning.
Finessing the King - Tommy & Tuppence in a mystery that was a bit flat for me even though the impetus and the solution of the mystery is clues in a newspaper.
Fruitful Sunday - Another story with jewels at the center and a couple who are trying to determine how they came to be where they were. The is a cute story but not terribly memorable.
Wasps' Nest - Poirot is trying to stop a murder centred on a love triangle. A very good story that I wish Christie had expanded into a novel. Short and very good.
The Case of the Caretaker - In which the best cure for Jane Marple while recuperating from a bad flu is a mystery to solve prescribed by her clever doctor. A very good story.
The Man in the Mist - In which Tommy mostly solves a mystery with hardly any Tuppence at all. This is very short however a good T&T.
The Case of the Rich Woman - Parker Pyne helps a wealthy woman find happiness in an interesting way. It has what I'd consider a sweet though somewhat impractical end.
Magnolia Blossom - In which a woman who attempts to leave her husband for her lover returns to her husband after his financial ruin and learns a lot about everyone involved. I liked this story and it felt so familiar as i read and then I realized that I'd watched an adaptation of this in the Agatha Christie Hour (part of my pandemic streaming time). A very good story.
The Love Detectives - In which Harley Quin, Mr. Sattherthwaite & Inspector Curtis try to suss out a murder with a love triangle attached. It's the second Quin/Satthertwaite appearance in this book and I'm still not sure what to make of Harley Quin. Must read more of them I think.
Affairs of the Heart : Christie has an inclusion of her own reflections on being twice proposed to when a young woman and how it was a good thing both never advanced any further. I was waiting for her to muse on the proposal of the man she did marry but alas, it wasn't included. A very neat read and insight into the woman. Made me chuckle too.
This is a good comprehensive collection and I love that someone's thought to make thematic collections of her many and varied short stories. Happy Valentine's Day!
Recommended.
May 11, 2022
So this was one of my lunchtime listens on Audible, and very enjoyable it was as well.
I'm guessing that Agatha's publishers have put together a few compilation books with stories from all her characters as I have now bought a second audible book similar to this.
This contained stories featuring Poirot, Miss Marple, Tommy and Tuppence, Harley Quinn and Mr Satterthwaite, so quite varied. The narrators were Hugh Fraser, Peter Suchet and Joan Hickson so a first class line up.
The only reason this wasn't 5 stars is that some of the stories (most notably the TnT) were a little weak, and also I was very familiar with some of the others having read them not that long ago.
All in all though, if you aren't familiar with Agatha's varied output of short stories (both in character and quality) then I would strongly advise you to listen to this.
I'm guessing that Agatha's publishers have put together a few compilation books with stories from all her characters as I have now bought a second audible book similar to this.
This contained stories featuring Poirot, Miss Marple, Tommy and Tuppence, Harley Quinn and Mr Satterthwaite, so quite varied. The narrators were Hugh Fraser, Peter Suchet and Joan Hickson so a first class line up.
The only reason this wasn't 5 stars is that some of the stories (most notably the TnT) were a little weak, and also I was very familiar with some of the others having read them not that long ago.
All in all though, if you aren't familiar with Agatha's varied output of short stories (both in character and quality) then I would strongly advise you to listen to this.
April 9, 2024
Christies short story collections continue to be a mixed bag for me— Some of the stories stand out, while others I could have done with out. I do think all of these were fun, and in general this is a better short story collection than Poirot Investigates and even better than a Midwinter Murder
Do you love, Love? Do you love the affairs of others? Star crossed lovers? This collection is perfect for February, it is a romantic paradise… But love can be deadly 💘
This collection is like a box of chocolates, it depends on your individual taste. Do you prefer dark chocolate or coconut cream? That’s how these stories are. Some you will gravitate more towards than others. I don’t think any of these stories are bad. If you have to choose a Christie short story collection to start with, I would suggestion this one over the other two mentioned.
The collection is interesting in that it focuses on crimes involving lovers: crimes of passion (and they don’t all involve murder!) Some of them are bitter sweet, some clever, some cheesy and old fashioned, but they are all distinctly Agatha Christie.
My favorite from this collection is not even a short story at all. At the very end of the collection, Christie writes about two of her past lovers. This glimpse into her own life was striking! I would love to read her journals. She is such an endlessly fascinating woman. For those that don’t care for the short stories, I would argue that this section of the collection is one to seek out.
Of all the short stories, Magnolia Blossoms was my favorite. Five stars, or rather ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Individual short story reviews:
The King of Clubs:❤️❤️
Poirot is investigating the murder of a man. For Poirot, it is a lackluster showing. It is quickly forgotten among all the other better short stories. Poirot deserves better, Agatha!
The Face of Helen:❤️❤️❤️
A Satterthwaite and Quinn story. Very cozy. Satterthwaite runs into Quinn at the opera. As always these stories are more about atmosphere and less about mystery for me. It asks the question: are women blessed or cursed with a beautiful face?
Death on the Nile: a Parker Pyne Short Story: ❤️❤️❤️
Despite having the same name as the Poirot novel, this one is a different tale all together. There is a death on the Nile, but Parker Pyne really could use a vacation. He's again sucked into helping out a family with murderous entanglements. Maybe this poor man can get a true vacation next time.
Death by Drowning:❤️❤️
A Miss Marple tale about a girl who gets pregnant out of wedlock, and is shortly after found dead. Very old fashioned.
The Double Clue:❤️❤️❤️
This is a much better Poirot short story. A gentleman is robbed, and Poirot is on the case. Countess Rossakoff makes an appearance, and I can almost feel Poirot blushing through the pages.
Finessing the King/The Gentleman Dressed in Newspaper:❤️❤️❤️❤️
Tommy & Tuppence are the stars of this collection! This is a really fun short story.
A Fruitful Sunday:❤️❤️❤️
This is more of a morality tale than a mystery, but it was very pastoral and reminiscent of older times. A soft romance, wonderful for a spring day spent eating strawberries in a grassy lane.
Wasps' Nest:❤️❤️❤️
Poirot prevents a murder!
The Case of the Caretaker:❤️❤️❤️
This was an interesting idea. Miss Marple is feeling down after being sick, and her doctors prescription is for her to solve a mysterious case he has written!
The Man in the Mist:❤️❤️❤️❤️
Tommy & Tuppence are at it again! This time they are solicited by a beautiful actress. They go to meet her at the appointed time and find her murdered! Add to this rumors of a ghostly policeman, a mist that creeps along a lonely street, and you've got a short story with atmosphere! The 'creepiest' in the collection!
The Case of the Rich Woman:❤️❤️❤️
Parker Pyne helps a very rich woman purchase the one thing she is missing: happiness.
Magnolia Blossom:❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
A stand alone short story, that steals the show. Very old fashioned, but satisfactory in conclusion.
The Love Detectives: A Harley Quin Short Story:❤️❤️❤️
This one was really fun. Quinn prevents two lovers from being falsely imprisoned for murder!
Affairs of the heart: Agatha's early courtships:❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
This is really fun and insightful and I want to read more about Christie’s history. More authors should do stuff like this. I often find myself just as mesmerized by the writers history as the writers work.
”How can you tell if you are in love with a person? If in absence they mean nothing to you, and in presence they sweep you off your feet, what is your real reaction?”
2024 ADDENDUM: My husband bought me this collection from Barnes & noble for Valentine’s this year (2024!) he was a bit disappointed when I told him I’d already read it on my kindle, but I love adding to my physical Christie collection, and this is just a sign he’s got a good grasp of what I’d like to read. :) and also a sign to revisit some cozy classics.
This book is a part of my goal to read all the Hercule Poirot stories.
previous reviews:
The Murder on the Links
Poirot Investigates
The Murder of Roger Ackroyd
The Big Four
The Mystery of the Blue Train
Murder on the Orient Express
Murder in the Mews
The Adventure of the Christmas Pudding
Halowe'en Party
Dumb Witness
Death in the Clouds
Do you love, Love? Do you love the affairs of others? Star crossed lovers? This collection is perfect for February, it is a romantic paradise… But love can be deadly 💘
This collection is like a box of chocolates, it depends on your individual taste. Do you prefer dark chocolate or coconut cream? That’s how these stories are. Some you will gravitate more towards than others. I don’t think any of these stories are bad. If you have to choose a Christie short story collection to start with, I would suggestion this one over the other two mentioned.
The collection is interesting in that it focuses on crimes involving lovers: crimes of passion (and they don’t all involve murder!) Some of them are bitter sweet, some clever, some cheesy and old fashioned, but they are all distinctly Agatha Christie.
My favorite from this collection is not even a short story at all. At the very end of the collection, Christie writes about two of her past lovers. This glimpse into her own life was striking! I would love to read her journals. She is such an endlessly fascinating woman. For those that don’t care for the short stories, I would argue that this section of the collection is one to seek out.
Of all the short stories, Magnolia Blossoms was my favorite. Five stars, or rather ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Individual short story reviews:
The King of Clubs:❤️❤️
Poirot is investigating the murder of a man. For Poirot, it is a lackluster showing. It is quickly forgotten among all the other better short stories. Poirot deserves better, Agatha!
The Face of Helen:❤️❤️❤️
A Satterthwaite and Quinn story. Very cozy. Satterthwaite runs into Quinn at the opera. As always these stories are more about atmosphere and less about mystery for me. It asks the question: are women blessed or cursed with a beautiful face?
Death on the Nile: a Parker Pyne Short Story: ❤️❤️❤️
Despite having the same name as the Poirot novel, this one is a different tale all together. There is a death on the Nile, but Parker Pyne really could use a vacation. He's again sucked into helping out a family with murderous entanglements. Maybe this poor man can get a true vacation next time.
Death by Drowning:❤️❤️
A Miss Marple tale about a girl who gets pregnant out of wedlock, and is shortly after found dead. Very old fashioned.
The Double Clue:❤️❤️❤️
This is a much better Poirot short story. A gentleman is robbed, and Poirot is on the case. Countess Rossakoff makes an appearance, and I can almost feel Poirot blushing through the pages.
Finessing the King/The Gentleman Dressed in Newspaper:❤️❤️❤️❤️
Tommy & Tuppence are the stars of this collection! This is a really fun short story.
A Fruitful Sunday:❤️❤️❤️
This is more of a morality tale than a mystery, but it was very pastoral and reminiscent of older times. A soft romance, wonderful for a spring day spent eating strawberries in a grassy lane.
Wasps' Nest:❤️❤️❤️
Poirot prevents a murder!
The Case of the Caretaker:❤️❤️❤️
This was an interesting idea. Miss Marple is feeling down after being sick, and her doctors prescription is for her to solve a mysterious case he has written!
The Man in the Mist:❤️❤️❤️❤️
Tommy & Tuppence are at it again! This time they are solicited by a beautiful actress. They go to meet her at the appointed time and find her murdered! Add to this rumors of a ghostly policeman, a mist that creeps along a lonely street, and you've got a short story with atmosphere! The 'creepiest' in the collection!
The Case of the Rich Woman:❤️❤️❤️
Parker Pyne helps a very rich woman purchase the one thing she is missing: happiness.
Magnolia Blossom:❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
A stand alone short story, that steals the show. Very old fashioned, but satisfactory in conclusion.
The Love Detectives: A Harley Quin Short Story:❤️❤️❤️
This one was really fun. Quinn prevents two lovers from being falsely imprisoned for murder!
Affairs of the heart: Agatha's early courtships:❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
This is really fun and insightful and I want to read more about Christie’s history. More authors should do stuff like this. I often find myself just as mesmerized by the writers history as the writers work.
”How can you tell if you are in love with a person? If in absence they mean nothing to you, and in presence they sweep you off your feet, what is your real reaction?”
2024 ADDENDUM: My husband bought me this collection from Barnes & noble for Valentine’s this year (2024!) he was a bit disappointed when I told him I’d already read it on my kindle, but I love adding to my physical Christie collection, and this is just a sign he’s got a good grasp of what I’d like to read. :) and also a sign to revisit some cozy classics.
This book is a part of my goal to read all the Hercule Poirot stories.
previous reviews:
The Murder on the Links
Poirot Investigates
The Murder of Roger Ackroyd
The Big Four
The Mystery of the Blue Train
Murder on the Orient Express
Murder in the Mews
The Adventure of the Christmas Pudding
Halowe'en Party
Dumb Witness
Death in the Clouds
January 5, 2022
This collection of short stories written by Agatha Christie is unique as the stories all have a love theme. Now granted it's more of the darker side of love such as crimes of passion that is featured in each story. The collection consists of 12 mysteries, one regular old fiction short story, and an excerpt from the author's autobiography in which she discusses her relationships with men she might have married had she not listened to her instincts. While everything has been previously published in various books throughout the years, it's my understanding, it's the first time these particular stories have all been grouped together in one book. By the way, some of her beloved characters like Hercule Poirot, Miss Marple, and Tommy and Tuppence make appearances in some of the stories.
With each story averaging 20 pages, they were perfect to read during moments of the day when I didn't have a lot of free time to spare. My personal favorite of the collection is The Face of Helen. I didn't care for a few of the Hercule Poirot stories which is surprising given I've enjoyed the 3 or 4 full length novels featuring the detective. However, like usual, she managed to stump me with each mystery as I wasn't quite sure what to think until she revealed it all. There's a reason she is called the Queen of Mystery. Overall, it was a fun read.
Thank you to William Morrow for providing me with an advance copy! All thoughts expressed are my honest opinion.
With each story averaging 20 pages, they were perfect to read during moments of the day when I didn't have a lot of free time to spare. My personal favorite of the collection is The Face of Helen. I didn't care for a few of the Hercule Poirot stories which is surprising given I've enjoyed the 3 or 4 full length novels featuring the detective. However, like usual, she managed to stump me with each mystery as I wasn't quite sure what to think until she revealed it all. There's a reason she is called the Queen of Mystery. Overall, it was a fun read.
Thank you to William Morrow for providing me with an advance copy! All thoughts expressed are my honest opinion.
February 15, 2022
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
“A Venus,” he said softly. “So he was struck down by Venus.”
-The Love Detectives
A Deadly Affair is a collection of short stories, around 20 pages each, that involve mystery and love. Some of Christie's beloved characters make their appearances, Poirot, Miss Marple, Pyne, and etc. It's impressive what Christie can do with such small word count and I found most the stories to be delightful mini mysteries. It works to introduce new readers to her work and please dedicated readers with little snippet visits to their favorite characters. The book ends with an excerpt from Christie's biography having her discuss the two men who asked her to marry them. The wit and charm she infuses into her stories clearly comes from her outlook on life with the ending line, “Really, what a benefactress I was to those two men.”.
(Some of the titles have been changed from their original for this collection)
King of Clubs 4 stars
“[...] Zara's last words to Valerie were: 'Beware the king of clubs. Danger threatens you!' [...]”
The first story starts us off with, perhaps, Christie's most known character, Poirot. With Hastings, they are solving a murder that involves family bonds, a fortune teller, and secret identities. I thought the mystery was strong and enjoyed all the clues.
The Face of Helen 5 stars
He felt a sudden strange sense of exultation, as though he were caught up and made part of a shimmering pattern of events. He was in this thing---whatever it was. He knew now what Mr. Quin had meant that evening at the Opera. There was a drama going on, and in it was a part, an important part for Mr. Satterthwaite. He must not fail to take his cue and speak his lines.
My favorite of the collection that has Mr. Satterthwaite (and the reader) putting clues together to try and stop a murder. It's full of jealousy and intrigue.
Death On the Nile 2 stars
“I want to know whether or not my husband is poisoning me.”
With no connection to Christie's novel of the same title, this has Mr. Parker Pyne trying to suss out intents, motivations, and actions. This was my least favorite as it had too many characters for the shorter page count and moved too fast for the reader to sit and enjoy.
Death by Drowning 4 stars
“Sir Henry---this girl---Rose Emmott. She did not drown herself---she was murdered...And I know who murdered her.”
This time it's Miss Marple knowing who did the murder but not having the evidence, which is left to Sir Henry Cithering, a retired Commissioner of Scotland Yard. The reader doesn't know who Miss Marple suspects but has fun watching (reading) Sir Henry workout the hows and whys of who Miss Marple told him.
The Double Clue 4 stars
“My rubies, Monsieur Poirot, and the emerald necklace said to have belonged to Catherine de' Medici. Oh, the emerald necklace!”
A collector has a tea party with some friends, only to find out that someone has stolen an emerald necklace. This was a good little mystery but what really stood out was the character of the Russian Countess Vera Rossakoff and her chemistry with Poirot. I really hope Christie had them meeting and going head-to-head again in another work.
Finessing the King 3 stars
“And what about its being necessary to finesse the King?”
“Well, that's what I thought we'd find out.”
This had the married couple of Tommy and Tuppence Blunt of the International Detective Agency, Blunt's Brilliant Detectives following Tuppence's suspension and curiosity and winding up solving a murder. This one, again, had jealousy and murder and an ending that will shock.
Fruitful Sunday 2 stars
“The price of a virtuous woman is far above rubies.”
Probably the least fun, lacking the most charm of the collection with a more cynical vibe. This follows a couple on a date, a story of stolen rubies, and a test of virtue.
Wasp's Nest 4.5 stars
At last, he said: “But I have heard of no murder.”
“No,” said Poirot, “you would not have heard of it.”
“Who has been murdered?”
“As yet,” said Hercule Poirot, “nobody.”
A story of twists and turns, jilted loves, and death sentences. Poirot shows once again how far ahead of the game he is as readers, and would be murderers, play catch up.
The Case of the Caretaker 3 stars
“But why a puzzle?” asked Miss Marple.
Doctor Haydock grinned. “Because the interpretation is up to you. I want to see if you're as clever as you always make out.”
Our beloved Miss Marple has a touch of depression while getting over the flu and her doctor decides to give her a murder mystery to read and try to work out. This was a fun one because readers get all the information as Miss Marple and can try to work out the mystery for themselves and see if they come up with the same answers as Miss Marple.
The Man in the Mist 2.5 stars
For the curtain of mist in front of them suddenly parted in the most artificial manner, and there, not twenty feet away, a gigantic policeman suddenly appeared, as though materialised out of the fog.
Tuppence and Tommy are back to remind readers that clues abound and no detail is too insignificant. This had more of a trailed off ending that didn't feel as complete as the others.
The Case of the Rich Woman 3 stars
“[...] “It will be difficult, but I believe there is a chance of success. I think it's possible I can give you back what you have lost---your interest in life.”
A rich woman with a case of ennui, Mr. Parker Pyne playing the part of therapist, and possible soul switching. This short story is in a different vein of the mysteries, no murder, but still has the reader working to catch up with the questions and answers.
Magnolia Blossom 3.3 stars
After the first, they had not even dared look at each other. Well, that was that, the end.
The most melancholy of the group, with the time period setting of the stock markets crashes and love, betrayal, honor, and no one winning.
The Love Detectives 3 stars
“No,” he cried. “No, I should have known better! There is no chance where you are concerned, Mr. Quin. It was not an accident that we all met tonight at the crossroads.”
The last short story reunites Mr. Satterthwaite and Christie's, seemingly, instrument of fate, Mr. Harley Quin. Here we have two confessions of murder and loves tangled weave. It was a good callback to a previous short story and lovely way to wrap-up the collection.
“A Venus,” he said softly. “So he was struck down by Venus.”
-The Love Detectives
A Deadly Affair is a collection of short stories, around 20 pages each, that involve mystery and love. Some of Christie's beloved characters make their appearances, Poirot, Miss Marple, Pyne, and etc. It's impressive what Christie can do with such small word count and I found most the stories to be delightful mini mysteries. It works to introduce new readers to her work and please dedicated readers with little snippet visits to their favorite characters. The book ends with an excerpt from Christie's biography having her discuss the two men who asked her to marry them. The wit and charm she infuses into her stories clearly comes from her outlook on life with the ending line, “Really, what a benefactress I was to those two men.”.
(Some of the titles have been changed from their original for this collection)
King of Clubs 4 stars
“[...] Zara's last words to Valerie were: 'Beware the king of clubs. Danger threatens you!' [...]”
The first story starts us off with, perhaps, Christie's most known character, Poirot. With Hastings, they are solving a murder that involves family bonds, a fortune teller, and secret identities. I thought the mystery was strong and enjoyed all the clues.
The Face of Helen 5 stars
He felt a sudden strange sense of exultation, as though he were caught up and made part of a shimmering pattern of events. He was in this thing---whatever it was. He knew now what Mr. Quin had meant that evening at the Opera. There was a drama going on, and in it was a part, an important part for Mr. Satterthwaite. He must not fail to take his cue and speak his lines.
My favorite of the collection that has Mr. Satterthwaite (and the reader) putting clues together to try and stop a murder. It's full of jealousy and intrigue.
Death On the Nile 2 stars
“I want to know whether or not my husband is poisoning me.”
With no connection to Christie's novel of the same title, this has Mr. Parker Pyne trying to suss out intents, motivations, and actions. This was my least favorite as it had too many characters for the shorter page count and moved too fast for the reader to sit and enjoy.
Death by Drowning 4 stars
“Sir Henry---this girl---Rose Emmott. She did not drown herself---she was murdered...And I know who murdered her.”
This time it's Miss Marple knowing who did the murder but not having the evidence, which is left to Sir Henry Cithering, a retired Commissioner of Scotland Yard. The reader doesn't know who Miss Marple suspects but has fun watching (reading) Sir Henry workout the hows and whys of who Miss Marple told him.
The Double Clue 4 stars
“My rubies, Monsieur Poirot, and the emerald necklace said to have belonged to Catherine de' Medici. Oh, the emerald necklace!”
A collector has a tea party with some friends, only to find out that someone has stolen an emerald necklace. This was a good little mystery but what really stood out was the character of the Russian Countess Vera Rossakoff and her chemistry with Poirot. I really hope Christie had them meeting and going head-to-head again in another work.
Finessing the King 3 stars
“And what about its being necessary to finesse the King?”
“Well, that's what I thought we'd find out.”
This had the married couple of Tommy and Tuppence Blunt of the International Detective Agency, Blunt's Brilliant Detectives following Tuppence's suspension and curiosity and winding up solving a murder. This one, again, had jealousy and murder and an ending that will shock.
Fruitful Sunday 2 stars
“The price of a virtuous woman is far above rubies.”
Probably the least fun, lacking the most charm of the collection with a more cynical vibe. This follows a couple on a date, a story of stolen rubies, and a test of virtue.
Wasp's Nest 4.5 stars
At last, he said: “But I have heard of no murder.”
“No,” said Poirot, “you would not have heard of it.”
“Who has been murdered?”
“As yet,” said Hercule Poirot, “nobody.”
A story of twists and turns, jilted loves, and death sentences. Poirot shows once again how far ahead of the game he is as readers, and would be murderers, play catch up.
The Case of the Caretaker 3 stars
“But why a puzzle?” asked Miss Marple.
Doctor Haydock grinned. “Because the interpretation is up to you. I want to see if you're as clever as you always make out.”
Our beloved Miss Marple has a touch of depression while getting over the flu and her doctor decides to give her a murder mystery to read and try to work out. This was a fun one because readers get all the information as Miss Marple and can try to work out the mystery for themselves and see if they come up with the same answers as Miss Marple.
The Man in the Mist 2.5 stars
For the curtain of mist in front of them suddenly parted in the most artificial manner, and there, not twenty feet away, a gigantic policeman suddenly appeared, as though materialised out of the fog.
Tuppence and Tommy are back to remind readers that clues abound and no detail is too insignificant. This had more of a trailed off ending that didn't feel as complete as the others.
The Case of the Rich Woman 3 stars
“[...] “It will be difficult, but I believe there is a chance of success. I think it's possible I can give you back what you have lost---your interest in life.”
A rich woman with a case of ennui, Mr. Parker Pyne playing the part of therapist, and possible soul switching. This short story is in a different vein of the mysteries, no murder, but still has the reader working to catch up with the questions and answers.
Magnolia Blossom 3.3 stars
After the first, they had not even dared look at each other. Well, that was that, the end.
The most melancholy of the group, with the time period setting of the stock markets crashes and love, betrayal, honor, and no one winning.
The Love Detectives 3 stars
“No,” he cried. “No, I should have known better! There is no chance where you are concerned, Mr. Quin. It was not an accident that we all met tonight at the crossroads.”
The last short story reunites Mr. Satterthwaite and Christie's, seemingly, instrument of fate, Mr. Harley Quin. Here we have two confessions of murder and loves tangled weave. It was a good callback to a previous short story and lovely way to wrap-up the collection.
December 27, 2021
I've read some books by Agatha Christie before. But I've never known and read her short stories.
This book includes her 15 short stories.
WOW!! Classic mysteries that were published 90~100 years ago. And we still can have fun to read. So amazing!!
It's said love story collection. I think it's not enough to say "love stories" to me. But each stories are unique. Some one is scary, some one is humorous, some one is so touchy.
I really enjoyed this book!
This book includes her 15 short stories.
WOW!! Classic mysteries that were published 90~100 years ago. And we still can have fun to read. So amazing!!
It's said love story collection. I think it's not enough to say "love stories" to me. But each stories are unique. Some one is scary, some one is humorous, some one is so touchy.
I really enjoyed this book!
February 17, 2023
The title of this anthology of Agatha Christie short stories proves a bit of a misnomer, as there are quite a few deadly affairs, not just one. Favorites were “The King of Clubs” and “Wasps’ Nest,” both featuring Hercule Poirot and his little gray cells, and “Magnolia Blossom.” “The Man in the Mist,” featuring Tommy and Tuppence Beresford, reminded me of a Father Brown story, which I liked better. The anthology ends with Dame Agatha writing a real-life, amusing story of how she escaped two unsuitable engagements — definitely worth reading.
February 20, 2023
4.5 stars
This is a new compilation of previously released short stories.
The selection is brilliant and made this book very entertaining.
1. The King of Cubs (1923 - with Hercule Poirot) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
2. The Face of Helen (1927) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
3. Death on the Nile (1933 - with Parker Pyne) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
4. Death by Drowning (1931 - with Miss Marple) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
5. The Double Clue (1923 - with Hercule Poirot & Hastings) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
6. Finessing the King, aka The Gentleman Dressed in Newspaper (1924 - with Tommy & Tuppence) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
7. Fruitful Sunday (1928) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
8. Wasp’s Nest (1928 - with Hercule Poirot) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
9. The Case of the Caretaker (1942 - with Miss Marple) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
10. The Man in the Mist (1924 - with Tommy & Tuppence) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
11. The Case of the Rich Woman (1932 - with Parker Pyne) ⭐️⭐️⭐️
12. Magnolia Blossom (1926 - ⭐️⭐️⭐️
13. The Love Detectives (1926 - with Harley Quin) ⭐️⭐️⭐️
14. Affairs of the Heart (1975 - Agatha’s early courtships - excerpt from “An Autobiography”)
This is a new compilation of previously released short stories.
The selection is brilliant and made this book very entertaining.
1. The King of Cubs (1923 - with Hercule Poirot) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
2. The Face of Helen (1927) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
3. Death on the Nile (1933 - with Parker Pyne) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
4. Death by Drowning (1931 - with Miss Marple) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
5. The Double Clue (1923 - with Hercule Poirot & Hastings) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
6. Finessing the King, aka The Gentleman Dressed in Newspaper (1924 - with Tommy & Tuppence) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
7. Fruitful Sunday (1928) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
8. Wasp’s Nest (1928 - with Hercule Poirot) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
9. The Case of the Caretaker (1942 - with Miss Marple) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
10. The Man in the Mist (1924 - with Tommy & Tuppence) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
11. The Case of the Rich Woman (1932 - with Parker Pyne) ⭐️⭐️⭐️
12. Magnolia Blossom (1926 - ⭐️⭐️⭐️
13. The Love Detectives (1926 - with Harley Quin) ⭐️⭐️⭐️
14. Affairs of the Heart (1975 - Agatha’s early courtships - excerpt from “An Autobiography”)
January 26, 2022
Agatha Christie is always one of my favorite crime authors, and these short stories are all about love! Thank you to William Morrow for my copy of this pretty book! These stories include a complicated love triangle, a personal ad, Hercule Poirot, Miss Marple, and Christie's experience "escaping marriage" twice. The stories revolve around the dark side of love and obsession, as well as crimes motivated by jealousy and possession.
Thoughts: I think I always prefer Christie's full stories to her short stories. The way her writing is, I need to learn to get to know the characters, and short stories don't give me enough of a chance. I LOVE the full Death on the Nile, so the short story version was fun to read! The reader can use their
"little grey cells" to solve these cozy mysteries alongside Christie. They are short and easy reads, and a fun way to pass the time commuting. 4 stars
Thoughts: I think I always prefer Christie's full stories to her short stories. The way her writing is, I need to learn to get to know the characters, and short stories don't give me enough of a chance. I LOVE the full Death on the Nile, so the short story version was fun to read! The reader can use their
"little grey cells" to solve these cozy mysteries alongside Christie. They are short and easy reads, and a fun way to pass the time commuting. 4 stars
March 26, 2022
There’s an inherent danger of disappointment in revisiting things you once loved – by the same logic that tells us we can never stand in the same river again, certain experiences can’t be expected to remain the same. We change, our ideas, standards and preferences change. Is it fair to expect books/an author who delighted us once to continue to do so throughout time?
Well, I’m delighted to say that in case of Agatha Christie the answer is a resounding yes. Sometimes classics are classics for a reason – it means they can withstand the test of time with grace and still maintain a certain appeal to a variety of audiences.
I’ve not read Christie is ages, only watched various movie adaptations, and this collection was an absolute pleasure to spend time with. I’ve read a bunch of golden age mysteries and few and far in-between have the same effortless appeal, charm and timeless quality to them as Christie’s work.
Sure, some of the language is dated – words like ejaculation have long been relegated to an entirely different level of meaning. Sure, some of the gender attitudes have changed since. But overall, these stories are remarkably free of the sort of patina that normally mars older works. These stories are still interesting and fun and the puzzles within them are still puzzling.
This collection comprises stories of crimes of passion (or its opposite for that matter), but it’s all about love. There’s even a lovely excerpt from Christie’s biography at the end, where she wryly discusses the two misfire (albeit not lethally so) affairs of her youth.
All in all, a very enjoyable read that only serves to prove Christie’s legendary status as the Master of Suspense. Recommended. Thanks Netgalley.
This and more at https://advancetheplot.weebly.com/
Well, I’m delighted to say that in case of Agatha Christie the answer is a resounding yes. Sometimes classics are classics for a reason – it means they can withstand the test of time with grace and still maintain a certain appeal to a variety of audiences.
I’ve not read Christie is ages, only watched various movie adaptations, and this collection was an absolute pleasure to spend time with. I’ve read a bunch of golden age mysteries and few and far in-between have the same effortless appeal, charm and timeless quality to them as Christie’s work.
Sure, some of the language is dated – words like ejaculation have long been relegated to an entirely different level of meaning. Sure, some of the gender attitudes have changed since. But overall, these stories are remarkably free of the sort of patina that normally mars older works. These stories are still interesting and fun and the puzzles within them are still puzzling.
This collection comprises stories of crimes of passion (or its opposite for that matter), but it’s all about love. There’s even a lovely excerpt from Christie’s biography at the end, where she wryly discusses the two misfire (albeit not lethally so) affairs of her youth.
All in all, a very enjoyable read that only serves to prove Christie’s legendary status as the Master of Suspense. Recommended. Thanks Netgalley.
This and more at https://advancetheplot.weebly.com/
March 9, 2024
“Wherever there is human nature, there is drama. But—it is not always just where you think it is. Remember that."
January 9, 2022
Gratifying Agatha collection!
Lively collection of short stories from the Queen of Crime centered around the theme of love—in families, between partners, lovers and spouses. Some old favourites and new faces.
Favourites like Poirot and Hastings, Jane Marple, Tuppence and Tommy Beresford.
New faces for me included the two quiet amateur sleuths the social butterfly Mr. Satterthwaite, and the more effacing Mr. Quinn. “The Face of Helen” includes a beautiful young woman they spy at the opera, “There were, [Mr Satterthwaite] knew, such faces in the world—faces that made history…[a face] of sheer beauty” For the first time Mr. Satterthwaite realizes “the meaning of the words”… “a face that launched a thousand ships.” Tension between the young woman and two men inside the opera and a fight outside has Mr. Satterthwaite lending a hand and subsequently following a “trail of tragedy and violence Gillian West has [innocently] left in her wake.” A sombre note rings true.
Tuppence and Tommy Beresford out practicing their detective skills at the Three Arts Ball and the Art of Spades, a speakeasy in Chelsea, find more than they bargained for.
This collection speaks! A most pleasing Agatha anthology!
A William Morrow and Custom House ARC via NetGalley
Please note: Quotes taken from an advanced reading copy maybe subject to change
Lively collection of short stories from the Queen of Crime centered around the theme of love—in families, between partners, lovers and spouses. Some old favourites and new faces.
Favourites like Poirot and Hastings, Jane Marple, Tuppence and Tommy Beresford.
New faces for me included the two quiet amateur sleuths the social butterfly Mr. Satterthwaite, and the more effacing Mr. Quinn. “The Face of Helen” includes a beautiful young woman they spy at the opera, “There were, [Mr Satterthwaite] knew, such faces in the world—faces that made history…[a face] of sheer beauty” For the first time Mr. Satterthwaite realizes “the meaning of the words”… “a face that launched a thousand ships.” Tension between the young woman and two men inside the opera and a fight outside has Mr. Satterthwaite lending a hand and subsequently following a “trail of tragedy and violence Gillian West has [innocently] left in her wake.” A sombre note rings true.
Tuppence and Tommy Beresford out practicing their detective skills at the Three Arts Ball and the Art of Spades, a speakeasy in Chelsea, find more than they bargained for.
This collection speaks! A most pleasing Agatha anthology!
A William Morrow and Custom House ARC via NetGalley
Please note: Quotes taken from an advanced reading copy maybe subject to change
December 16, 2021
A Deadly Affair is a collection of short stories by Agatha Christie that are about love gone wrong. The stories feature a variety of Christie's famous detectives, including Miss Marple, Hercule Poirot, Tommy and Tuppence Beresford, Parker Pyne, and Harley Quin.
I had already read several of these stories, but I love the inclusion of so many of Christie's famous detectives as well as some standalone stories. My favorites in the collection are all of the stories featuring Miss Marple, a Poirot tale in which he calls on an old acquaintance to prevent a murder, and a standalone story about a young couple who get more than they expected in a basket of fruit from a roadside vendor.
Parker Pyne and Harley Quin have always been my least favorite main characters. However, the Harley Quin and Mr. Satterthwaite stories in this collection are both really clever and were fun to read. I've been an Agatha Christie fan for many years and loved this collection. It would also be a great introduction to Christie for those who are less familiar with her work. I would rate it 4.5 stars.
I received an advance copy of this book from NetGalley, through the courtesy of William Morrow Books. An advance copy was provided to me at no cost, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.
I had already read several of these stories, but I love the inclusion of so many of Christie's famous detectives as well as some standalone stories. My favorites in the collection are all of the stories featuring Miss Marple, a Poirot tale in which he calls on an old acquaintance to prevent a murder, and a standalone story about a young couple who get more than they expected in a basket of fruit from a roadside vendor.
Parker Pyne and Harley Quin have always been my least favorite main characters. However, the Harley Quin and Mr. Satterthwaite stories in this collection are both really clever and were fun to read. I've been an Agatha Christie fan for many years and loved this collection. It would also be a great introduction to Christie for those who are less familiar with her work. I would rate it 4.5 stars.
I received an advance copy of this book from NetGalley, through the courtesy of William Morrow Books. An advance copy was provided to me at no cost, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.
December 21, 2021
Is there a soul in the world that does not love Agatha Christie?
No? I didn't think so.
This is a collection of short stories. Every time I read one, I would insist the next one could not possibly be better. However, in true Agatha Christie, fashion, they were ALL that good.
Any fan of Agatha Christie, will not want to miss this book. I loved every bit of this. I cant wait to share these stories with friends and family.
No? I didn't think so.
This is a collection of short stories. Every time I read one, I would insist the next one could not possibly be better. However, in true Agatha Christie, fashion, they were ALL that good.
Any fan of Agatha Christie, will not want to miss this book. I loved every bit of this. I cant wait to share these stories with friends and family.
March 31, 2023
3.5⭐️
An Agatha Christie short story compilation (I have mini synopses for each individual one here on Goodreads)
An Agatha Christie short story compilation (I have mini synopses for each individual one here on Goodreads)
June 25, 2022
I’m a lifelong Agatha Christie fan, so any chance to read something different from her is always appreciated. This particular collection has 13 of her short stories featuring several of her detective creations. There’s also a chapter by Christie on her almost brush with marriage twice. As someone who loves short stories over longer ones, this was perfect for me.
March 3, 2023
Great collection of stories with many of Agathas greatest characters. Loosely based on the darker side of love and all it entails.
February 1, 2022
Was a suprise that there were stories by Christie still unread by me. And I enjoyed all of them. The icing in the cake was the excerpt from Christie's autobiography. Hoping to read it soon.
January 9, 2022
There are few writers in the world of mystery fiction who are more successful than the late great Dame Agatha Christie. With the exciting publication of A DEADLY AFFAIR, we are gifted with a number of stories, most of which were written for magazines and newspapers, that have been rereleased with the tagline “Unexpected Love Stories from the Queen of Mystery.” There is also a special treat at the end of the book that I will talk about later.
The collection opens with “The King of Clubs,” a terrific story featuring Inspector Hercule Poirot, who is immediately thrust into investigating the murder of impresario Henry Reedburn. Of course, Poirot trusts the instincts of his “little grey cells” that point him in the direction of the actual guilty party.
Christie fans will especially appreciate the short story version of her classic novel, DEATH ON THE NILE. How ideal that this is being released just one month before the film adaptation of the book hits the big screen. I have read the novel several times, so it was a delight to dig into this condensed offering, which contains some of the action and characters of the original but does not feature Poirot.
The beloved Miss Marple gets her turn at bat in “Death by Drowning.” She boldly inserts herself into the drowning of Rose Emmott, a young girl who she insists was a murder victim. It is so much fun to see Scotland Yard completely bungle a case that the feisty Miss Marple is able to solve with ease.
We return to Poirot in “The Double Clue,” in which the case of a missing and extremely valuable emerald necklace is dropped into his lap. Once Poirot examines the safe that was broken into, he finds two clues --- a glove that was jammed into the door to force it open and a cigarette case with initials on it. Of course, the initials are a big red herring and a bit of misdirection that he figures out once the necklace’s owner indicates the limited group of guests who could be suspects.
There are too many stories to cover here, so I will skip to that promised surprise at the end of the book, which is entitled “Affairs of the Heart: Agatha’s Early Courtships.” It is so great to be able to turn the focus back to the author and dig into her two failed engagements, which is almost as interesting as the speculation surrounding her infamous disappearance in 1926.
A DEADLY AFFAIR is not to be missed for fans of Dame Agatha’s work, as well as those who are just discovering the Mistress of Murder.
Reviewed by Ray Palen
The collection opens with “The King of Clubs,” a terrific story featuring Inspector Hercule Poirot, who is immediately thrust into investigating the murder of impresario Henry Reedburn. Of course, Poirot trusts the instincts of his “little grey cells” that point him in the direction of the actual guilty party.
Christie fans will especially appreciate the short story version of her classic novel, DEATH ON THE NILE. How ideal that this is being released just one month before the film adaptation of the book hits the big screen. I have read the novel several times, so it was a delight to dig into this condensed offering, which contains some of the action and characters of the original but does not feature Poirot.
The beloved Miss Marple gets her turn at bat in “Death by Drowning.” She boldly inserts herself into the drowning of Rose Emmott, a young girl who she insists was a murder victim. It is so much fun to see Scotland Yard completely bungle a case that the feisty Miss Marple is able to solve with ease.
We return to Poirot in “The Double Clue,” in which the case of a missing and extremely valuable emerald necklace is dropped into his lap. Once Poirot examines the safe that was broken into, he finds two clues --- a glove that was jammed into the door to force it open and a cigarette case with initials on it. Of course, the initials are a big red herring and a bit of misdirection that he figures out once the necklace’s owner indicates the limited group of guests who could be suspects.
There are too many stories to cover here, so I will skip to that promised surprise at the end of the book, which is entitled “Affairs of the Heart: Agatha’s Early Courtships.” It is so great to be able to turn the focus back to the author and dig into her two failed engagements, which is almost as interesting as the speculation surrounding her infamous disappearance in 1926.
A DEADLY AFFAIR is not to be missed for fans of Dame Agatha’s work, as well as those who are just discovering the Mistress of Murder.
Reviewed by Ray Palen
June 1, 2022
a cool collection of short stories by ms. christie 😙❤️
my favorite was magnolia blossom!
my favorite was magnolia blossom!
February 28, 2024
This Deadly Affairs is a love themed short story compilation. Agatha Christie's stories with her most known characters bring a unique way to look at a case and brings it to a conclusion that no one expects.
As always, it was a pleasure to read her amazing work.
As always, it was a pleasure to read her amazing work.
March 20, 2023
Agatha Christie é Agatha Christie!!
Esta versão dos contos, aos quais não estou habituada acabam por valer muito a pena porque acabo por ter todo o universo de Christie num único livro.
Não é à toa que em 2000 foi considerada a melhor escritora de policiais do séc XX.
São 14 contos e um excerto da sua autobiografia em que fala dos primeiros namorados, e que acaba por ser super curioso.
Ainda tem bibliografia no final onde é indicado em que contexto o conto foi publicado e quando.
Tem contos com os meus detetives preferidos a Tuppence e o Tommy. Tem contos com personagens que confesso não conhecia.
Os meus favoritos foram: O caso da mulher rica; A flor de magnólia, Ninho de Vespas.
Alguns já conhecia das séries que vi como O cavalheiro vestido de papel de jornal.
A imaginação de Agatha Christie não tem limites, felizes de nós que temos imenso para ler no legado que deixou.
Esta versão dos contos, aos quais não estou habituada acabam por valer muito a pena porque acabo por ter todo o universo de Christie num único livro.
Não é à toa que em 2000 foi considerada a melhor escritora de policiais do séc XX.
São 14 contos e um excerto da sua autobiografia em que fala dos primeiros namorados, e que acaba por ser super curioso.
Ainda tem bibliografia no final onde é indicado em que contexto o conto foi publicado e quando.
Tem contos com os meus detetives preferidos a Tuppence e o Tommy. Tem contos com personagens que confesso não conhecia.
Os meus favoritos foram: O caso da mulher rica; A flor de magnólia, Ninho de Vespas.
Alguns já conhecia das séries que vi como O cavalheiro vestido de papel de jornal.
A imaginação de Agatha Christie não tem limites, felizes de nós que temos imenso para ler no legado que deixou.
December 21, 2021
This is a fun collection of mysteries! It covers a lot of Agatha's famous detectives. I just wished that some of the stories had been longer, but most were from published articles so it makes sense. I read through these pretty quick!
June 7, 2022
Audio: (3) ⭐⭐⭐
& Stories: (2) ⭐⭐
This anthology was pretty disappointing for me overall. Some of the stories were quite interesting, but the majority of them were lackluster at best. I've read Agatha Christie novels before and I'm usually a fan of her works, yet these just were not a vibe. A lot of these felt too short and some didn't even seem mysterious at all, just astute observations.
It hurts me to give this book such a low rating – however it feels even worse to falsely praise it, due to my love for some of Agatha's previous works. Anthologies just don't seem to be my thing, I'm too nosey and have too many questions and these short stories just left me unfulfilled in the worst way.
& Stories: (2) ⭐⭐
This anthology was pretty disappointing for me overall. Some of the stories were quite interesting, but the majority of them were lackluster at best. I've read Agatha Christie novels before and I'm usually a fan of her works, yet these just were not a vibe. A lot of these felt too short and some didn't even seem mysterious at all, just astute observations.
It hurts me to give this book such a low rating – however it feels even worse to falsely praise it, due to my love for some of Agatha's previous works. Anthologies just don't seem to be my thing, I'm too nosey and have too many questions and these short stories just left me unfulfilled in the worst way.
November 20, 2021
A DEADLY AFFAIR is a collection of love-based short mysteries from the Queen of Mystery herself, Agatha Christie.
I will devour anything and everything Agatha Christie, and this one was no exception. Do I wish there was more love? Absolutely. But she hits the reader with her quirky writing style and ends each of these stories in a little twisty way with a litttttle bit of romance thrown in for good measure.
I think this book is perfect for avid Christie readers and will make them want to dive back into her beloved detective stories.
Thanks to NetGalley and William Morrow and Custom House for an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Publication Date: January 04, 2022
I will devour anything and everything Agatha Christie, and this one was no exception. Do I wish there was more love? Absolutely. But she hits the reader with her quirky writing style and ends each of these stories in a little twisty way with a litttttle bit of romance thrown in for good measure.
I think this book is perfect for avid Christie readers and will make them want to dive back into her beloved detective stories.
Thanks to NetGalley and William Morrow and Custom House for an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Publication Date: January 04, 2022
September 6, 2022
This a smorgasbord of Christie, like a packet of licorice all sorts. Some are better than others but all worth a taste. It’s a good book to dip into & out of … fun to contemplate the many shades of Agatha’s murders
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