In this novel, Agatha Christie introduces us to her iconic Belgian detective Hercule Poirot. However, even the grandmistress of the polished British crime novel could not have anticipated the triumphal march the self-important, vain Poirot would embark upon: 33 novels, two plays, and 55 short stories!

Interestingly, over the years, Christie grew increasingly disenchanted with her own creation … In her autobiography and various letters, she expressed frustration about Poirot, describing him as an 'detestable, bombastic, tiresome, ego-centric little creep.' Despite her personal views on Poirot, however, Christie was professional enough to respect the wishes of her readership.

In his debut, the Belgian refugee Hercule Poirot is tasked with solving the murder of Emily Inglethorp, the wealthy mistress of Styles Court.

The plot already showcases some of the features that would become Christie's trademarks over the decades: Innovative twists that played with the genre's conventions of the time, and meticulously laid out clues that allow the attentive reader to solve the case alongside the detective (here Poirot, later also Miss Marple). The suspense is maintained through a complex web of suspicion and mystery.

Christie employs a clear, direct style that is easily accessible to readers. Her precise language and her ability to convey details without becoming long-winded contribute to the enjoyment of reading, and I especially love her wonderfully dry humor.

In my eyes, her style matures more and more over the course of her life, yet «The Mysterious Affair at Styles» is already a remarkable novel!"