The Agatha Christie Reading Group discussion

When I first read this, it was one of my favorites. Unfortunately, upon re-reading, there was only one real good thing and that was the twist ending. Almost a straight novel outside of that ending.

I have seen a movie version of this... but strangely don't remember any of it. And this was maybe a couple of years ago. I usually have a great memory! Oh well... I can't wait to read though.

There is a "Miss Marple" version of this book coming to PBS in the US in September. Obviously some changes, given that Miss M is not in the book!

I barely got into this book when I found something interesting. Had a feeling the part is supposed to be symbolic and foreshadowing while in my opinion was strangely played out on the scene. Maybe I just wasn't very observant but at first when he spotted the strange pieces of art I thought that it was all in his head at first. Turned out they were there at the store.

Pghfan wrote: "When I first read this, it was one of my favorites. Unfortunately, upon re-reading, there was only one real good thing and that was the twist ending. Almost a straight novel outside of that ending."

I could kind of see that. I was surprised how mostly simply it was presented. I guess we were supposed to think it was part of the style since the main character Michael admits himself he is bad at describing things.

And man, the ending events were pretty shocking I agree!

The ending surely was shocking, it keeps reminds me something which I cannot recall but I read The murder of Roger A. awhile ago, maybe it was that. I kind of liked, not my favorite for sure but it has something. And the I remembered I was reading Christie and somebody must die. It has little bit creepy feeling overall. I was too impressed how fast the built the house but maybe because of money.

Yeah I had briefly the naïve sense that Santonix had put the new house up himself though he did have workers. haha. I know one should assume a team for construction be put together.

One thing I wonder looking back on it was (view spoiler)[because of the twist, was the curse even real or was Mrs. Lee as it had said briefly just warning Ellie on you know who?I guess like Santonix had said when they were putting the place together things are just bound to happen. Injuries occur just because. (hide spoiler)] I just found that interesting.

Did injuries occur just because or was there more to it?

Pghfan wrote: "There is a "Miss Marple" version of this book coming to PBS in the US in September. Obviously some changes, given that Miss M is not in the book!"

That sounds exciting! Are there any commercials that say the day it is playing?

CJ: I'm not sure exactly, but they will be on Sunday nights in the middle to late September.

Pghfan wrote: "CJ: I'm not sure exactly, but they will be on Sunday nights in the middle to late September."

I'll keep my eyes open!

I found out on Wikipedia there was a tv special that first aired on an Australian channel last year. It starred Julia McKensie as Miss Marple though it was about Endless Night. That must be the special playing so I hope I will see it on PBS soon!

This book is, in my opinion, the most chilling of all Christie's mysteries apart from And Then There Were None. Lauren, I agree the atmosphere is very eerie. I remember being so shocked and horrified at (view spoiler)[Michael's betrayal. I always thought Agatha Christie had an exceptional understanding of the worst of human nature, and it was shown in this ending. Ellie still haunts me as one of her most endearing characters who didn't deserve to die :( (hide spoiler)]

Yes that is true Nomisha. And though I wish there was some more hints as to the one character's nature I did think this was a great work seemingly inspired by a friend's "urban legend" or tale of some kind.

PBS aired the special Masterpiece Mystery special but I missed it. Oh well. Did anyone get to see it?

Yes, I did watch it but didn't care for it. Like so many of the recent adaptations, things start out well, but the writers seem to think that something more spectacular needs to happen at the end. Including putting Miss Marple in serious harm's way. (I hate to elaborate, so as not to spoil the viewing of anyone who hasn't seen it yet.)

Yeah I heard without being given spoilers that the ending was drastically different than the novel. Have no idea how though. Maybe it was kind of a good thing I didn't get to see it I guess. :)

Went to the library today, but couldn't get a copy of Lord Edgware dies so picked this up instead. So far I`m enjoying :-)

It's pretty enjoyable.

Oh. About not finding November book, did you request to find out if there was a copy in a library around your area (besides your favorite location?). They will send you that book to your liked library without you having to make the commitment to seeing that other one. Just letting you know... :)

Thanks CJ that was really helpful. Went onto the library website and have sent a request for the book.
( They have it in another library ) Now I just have to wait.

Glad to help. :)

And also happy you've got your other book now to discuss for this month!