Reading the Detectives discussion

A new month a new Poirot! Let's go :-)

This will be my very first encounter with this story. The synopsis indicates that Ariadne Oliver will be here again too, that's nice!

Jessica wrote: "This will be my very first encounter with this story. The synopsis indicates that Ariadne Oliver will be here again too, that's nice!"

Both her and Poirot are introduced quite early, which is a good sign!

Yes, I’m also very happy with that! He even was introduced after a very good gastronomical experience, for the most Poirot fun. Didn’t notice any apple references surrounding Ariadne yet 😂

Jessica wrote: "Yes, I’m also very happy with that! He even was introduced after a very good gastronomical experience, for the most Poirot fun. Didn’t notice any apple references surrounding Ariadne yet 😂"

Yes, I think she is still swearing off apples - but her affection for trying new hairstyles is on display in this one - I enjoyed this, there were several humorous exchanges between Ariadne and Poirot. I enjoyed Ariadne’s more active role in this mystery.

Also, I mentioned in my review, this one is a sentimental favorite for me, as I believe it was my first ever Christie! I was having a summer visit with my grandmother while I was in junior high (late 1970s), and was looking for something to read - a book club edition of this book caught my eye, and I’ve been hooked ever since! I think this was the cover: .

This is one of Christie's books I had not read before, or at least I don't remember it. I hadn't come across the expression "third girl", but then I was never looking for a flat to share. I liked that Poirot was featured from the start, unlike some of the more recent books. I also liked that Ariadne's thoughts regarding him were included.

I enjoyed visiting with Poirot and Adriadne was in fine form. Even Poirot's 'operative' who won't look him in the face had a couple of scenes. But, not a favorite.

Mr. Goby seems like such an interesting little man. I've known people who never make direct eye contact, and its completely disconcerting. I wonder if its a tactic, or some degree of shyness.

Tara wrote: "Mr. Goby seems like such an interesting little man. I've known people who never make direct eye contact, and its completely disconcerting. I wonder if its a tactic, or some degree of shyness."

Could be on the autism spectrum - I have a family member who is, and he has struggled with eye contact.

I get the feeling with Mr. Goby, though, it’s more of a tactic, from following, investigating and dealing with questionable people for years.

This was the first Poirot book I ever read. Now I'm much more invested in both Poirot and Ariadne Oliver, so will be interesting to see if my opinion of it changes.

Recently finished so will head over to th spoiler thread. However I did enjoy Poirot and Oliver together again, and agree with Susan's references to all her new hairstyles, and that she keeps dropping bits of pinned on hair was quite funny.

Yes, I’m just at that part where she collects some strands out of her handbag 😂. I’m really enjoying all the exchanges between Poirot and Ariadne

I love Ariadne too - although I don't expect her to weave her hair into a thread to help Hercule Thésée Poirot find his way through the labyrinth to rescue Norma from the monster.

Does she ever appear in any non-Poirot books?

Rosina wrote: "I love Ariadne too - although I don't expect her to weave her hair into a thread to help Hercule Thésée Poirot find his way through the labyrinth to rescue Norma from the monster.

Does she ever ap..."

She was also in some of the Parker Pyne stories, but in a much less prominent role.

Rosina wrote: "Does she ever appear in any non-Poirot books?"

Ariadne Oliver appeared in the Parker Pyne short story "The Case of the Discontented Soldier" and in a non-series book called "The Pale Horse"