Part of Hercule Poirot, book 43
First published 1991
Parker Pyne tackles romantic troubles at a Mediterranean resort while Hercule Poirot investigates deadly secrets behind dinner gongs and yellow irises. The mysterious Harley Quin appears at tea parties and alongside amateur sleuths, weaving his strange influence through cases of the heart. These eight tales span decades of Christie's career, moving from murder and theft to unexpected romances. Two stories venture beyond crime entirely, exploring the bonds between a woman and her beloved dog and the complexities of marriage. Each detective brings their own methods: Poirot with his little grey cells, Parker Pyne with his unconventional solutions to human problems, and Harley Quin with his enigmatic presence. The settings range from English country houses to exotic locales, but all showcase Christie's versatility. Whether solving attempted murder or matters of love, these stories demonstrate why she earned her title as the undisputed Queen of Crime.
Genres: 20th-century, crime, detective, agatha-christie, amateur-sleuth
Vibes: atmospheric, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: amateur-sleuth, found-family, unconventional-detective
Setting: England, Mediterranean, Pollensa Bay
Period: 20th Century
227 pages · Hardcover · HarperCollins