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Book Review: Agatha Christie, The Mystery Of Three Quarters

Sophie Hannah has released her third novel authorized by the estate of Agatha Christie.

Her latest work, “The Mystery of Three Quarters,” is a fitting tribute to the greatest mystery novelist of all time and creator of the endearingly eccentric Belgian detective Hercule Poirot. (William Morrow, 344 pages)

While returning to his flat in London, Poirot is confronted by an irate woman who claims to have received a letter from him accusing her of murdering the elderly Barnabas Pandy, who was thought to have drowned in his bathtub. Three more people come forward — all claiming to have received similar letters.

But the great detective would never accuse an innocent person of murder. Moreover, if he suspected a person of committing the ultimate crime, Poirot would bring his case to Scotland Yard so that the criminal would be brought to justice.

With his reputation and honor at stake, Poirot begins investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of Mr. Pandy. When he discovers that the elderly man was very wealthy and had intended to change his Last Will and Testament just prior to his death, Poirot suspects that indeed, an act most foul has been committed.

Hannah crafts a mystery worthy of the “little gray cells” which recreates all the delightful nuances of this elegant and sophisticated sleuth as he solves the most intricate crimes in London of 1930.

She even incorporates a bit of the irresistible Christie humor in her description of the English solicitor who is utterly intimidated by his secretary.

Agatha Christie readers will enjoy the ingenious plot of this latest representation of Hercule Poirot by Sophie Hannah.

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