Books Like...
In "The Murder on the Links," Hercule Poirot is summoned to France by a man fearing for his life, only to arrive too late as the man is already murdered. The story unfolds with intricate twists and turns as Poirot uses his psychological studies and deduction skills to unravel the mystery, aided by his friend Captain Hastings. The plot is filled with unexpected developments, misdirection, and a complex web of family connections and false identities, keeping readers guessing until the very end.
The book showcases Agatha Christie's developing writing style, with well-drawn characters and a blend of suspense, action, and cleverly laid-out plot twists. Despite some minor flaws like publishing errors in certain editions, the narrative maintains an upbeat tone, fast-paced yet reflective, making it an entertaining read that sets the stage for Christie's trademark formula and style in mystery storytelling.
If you liked The Murder on the Links, here are the top 46 books to read next:
(We also have 100 recommendations for the series: Hercule Poirot)
- #1
"The Man in the Brown Suit" by Agatha Christie follows the adventures of Anne Beddingfeld, a plucky young woman who, after her father's death, seeks excitement and becomes entangled in a mystery involving stolen diamonds and a criminal mastermind. Set in colonial South Africa and Rhodesia, the novel is a blend of adventure and romance, with Anne uncovering false identities, facing danger, and ultimately finding love amidst the thrilling plot twists. Written in a style that combines elements of a thriller and a detective story, the book features multiple points of view, including diary entries from Sir Eustace Peddler, adding complexity to the narrative.
Everybody has been at me, right and left, to write this story, from the great (represented by Lord Nasby) to the small (represented by our late maid-of-all-work, Emily, whom I saw when I was last in E... - #2
'The Secret Adversary' by Agatha Christie follows the adventures of Tommy and Tuppence, two individuals in need of money after World War I, who set themselves up as investigators. The plot revolves around their involvement in a dangerous mission to find a missing woman, Jane Finn, and an important document she possesses. The book is set in post-WWI England and incorporates elements of mystery, suspense, and political intrigue, with the characters navigating through a web of red herrings, naivete, and romance. The story unfolds with twists and turns, keeping readers guessing until the end.
The writing style of 'The Secret Adversary' is described as adventurous and engaging, with a fast-paced narrative that captivates readers from the beginning. Despite some predictable elements and dated techniques, the book showcases Agatha Christie's early signs of becoming the Queen of Mystery, with well-developed characters like Tommy and Tuppence who embark on a thrilling journey filled with suspense and unexpected revelations.
The two young people greeted each other affectionately, and momentarily blocked the Dover Street Tube exit in doing so. The adjective “old” was misleading. Their united ages would certainly not have t... - #3
Crooked House by Agatha Christie is a standalone murder mystery novel that revolves around the murder of wealthy Aristide Leonides in his lavish yet peculiar house. The story follows Charles Hayward, a young man in love with Aristide's granddaughter Sophia, as he gets entangled in the investigation to uncover the murderer among the dysfunctional Leonides family members. With unexpected twists and vivid character portrayals, the book unfolds a classic whodunit plot set in a sprawling mansion in the English countryside, keeping readers engaged till the very end.
The narrative of Crooked House is filled with suspense, intrigue, and a touch of creepiness that builds up as the story progresses. Agatha Christie masterfully weaves a tale where every family member and even the staff become suspects in the murder, creating a tangled web of motives, alibis, and secrets. The book not only presents a compelling mystery but also delves into the complexities of family dynamics, showcasing Christie's talent for crafting engaging plots and memorable characters in a non-traditional detective story.
I first came to know Sophia Leonides in Egypt towards the end of the war. She held a fairly high administrative post in one of the Foreign Office departments out there. I knew her first in an official... - #4
In the small village of Chipping Cleghorn, an announcement in the local newspaper about a murder to take place at Little Paddocks intrigues the residents. What starts as a possible joke or party invitation turns into a real murder attempt, leading to a complex mystery involving eccentric characters and unexpected events. The story unfolds with Miss Marple using her wit and keen observational skills to help solve the crime, revealing hidden secrets and surprising twists in a classic Agatha Christie style.
The plot of 'A Murder Is Announced' by Agatha Christie revolves around a murder announcement that turns into a real crime, leading to a series of events that keep the readers guessing until the end. With a mix of quirky characters, clever plotting, and unexpected revelations, the book offers a glimpse into English village life post-World War II, showcasing Christie's talent for crafting intricate mysteries with engaging narratives and surprising outcomes.
Between 7.30 and 8.30 every morning except Sundays, Johnnie Butt made the round of the village of Chipping Cleghorn on his bicycle, whistling vociferously through his teeth, and alighting at each hous...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Miss Marple ) - #5
'The Body in the Library' by Agatha Christie follows the story of a young woman's body found in the library of Colonel and Mrs. Bantry, leading to a complex mystery that only Miss Marple can unravel. Miss Marple, with her keen observation skills and knowledge of human nature, delves into the case involving suspicious characters, scandal, and interconnected events. Set in the quiet village of St. Mary Mead, the book combines elements of a classic murder mystery with red herrings, secret marriages, and intriguing plot twists.
Agatha Christie's writing style in 'The Body in the Library' is praised for its ability to keep readers engaged with quick pacing, intricate plotting, and well-developed characters. offers a blend of humor, suspense, and clever deductions as Miss Marple navigates through the puzzle of the murder case, showcasing the brilliance of the iconic detective in solving crimes with her unique insights and deductive reasoning.
Mrs. Bantry was dreaming. Her sweet peas had just taken a First at the flower show. The vicar, dressed in cassock and surplice, was giving out the prizes in church. His wife wandered past, dressed in ...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Miss Marple ) - #6
Agatha Christie's 'Endless Night' is a psychological thriller that delves into the sinister and tragic tale of Michael Rogers, an Englishman who falls in love with an American heiress, Ellie, and together they build their dream home on a cursed land known as Gypsy's Acre. The narrative is written in a first-person perspective, showcasing Christie's ability to manipulate the reader's expectations in a romance turned mystery, with a chilling exploration of madness.
The book is a departure from Christie's typical murder mysteries, focusing more on psychological study and class dynamics, with a plot that starts out as a simple analysis of privilege but evolves into a gripping exploration of obsession, fear, and deception. The writing style is simple yet poetic, creating a sense of uneasiness that grows throughout the book, leading to a brilliant plot twist at the end that leaves readers shocked.
Did my story begin, perhaps, when I noticed the Sale Bill hanging on the wall of the George and Dragon, announcing Sale by Auction of that valuable property “The Towers,” and giving particulars of the... - #7
Agatha Christie's 'The Secret of Chimneys' is a standalone novel featuring neither Poirot nor Miss Marple. The story revolves around Anthony Cade, an adventurer in Africa, who gets entangled in a series of plots involving diamond theft, Balkan politics, mistaken identities, and international jewel thieves. Set in an English country house, the novel is a country house closed room murder mystery with a breathless conclusion where the killer is revealed. The plot is filled with twists, unreliable narrators, and hidden identities, making it a fun and entertaining read for fans of Christie's mysteries.
'The Secret of Chimneys' introduces readers to Superintendent Battle, a level-headed detective from Scotland Yard, who teams up with amateur detective Anthony Cade to solve the murder of King Michael of Herzoslovakia. The book showcases Christie's skillful use of an unreliable narrator, clever plot twists, and engaging storytelling that keeps readers guessing until the very end. With elements of international intrigue, romance, and political machinations, the novel offers a delightful mix of mystery and adventure, showcasing Christie's prowess as a master of the genre.
Castle’s Select Tour, represented by seven depressed-looking females and three perspiring males, looked on with considerable interest. Evidently their Mr. Cade had met an old friend. They all admired ... - #8
'Passenger To Frankfurt' by Agatha Christie is a spy thriller novel that follows Sir Stafford Nye as he meets a mysterious woman who draws him into a world of international politics and espionage. The book involves elements of civil unrest, espionage, science, money, weapons, and government, with a plot that touches on topics like charismatic speakers, vulnerability of people to lies, and a worldwide conspiracy driven by the super rich. The writing style is described as disjointed, with a mix of thrilling spy elements in the beginning and a more confusing and odd tone in the latter half of the book.
'Fasten your seat-belts, please.' The diverse passengers in the plane were slow to obey. There was a general feeling that they couldn't possibly be arriving at Geneva yet. The drowsy groaned and yawne... - #9
"Murder at the Vicarage" by Agatha Christie is the first in the Miss Marple series, introducing the beloved character of Miss Jane Marple. Set in the village of St. Mary Mead, the story revolves around the murder of Colonel Protheroe in the vicar's study, leading to a plethora of suspects with motives to kill him. Miss Marple, an elderly and astute observer of human nature, takes it upon herself to uncover the truth behind the murder, despite facing resistance from the police and village residents.
Narrated by the vicar, the plot unfolds with intricate details, red herrings, and a cleverly laid out mystery that keeps readers engaged. The story showcases the village life, social dynamics, and the sharp wit of Miss Marple as she navigates through the suspects and clues to ultimately solve the murder, highlighting Agatha Christie's masterful storytelling and suspenseful writing style.
It is difficult to know quite where to begin this story, but I have fixed my choice on a certain Wednesday at luncheon at the Vicarage. The conversation, though in the main irrelevant to the matter in... - #10
"At Bertram's Hotel" by Agatha Christie is a classic murder mystery featuring the beloved character Miss Marple. The story unfolds at the dignified and traditional Bertram's Hotel in London, where Miss Marple is vacationing. As she observes the guests and the happenings at the hotel, she becomes entangled in a web of emotional entanglements that inevitably lead to murder. The plot is described as a lively romp involving a luxurious hotel setting, where Miss Marple's keen observations and acute observations play a crucial role in helping unravel the mystery. The book captures the essence of an old-fashioned English hotel and its guests, blending nostalgia with sinister undertones as Miss Marple delves into the secrets hidden within the hotel's walls.
In the heart of the West End, there are many quiet pockets, unknown to almost all but taxi drivers who traverse them with expert knowledge, and arrive triumphantly thereby at Park Lane, Berkeley Squar...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Miss Marple )