The Mysterious Affair at Styles

The Mysterious Affair at Styles is the debut novel of Agatha Christie, marking the first appearance of her iconic detective, Hercule Poirot. Set against the backdrop of World War I, the story unfolds at Styles Court, the family estate of the wealthy Emily Inglethorp. When Emily is poisoned, suspicion falls on her new husband, Alfred Inglethorp, and a cast of relatives and house guests, each with a motive for murder. Arthur Hastings, a guest at Styles and the narrator, calls upon his friend Poirot to investigate. The Belgian detective’s meticulous methods and attention to detail lead to a surprising conclusion, showcasing Christie’s masterful plot construction and her talent for misdirection.<br/>Agatha Christie (1890–1976), born Agatha Mary Clarissa Miller, was an English writer known for her sixty-six detective novels and fourteen short story collections. Her works revolve around fictional detectives Hercule Poirot and Miss Marple. Christie’s writing career flourished during the “Golden Age of Detective Fiction,” earning her the title “Queen of Crime.” She also wrote under the pseudonym Mary Westmacott.