Saturday, July 5, 2025

REVIEW: The Labors of Hercules

 The Labors of Hercules
Author: Agatha Christie


The Labors of Hercules is a short story collection gathering 12 tales featuring Hercule Poirot. The collection was first published in 1947 in both the US and UK. 

In the UK, 11 of the stories (The Capture of Cerberus was rejected) were first printed in The Strand magazine from 1939 - 1940. In the US, 11 of the stories were printed (The Augean Stables was left out) in magazines from 1939 - 1947. 

This is the first time I read this short story collection. I've had the paperback on my Agatha Christie shelf for years, but never actually read the book. So glad I finally did -- I enjoyed all of these stories!  

The forward sets the stage for all of the stories....Hercule Poirot wants to retire and spend his days growing vegetable marrows and relaxing, rather than solving crimes. Maybe take a vacation or enjoy a weekend getaway to the country without a murder taking over his leisure time. But first.....Hercule plans to spend a year taking only cases that interest him so he can go out with style and on his own terms.  

My first task before reading this book was to investigate and find out exactly what vegetable is a "vegetable marrow" -- I wasn't sure if this was summer squash, zucchini, cucumber....so I made use of the lovely tool that is the internet and found out...... 

Zucchini - allowed to grow large (courgette). Yum!! When I have finished this book, I will have to buy some zucchini and saute them with onion and spices and celebrate Hercule's dream of cultivating, improving and leisurely growing vegetable marrows. :) 

I read my old paperback version from 1972 (really odd cover art lol) while listening to an audio book [HarperAudio, 2012, narrated by Hugh Fraser, 8 hrs 45 minutes]. And, when I finished I threw my ancient paperback copy in the recycle bin. 

NOTE: I find it really annoying that I can't add cover photos to Goodreads anymore.  Yes, I could apply to be a librarian on the site, but.....I only want to add information or editions for books that I am reviewing. So, not going to bother applying to be a librarian. Just annoys me that my review of this book on Goodreads is without a cover picture because there isn't one already loaded to the site. That's really disappointing when so many of the old paperbacks have really odd/cool/interesting covers like this one!!  

One interesting thing about the book -- it had a very old mystery book club advertisement inside:

It's a shame really, as the thick paper of the ad screwed up the spine of the book over time. But, it was really interesting to read the old ad. 

The introductory offer for The Detective Book Club was 4 volumes with 3 stories in each for $1 plus shipping. After that, each volume with 3 stories was $3.99. Nice mix of authors. I would imagine that a lot of people took them up on the offer. I looked up what $1 in 1972 would be in 2025 dollars: $7.69.  But, that $3.99 price tag per book after that equals to about $30 per book. Yikes! ha ha 

I love it when I find things tucked into old books, even advertisements! I've found shopping lists, book marks, letters, and other ads (even for cigarettes - why in a book?). Always fun! 

 

And, my old paperback also had a used bookstore stamp in it from Asheville, NC. 


I googled the business because I'm nosy and it's always fun to see if shops are still open. And, alas, The Book Rack is no more. There is a Books by Linda listed at the same address, but I couldn't find it on street view so not sure if that store is still open.  Anyone from NC / Asheville??? Let me know if this bookshop still exists! Just an aside -- Asheville is the only thing I miss from NC! Malaprops Bookstore is the bomb!! 

 

Now on to the stories! 

 The Nemean Lion - Poirot gets pulled into a case to investigate the kidnapping of a Pekinese dog. Of course, it turns out that the case has much more to it than a missing doggo. This is a very cute story. I enjoyed it! 

The Lernaean Hydra - A doctor hires Poirot to investigate the death of his wife who died a year previouly. He's anxious for the case to be looked into because people are gossiping that he poisoned her. He is enduring gossip, people avoiding him and even poison pen letters. Poirot takes the case and discovers there is nothing more difficult to defeat than a rumor and that there really is no smoke without at least a bit of fire. Great story!  

The Arcadian Deer - A garage mechanic approaches Poirot about a girl he met. He spent one day with her, fell in love....and then she disappeared. Poirot does much traveling and asks many questions to track down the mysterious, beautiful disappearing ladies maid. Great story! Just a feel-good tale. Loved it! And I really love it when Poirot takes cases because they are right and not because the person can pay his usual fees.  

The Erymanthian Boar -  Poirot is called upon to help catch a notorious killer in Switzerland. Very interesting and enjoyable story! I loved listening to Poirot's thoughts on all of the guests at the hotel. I kept wondering if I was faced with a group of strangers and had to pick out a criminal from among them, could I figure out who the bad guy was? I don't think I could! Poirot has those skills -- I do not! 

The Augean Stables -  A political scandal involving a former Prime Minister may create a really bad outcome for England. Hercule Poirot is called in to discredit a unscrupulous newspaper, but he has to do it in a most unusual way. This story gave me a bit of deja vu, as political scandal is never out of the press. Interesting twist on an old problem. 

The Stymphalean Birds -  Poirot is hired by a young politician who is being blackmailed after he tried to help a distressed woman. Great story with a fun, entertaining twist. Loved it! 

The Cretan Bull - A woman seeks out Poirot's help for an unusual problem with her fiance. Not the sort of case Poirot usually takes on, but that fact made this a very entertaining story! 

The Horses of Diomedes -  A doctor hires Poirot to help with a girl who has fallen in with a very bad crowd. His job? To find out who is supplying cocaine to young people in the area. This was a very odd story, but still really good. And, it's amazing (and sad) that after 90 years, society is still dealing with this same problem. Hugh Fraser did such a great job of voicing a country busybody character in this story -- just delightful!  

The Girdle of Hippolyta - Poirot investigates an art theft and the strange case of a girl who disappeared from a moving train. This one kept me guessing until the end. Very entertaining story! 

The Flock of Geryon -  Poirot investigates a strange cult with the help of a former acquaintance. Enjoyable story with just a touch of creepiness because similar incidents still happen. Yikes! 

The Apples of the Hesperides -  When a priceless goblet with a macabre history is stolen, Poirot is called in to recover it. Entertaining story! 

The Capture of Cerberus -  A chance meeting with a woman from his past sends Poirot on a strange search for her in "Hell." What an entertaining story -- my favorite of the book.  And, if "Hell" actually existed....I would have to go there! :)  

Adaptations:

I only found one adaptation of sorts. 

Agatha Christie's Poirot: An episode of this long-running television show [Poirot's Final Cases 2013,

episode 4] combined the plots of four of the stories into a single episode. [The Arcadian Deer, The Erymanthian Boar, The Stymphalean Birds, and The Capture of Cerberus]. The stories have some pretty significant changes to meld them all together. Frankly, it made a bit of a jumbled mess out of it, but....I still enjoyed the episode.

I had to do some research on this because I was under the impression that David Suchet had played Poirot for all of the novels/stories on the show.  Turns out that some of the story themes were combined with other bits and pieces to extend other episodes, some of the stories were deemed unsuitable to adapt for television, and some were found to be too similar to other Christie stories/novels. The producers picked which stories were included in the episode. The "final cases" season was meant to mop up the Christie books/story collections that hadn't been featured in the show previously. So, although not every story was completely represented, they did at least touch on every book. I read an article that said that every story featuring Poirot was mentioned/touched on by the series in some way, even if some were never a fundamental part of an episode. 

I enjoyed the episode! I have yet to find an episode of Poirot that I didn't like!

Old worn out paperwork has gone into the recycling bin and on to the next:   Taken by the Flood! Another Poirot mystery! :) 




 


 

Sunday, June 29, 2025

REVIEW - The Hollow

 The Hollow
Author: Agatha Christie


This Poirot mystery was first serialized in magazines in the US and UK in 1946. It was published in novel form that same year. It also appeared under the title Murder After Hours in 1954 (Dell books).

I read my old paperback copy from 1986 and listened to an audio book version (HarperAudio, 2012, narrated by Hugh Fraser, 7 hrs 15 minutes).  

This is my first reading of this book. I've had the old paperback on my Christie shelf for years, but never got around to actually reading the story.  

 This story is truly classic Christie. A gathering at a country house. People with secrets. And, one of the party ends up dead. Luckily, Hercule Poirot is there to investigate. You would think Poirot would start turning down invitations to country weekends with upper crusties....they always bump someone off and expect him to clean up the mess! He can't even go on vacation or take some time away from the city without someone being killed! 

 I had to sit and think over the ending of this book. Agatha Christie was just a genius when it comes to weaving a great mystery. I did not see the end coming. So interesting, creative and different! Overall, this was a very enjoyable Poirot investigation!  

Adaptations: 

Stage Play: Agatha Christie adapted The Hollow into a play in 1951, but removed Poirot from the story. The play was highly successful. The script is included in a collection of Christie's plays -- The Mousetrap and Other Plays. I will review the book at a later date. :) 

Kiken na onnatachi - Japanese film adaptation from 1985.  

Agatha Christie's Poirot: The long-running television series with David Suchet as Poirot did an episode based on the book in Season 9 (Episode 4). Minor character changes were made, but otherwise the episode follows the book pretty closely. Very well done! 

Le Grand Alibi - French movie released in 2008. I tried to find this movie, but it was just not available for me. I desperately need a VPN. Amazon has it, but it has the dreaded "not available in your region" message for me. 

Les Petits Meurtres d'Agatha Christie: This French television show adapted this story in 2021. The setting is moved to France. The characters are all changed, and the time period is the 1970s. I found this episode on Kanopy. The season is titled Agatha Christie's Criminal Games - The 1970s in the US. And, thankfully it is subtitled in English! Interesting changes in the plot. The doctor is a plastic surgeon. Enjoyable episode with lots of comedy elements added. The 1970s vibe was an interesting addition. But, the story is so fundamentally changed that it really isn't the same story anymore. Still an enjoyable watch! 

Moving on! Old, damaged paperback sent to the recycle bin. Next up in my Christie reading journey is The Labors of Hercules, a short story collection!  

Wednesday, June 25, 2025

REVIEW: Sparkling Cyanide (Remembered Death)

 Sparkling Cyanide (Remembered Death)
Author: Agatha Christie

This book was published in the United States in 1945 as Remembered Death and released in the UK that same year as Sparkling Cyanide. I prefer the British title as it just has that Christie ring to it. :) 

This is the final appearance of Colonel Race. 

I read my old paperback copy from 1975 while listening to an audio book (HarperAudio 2012, 6 hrs 30 minutes, narrated by Hugh Fraser).  

This is my first reading of this book. I always stuck with the more famous Poirot and Marple stories, and left the less famous characters to languish on my book shelf. There is one thing my reading challenge to enjoy all of Christie's writing in publication order is teaching me -- some of the mysteries involving the lesser known characters are actually very, very good! 

And now.... on to the story. 

It dawned on me as I read this story just how many Christie mysteries involve unfaithful husbands, "the other woman," and unhappy marriages. This story is another such tale. I wonder if Christie's masterful depictions of the emotions involved were pulled from her own life? Her first husband, Colonel Archibald Christie, left her in 1928 (after 14 years of marriage) for another woman. Christie had a mental breakdown of sorts and actually disappeared for 10 days. They divorced and Agatha's ex-husband married the woman he left her for. I'm very glad she channeled those emotions into writing rather than poisoning her husband's lover.  Makes you wonder if she thought about it!!  She literally had the know how, and real knowledge of medicines, poisons and venom to do someone in if she had ever wanted to. It's a good thing she wrote books instead! 

The plot of Sparkling Cyanide is close to an earlier Poirot short story, Yellow Iris. Christie really didn't recycle the entire plot, just the basics of the murder. The identity of the killer and the investigation are quite a bit different. 

I am finding that I enjoy the stories she wrote that aren't focused on one investigator. Colonel Race is in the story and he does interview suspects, but several characters assist with the investigation. Definitely a group effort.  

While reading and listening to this story, I found myself picking a killer and then changing my mind several times. In the end, my guesses were totally wrong. Great ending! 

Adaptations:  

This story has been adapted several times (but none are very faithful to the book):

Made for TV Movie - 1983: I watched some clips from this television movie adaptation and read a bit about the basic plot. The movie has significant changes in plot and characters, and some of the casting choices seemed odd to me. I didn't watch this one. I couldn't find it online for free, and didn't want to pay $10 to buy what looks like a bad 1980s version of the story that I won't watch again. I will watch this if it pops back up on one of the streaming services I have. 

Movie - 2003: This movie adaptation also makes significant changes to the characters and basic story. An elderly couple who are spies investigate the murder of a soccer club manager's wife. My first thought was that it sounded like they made it a Tommy and Tuppence story rather than Colonel Race. I watched this adaptation on BritBox. Enjoyable, but some of the changes were a bit odd. 

BBC Radio drama - BBC Radio 4 released an audio drama in 2012. The audio runs 1 hr 24 minutes. Wonderful quality as usual. Full cast and sound effects. The drama sticks relatively close to the book, with changes made to condense the plot for time. Very enjoyable listen! And, it keeps Colonel Race in the story! 

Les Petits Meurtres d'Agatha Christie - This French television show changes the setting to France and adapts to having all French characters, but the basic plot sticks pretty much to the original. I actually found this episode on Kanopy through my local library. The series is renamed as Agatha Christie's Criminal Games in the US. I had assumed this show would not be available to me, but Kanopy even has English subtitles! I discovered I can access the show through my library while searching for the 1983 movie. I never did find the movie, but now I can go back and watch the French adaptations I missed! :) Yay! The Sparkling Cyanide episode is 1 hr 33 minutes long (Season 1 of Agatha Christie's Criminal Games, Episode 1), and although it makes sweeping changes to the story, it is very entertaining! It's set in the 1950's. A film star dies after sipping poisoned champagne. Loved it! Very colorful and campy! 

Chimunizu-kan no himitsu - A 2006 Japanese graphic novel includes adapatations of Sparkling Cyanide, The Secret of Chimneys and Towards Zero. 

Well, goodbye Colonel Race - thank you for the 5 lovely  mysteries! 

I enjoyed this story. I'm beginning to get over my dislike of Christie's lesser known characters. It's too bad I just started to enjoy Colonel Race and this book is his last appearance. 

I'm wondering why this book was adapted to film twice, and both times they mangled Christie's plot? Why adapt a story that is excellent the way it is....and completely mess with the way the author wrote it? Just write a similar story with a different title altogether and leave the classic mystery alone! The 2003 movie wasn't bad. I really enjoyed it, but it wasn't the same story. It's not ok to take a Christie novel, fundamentally change everything about it, but still plonk her book title onto the film (just my honest opinion).  

On to the next!  The Hollow -- a Poirot Mystery! I look forward to a Poirot investigation after reading 3 books in a row without Poirot or Marple. :) 

 

Thursday, June 19, 2025

REVIEW: Towards Zero

 Towards Zero
Author: Agatha Christie


I'm not really a huge Superintendent Battle fan, but when I saw how many times this story by Agatha Christie has been adapted, I knew it must be a good story! Usually I'm a Poirot & Marple snob. Hopefully my personal reading challenge to journey through all of Christie's works in publication order will help me learn to enjoy all her characters, not just two of them. 

This novel was published in both the US and the UK in 1944. It is the last of Christie's novels to feature Superintendent Battle.  

I read a beat up paperback copy from my bookshelves (Pocket Books, 1986) while listening to an audio book (HarperAudio, 2012, narrated by Hugh Fraser, 6 hrs 15 minutes). 

The old paperback was on my bookshelves for years and I never read it. I'm happy that I finally got to enjoy the story....and then the old book went into the recycle bin. Bookshelf space is at a premium now that I'm in an apartment. And the book was so old that the pages were starting to separate from the spine just from age. It was time to let it go....and make room for new books. 

 Now...on to the story! 

I actually found myself enjoying this Superintendent Battle mystery from the start! Interesting set up, and the plot kept my attention from start to finish. 

I found Christie's original ending a bit strange and creepy. Others must have as well, as each adaptation I watched removed a certain character from the story altogether.  

This book has been adapted several times. 

Stage Plays - Agatha Christie adapted this story for the stage twice, once in 1945 and again in 1956. I tried to find scripts online but was unsuccessful. I wonder what changes she made?? I read where the script for the earlier play was found in 2015, but I didn't find a copy anywhere to read. Note to self -- keep looking! :)

Verso L'ora Zero - this is an Italian made-for-television movie version released in 1980. I don't speak Italian, so didn't try to find this film version. 

Innocent Lies - This movie is based on the book, but the Christie Estate required the title change and character changes. Released in 1995, the movie had only mild success. There are multiple places to stream this movie online for free. 

Chimunizu-kan no himitsu - this Japanese Manga book collects 3 Christie stories: The Secret of Chimneys, Towards Zero and Sparkling Cyanide. It was published in 2006.  

Agatha Christie's Marple - the popular Miss Marple television series adapted the book (Season 3, Episode 3) in 2007, replacing Superintendent Battle with Miss Marple as investigator. I was so excited during the episode as I recognized two actors in the cast - Tom Baker and Julian Sands. Geraldine McEwan is excellent as Miss Marple -- as usual. There was one character left out and related plot changes that I didn't really like, but the episode on the whole was very good. 

L'Huere Zero - French film adaptation released in 2007. From what I read online, the film sticks pretty close to the novel. I don't speak French, so I didn't watch the movie. 

Radio Drama - BBC Radio 4 broadcast an audio drama based on Towards Zero in 2010. It runs 1 hr 15 minutes. The BBC Radio 4 Christie adaptations are so well done. I have enjoyed them all so far! The cast is excellent --- Hugh Bonneville plays Nevile Strange!  This was very well done as usual. There were some changes to the plot, most likely to condense the story a bit for time.  Loved it! 

Les Petits Meurtres d'Agatha Christie - Season 2 of this French television series had an episode based on Towards Zero in 2019. I don't speak French, but this show did so many adaptations of Christie stories that I wish I did! I read online that the setting is moved to France and the characters are all changed. I am not sure if the plot stuck close to the book or not. 

2025 BBC adaptation - Britbox streaming service has this 3 part series available, released by the BBC in 2025. I don't watch these new film versions until I've read the book so had to wait a few months after its release to watch this one. It was SO HARD to wait!! It released in March, so at least I didn't have to wait long. Hard to avoid spoilers, but I managed!   There were some major changes to some of the characters and the plot. I think most of the changes were to smooth out some events and also to extend for time / dramatize for film. I didn't mind the changes. Very enjoyable adaptation! Angelica Huston was phenomenal! 

 On to the next!! 

  

  

 

 

 

Wednesday, June 18, 2025

Death Comes as the End

 Death Comes as the End
Author: Agatha Christie


Death Comes as the End was published in the US in 1944 and released in the UK in 1945. This is the only novel by Agatha Christie that is not set in modern times. The setting is Thebes in 2000 BC. 

I read my old paperback copy (Pocket Books, 1972) from my bookshelves while listening to an audio book (HarperAudio 2012, 7 hrs 11 minutes, narrated by Emilia Fox). 

I've had this paperback for years. In fact, I found my name written on the inside front cover and it was my maiden name...so I've had this book for at least 35 years. And I never actually read it. I know why....I am sure the minute I discovered it was set in ancient Thebes and didn't involve any of Christie's usual characters I lost interest in reading it. And, even today, I pretty much felt the same way. I had to force myself to read this book. I felt no interest at all in reading a Christie murder mystery set in ancient times. It isn't because I'm not interested in ancient history. It's just that at times Christie's writing has racial undertones that thankfully have not aged well. And an upper class English woman writing an Egyptian murder mystery because of the Egypt-obsessed public of the time just really doesn't float my boat. Others love this book....I just pretty much guessed that it wouldn't be my thing. 

My ancient paperback was sent off to the recycle bin when I finished reading. Not just because I won't be reading this one again, but also because it was so old its pages were literally falling out. I had to put a rubber band around it to keep it intact long enough to finish reading. 

 Now....on to the story! 

 I'm glad I gave this book a chance. I did listen to the entire audio book and gave it my best shot. But....I didn't like this book. I think there's a reason why Agatha Christie only wrote one book set back in ancient times. It was a one-off, suggested to her by a friend who was a professor. Interesting concept and she did basically pull it off, but I'm glad she only did it once. After completing my reading, I know why this book was never adapted into a movie or television mini series. It would be too expensive for one thing. And, it would just need extensive work to make it into a viable script for modern viewers. 

I did love the fact that Christie based the story loosely on scrolls found in a tomb at Luxor. The scrolls were written by an ancient priest who was complaining about the way his family treated his concubine.  

Agatha Christie has been my favorite author since I was 9 years old. But, as a reviewer, I give my honest opinions about every book I read. So, despite the fact this might be an unpopular opinion, this book was pretty cringeworthy. I wasn't five minutes into the book before there was a racial comment made by a character. And, it was difficult to listen to an audio book with an English woman voicing ancient Eqyptian characters.  The characters seemed drawn from Christie's usual fare, but plonked down in ancient Egypt with a hasty slight makeover to make them fit the setting. It's obvious that Christie read and did research about what life in ancient Egypt was like such as family dynamics, concubines and other aspects of ancient culture before writing. But, for me, it just made for a lackluster story that came off as a very white attempt at portraying an ancient culture. 

 That's only my opinion. I'm glad others enjoyed this book.  And, when you read an author's entire life work, there are bound to be some stories that just aren't favorites. This book is my least favorite of Christie's novels and the only one so far that I did not enjoy reading.  

Adaptations:

I could only find one adaptation of this book -- a Swiss graphic novel published in 2023. 

At one time, the BBC was going to do a mini-series with release scheduled for 2019. But, no updates have been forthcoming about the project for years. It has either been postponed or cancelled altogether.  

I'm moving on.....next book!! Sparkling Cyanide (or Remembered Death - US title). And, another book with a lesser known character investigating. It's the last appearance of Colonel Race. 

 

Friday, June 13, 2025

REVIEW: The Moving Finger

 The Moving Finger
Author: Agatha Christie


This story was serialized in US and UK magazines in 1942. It was published in book format in the US in 1942, followed by the UK in 1943. 

I read my old paperback copy from 1984 (Berkley Mystery) and listened to an audio book (HarperAudio, 2012, Narrated by Joan Hickson (yay!!), 5 hours 45 minutes long). More on the audio book later in the review....

 I collected many of Agatha Christie's novels and short story collections over the years. They've been on various bookshelves and moved with me from place to place for literally decades. The only problem -- I never got a chance to really read very many of them! 

To solve this problem once and for all -- In 2019, I started a personal reading challenge to read all of Christie's writing in publication order. Only about half way through.....and it has taken me years! Life got in the way. Returning to work. A Pandemic. Divorce. A cross country move. New Job. New Life. How dare life get in the way of my reading aspirations!!

Now that I'm settled into my wonderfully peaceful and happy new life, I'm reading at a slightly faster pace. I'm not in a hurry. Just meandering my way through. I look up references that interest me, watch and listen to all adaptations, and just enjoy spending time with Christie's characters. 

It's going to take me a long time to finish! I think I will be sad once I read that very last word....and know that there isn't any more!! I suppose at that point I will read some of the various knock off books that have come out in the last few years written by other authors. :)

Now, on to the story!!  

 While this is technically a Miss Marple mystery, she doesn't appear until about 2/3 through the story. Once I realized, I thought it would really annoy me, but I found myself really liking the narrator and his sister. It actually set the scene much better with Miss Marple joining in later. 

I enjoy Joan Hickson. She was incredible as Miss Marple in the 80's television series. But I have to admit that I had to switch audio books to another version narrated by Richard E. Grant (HarperAudio, 2013, 6 hrs 23 minutes). It was just too confusing to have Miss Marple's voice narrating for a male character before she was in the story. And, I'm not sure if Joan Hickson was having speech problems later in life or had ill fitting dentures....but something was off that made her really difficult to understand. Her reading pace was also very fast. I've listened to other audio books she narrated and enjoyed her performances very much. This one, for whatever reason, just didn't work for me. Richard E. Grant did a great job. I especially loved his portrayal of Mr Pye -- so over the top and just perfect!! And, although I had to pass on her audio book narration, I loved Hickson's performance in the Miss Marple television episode!! Superb!

 This was the first time I read this story. I'm glad I finally got the chance to enjoy it! The plot was just wonderful, and as usual Agatha Christie built the suspense masterfully. The book kept my attention from start to finish. 

I grew up in a small town. And, I found myself wondering what effect anonymous poison pen letters would have had in my hometown. If the writer was as skillful at hitting nerves like the one in this book, I'm sure it would have been just as big of a scandal. I can see how hitting just the right nerve might lead someone to commit violence, even murder. Thinking back through the years, I remember several scandals that came to light in my hometown and the explosive results. A town of 4000 people may be tiny, but, when everyone knows everyone, hiding anything is next to impossible. Eventually, the truth will come out. And there's nowhere to hide in a small town. Everyone knows. It's not like a large city where you can move to another suburb or blend into the crowd.  That made the plot of this book really hit home for me. And.....made me glad I live in a very large city now. I couldn't go back to the spiteful gossip, nosy busybodies, and judgemental nastiness that hid just under the surface of the town I grew up in. Nope. Never looking back. I haven't been back there in 23 years...and don't plan to ever go back again. Awful place. 

I thoroughly enjoyed this book! There were definitely enough twists and turns to keep my attention the entire time!  

This story has been adapted several times:

Miss Marple - The TV series starring Joan Hickson (Season One, Episode 2) adapted this tale into a two part episode in 1985. Miss Marple joins the story much sooner in this version, and leads the investigation for the most part. Loved every minute of both episodes! The plot/characters are changed in some minor ways, but it sticks to the book relatively closely. 

Agatha Christie's Marple - Starring Geraldine McEwan as Miss Marple, this episode came out in 2006 (Season 2, Episode 2). I love McEwan as Miss Marple, but this episode made too many unnecessary changes to the plot, in my opinion. As in Miss Marple, Jane is added into the story almost from the start, which is a complete change from the book, but I didn't mind that change. But the rest.....not necessary and some changes were just....odd. But, McEwan's performance saved it for me. She's is just delightful as Miss Marple. :) 

Le Petits Meurtres d'Agatha Christie - In 2009 a French television series had an episode loosely based on this novel. It switches the setting to France and changes the investigators.  

BBC Radio 4 audio drama - June Whitfield voices Miss Marple in this 2009 radio play. It's just about 1.5 hours long. Very enjoyable listen if you like radio drama!! You can find quite a few of these Agatha Christie radio programs here: https://fourble.co.uk/podcast/bbcradio7  

Miseu Ma, Booksooui Yeoshin - Korean television had a show based on Agatha Christie's stories. Episodes 5-8, broadcast in 2018, were an adaptation of The Moving Finger. 

On to the next novel - Towards Zero!  It features Superintendent Battle. I'm trying to feel excited about it, but I really have a hard time liking Christie's lesser known characters. I hope Battle surprises me and offers a very interesting investigation!!  

Sunday, June 8, 2025

REVIEW: Sleight of Paw

 Sleight of Paw
Author: Sofie Kelly


I originally started reading this series several years ago. Then life got in the way and I lost track of these books amid everything. Back now -- and I started reading from the start of the series again. :)

Sleight of Paw is the second book in the Magical Cats Mystery series. 

My favorite characters? Hercules and Owen, of course! I can't choose one kitty over the other, so they will just have to share the top spot. :) 

Librarian Kathleen Paulson finds herself in the middle of a murder investigation again when a local elderly woman is killed. Owen and Hercules jump in to help, as well as Kathleen's loyal group of friends. Even small towns like Mayville Heights hide secrets. Kathleen and her buddies discover just how dangerous it can be when hidden secrets get revealed. 

I enjoy this series. The idea of two cute kitties with paranormal abilities is just a fun concept. I really like how the author even has Owen and Hercules help investigate. They actually come up with the best clues! 

The plot of this second book kept me fully engaged the entire time. I kept trying to guess the killer's identity and changed my mind several times. The story has a balanced blend of amateur sleuthing, character development and background, and humor. The small town/library/cat portion of the plot does not overshadow the mystery plot, but adds depth to it. 

Another entertaining book in this series! Moving on to the next! 

  

Friday, June 6, 2025

REVIEW: Murder in Retrospect

 Murder in Retrospect (AKA Five Little Pigs)
Author: Agatha Christie


This Agatha Christie story was first published in the US as a serial in a magazine in 1941, followed by the novel in 1942. In the UK, it was published as a novel in 1943 (although some sources list it as 1942). The US title is Murder in Retrospect. In the UK, the title is Five Little Pigs. 

 I read my old paperback copy and listened to an audio book (HarperAudio, 2012, Five Little Pigs, 6 hrs 40 minutes, narrated by Hugh Fraser).  

I was delighted when I opened my old paperback and discovered an inscription from a college friend, Amy G. She must have given me this book for Christmas way back in the day when we were still at school together. I will have to try to look her up and send her a message. I haven't spoken to Amy since she graduated in 1989! Funny how life causes us to lose track of good friends once school or jobs end! 

After I finished reading this lovely old book, I put it in the recycle bin.
As I read these old paperbacks, I'm letting them go. Making space on my bookshelves for other books! My Agatha Christie collection has moved with me from house to house, state to state for decades. This reading challenge is helping me finally read the books and then let them go to clear space. Many of my paperbacks are so old that the pages are falling out, even though I never actually got to read them! Many were bought used. Or, like this one, was a gift from friends and family who knew I enjoy Agatha Christie's writing! 

I started this journey through Agatha's books in 2019. I am taking my time, enjoying the stories, doing research, etc. It will take me a long time to finish. I enjoy any adaptations that I can after I finish each book/short story. Enjoying myself!! It's only fair to these books that have been with me for so many years to enjoy the journey! I have a moment with each book just before I send it off to the recycling bin......being thankful for the stories, the enjoyable reading and research project, and the memories of these stories being on my bookshelves since I was a much, much younger person. :) 

So happy to finally be reading all of these wonderful murder mysteries! 

Now, on to the story!! 

This was the first time I read this story. The plot definitely kept my attention from start to finish. As Poirot investigated a 16-year old murder case, I really couldn't guess who the actual killer was. I kept changing my mind! The minute I thought I had it figured out...some clue would pop up that made me think it was another suspect. 

I definitely mentally applauded the convicted woman's daughter for choosing Poirot to clear her mother of murder. If anybody could do it, it would be Hercule Poirot.  

I liked the use of the old poem about the little piggies....this little piggie did this and that. :) But the American title change ruined that theme a bit.  I wonder why they changed the title from Five Little Pigs to Murder in Retrospect for the US publication? 

The ending is simple and direct, but very dramatic. It leaves a bit of a cliffhanger.  Hmmmm.....what happened after the epilogue? I wonder.......      

Great Poirot investigation! He really put the little grey cells to work!  

I'm so glad I finally read this one! It's not a well known Poirot story, but I have to say so far, this one is my favorite. The story is different.....a bit spicy....and really delves into human behavior. Several characters relate the facts to Poirot from their own point of view and it was so interesting to see how they all twisted things to fit their opinions. Great story!  

This story has been adapted four times. 

Stage Play - in 1960, Agatha adapted this novel into a play titled Go Back for Murder. She made fundamental changes to the plot, including removing Hercule Poirot as the investigator. 

BBC Radio Drama - In 1994, BBC Radio 4 presented an audio drama version. John Moffat voiced Hercule Poirot. The audio is just shy of 1.5 hours long. Very well done! You can find it on Youtube as well as other places around the internet. I highly recommend the BBC radio dramas based on Christie's novels!!   

Agatha Christie's Poirot - This story was adapted for the television series in 2004 (Episode 1, Season 9). The episode makes some changes, but sticks pretty closely to the book. Great episode!  

Film - A short movie version "Portrait" was released in 2018. The audio is in Bengali. I tried to find a streamable version, but it just isn't available. I don't speak Bengali, but would have watched it anyway! 

I have now read my way through 31 of the 66 detective novels Christie wrote and 9 short story collections. I'm almost halfway done with my journey through all of Agatha Christie's writing in publication order. Loving it so far!! I have to sit and smile a bit and feel a bit nostalgic as I finish each book. I have wanted to accomplish this very reading challenge since I was 9 years old! 

I "discovered" Agatha Christie one summer when I bought a box set of Poirot novels at a garage sale. I had to do extra chores all summer to repay the $4 I borrowed from my mom to buy the books. That began my collecting of her novels. Living in a small town in the pre-internet days, it was hard to get a complete list of her writing, so I never did manage to get all the books. I carried a written list in my purse for years and crossed off books as I bought them. That moved to my phone when smart phones made things like that much more simple. And, now a quick google search pulls up so much information on her writing and her life. This journey through all of her stories is a culmination of all those years of loving her mystery stories!!

Just had to share the cute Miss Marple bookmark a friend gave me! 

 

On to the next -- The Moving Finger. Another Miss Marple!! I will use my new bookmark! I have the audio book loaded to my phone and my old paperback all ready.  

Saturday, May 31, 2025

REVIEW: The Body in the Library

 The Body in the Library
Author:Agatha Christie


Finally!! 

I started a challenge back in 2019 to read all of Agatha Christie's writing in publication order. Life really did its best to get in my way -- returning to full time work, a pandemic, a divorce, a cross-country move....lots of obstacles! 

But, through it all, I have kept reading. Now, there may have been months without any progress.....I've had a lot going on! But I'm still chugging along! 

All the while I have been waiting to hit the Miss Marple books. I read the first one -- Murder at the Vicarage -- way back in 2020. Finally got to the second Marple novel (only took me 5 years! lol) -- and I can't wait to read more. Don't get me wrong, I love Hercule Poirot. But I'm ready to start cycling through more Miss Marple books as well! A bit of variety! 

I read this book years ago, but remembered very little about it. I read my old paperback from my bookshelf along with an audio book (HarperAudio, 2012, 5 hrs 21 minutes, narrated by Stephanie Cole). When I finished reading, I relegated my old paperback to the recycle bin. Bookshelf space is at a premium, so I'm reading my collection of worn out paperbacks and letting them go. Have to make space for new books! 

And, let's face it.... it's ridiculous that I had all these lovely mystery stories on my bookshelves for years and never read them. All that space taken up on my shelves....and I never enjoyed the stories. Solving that problem now!! But what an endeavor -- so many books!!  

Now....on to the story!  

I enjoyed this story very much. I loved the fact that the villagers and even the local police respect Miss Marple and her sleuthing! Jane wasn't the only person on the case. The local police and several from the village joined in the investigation, too. They all acknowledged Jane's talents for sniffing out lies and evil doers! Anyone who questioned why an older lady should have anything to do with a murder investigation was promptly corrected by other locals. 

The plot was interesting and the twists/turns kept me guessing about the motive and the culprit until the very end. 

I absolutely adore Miss Marple as a character. She reminds me of a more refined and genteel Columbo. She pretends to be just a harmless, quiet older village lady when she is really quite shrewd and intelligent. She sees everything and bides her time, asking seemingly innocent questions.....until she has it all figured out and reveals the killer.  So, it makes perfect sense that Mrs Bantry sent a car to pick up Miss Marple just after they rang the local police. Sensible choice, of course! 

 Overall, I enjoyed this story. But, I found the plot a bit contrived. The reasoning for two murders was just a bit overdone. Well written, very enjoyable....but not realistic. Love, Love, Love Miss Marple though!  

This story has been adapted for television several times. 

Miss Marple: Joan Hickson plays Jane in this long-running series. The Body in the Library was her first appearance as Miss Marple in December 1984. The story was split into 3 episodes. The casting is perfect. I recognized this from the beginning. I loved the way Mrs Bantry woke her husband up "Arthur, Wake up. There's a body in the library. Mary just said so" just made me smile. The look on the actress' face, her tone....it was just perfect! And Mr. Bantry refusing to believe it "I am not going to walk downstairs and ask if there is a dead body in my library!" Followed by him putting on a robe and doing just that. Can you imagine??? The scene made me envision Agatha Christie smiling and even chuckling a little as she wrote this story. I wonder if she had a local older couple in mind, happily imagining them waking up to a dead body in their library.  I love Joan Hickson as Miss Marple. Even the costuming is perfect down to her black very sensible shoes. :) 

Marple: Geraldine McEwan was cast as Miss Marple in this very popular TV series. This story was adapted as the first episode of this series in 2004. It made some pretty big changes to the plot and characters. I enjoy McEwan as Jane. She definitely made the part her own. But, I didn't like the changes to the story very much. I think the story was fine the way it was, even though the plot / murder motivation was a bit too far-fetched. 

Les Petits Meurtres de'Agatha Christie: Season 1, episode 9 of this French television series adapted the book in 2011. The setting and investigators were changed. I don't speak French so did not look up this episode to watch. 

Graphic novel: A Swiss publisher released a graphic novel of the story in 2017 titled Miss Marple: Un Cadavre dans la bibliotheque. I don't read French either, so didn't look for a copy. 

Moving on to the next novel in my Christie reading challenge. Back to Poirot -- Five Little Pigs/Murder in Retrospect!




 

Wednesday, May 28, 2025

REVIEW: N or M?

 N or M?
Author: Agatha Christie


I will admit from the start that I am not a big Tommy & Tuppence fan. When I saw that this book was one of their adventures, I even rolled my eyes a bit. But, I did not waver from my challenge rules to read all of Christie's writing in publication order (or as close to it as I can get). 

I'm not sure if it's the characters I really don't care for....or the spy/war theme of most of their stories that just make me not really gravitate to these books as much as Poirot or Marple ones.  I did get pulled into the story rather quickly despite my initial annoyance, and ended up enjoying this book very much. 

As usual I read a tattered paperback version from my bookshelf while listening to an audio book. The paperback was a 1971 edition from Dell. As usual, the cover art was colorful and a bit bizarre -- love it!  When I finished reading, I threw the old worn out book in the recycle bin. Letting go of these old books to free up bookshelf space for new books.  The audio book was from HarperAudio (2012, narrated by Hugh Fraser, 5 hrs 45 minutes long). 

I don't remember where I got this old paperback. I collected many of Christie's novels here and there over decades.And then never got around to actually reading many of them. This paperback has a stamp in it from a used bookstore in Mobile, AL. I looked up the address -- Ernie's Books is no longer there. The
address is now home to a salon, a glass repair shop and a paint & sip place. I think Ernie's must have closed years ago as I found no mentions of it on the internet at all. So preserving its memory here since I tossed the worn out book in the trash. Would be so interesting to find out how it made its way from Alabama to Kansas (which is probably where I picked it up at a used book shop.....or maybe NC where I moved later in life). As it is, both Ernie's and the book are now retired. Does anybody else investigate things they find stamped or written in old books, or is it just me?

Now -- on to the story! 

Despite my lack of excitement at reading about Tommy & Tuppence, I enjoyed  this story. It's dated due to the theme -- World War II, the fifth column, being called up to act as undercover government agents, etc I didn't let it make me feel like I was reading yet another book about evil Nazis. I kept in my mind the entire time I was reading and listening that when Christie wrote this book (published 1941), England was in the thick of it. Her reading audience would actually have been worried about spies, invasion, and Nazis. They needed this story at the time -- two older regular people ferreting out a spy ring. A win. 

I discovered during my research that this book actually caused Agatha to be investigated by MI5 due to the name of one of the characters, Major Bletchley. It was a minor investigation, and wrapped up when she revealed the name was chosen based on a bad train experience and not because she had inside information about British war efforts.I wonder if Agatha took that as a compliment? When a spy novel causes the real spies to come check on the author, that's a sign it's a pretty good spy story, right? 

 Very enjoyable book. And, I really need to rethink my reluctance to really like Christie's lesser known main characters -- Colonel Race, Superintendent Battle, Tommy & Tuppence, Harley Quin, Parker Pyne, etc. All of their stories are good.....I just prefer Poirot and Marple. Experiencing these other characters is an added benefit of this reading challenge. I can't just pick and choose and read only the most famous characters or the most well-known books and stories.....I'm reading them all. Maybe by the end I will be excited to read about all the characters and not just two of them. I am hopeful! 

This story has only been adapted once. 

BBC One - In 2015, BBC one aired a 3-part Partners in Crime episode based on this book. I found the episodes on YouTube. 

Now that I have finished N or M?, I am finally up to a Jane Marple book -- The Body in the Library!! I've been wanting more Miss Marple since I read Murder in the Vicarage way back in 2020 - early days of my reading challenge! Thanks for the great story Tommy & Tuppence.....but I'm moving on to spend some time with Jane! 


Tuesday, May 27, 2025

REVIEW: Evil Under the Sun

 Evil Under the Sun
Author: Agatha Christie 


Evil Under the Sun is a Hercule Poirot mystery first published as a serial in Collier's Weekly in December 1940. It appeared in novel format in the both UK and US in 1941. 

I'm working my way through all of Agatha Christie's writings in publication order. Taking my time, and enjoying myself, so this endeavor may take me a good long while to complete!

As usual, I read an old paperback copy from my shelves while listening to an audio book. It's enjoyable to have the story read to me, I can look for changes in the text, and any French or other foreign words are pronounced correctly by the audio book narrator, rather than being totally mangled in my head as I read. :) 

My paperback copy (pictured above) is from 1975 (Pocket Books, $1.50). It's in relatively good shape for being 50 years old. The pages are brown with age, but the spine is nicely intact. Despite this, once I've read the book, I'm going to recycle it.  I have owned this paperback for years. It has moved here and there with me, but I never read this copy in all that time. I've read this book before, but it was a library copy and not the old paperback taking up space on my bookshelves. Now that I live in an apartment, and look to downsize in a couple years, my shelf space is at a premium. So, I'm reading these old paperbacks and then letting them go. The audio book version I listened to is from HarperAudio (2012, narrated by David Suchet, about 6.5 hours long -- very thankful for my local library and Hoopla!!)

Now, on to the story!

Although I had read this book before and watched the 1982 movie in the past, it had been long enough that I didn't remember the identify of the killer. The only thing I could remember is the murder happened at a beach resort. As usual, Christie starts out developing the characters and hints at the reason for the murder before the actual dead body shows up. There are plenty of suspects (like nearly everybody in the story lol) and lots of investigation by the police and Poirot. At several points I was pretty sure I knew who the culprit was....and then changed my mind....changed it back.....changed it again lol  Christie set it up perfectly, making me unsure who was going to be revealed as a murderer at the end. 

This is not my favorite Christie mystery, but was a very enjoyable classic Christie whodunnit. The pacing was perfect. The book kept my attention from start to finish. 

I feel so sorry for Poirot. Every time he tries to go on vacation, someone has to commit a murder and ruin his trip!!

This novel has been adapted several times:

BBC Radio 4 - In 1999, BBC radio presented an audio drama starring John Moffat as Poirot.  The story is 2 hrs 16 minutes long. Moffat does a great job as Poirot. This is a full cast performance with some well done added sound effects. Very enjoyable!

1982 Movie - Peter Ustinov stars as Hercule Poirot in this movie adaptation. As usual, a lot of changes were made (and not for the better), and IMHO Ustinov is just not right for the part of Poirot. The changes start at the very beginning and just muddy the plot of the book for no reason. As a big Christie fan, for me, the 80s Poirot movies starring Ustinov are pretty bad, to be honest. I watched this for Diana Rigg, Maggie Smith and Roddy McDowall.

Agatha Christie's Poirot - The long-running television show had a episode based on this book in 2003 (Episode 1, Season 8). The episode makes some changes such as adding in Captain Hastings, Inspector Japp and Miss Lemon to the story. All in all, a very good episode!

Les Petits Meurtres de Agatha Christie - A French television series aired an episode based on this story. Many changes were made to the characters, the setting and some minor plot changes. The main plot points are followed relatively closely, however.

Video game - In 2007, The Adventure Company released a PC video game based on this story. Captain Hastings features as the player's character in the game, even though Hastings is not in the actual novel. 

I'm almost to Agatha's second Jane Marple novel!!! I read Murder at the Vicarage in 2020 and have been wanting more Miss Marple ever since!  Just one more book to go....  N or M (a Tommy and Tuppence Mystery)   I already have the old paperback copy pulled from my bookshelf and I'm starting on it tonight!

Friday, May 23, 2025

REVIEW: An Overdose of Death

 An Overdose of Death
Author: Agatha Christie


This Hercule Poirot mystery was first published under the title One Two, Buckle My Shoe in the UK in November 1940. US publication as The Patriotic Murders followed in February 1941. In 1953, Dell books changed the US title to An Overdose of Death. Like many of Agatha's Christie's books, this story was first serialized in a magazine in August-September 1940 before being released in novel form.  

Once again, I read an old, tattered paperback version of this mystery while I listened to an audio book. My 1975 paperback was heavily damaged and definitely worn out. I had this book on my Christie shelf for years, but never actually read it. Glad I finally got to enjoy the story!! The audio book version was released by HarperAudio in 2012, ran about 5 1/2 hours, and featured Hugh Fraser as narrator. 

This was the last huzzah for this 50-year old paperback. I read it, took a picture of the front cover, and recycled it. Time to let it go. Frees up bookshelf space for new books. 

 I have to say that I love the cover art from the 1960's / 1970's. Always such interestingly bizarre cover art! I am preserving the cover here. The vibe lives on despite my throwing the physical book away.

Now, on to the story!

This story is the last appearance of Chief Inspector Japp in Christie's novels.Such a great character! I will miss him as I read through the rest of Christie's writing. 

I enjoyed this story. It hasn't aged all that well due to the political theme of the basic story and some racist undertones. But, overall, it's an interesting mystery and kept my attention from start to finish. 

This story has been adapted for radio/television only twice:

Agatha Christie's Poirot:  This long-running television show adapted this story (Season 4, Episode 3). A very dark episode, but pretty much faithful to the book. It removes a lot of the odd racist statements made by characters in the novel. David Suchet shines as Poirot as usual! 

BBC Radio 4: In 2004, BBC Radio released an audio drama, starring John Moffat as Poirot. The drama runs about 2 hours and 20 minutes. Moffat does a great job as Poirot. These radio dramas are wonderful. You can find them online here:  https://fourble.co.uk/podcast/bbcradio7

I'm glad I finally read this book! It's not one of my favorite Christie stories by any means, but did make for an enjoyable read/listen. 

Moving on to the next book in my journey through Christie's writing -- Evil Under the Sun! 

 

Tuesday, May 20, 2025

REVIEW: Sad Cypress

 Sad Cypress
Author: Agatha Christie

 
After a break of a few months, I have started back on my journey to read all of Agatha Christie's writing in publication order (or as close as I can get - I've made a couple errors along the way!)

Sad Cypress was first serialized in a US magazine in December 1939 and in the UK in March 1940. In book form, it was released in the UK in March 1940, followed by US publication in the Fall of 1940. It is a courtroom drama mixed with a Hercule Poirot investigation. 

I'm glad to finally hit a new decade in my Christie reading adventure -- 1940! It took me awhile to get past the 20s/30s! Just 3 more novels and I finally get to Miss Marple!! 

 This is my first time reading this Poirot story. I have had a very old paperback version from 1966 on my Christie shelf for years, but never actually read it. It's very tattered. The pages have foxing and the spine is brittle. Worn out. I absolutely love the cover art. The 1960's and 1970s Christie paperbacks have the weirdest and most wonderful covers! Much as I love the cover on this one......once I'm done reading it, the poor old thing is being recycled. The pages are falling out. The cover is coming off. The paper is brittle. It's almost 60 years old. It's time.  But, before it goes, I'm giving it a good read. And, preserving its lovely cover in a photo here. When published, the paperback only cost 50 cents! The last paperback mystery I bought  at the bookshop the other day cost me $8.99. I looked up the equivalent in today's dollars for that 50 cents back in 1966...about $5. 

All right...all that aside...now for the story!

The book starts out a bit slow, but that's purposeful. The stage has to be set...the characters introduced....the problem hinted at.....then the murder. Agatha took her time skillfully setting up the scenario, while not revealing too much. But, once there are two bodies on slabs....one an elderly infirm woman and the other a younger, beautiful woman.....Hercule Poirot steps in. And, the investigation begins. The plot gets much more intense at this point. Purposeful story building.....love it!

I very much enjoyed this book!! I read my paperback copy while listening to an audio book as well (HarperAudio, 2012). The audio book is about 6 hours long and is narrated by David Suchet. Suchet, of course, portrayed Poirot perfectly as usual! He is superb at the part, even when just narrating. 

The book has been adapted for radio/television only 3 times:

BBC Radio 4 adapted the story for an audio drama in 1992. The radio drama is a bit over 2 hours. Poirot is played by John Moffat. Moffat, as well as the entire cast, do a wonderful job! The dramas done by BBC Radio 4 are always wonderful, with a full casts and interesting sound effects thrown in. I adore Old Time Radio, so any sort of radio drama is an entertaining listen for me. I highly recommend the Christie radio dramas. You can listen to them here: https://fourble.co.uk/podcast/bbcradio7  Just superb, IMO. 

Agatha Christie's Poirot adapted the story in Season 9, Episode 2. The episode makes some minor changes, but overall sticks closely to the plot of the book. Loved the episode! 

Les Petits Meurtres d'Agatha Christie, a French television program, adapted the story in September 2010. I do not speak French, so have to go by my research on this adaptation. Per what I could find online, the program made major changes to the plot -- moved the setting to France and the investigator and other details are different. 

I had my ideas about the culprit's identity in this lovely story, but I wasn't sure until the very end. My guess at the murderer was close....but wrong. A very enjoyable Poirot investigation. Classic! 

I really enjoy the Christie mysteries that are a quick read. Short, but packed with a great plot each time! 

I thoroughly enjoyed hearing David Suchet read me the book, then watching him act in the Poirot episode. Nobody can play the part like Suchet!! [And I will interject my firm opinion here.....will someone PLEASE tell Kenneth Branagh to STOP making horrible Poirot movies!!! His appearance, the clothes, the mannerisms are all wrong....and the mustache...terrible!! The plot changes are pure S. Leave it as Christie wrote it! Ugh.  Ok.....off my soap box now.] 

Moving on to the next Christie novel in my reading journey --  One Two, Buckle My Shoe (also published as The Patriotic Murders and An Overdose of Death in the US) I have my old paperback off my shelf and on the top of my TBR pile. It's another Poirot novel I have owned for years but never read, so I can't wait!!

Before I go.....I love this meme. It makes me laugh every time. I think Agatha would have found it funny as well. :)


 



Wednesday, May 14, 2025

REVIEW: Murder Lo Mein

 Murder Lo Mein
Author: Vivien Chien


The Ho-Lee Noodle House is competing in Cleveland's Best Noodle Contest. Lana Lee has just been made manager of the family business, so she's nervous about the competition. She knows their noodles are the best in town and she wants to win. But just as the competition starts to heat up, a judge drops dead after receiving a threatening fortune cookie. Once again, Lana is forced to do some amateur sleuthing to save the reputation of Asia Village and Ho-Lee Noodle House. 

Murder Lo Mein is book 3 in this series. This is my favorite book so far. The characters are already introduced and their relationships in place. The setting and general back theme is established. So, in this book there was not only some interesting character development and the addition of Lana's grandmother into the story, but also a really good mystery. The story kept my attention from start to finish. There was plenty of amateur sleuthing and twists to keep it interesting. I had my suspicions about the killer....but I wasn't sure until the reveal. Very enjoyable read! 

As usual, the cover art is just perfect! 

I'm moving on to the next book in this series -- Wonton Terror! 

Sunday, May 11, 2025

REVIEW: Snow Way Out

 Snow Way Out
Author: Christine Husom


I love snow globes. Ever since I was a child, shaking that tiny little world inside the globe and watching the pretty snowflakes fall is just mesmerizing for me. The minute I found out there was a short cozy series about a snow globe shop, I had to read it! 

This first book starts out with the main character, Camryn Brooks, and her friends hosting a crafting class at her curio shop. Guess what they are making?? Snow globes!! 

This immediately made me happy with the background theme of this series.  If Camryn's shop was real, I would be in there handing over real cash. And, you'd better bet I'd be signing up for the class to make my own snow globe.

 Only one downside.......after class, Camryn discovers a snow globe on her store shelves that she doesn't recognize. It depicts a murder scene.  Then while walking home....she discovers that scene played out for real. Dead body with a knife in its back and all. 

That part of class I would not sign up for. :) 

I liked the snow globe theme of this first book, the characters, and the basic plot. The mystery kept my attention from start to finish. There were plenty of suspects, just the right amount of amateur sleuthing, and enough twists and turns to keep me guessing. 

 Definitely reading the other books in this series! I already have the second book pulled off my shelves and in my currently reading pile on my desk! :) 

 

 

Friday, April 25, 2025

REVIEW: Dim Sum of all Fears

 Dim Sum of All Fears
Author: Vivien Chien


I'm enjoying the Noodle Shop Mystery series! I liked this second book just as much as I did the first one! 

The basics: When her parents go to Taiwan to take care of family, Lana is left running the family restaurant. And just as Lana is proving to herself that she can skillfully keep the restaurant going in their absence, there is not just one murder right next door...but two! 

The plot of this second book definitely kept me engaged the entire time. There was just a lot going on! Lana and her sidekicks really had to work to figure out who was responsible for the crime. Lots of suspects, drama and amateur sleuthing. Vivien Chien definitely knows where to add little twists and turns to keep her readers glued to the page!

I can't wait to find out what is coming up next! I already have book 3 -- Murder Lo Mein -- added to my stack of books that I'm currently reading. 

REVIEW: Brownies and Broomsticks

 Brownies and Broomsticks
Author: Bailey Cates


This series has been sitting on my TBR bookshelves for quite awhile. Finally decided it was time to grab book one and jump in. Glad I did!

Brownies and Broomsticks a great start to the Magical Bakery Mystery series. Katie Lightfoot moves to Savannah, GA to help her aunt and uncle open a bakery. Just as she starts trying to figure out her new life, she discovers a secret about herself that she never knew....finds a fuzzy buddy....and her uncle is the number one suspect in a murder. Never a dull moment! 

I like the characters in this series and the background theme of a magical bakery and friendly witches. The plot kept my interest from start to finish. The mystery moved along at a nice pace. The background theme of magic and the bakery added to the mystery part of the story, rather than over-powering it. And, there are recipes at the end of the book! Always a plus when there are recipes! 

Moving on to book two -- Bewitched, Bothered and Biscotti. 

 

Sunday, March 23, 2025

REVIEW: Fondant Fumble

 Fondant Fumble
Author: Jenn McKinlay


And....with the closing of this book, I have officially caught up with the author and am awaiting her publication of the next book in this series. I'm smiling not just because I enjoyed the book, but also because my new tactic of avoiding negative social media posts, depressing news and the state of my home country at the moment is working. Instead of watching the news and becoming depressed, I'm reading books instead. I needed a serious break from all that nonsense and scary stuff -- and I do believe books are the solution. 

In the month of March, I have read 16 books so far - all while still working my full time job and keeping up with household chores/responsibilities. This not only is helpful for my mental health, but also proves that I always had the time to read. I was just filling up that extra time with negative information, rather than entertaining stories. 

 So, for the present, I'm going to continue my reading project. No news. I have friends who have agreed to notify me if anything vital happens that I need to know. I'm going to concentrate on reading books from my shelves. Clear out some space for new books -- and read some series that have been languishing unread on my bookshelves for a long time!! 

Fondant Fumble is the 16th book in the Cupcake Bakery Mystery series. When two pro football players decide to open a Fairy Tale Cupcake franchise, Mel is excited and the entire cupcake gang gears up to help with the grand opening of the new location. However, a dead body and a swarm of scorpions adds a bit too much excitement to the opening festivities. Can Mel, the gang and their two new friends catch the killer? 

I enjoyed this book! Very entertaining. The scorpions were a bit creepy crawlie, but the plot kept my attention from start to finish. I liked the football theme. There was plenty of sleuthing, suspects and twists. The recipes in the back of the book sound yummy as well! 

I would say that I'm moving on to the next book.....like I have throughout my binge reading of the 1st through the 16th book in this entertaining series -- but I'm out of books!!  I have chosen another cozy series from my shelf (10 books this time before I catch up with the author), and I'm going to just read from my shelves until I've cleared out some shelf space!! It's win-win all the way around. I keep a smile on my face, clear shelf space for new books, several authors get reviews posted -- and I'm getting to enjoy books I've had waiting on my shelves for awhile!! Yay!! 

On to the next series!! 

Saturday, March 22, 2025

REVIEW: Sugar Plum Poisoned

 Sugar Plum Poisoned
Author: Jenn McKinlay


It's Christmastime and a musician friend of Angie's is in Scottsdale to do some holiday shows. Mel, Angie and the rest of the bakery gang are on duty providing cupcakes for the VIP room at the concerts. What could possibly go wrong? A dead manager, that's what. 

It seems the bakery gang just can't catch a break. A dead body seems to always mess up their best plans. 

I had a great time reading this Christmas theme mystery. The plot kept my attention from start to finish. There is plenty of suspects and sleuthing, with a few twists and turns thrown in to keep it exciting. 

The recipes at the end of the book sound amazing, especially the egg nog cupcakes! 

This book is the 15th in this series. At this point in time, there are only 16 Cupcake Bakery Mysteries. I have the final book in front of me as I post this review. Getting ready to start reading! I can't believe I binge read this entire series in less than a month! Just proves I like reading about cupcakes and killers!

REVIEW: Strawberried Alive

 Strawberried Alive
Author: Jenn McKinlay


14 down -- 2 to go!! 

I just finished Strawberried Alive and am happy to report that it's another fun installment in the Cupcake Bakery Mystery series. I needed an entertaining series to read to keep my mind off current events, the news, negative stuff for awhile. And, so far, this series fits the bill perfectly. I have binge read my way through 14 books so far....in less than a month. So yep -- my plan is working. I unplugged from the news and plugged into cozies. Best decision I've made in a long time! 

This time, someone is targeting business owners in Old Town, a historic district in Scottsdale. First someone takes a pot shot at Mel while she's at the bakery at night. Then the owner of a nearby business is shot.....and the attacks keep happening....finally leading to a death.  Someone is literally trying to kill business in Old Town. Can the cupcake crew break the case before business in the district is dead? 

I enjoyed this story. The mystery definitely kept my attention from start to finish. There were plenty of suspects, action and twists. The person I thought had done it was innocent...ooops. :) And, as usual, the book has yummy cupcake recipes in the back! 

Moving on to the next book -- Sugar Plum Poisoned!  After that one, there will only be one more book in this series left on my TBR shelf.  Whew! :)

Thursday, March 20, 2025

REVIEW: For Batter or Worse

 For Batter or Worse
Author: Jenn McKinlay


Well, I binged my way through yet another book in this series. Since I put myself on a self-imposed news ban, I have been reading a lot of books instead. So much better for my mental health than depressing news programs. I'm keeping the smile on my face....and making spaces on my TBR bookshelves!

For Batter or Worse is the 13th book in the Cupcake Bakery series.

There's a lot going on in this book. Two main characters are getting married. Another is pregnant. One got a new job. Just a lot going on. I liked the way all those background plot situations worked out, except for one little twist in one of them that I thought was....well, stupid and unnecessary. Other than that one little thing, I liked all the character developments. 

The mystery moved along at a nice pace. There is some entertaining amateur sleuthing as usual with several suspects and a few surprise twists. The recipes in the back of the book look yummy. I shared them with a family member who is a trained chef who loves to bake cakes. Since I don't eat grain or much sugar, cupcake recipes aren't really my thing. But my family member will most likely try at least one of the recipes. :) 

I definitely enjoyed this story. Read the book in a day....and now moving on to the next -- Strawberried Alive!

Wednesday, March 19, 2025

REVIEW: Pumpkin Spice Peril

 Pumpkin Spice Peril
Author: Jenn McKinlay


Finished another book in this series! Having a great time binge reading my way through all of the books. I needed a series that was just entertaining, light and happy. What could be happier than cupcakes? Totally what I needed! 

Pumpkin Spice Peril is the 12th book in the series. This time Mel and the bakery gang are planning to supply cupcakes to a local art gallery as a good friend of Mel's is having her glass art featured in a special display. Rene has been working so hard to prepare for the event that she seems not quite herself. The whole situation gets much, much worse when the artist is poisoned.  Can the gang find out who poisoned Mel's friend? 

I enjoyed this book! And I really got excited about the pumpkin spice cupcake recipe -- only to find out my copy of the book had the recipe pages missing! Luckily, a bookish pal had the recipes saved and emailed me a copy. I can still bake cupcakes! :) 

The mystery moved along at a nice pace. There were plenty of suspects and a few twists here and there. The story also had some character development and new things coming up for the gang. I'm anxious to see what happens in the next book!! 

On to book 13 -- For Batter or Worse!