If you’re a fan of murder mysteries, brilliant detectives, and plot twists that leave you gasping like you’ve just found a body in the library, then you’re in for a treat. Agatha Christie, often crowned the “Queen of Crime,” has written some of the most iconic whodunits in literary history. With over 66 detective novels, 14 short story collections, and plays that have kept audiences guessing for decades, Christie knew how to craft the perfect puzzle.
Whether you’re a newcomer looking to dip your toe into her world or a seasoned sleuth ready to revisit her classics, let’s take a tour through Agatha Christie’s books, where every clue counts, and trust me—no one is who they seem.
Meet the Detectives: Hercule Poirot vs. Miss Marple
Before we jump into the best books, you should know that Agatha Christie blessed us with not just one, but two iconic detectives. Each has their own unique approach to solving mysteries, but both are equally brilliant in their own way.
Hercule Poirot: The Meticulous Moustache and Grey Cells
Ah, Hercule Poirot—the dapper Belgian detective with a moustache so well-groomed it could solve crimes on its own. Poirot is all about using his “little grey cells” (a.k.a. his brainpower) to piece together the most intricate of puzzles. He’s methodical, always impeccably dressed, and a bit vain (but hey, when you’re that good, you’ve earned it). With Poirot, you get logic, deduction, and more red herrings than a fish market.
Miss Marple: The Sweet Old Lady with a Killer Instinct
Don’t be fooled by her cozy cardigans and tea parties—Miss Jane Marple is as sharp as a needle. This elderly sleuth from the quaint village of St. Mary Mead solves crimes not by using fancy methods, but by observing human nature. She’s seen it all (at least, in the form of small-town gossip), and her ability to connect the dots between ordinary life and murder mysteries is unmatched. She’ll solve a crime faster than you can say “afternoon tea.”
The Must-Read Agatha Christie Books
Now, let’s dive into some of the best Agatha Christie books that have stood the test of time and continue to thrill mystery lovers around the world. Whether you’re team Poirot or team Marple, there’s something for everyone here.
1. Murder on the Orient Express (1934)
If you haven’t read Murder on the Orient Express, I’m envious—you’re in for one of the best surprises in mystery fiction. This is Poirot at his finest, solving a murder on a luxurious train stuck in the snow. With a colorful cast of characters (each more suspicious than the last) and an ending that is legendary, this novel is a must-read for anyone who loves a locked-room mystery with a twist that you absolutely won’t see coming.
2. The Murder of Roger Ackroyd (1926)
Another Poirot classic, The Murder of Roger Ackroyd is famous for its groundbreaking twist—one that changed the rules of detective fiction forever. When a wealthy man is found dead in his study, everyone in the village seems to have a motive, but it’s Poirot who ultimately cracks the case in a way that will leave you flipping back through the pages to see how you missed it.
3. And Then There Were None (1939)
Widely considered Christie’s masterpiece, And Then There Were None is the ultimate psychological thriller. Ten strangers are invited to a remote island, only to find themselves accused of murder and picked off one by one. With no detective in sight, it’s a race against time (and a creepy nursery rhyme) to figure out who’s behind the killings. This book is so chillingly clever that even after reading it, you’ll still get goosebumps just thinking about it.
4. The ABC Murders (1936)
In The ABC Murders, Poirot faces off against a serial killer who works alphabetically, targeting victims based on their initials and location. The killer sends Poirot taunting letters before each murder, making it a deadly game of cat and mouse. This one’s got tension, red herrings, and Poirot at his most calculating as he races to stop the next murder.
5. The Body in the Library (1942)
Time to shine a spotlight on Miss Marple. In The Body in the Library, an unknown young woman is found dead in Colonel Bantry’s library, and no one seems to know who she is or how she got there. Enter Miss Marple, who uses her sharp observational skills to solve the mystery, proving once again that she’s not just a sweet old lady—she’s the village’s ultimate sleuth. It’s classic Christie with a side of cozy charm.
6. A Murder Is Announced (1950)
Another Marple gem, A Murder Is Announced kicks off with a newspaper notice that declares the time and place of a murder—before it happens. Naturally, the residents of the sleepy village of Chipping Cleghorn are intrigued (and slightly morbid), gathering to witness the event. When the murder does happen (surprise!), it’s up to Miss Marple to unravel the mystery behind the ominous announcement.
7. Death on the Nile (1937)
In Death on the Nile, Poirot finds himself cruising down the Nile on a luxurious boat, but of course, things take a deadly turn when a newlywed is murdered on board. With a limited number of suspects and plenty of motives, Poirot must unravel a complex web of jealousy, betrayal, and hidden secrets before the killer strikes again. The exotic setting and clever plotting make this one of Christie’s most memorable novels.
8. The Mysterious Affair at Styles (1920)
This is where it all began—Poirot’s first case! The Mysterious Affair at Styles introduces the eccentric Belgian detective as he solves the murder of a wealthy woman in her English country estate. With poisonings, secret wills, and enough suspects to make your head spin, this debut novel set the stage for Christie’s legendary career and gave us one of fiction’s most beloved detectives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Agatha Christie’s most famous book?
And Then There Were None is often considered Christie’s most famous and bestselling novel. Its dark, psychological twist and brilliant plotting make it one of the best-selling books of all time.
Which is better: Poirot or Miss Marple?
It depends on your taste! Poirot is for those who love methodical, logical detective work with flair, while Miss Marple offers a more subtle, observational approach, often focused on small-town life. Both are brilliant, and each brings something unique to the world of crime-solving.
How many books did Agatha Christie write?
Agatha Christie wrote 66 detective novels, 14 short story collections, and several plays, including The Mousetrap, the world’s longest-running play.