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43 pages 1 hour read

Murder on the Orient Express

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1934

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Book Brief

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Agatha Christie

Murder on the Orient Express

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1934
Book Details
Pages

274

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Orient Express • 1930s

Publication Year

1934

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

12+ years

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Super Short Summary

In Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express, Belgian detective Hercule Poirot is traveling on the Orient Express when a passenger named Mr. Ratchett is murdered. Stranded by a snowstorm, Poirot investigates and discovers that Ratchett was actually a notorious gangster named Cassetti. Through careful analysis, Poirot ties the murder to twelve passengers who all had a motive to kill Cassetti due to his involvement in a tragic kidnapping case. The book includes depictions of murder, death of a child, kidnapping, xenophobia, and racism.

Mysterious

Suspenseful

Unnerving

Dark

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.4

657,049 ratings

82%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Agatha Christie's Murder on the Orient Express has garnered acclaim for its ingenious plot, compelling characters, and the brilliance of Hercule Poirot. Critics praise its intricate mysteries and unexpected twist. Some find the resolution implausible, yet most agree it’s a masterful example of Christie's storytelling, offering a gripping and satisfying read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Murder on the Orient Express?

Fans of classic whodunits and intricate plot twists will revel in Agatha Christie's Murder on the Orient Express. Ideal for those who enjoy Sherlock Holmes mysteries and The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, this novel captivates with its intellectual puzzles and richly drawn characters, making it perfect for mystery aficionados.

4.4

657,049 ratings

82%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Character List

Hercule Poirot

A renowned Belgian detective known for his attention to detail and deductive skills, who is tasked with solving the mystery on the train.

The director of the train company and friend of Poirot, who accompanies him and offers his own theories during the investigation.

The doctor who examines the murder victim, providing medical insight and collaborating with Poirot on the case.

A wealthy American traveling on the train, whose murder becomes the central mystery for Poirot to solve.

An energetic American traveler with her own agenda, who plays an important role in the unfolding events.

A poised and elegant passenger traveling under a false name, connected to the mystery with her own secrets to conceal.

The husband of Countess Andrenyi, a supportive figure who assists in maintaining his wife's disguise and story.

A composed and self-assured passenger whose overheard conversation raises suspicions about her possible involvement in the case.

A dignified and honorable British officer whose close ties to another passenger attract Poirot's attention.

A distinguished and aristocratic traveler with a personal connection to the case history, offering insight into past events.

A personable young man working as Mr. Ratchett’s secretary, whose background ties directly to the murder victim's past.

A devout and gentle woman, taking on the role of a nurse, whose past in the Armstrong household becomes a point of interest.

A German maid traveling with Princess Dragomiroff, whose previous service history is relevant to the investigation.

The train conductor, who diligently performs his duties amidst the turmoil and has personal ties to the greater narrative.

A brash American traveler posing as a security professional, with motivations that extend beyond initial appearances.

Mr. Ratchett’s reserved and efficient valet, performing his duties with precision and holding a background linked to the past.

A lively Italian sales representative whose past employment connects him to pivotal events preceding the current mystery.

Book Details
Pages

274

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Orient Express • 1930s

Publication Year

1934

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

12+ years

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