The Christie Affair

The Christie Affair, by Nina de Gramont, is a historical novel published in 2022. The novel takes place in the early part of the 20th century, focusing on mystery author Agatha Christie’s real-life disappearance in 1926. De Gramont draws from historical sources and highlights iconic events of the time, such as World War I and the influenza pandemic of 1918, while creating her own fictional world and characters.

The novel explores themes of motherhood, family, and independence. Some moments may be difficult for sensitive readers, such as graphic depictions of sexual assault. While the story is inspired by real-life events, it is a work of fiction and not intended to be a historical reference. This guide is based on the 2022 hardcover edition published by Pan Macmillan.

Plot Summary

Archie Christie is planning to leave his wife Agatha for his mistress Nan O’Dea. Archie and Agatha share one last night before Archie asks for a divorce and drives off. Nan recalls her life before meeting Archie when she spent summers in Ireland with her aunt and uncle. There she meets Finbarr, the man she will grow to love.

Back in the present, Agatha reels from her husband’s desertion.