69 pages • 2 hours read
The Mousetrap
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Book Brief
70
Play • Fiction
England • 1950s
1950
Adult
14+ years
Super Short Summary
The Mousetrap by Agatha Christie is a two-act murder mystery play set in an early 1950s guest house run by Mollie and Giles Ralston. After a radio report mentions a murder, guests arrive at Monkswell Manor and soon find themselves snowed in. Sergeant Trotter arrives to investigate, revealing connections to a past crime involving foster children. Tensions and suspicions build, leading to a dramatic conclusion.
Suspenseful
Mysterious
Unnerving
Dark
Challenging
Reviews & Readership
7,624 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Mousetrap by Agatha Christie is often praised for its classic whodunit suspense and ingenious plot twists, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats. Critics commend its strong character development and atmospheric settings. However, some note that the pacing can be slow at times, and a few plot elements may feel dated. Overall, it's a thoroughly engaging mystery.
Who Should Read The Mousetrap?
A reader who enjoys classic murder mysteries with clever plot twists and suspenseful atmospheres will find The Mousetrap by Agatha Christie intriguing. Ideal for fans of And Then There Were None or The Hound of the Baskervilles, this play appeals to those who appreciate intricate whodunits and the golden age of detective fiction.
7,624 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Giles Ralston
Giles Ralston
Mollie’s husband and co-owner of Monkswell Manor. Described as attractive and arrogant, he is involved in a series of misunderstandings that cast temporary suspicion on him.
Christopher Wren
Christopher Wren
A peculiar and youthful guest staying at Monkswell Manor. He is noted for his eccentric behavior and fascination with the macabre.
Detective Sergeant Trotter / Georgie Corrigan
Detective Sergeant Trotter / Georgie Corrigan
Presents himself as a young police detective investigating events at Monkswell Manor. His youthful appearance and direct manner invite both trust and suspicion.
Miss Casewell / Katherine (Kathy) Corrigan
Miss Casewell / Katherine (Kathy) Corrigan
A young woman who presents herself with masculine traits and keeps much of her personal history private as she visits Monkswell Manor.
Major Metcalf / Inspector
Major Metcalf / Inspector
An older gentleman with a military demeanor and a largely undisclosed personal history. He maintains a quiet presence among the guests at Monkswell Manor.
Mr. Paravicini
Mr. Paravicini
An elderly man with a foreign appearance who arrives unexpectedly at Monkswell Manor, bringing with him an air of mystery and suspicion.
Mrs. Boyle
Mrs. Boyle
A former magistrate and guest at Monkswell Manor, known for her critical nature and imposing presence.
70
Play • Fiction
England • 1950s
1950
Adult
14+ years
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