Reviews

They Do It with Mirrors by Agatha Christie

kba76's review against another edition

Go to review page

informative mysterious medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

A deceptively simple story whose success owes much to the allusions and misdirections referenced in the title.
A mutual acquaintance asks Miss Marple to head to the residence of a close friend, as she fears something untoward is taking place. The friend, Carrie, is oblivious, but welcomes Jane to her home…which also happens to house a number of delinquent youths as part of a grand philanthropic scheme.
Miss Marple immediately senses something is off, but there are a number of potential suspects. When one of the family is shot it seems fairly clear who is to blame. But not to Jane, who - naturally - works out what’s going on.
As always with Christie, I find myself transported in time. This means some references/sentiments do seem antiquated and out of place, but the plotting is always to be admired.

doeselizaread's review

Go to review page

mysterious reflective tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

imperfectcj's review against another edition

Go to review page

dark mysterious tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

I enjoyed this novel, and not just because of Emilia Fox's interpretation of a southern (US) accent. The characters are complex and realistically cagey, and Miss Marple rocks, as usual. The observations about the differences between US and English culture are interesting. I can't judge how accurate the English side is, but Christie basically suggests that United Statesians don't mind shameless self-promotion, and I can't say she's wrong.

issie_emma's review against another edition

Go to review page

4.0

First time trying out a Miss Marple book and I was not disappointed!

Pro:

gabymorgenstern's review against another edition

Go to review page

lighthearted mysterious reflective fast-paced

4.75

itzmays's review

Go to review page

4.0

"People who can be very good can be very bad, too"

klou1985's review

Go to review page

adventurous emotional mysterious sad tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

girlglitch's review against another edition

Go to review page

mysterious fast-paced

3.0

jayraams's review

Go to review page

4.0

This is Miss Marple at her best, playing the little old lady, that is actually outsmarting everyone else. If you like the Dark Marple Theory this is definitely one for you. Enjoy.

awesomeallie's review against another edition

Go to review page

mysterious fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75