You need to sign in or sign up before continuing.
Take a photo of a barcode or cover
3.79 AVERAGE
3.79 AVERAGE
mysterious
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
N/A
Agatha Christie’s “Why Didn’t They Ask Evans?” is a refreshing, light-hearted departure from her more well-known tales of Hercule Poirot and Miss Marple. First published in 1934, this standalone mystery blends amateur sleuthing, charming wit, and classic Christie intrigue into an enjoyable and fast-paced read.
The story kicks off with a dramatic moment: while playing golf on the Welsh cliffs, Bobby Jones finds a dying man who utters the cryptic question, “Why didn’t they ask Evans?” before taking his final breath. The mystery of this question sets Bobby—and his spirited childhood friend Lady Frances “Frankie” Derwent—on a twisting path full of suspicious characters, mistaken identities, and hidden secrets.
One of the book’s strongest points is its dynamic duo. Bobby and Frankie bring youthful energy and a sense of adventure to the investigation, and their interactions provide a delightful mix of banter and growing affection. Frankie, in particular, is a standout—a clever and independent woman who throws herself into the mystery with enthusiasm and flair.
While the central mystery is engaging, “Why Didn’t They Ask Evans?” leans more into being a thriller with a touch of romance than a traditional whodunit. The plot has a few convenient turns and a slightly theatrical conclusion, but the central question is ultimately answered in a satisfying way that ties the clues together cleverly.
This novel may not have the tightly woven logic puzzle of Christie’s more famous works like “Murder on the Orient Express” or “The Murder of Roger Ackroyd”, but it shines through its charming characters and brisk, adventurous tone.
Verdict:
A lighter, more playful Agatha Christie mystery with likable leads and a puzzling question that keeps you intrigued. Perfect for fans who enjoy mystery with a dash of wit and romance.
The story kicks off with a dramatic moment: while playing golf on the Welsh cliffs, Bobby Jones finds a dying man who utters the cryptic question, “Why didn’t they ask Evans?” before taking his final breath. The mystery of this question sets Bobby—and his spirited childhood friend Lady Frances “Frankie” Derwent—on a twisting path full of suspicious characters, mistaken identities, and hidden secrets.
One of the book’s strongest points is its dynamic duo. Bobby and Frankie bring youthful energy and a sense of adventure to the investigation, and their interactions provide a delightful mix of banter and growing affection. Frankie, in particular, is a standout—a clever and independent woman who throws herself into the mystery with enthusiasm and flair.
While the central mystery is engaging, “Why Didn’t They Ask Evans?” leans more into being a thriller with a touch of romance than a traditional whodunit. The plot has a few convenient turns and a slightly theatrical conclusion, but the central question is ultimately answered in a satisfying way that ties the clues together cleverly.
This novel may not have the tightly woven logic puzzle of Christie’s more famous works like “Murder on the Orient Express” or “The Murder of Roger Ackroyd”, but it shines through its charming characters and brisk, adventurous tone.
Verdict:
A lighter, more playful Agatha Christie mystery with likable leads and a puzzling question that keeps you intrigued. Perfect for fans who enjoy mystery with a dash of wit and romance.
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
adventurous
lighthearted
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
adventurous
lighthearted
mysterious
relaxing
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
mysterious
fast-paced
adventurous
funny
mysterious
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
lighthearted
mysterious
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Typical detective story, it's okay, definitely not a good example of Christie's work
adventurous
mysterious
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
No