A review by pineconek
A Murder Is Announced by Agatha Christie

funny lighthearted 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? No

3.5

Agatha Christie was the first "grown up" author that preteen-me read. Twenty years later, I'm enjoying revisiting the cozy mystery setting. Nothing in particular drew me towards this one, other than it being readily available to me. 

But I'm glad I read it. It starts off very fun - a newspaper ad let's us know that a murder will take place at a designated time and location. All out key players want to rubber-neck and gather for the murder and, at the appointed time, lights go out and a gun goes off. 

I typically dont try to solve thrillers as I read them, but did successfully solve this one. That said, I couldn't be certain until the reveal. The twists! The turns! The red herrings and family secrets!

One thing that's awesome about reading these as an adult: the dialogue, which previously had gone above my head, is extremely funny and passive aggressive. I kept smirking. 

Recommended if you're into mysteries that involve family secrets and inheritance or in the mood for a light cozy mystery featuring the brilliant Miss Marple. 3.5 stars on SG rounded down to 3 on GR.