‘I’m a dead woman, or I shall be soon…’
The Monogram Murders is a new mystery featuring Agatha Christie’s beloved detective, Hercule Poirot. While dining at a London coffeehouse, Poirot encounters a distressed woman who reluctantly tells him that she is in danger and will most likely be murdered. The woman known as Jennie, runs away before Poirot can convince her otherwise. Later that night, he learns that three people were murdered at a posh London hotel, and a monogramed cufflink was found in each of the victim’s mouths. Poirot believes there may be a connection between the murders and the distressed woman, and sets out to solve the puzzle.
Approved by the estate of Agatha Christie, author Sophie Hannah brings the character of Hercule Poirot back to life. It is incredibly difficult to write a character that is so well known and Hannah does a nice job overall. The mystery itself is interesting, well developed and for the most part quite enjoyable. There are portions that could have been edited down as it does come across as a little repetitive, which at certain points creates a disconnect from the story. Readers looking for an authentic Agatha Christie mystery may be disappointed as the writing and spirit of Dame Christie is not something that can be replicated. However, The Monogram Murders is a nice option for those looking for a good mystery.
Favourite quote: “One cannot do such harm to another and not wound one’s own soul in the process.”
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