How does one review a murder mystery without giving something away?
When I found out that we would be reading a murder mystery (reader’s choice) as a book club selection, I decided to be deliberate in my choice. I was intrigued after seeing The Murder of Roger Ackroyd on Semicolon’s Best Fiction list. Sadly, I have never read Agatha Christie. I snatched at this perfect opportunity.
Even though I hadn’t previously read any of Agatha Christie’s mysteries, I have watched a few episodes on television starring David Suchet as Hercule Poirot. It was David Suchet’s face and mannerisms that I held in my imagination as I read this book. It seems that I picked up more of Poirot’s personality ticks in my reading than I might have otherwise.Beyond this, I’m not sure what to say that won’t divulge some of the satisfying plot twists for those who have not read the book and might care to do so. A man is murdered. There are only a few suspects, but all have something to hide. The writing is clear and clever. Many facts are shared along the way. I was sure that I should be able to discover the truth.Either I am slow and easily deceived, or the ending is oh, so clever. I walked about the house in a daze for some time after finishing the last page. Give it a try. I don’t think you will be disappointed.
pg. 41I am sorry to say I detest Mrs. Ackroyd. She is all chains and teeth and bones. A most unpleasant woman. She has small, pale, flinty blue eyes, and however gushing her words may be, those eyes of hers always remain coldly speculative.I went across to her, leaving Flora by the window. She gave me a handful of assorted knuckles and rings to squeeze, and began talking volubly.