One-line Summary:

Agatha Christie’s “Curtain” is a gripping murder mystery that brings back the iconic detective Hercule Poirot for his final case, set in a secluded country house.

The Return of Hercule Poirot

In “Curtain,” Agatha Christie resurrects her beloved detective Hercule Poirot for one last investigation. Poirot, now elderly and suffering from a debilitating illness, has retired to the country house Styles Court. He is joined by his loyal friend Captain Arthur Hastings, who serves as the narrator of the story. As the two settle into their new surroundings, they quickly become aware that a sinister presence lurks within the walls of the estate.

A Secluded Country House and a Series of Murders

Styles Court, the setting of “Curtain,” is a secluded country house that becomes the stage for a series of mysterious deaths. The house is occupied by a group of guests, each with their own secrets and motives. Poirot, with his keen observational skills, begins to unravel the complex web of relationships and hidden agendas.

As the story progresses, the body count rises, and Poirot finds himself facing a formidable adversary who is determined to carry out a grand plan of murder and revenge. With each murder, the tension and suspense escalate, leaving the reader guessing until the very end.

The Final Revelation

In the climactic conclusion of “Curtain,” Poirot reveals the identity of the murderer and their motive. The revelation is shocking and unexpected, showcasing Agatha Christie’s mastery of the genre. Poirot’s final act of justice is both satisfying and poignant, as he sacrifices his own life to ensure that justice is served.

Key Takeaways:

• Agatha Christie’s “Curtain” is a thrilling murder mystery that brings back the iconic detective Hercule Poirot for his final case.
• The story is set in a secluded country house, Styles Court, where a series of mysterious deaths occur.
• Poirot’s keen observational skills and deductive reasoning are put to the test as he unravels the complex web of relationships and hidden motives.
• The climactic conclusion reveals the identity of the murderer and their motive, leaving the reader shocked and satisfied.
• Poirot’s final act of justice is both heroic and poignant, as he sacrifices his own life to ensure that justice is served.

“The impossible cannot have happened, therefore the impossible must be possible in spite of appearances.” – Agatha Christie, Curtain

In “Curtain,” Agatha Christie delivers a gripping and suspenseful murder mystery that showcases the brilliance of Hercule Poirot one final time. With its intricate plot, memorable characters, and unexpected twists, the novel keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the last page. Christie’s ability to craft a complex puzzle and unravel it with precision is on full display, making “Curtain” a must-read for fans of the genre. The book serves as a fitting farewell to one of literature’s most beloved detectives and leaves readers with a sense of awe and admiration for Agatha Christie’s storytelling prowess.