This mystery revolves around the apparent suicide of Rosemary Barton at her own birthday party, in full view 6 other people. One year later, her husband decides the investigate the circumstances surrounding her death when he receives an anonymous letter suggesting that there might be more to Rosemary's death than meets the eye.
Christie establishes that each person at the table that evening had a motive to wish Rosemary Barton dead. She established this by writing a chapter from each character's perspective; outlining their own hatred of Rosemary and how far they are willing to go against her.
What I enjoyed about Sparkling Cyanide was that there was no professional sleuth involved; no Miss Marple or Hercule Poirot. Instead, one of the characters himself sets out to investigate the murder and with the assistance of others (including Colonel Race) is able to solve the mystery.
Since reading it, I have learnt that it was originally published under the name Remembered Death, and the image to the left is the image of the original dust jacket.
The novel is everything that you have come to expect from an Agatha Christie mystery. It has suspense, it has intrigue, and it has lust and love affairs. Most significantly, this book as a twist at the end that I didn't see coming. It keeps you guessing all the way to the end.
Summary
What kind of read is this?
Quick, easy and exciting
Do I recommend this book?
Absolutely. Definitely. Agatha Christie is great for all readers of all types of fiction.
Do I recommend that you buy this book?
Again, yes. I love having her books on my shelf to return to again and again. If you are anything like me, you will forget the outcome between readings and be surprised all over again each time you read the book.
Star Rating
7 / 8
Brilliant. Couldn't put it down. Recommend that you buy it.
I would love to hear what you think of the book if you have read it. What do you think of the original title Remembered Death? Do you prefer the original or the new title?
Originally posted 14 September 2010 Page Turners
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