Welcome to Litsy!

I‘m finally catching up my last few reviews from February. This was the last book I read for the #MaryWestmacottBuddyRead, and while it was worthwhile, I think it was the weakest of the bunch. The Westmacott novels have all been so rich in their character development and examination of human nature, but here, the plot she chose to explore these particular characters didn‘t seem to serve her purposes well. (Cont‘d) ⬇️

I‘ve been halfway to a reading slump for weeks now so I decided I‘d pick something uncomplicated to read and hope it jogs me out of it.

“Perhaps not . . . But you see, Rowley, I do love you—and you‘ve had such a hell of a time—and I‘ve never, really, cared very much for being safe—“
#TakenAtTheFlood #AgathaChristie #Poirot #HerculePoirot #lastline #closingline #book #books #bookcase #bookcases #bookcover #bookcovers #bookcoverdesign #bookcoverdesigner #bookclub #bookclubs #bookvibe #Mystery #Fiction #Crime #Classics #MysteryThriller #Detective #Audiobook #BritishLiterature 💛💛💛

Another belated review from January!

I have been blown away by the depth of psychological insight in each of the Mary Westmacott novels. This was excellent as well, but also at times excruciating to read—mainly because of that depth of insight. Christie gives such a clear view of each character, and the motivations behind their actions, while simultaneously showing their inability or refusal to see others with the clarity needed. ⬇️

This is yet another novel with a hint in the German title. 🙈 But as I know realised the original does so as well. While listening I kept on wondering how Poirot could end up in series of political murders, that‘s not a regular task for him.

While I always enjoy Hugh Fraser's narration, I had to re-read parts of this on my Kobo to get the plot straight. Listening to the audiobook, if I let my attention stray for one moment, I lost the thread. Even reading back and understanding the basics, the motivations and details still don't make total sense to me. I like the characters, but it's not my favorite Poirot mystery.

Can love be a burden? Westmacott/Christie writes a psychological study of family and how far one can go to protect a loved one. There are parts, especially at the end, that did not quite seem to fit with the rest of the narrative. However, it‘s Christie, and so therefore there‘s an in-depth study of human nature. Not as strong as others of her Westmacott books, but still a pick.

Thanks for hosting #LMWBR , @CSeydel !

#192025 #1956

This was a fascinating look at the poisons, featured in many of her novels. It's quite detailed so was a bit heavy at times but I loved all the references. It's careful not to issue too many spoilers but I've read most so it didn't worry me, it just sparked a need to re-read the books. 4*

This was just okay. Phyllida Bright works for Agatha Christie and is also her friend. She loves Poirot, and when a murder happens at Mallowan Hall, she takes it upon herself to try to solve it Poirot style. Unfortunately, this book is pretty boring. There‘s far too much detail about the everyday tasks and clothing of the staff. Bright‘s Poirot-like villain and motive reveal speech at the end is far too long, pretentious, and boring.