Honest review of The Mystery of the Blue Train

by Agatha Christie (Author)

Updated at: 19/01/2025

Agatha Christie's The Mystery of the Blue Train plunges readers into the opulent yet treacherous world of 1920s Europe. Aboard the luxurious express train speeding from Calais to the French Riviera, a wealthy heiress, Ruth Kettering, is brutally murdered, and a priceless ruby vanishes. The renowned Hercule Poirot is called upon to unravel the complex web of deceit surrounding the crime. Amidst a cast of intriguing suspects – secretive lovers, greedy heirs, and enigmatic passengers – Poirot must decipher a trail of clues, exposing hidden motives and betrayals. With Christie's signature twists and masterful plotting, The Mystery of the Blue Train delivers a captivating whodunit, exploring themes of wealth, greed, and the darker side of human nature, all set against the glamorous backdrop of the era's elite.

4.5 / 10,971 ratings

Review The Mystery of the Blue Train

Oh, The Mystery of the Blue Train! Where do I even begin? It’s pure Agatha Christie magic, a delightful journey through the glittering, yet undeniably shady, world of 1920s Europe. I absolutely loved being whisked away to the luxurious confines of the Blue Train, that glamorous express hurtling through the French countryside. The setting itself feels like a character, adding a layer of elegance and suspense to the already thrilling plot.

Christie's writing, as always, is masterful. The descriptive passages are vivid; you can practically smell the perfume and feel the crisp air rushing past the train windows. The characters, oh, the characters! They are a wonderfully diverse bunch – a cast of intriguing suspects, each with their secrets, motivations, and carefully constructed alibis. Some are immediately likable, others instantly suspicious, and some fall somewhere in between, which is brilliantly done and keeps you guessing until the very end. I found myself rooting for some of the characters, even when their actions were morally questionable – a testament to Christie's talent in creating complex and relatable individuals.

The mystery itself is a classic Christie puzzle, meticulously crafted with red herrings galore. The plot twists and turns, keeping you completely engaged, and the clues are subtle enough to challenge even the most seasoned detective (which, let's face it, I'm not!). While the ending might be a bit of a "deus ex machina," as some have pointed out, it ultimately fits within the context of the story and Poirot's larger-than-life persona. It's a testament to Christie's ability to build suspense and deliver a satisfying resolution, even if it involves a bit of dramatic flair.

This book isn't just a murder mystery; it offers a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era. The descriptions of the opulent lifestyle of the wealthy elite, coupled with the underlying tension and simmering secrets, create a compelling atmosphere. It’s captivating to see the world through Christie’s eyes, even if that world isn’t always pretty.

Furthermore, The Mystery of the Blue Train is crucial to understanding Poirot's development as a character. We see his ego, his compassion, and his unmatched intellect on full display. His little grey cells are in overdrive, working tirelessly to unravel the complicated web of deceit, and it's a joy to watch him in action. The novel establishes his international reputation, hinting at the global adventures to come.

In short, if you're looking for a thrilling mystery that blends suspense, intrigue, and a touch of historical charm, look no further. The Mystery of the Blue Train is a captivating read from beginning to end. I highly recommend it – you won't be disappointed!