Step into the world of one of literature’s most beloved detectives, Hercule Poirot! Agatha Christie‘s clever Belgian detective has amazed readers for more than a hundred years. His “little grey cells” and perfect mustache are unforgettable.
Poirot’s journey, from The Mysterious Affair at Styles to Curtain, shows great character growth. His development makes him a lasting literary icon.
Christie’s writing style mixes complex plots and deep psychological insights. This blend has made a lasting impact on the mystery genre. Explore the full list of Hercule Poirot novels with us! Follow the journey of this quirky detective who has become a cultural icon.
The Hercule Poirot Series
1. The Mysterious Affair at Styles (1920)
Hercule Poirot makes his grand entrance in Christie’s debut novel. In an Essex country house during World War I, Poirot uses his careful methods to solve the poisoning of a rich heiress.
Notable characters: Captain Hastings (Poirot’s friend and narrator), Emily Inglethorp (the victim)
Adaptations: Adapted for television in 1990 as part of ITV’s Agatha Christie’s Poirot series, starring David Suchet.
Critical reception: Lauded for its clever plot and unique detective, this work set the stage for Christie’s successful career.
2. The Murder on the Links (1923)
Poirot travels to France to investigate the murder of a millionaire found stabbed on a golf course. This novel showcases Christie’s skill in misdirection and introduces a rival detective.
Notable characters: Giraud (French detective), Marthe Daubreuil (femme fatale)
Adaptations: Adapted for radio by BBC Radio 4 in 2005 and for television in 1996 as part of the Poirot series.
Critical reception: Praised for its intricate plot and the fun rivalry between Poirot and Giraud’s different detective methods.
3. The Murder of Roger Ackroyd (1926)
This novel is seen as one of Christie’s best works. It has a surprising twist that changed the mystery genre. Poirot investigates the murder of a wealthy man in a quiet English village.
Notable characters: Dr. James Sheppard (narrator), Flora Ackroyd (the victim’s niece)
Adaptations: Adapted numerous times, including a 2000 TV movie starring David Suchet.
Critical reception: It was once controversial for its unique narrative style. Now, it is praised as a classic in detective fiction.
4. Peril at End House (1932)
Poirot’s holiday in Cornwall is interrupted by a series of near-fatal accidents befalling a young heiress. This novel demonstrates Christie’s skill in creating a suspenseful atmosphere.
Notable characters: Nick Buckley (the targeted heiress), Commander Challenger
Adaptations: Adapted for television in 1990 as part of the Poirot series.
Critical reception: Praised for its intricate plot and the way it keeps readers guessing until the very end.
5. Murder on the Orient Express (1934)
Christie’s most famous work features Poirot solving a murder on the lavish Orient Express. The train is stuck in a snowstorm. The solution is one of Christie’s most ingenious.
Notable characters: A diverse cast of international passengers, each a suspect
Adaptations: There are several film versions, like the famous 1974 one and Kenneth Branagh’s 2017 remake.
Critical reception: It is highly praised for its unique solution and rich atmosphere. It is a key work in mystery fiction.
6. Death on the Nile (1937)
Poirot’s Egyptian vacation turns deadly when a wealthy heiress is murdered on a Nile cruise. This novel showcases Christie’s talent for creating exotic locations and complex motives.
Notable characters: Linnet Ridgeway (the victim), Jacqueline de Bellefort (Linnet’s former friend)
Adaptations: There were notable film adaptations in 1978 and 2022. The 1978 film starred Peter Ustinov, while the 2022 version featured Kenneth Branagh.
Critical reception: It received high praise for its lively setting and complex plot. Many consider it one of Christie’s best works.
7. Five Little Pigs (1942)
In this cold case, Poirot looks into a murder from sixteen years ago. He interviews five suspects to find the truth. This novel demonstrates Christie’s psychological insight.
Notable characters: Carla Lemarchant (daughter of the convicted murderer), the five “little pigs” (suspects)
Adaptations: Adapted for television in 2003 as part of the Poirot series.
Critical reception: Lauded for its innovative structure and deep character exploration, showcasing Christie’s mature writing style.
8. Curtain: Poirot’s Last Case (1975)
Written during World War II but published as Christie’s final novel, Curtain brings Poirot’s career to a dramatic close. He returns to Styles Court, the scene of his first case, to confront a ruthless serial killer.
Notable characters: An aged Hastings (narrator), Norton (the enigmatic villain)
Adaptations: Adapted for television in 2013, marking David Suchet’s final appearance as Poirot.
Critical reception: A fitting end to Poirot’s journey, praised for its bold plot and emotional depth.
What’s Next?
Agatha Christie’s Hercule Poirot novels represent the pinnacle of Golden Age detective fiction. She skillfully creates complex and satisfying mysteries. Poirot has greatly influenced popular culture. He is now one of the most recognizable and loved characters in literature.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or just starting, these novels showcase a mix of mystery, character depth, and fun. So, grab your walking stick and wax your mustache – the game is afoot, and Hercule Poirot is on the case!
