Evil Under the Sun
Evil Under the Sun
Evil Under the Sun is a captivating detective novel written by Agatha Christie, the renowned British author. The book, originally published in 1941, is part of the popular Hercule Poirot series, featuring the brilliant Belgian detective solving another intriguing murder mystery.
Plot Summary
Set in the summer resort of Leathercombe Bay on an island off the coast of Devon, England, Evil Under the Sun follows Hercule Poirot as he takes a holiday at the Jolly Roger Hotel. Amidst the picturesque sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, a chilling murder takes place.
Christie introduces the readers to a range of peculiar and suspicious characters, each with their own motives and secrets. The story revolves around the murder of a beautiful and highly disliked young actress named Arlena Stuart Marshall, whose body is found strangled on a secluded beach.
Poirot uncovers a tangled web of relationships, deceit, and hidden agendas as he meticulously investigates the murder. The hotel guests become the prime suspects, and tensions rise as Poirot digs deeper into their lives. With his exceptional deduction skills and keen eye for detail, Poirot skillfully unravels the truth, much to the surprise of the readers.
Reception and Awards
Evil Under the Sun received widespread acclaim from both readers and critics upon its release. The book is highly regarded for its intricate plot, compelling characters, and Christie’s masterful storytelling. It showcases the author’s ability to create a sense of suspense and maintain the reader’s interest throughout.
Although Evil Under the Sun didn’t receive any specific awards, it remains one of Christie’s most popular and well-loved works. It continues to captivate readers with its clever twists and turns, showcasing why Agatha Christie is hailed as the “Queen of Crime.”
Key Characters
Hercule Poirot: The beloved Belgian detective, known for his remarkable intellect and attention to detail. Poirot is the protagonist of the story, guiding readers through the investigation.
Arlena Stuart Marshall: The glamorous actress whose murder sets the stage for the novel. She is portrayed as manipulative, which makes her a prime suspect in the eyes of other characters.
Patrick and Christine Redfern: A troubled couple staying at the hotel. Patrick is Arlena’s estranged husband, while Christine has a long-standing infatuation with him. They both become entangled in the murder case.
Odell and Myra Gardener: Brother and sister, the Gardener siblings are the owners of the Jolly Roger Hotel. Their quirky personalities and deep-rooted secrets make them intriguing suspects.
Colonel Weston and Inspector Colgate: The local law enforcement officials who assist Poirot during the investigation. They rely on Poirot’s expertise to solve the perplexing crime.
Evil Under the Sun is a captivating and suspenseful novel that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Agatha Christie’s remarkable ability to create intricate plots, fascinating characters, and unexpected twists makes this book a must-read for any fan of detective fiction.