All the Agatha Christie Best Books You Need to Read
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Ready to Discover Your Next Favorite Mystery with the Queen of the Crime?
I’ve always loved stories that make me feel like part of the investigation. And for me, that love started with Agatha Christie. She wasn’t just my entry point into mysteries—she opened a whole world. Since then, her books have become my go-to escape, especially during stressful weeks when all I want is a quiet corner, a warm drink, and a clever crime to solve.
Lately, I realized there was one piece of her story I’d been missing: her own. It actually happened thanks to my daughter, who was reading an excerpt from Agatha Christie’s autobiography for school. As she read aloud one of the passages, something clicked—I couldn’t believe I’d never read it myself. So last month, I finally picked up her autobiography. I don’t know why I waited so long. Reading it felt like catching up with an old friend—warm, witty, and full of surprises. There’s something really special about seeing how the greatest mystery writer of all time saw her own life unfold, in her own words.
That’s what inspired me to put together this list of Agatha Christie’s best books—a personal roundup, organized by theme, that I hope helps you fall in love (or fall back in love) with her stories. Whether you’re into glamorous train murders, small-town secrets, or twisty tales with a touch of romance, there’s something here waiting to be discovered—or rediscovered.
Happy Reading!
If you’re looking for all the upcoming books, take a look at
Poirot’s Recommended Novels
The Mysterious Affair at Styles (1920)
Set during World War I in the English countryside, this book marks the first mystery novel from Christie—and the debut of the legendary Belgian detective with the iconic moustache and “little grey cells.” With Captain Hastings as narrator, a poisoned heiress, and a classic locked-room setup, it’s impossible not to be charmed by Poirot from the moment he appears.
The Murder of Roger Ackroyd (1926)
Considered Christie’s masterpiece by many (and even praised by Stephen King), this novel shocked readers with its unexpected ending. When wealthy Roger Ackroyd is found dead, Poirot must untangle a web of secrets, lies, and motives in one of the most controversial and brilliant endings in all of detective fiction.
Murder on the Orient Express (1934)
Trapped by snow in the Middle East, Poirot investigates the murder of a mysterious passenger. This classic novel is full of unforgettable characters, alibis, and a reveal that will leave you breathless. With feature films starring Peter Ustinov and Kenneth Branagh, this story has reached generations across formats.
The ABC Murders (1936)
Christie's Standalone Favorites
And Then There Were None (1939)
Published under different names in the past, this standalone novel is widely defined as Agatha Christie’s best book. Ten guests are invited to an island off the coast of the United Kingdom, only to be killed off one by one, following a sinister rhyme. It’s dark, suspenseful, and impeccably plotted.
Crooked House (1949)
Christie once said this was one of her personal favorites, and it’s easy to see why. When a wealthy patriarch is poisoned, suspicion falls on his deeply dysfunctional family. With no Poirot or Marple in sight, this standalone novel is a chilling deep dive into the psychology of a killer—and the shocking truth about human nature.
Save for Later
Save for Later
Best Short Stories & Collections
Poirot Investigates (1924)
The Adventure of the Christmas Pudding (1960)
A collection featuring holiday settings that brings together festive mysteries filled with stolen jewels, lavish feasts, and just the right touch of seasonal charm. Offering a rare glimpse of Poirot in a more playful mood, this read is perfect for cozy winter nights and a must-have for fans of Christie’s lighter side.
Three Blind Mice and Other Stories (1950)
Another collection of short stories where Agatha Christie delivers tightly woven plots and quick, satisfying twists in a compact form. Highlighted by the chilling title story that inspired The Mousetrap—the longest-running play in the English language—this volume is perfect for readers new to Christie or looking for short mysteries with all the suspense of her full-length novels.
Archaeological Thrills
Death Comes as the End (1944)
The Pale Horse (1961)
Bonus Read: Christie’s Autobiography
Agatha Christie: An Autobiography (1977)
As I told you at the beginning, discovering Agatha Christie’s autobiography was a personal turning point for me—and I still can’t believe I waited so long to read it. While it’s not a murder mystery, it offers something just as compelling: a warm, witty, and revealing look at the life of the Queen of Mystery herself—her writing process, her travels, and what it truly meant to be a woman shaping the literary world in her own brilliant way.
From Miss Marple’s amateur deductions to Poirot’s analytical brilliance, from the United Kingdom to the Middle East, her stories have transcended generations and borders, translated into foreign languages, adapted into television series, video games, and graphic novels. Which one will you read next? Let me know in the comments!