In The Mystery of Three Quarters, it's not at all clear that a crime has been committed. Hercule Poirot is pressed into service when multiple people start showing up at his door berating him for sending them letters accusing them of a murder they hadn't committed. The victim is someone who seemingly died of natural causes. So is it murder? Who is the mysterious letter writer? And what is the connection between the accused?
I found this story to be engrossing and interesting. The unusual premise of finding out if even a crime has been committed added an intriguing layer to the investigation. It has all the hallmarks of a great Agatha Christie--a small set of possible suspects, each with their own secrets, and plenty of misdirection and red herrings. The end reveal was a little long in terms of the explanation, but it was still extremely satisfying.
This is the second Poirot book I've read by Sophie Hannah. It must not be easy to fill Agatha Christie's famous shoes, yet Sophie Hannah is really starting to come into her own with this one. She adds her own style to it, so that it feels like a modern interpretation. All the quirks and charms of Poirot are still here, but without the excessive persnickety and fuss. There were many quirky and funny moments, and I found myself chuckling along happily. Reading this, it feels like meeting an old friend after a long absence. You've both grown into slightly different people, but underlying that is the same old comfortable joy at reuniting.
Readaroo Rating: 4 stars
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