Published in 1934, The Listerdale Mystery is a charming and diverse collection of twelve short stories by Agatha Christie. Unlike her famous Hercule Poirot and Miss Marple mysteries, this collection features ordinary people caught in extraordinary situations, with elements of romance, crime, deception, and the occasional supernatural twist.
If you enjoy light-hearted mysteries, thrilling twists, and clever storytelling, The Listerdale Mystery is a must-read. Each tale is short, engaging, and packed with surprises, making this collection perfect for both longtime Christie fans and new readers.
Story-by-Story Review – A Mix of Mystery, Suspense, and Romance
1. The Listerdale Mystery
🏡 A widow struggling financially is offered a luxurious house at an unbelievably low rent. But who is the mysterious benefactor, and what secret does the house hold? A delightful and uplifting mystery with a feel-good ending.
2. Philomel Cottage
💍 A woman hastily marries a charming man, but soon discovers unsettling clues about his past. Is she in danger, or is it all in her imagination? A gripping psychological thriller that keeps you on edge.
3. The Girl in the Train
🚂 A young man longing for adventure gets more than he bargained for when he meets a mysterious girl on a train. A story filled with espionage, danger, and romance.
4. Sing a Song of Sixpence
🔎 A governess is caught in the middle of a murder investigation, where nothing is as it seems. A cleverly crafted classic whodunit with a surprising twist.
5. The Manhood of Edward Robinson
🚗 A modest young man unexpectedly comes into money and buys a sports car, hoping for excitement. His wish comes true when he finds himself embroiled in a jewelry heist. A fun, fast-paced adventure.
6. Accident
⏳ A retired detective recognizes a dangerous criminal living in a quiet village. But will he act before it’s too late? A short but chilling tale of fate and justice.
7. Jane in Search of a Job
👒 A young woman answers an ad for a well-paid but mysterious position—impersonating a foreign princess! A thrilling and glamorous story of deception and danger.
8. A Fruitful Sunday
💎 A simple drive in the countryside turns into an unexpected adventure when a young couple accidentally comes into possession of a priceless necklace. A lighthearted crime story with a satisfying twist.
9. Mr. Eastwood’s Adventure
✉️ A struggling writer finds himself mistaken for a secret agent and caught in a dangerous plot. A humorous yet thrilling mix of espionage and mistaken identity.
10. The Golden Ball
🎩 A young man takes a chance on love and adventure, but is he ready for the consequences? A romantic mystery with an uplifting ending.
11. The Rajah’s Emerald
💎 A young man on holiday gets tangled in a daring jewel theft and must prove his innocence. A fast-paced and engaging crime story.
12. Swan Song
🎶 A world-famous opera singer seeks revenge, but does her plan go too far? A dark and satisfying tale of justice and betrayal.
Why The Listerdale Mystery Is a Must-Read
- A refreshing change from Agatha Christie’s traditional detective novels, offering a variety of crime, romance, adventure, and psychological thrillers.
- Perfect for readers who enjoy short, engaging mysteries with clever twists.
- A great mix of lighthearted stories and suspenseful tales, showcasing Christie’s versatility as a storyteller.
- An ideal collection for new Christie fans who want to experience her brilliance without committing to a full-length novel.
Final Thoughts – A Captivating Collection of Short Mysteries
The Listerdale Mystery is a delightful and engaging short story collection that highlights Agatha Christie’s storytelling genius beyond her famous detectives. With a mix of mystery, romance, humor, and intrigue, this book is perfect for anyone looking for a quick and entertaining read.
If you love unexpected twists, charming characters, and classic whodunits, this collection is a hidden gem you shouldn’t miss!