Partners In Crime

Book Name : Partners In Crime

Author : Agatha Christie

What is it about : A series of mini-plots showcasing this famous crime writer's logical thinking, talent, scene-setting skills, a keen eye and sharp sense of where and how a potential crime could be committed. Taking charge temporarily of the flagging Blunt Detective Agency, the stand-in crime-solving thirty-something married couple, Tommy and Tuppence, helped Agatha Christie sew together some intriguing whodunits which included Hunting down the Russian agent code-named Number 16; Breaking the un-breakable alibi alleged by a pair of twins; Seeing through the double disguises in a fancy dress party; Uncovering a treasured pink pearl hidden in a bar of soap; Straightening out the poltergeist in an ancient old house to find a long lost inheritance; and many more.

Some thoughts after having read the book : Very entertaining to see the creator of the well-known detectives Poirot and Ms Marple, amongst others, exercised her intellect and plot-thickening skills. Written in 1929, when gentlemen had manners and ladies behaved lady-like, the "old-time" English dialogues were delightful and "most civilised". The stories were made more interesting with the vivid supporting cast which included old Albert the butler taking up the role of a front-desk office "boy", keenly announcing the arrival of prospective clients requiring detective work done; the various walk-in big wigs from Scotland Yard, the local Chief Constable and Inspector General, all puzzled and clueless in their respective cases, but still all talked the authoritative talk, emphasising "... all's well and under control ..." and "... of course, I knew it, the villain/rascal/swine was never far from view ... splendidly done old chap ...".

Would I recommend this book to you : Definitely one of those how-to books where one could learn concise writing with witty and dramatic, yet down-to-earth conversations as well as scheming a plot and completing a jolly ending with the smoking gun revealed and the main characters escaped unscathed. Perfect book to while away the Summer lazy days.