This is more like a 2.5 rounded up to a three bc of the last chapters. The last few chapters really tie the whole thing together and are very tight and succinct.

My main criticism is the plot flip-flopping all over the place. I understand it’s because Poirot is being misled but it leads to a plot that is muddled and hard to keep track of. However the ending makes up for it. One of the most unique murderers in Christie novels- they remind me a little of the character Lucy in the Hollow (which I read previously). Another thing is that a lot of the book felt particularly mean, between Japp, Poirot, and Hastings. Japp is usually a fun character to read but I loathed every second of him. Similarly, Poirots dismissal of Hastings was not something I found enjoyable.

I enjoyed the motive/plot (when it was entirely finished and not flipping everywhere)/and the characters. Particularly Jenny Driver, and the final bit that seals the narrative from Donald Ross I think is particularly brilliant. Subtle, but brilliant.

Not her best work, but maybe something to read after/before all the good novels.

Also weird amount of antisemitism in this book.