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Evil Under the Sun summary
Brief summary
Evil Under the Sun by Agatha Christie is a classic murder mystery set on a picturesque island resort. When a despicable socialite is killed, detective Hercule Poirot must unravel a web of secrets and lies to uncover the truth.
Table of Contents
Evil Under the Sun
Summary of key ideas
The Setting of the Crime
In Evil Under the Sun by Agatha Christie, we find ourselves on the beautiful, secluded Smuggler's Island. The island is home to the Jolly Roger Hotel, a place where the rich and famous come to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The story begins with the arrival of Hercule Poirot, the famous Belgian detective, who is looking forward to a peaceful holiday.
However, Poirot's hopes for a quiet vacation are dashed when he becomes embroiled in a murder case. The victim is Arlena Stuart, a stunning and enigmatic actress who is found strangled on the beach. The suspects are numerous, including Arlena's husband, Captain Marshall, her stepdaughter, Linda Marshall, and her lover, Patrick Redfern. Each of them has a motive for wanting Arlena dead.
The Investigation Begins
As the investigation begins, Poirot carefully observes the interactions between the suspects and the hotel guests. He quickly realizes that the murder was meticulously planned and executed. The detective also uncovers the complex relationships between the characters, including Arlena's manipulative behavior and her husband's deep affection for his stepdaughter.
During his investigation, Poirot discovers a crucial piece of evidence: a bottle of suntan oil with a missing label. This leads him to believe that the killer used the oil to disguise their identity during the murder. Poirot also learns about a mysterious woman who was seen on the island, adding another layer of complexity to the case.
The Unraveling of the Mystery
As Poirot delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of lies, secrets, and hidden motives. He realizes that the murder was carefully planned to frame one of the suspects, and the missing suntan oil bottle is the key to solving the crime. Poirot's keen observation and meticulous analysis of the evidence lead him to the shocking truth.
In a dramatic denouement, Poirot gathers all the suspects and reveals the identity of the murderer. The killer turns out to be Patrick Redfern, Arlena's lover, who was driven to murder by her callous treatment of him. Redfern's elaborate plan to frame Linda Marshall, Arlena's stepdaughter, almost succeeded, but Poirot's astute deductions prevented an innocent person from being convicted.
The Aftermath
With the case solved, Poirot reflects on the nature of evil and the lengths people will go to in the pursuit of their desires. He also acknowledges the complexity of human emotions and the destructive power of jealousy and obsession. The story ends with Poirot leaving the island, satisfied with another successful investigation.
In conclusion, Evil Under the Sun is a classic Agatha Christie mystery that keeps readers guessing until the very end. With its intricate plot, well-developed characters, and unexpected twists, the novel is a testament to Christie's unparalleled skill in crafting compelling whodunits.
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What is Evil Under the Sun about?
Evil Under the Sun is a classic murder mystery novel by Agatha Christie. Set on a tranquil island resort, the story follows the famous detective Hercule Poirot as he investigates the murder of a glamorous and manipulative woman. With a web of deceit, jealousy, and hidden motives, Poirot must unravel the truth and unmask the killer.
Evil Under the Sun Review
Evil Under the Sun (1941) is a gripping murder mystery by Agatha Christie that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- With its intriguing plot twists and complex characters, it will captivate you from start to finish.
- The book's meticulous attention to detail and clever clues make it a challenging puzzle to solve.
- Set in a stunning seaside location, the book creates a richly atmospheric backdrop that adds to the suspense and intrigue.
Who should read Evil Under the Sun?
- Fans of classic murder mysteries and whodunits
- Readers who enjoy intricate plots with unexpected twists
- Those who appreciate clever and observant detectives like Hercule Poirot
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Book summaries like Evil Under the Sun
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Evil Under the Sun FAQs
What is the main message of Evil Under the Sun?
The main message of Evil Under the Sun is revealed through a captivating murder mystery that explores the darkest corners of the human soul.
How long does it take to read Evil Under the Sun?
The reading time for Evil Under the Sun will vary from person to person. However, the Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is Evil Under the Sun a good book? Is it worth reading?
Evil Under the Sun is a must-read for Agatha Christie fans and anyone who enjoys suspenseful and well-crafted mysteries that keep you guessing until the very end.
Who is the author of Evil Under the Sun?
Agatha Christie is the author of Evil Under the Sun.
What to read after Evil Under the Sun?
If you're wondering what to read next after Evil Under the Sun, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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- Theory U by C. Otto Scharmer
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- The Innovator ’s Dilemma# by Clayton M. Christensen
- The War of Art by Steven Pressfield
- Creativity, Inc. by Ed Catmull with Amy Wallace
- Think Like a Freak by Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner
- The Laws of Simplicity by John Maeda