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I hope by now you are in the loop on our #YOAreadalong (and also our #giveaway!) If you aren't, be sure to check out our previous post or catch up with us on social media (Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook) to find out more details.
We wanted to create a little list of discussion questions and a post where we can all dialogue together about our reading progress. But don't feel limited at all about the questions we have below! We want to hear all your Peril thoughts and feelings!
Characters:
>any favorite characters? any you just don't trust?
>how do we feel about Poirot in this book?
>best Poirot moment?
>what about Hastings? Favorite ridiculous statement? Does Poirot underestimate him?
#MURDER:
>was the victim a surprise to you?
>who do you initially suspect is the murderer?
>best red herring award?
Story:
>What stands out to you about the writing?
>Anything you love (or don't) about the story?
>If you're an Agatha fan, how does this compare to your favorites?
>If you're new to Agatha, how did this meet your expectations?
Since everyone is reading at their own pace, spoilers may be inevitable - post and read at your own risk! :)
Don't forget that when you make a comment on this post (or any of our social media posts about this #YOAreadalong) you will be entered to win a copy of Murder on the Orient Express!
Happy Reading!
-A. & E.
I do love Peril at End House, one of my favorites and an ingenious conceit. I will make a comment about one of the more prominent red herrings: that painting of Nick's that the art dealer friend inexplicably offers to buy. At first, I couldn't believe that Christie ends this dramatic book in such an insignificant way by explaining the supreme unimportance of this gesture. But there are good story-telling reasons for the inclusion of the red herring in general. Most obviously, it allows suspicion to be cast on that particular friend. Also, and less obviously, it brings "Old Nick" and his influence into the story in a more tangible way that I think is very effective. As for the book's ending, I suppose Christie occasionally enjoys ending her diabolical stories on a somewhat lighter note (see: Hallowe'en Party). And, of course, the fact that Poirot must know EVERYTHING is a very important part of his character and why we love these stories. :)
ReplyDeleteThis is my (Audrey's) second time reading Peril at End House, and I have a bit left to finish this second time around, but I do remember the "Old Nick" painting and feeling that same nagging feeling (that I'm sure Poirot was also feeling!) throughout the book of just wanting to know what it was all about!
DeleteI'm about halfway through, and so far I like how Nick is portrayed as such a "modern" gal. I also like Poirot's distaste for English breakfasts. Continental all the way!!
ReplyDeleteI (Audrey) love that too! "To see me consuming eggs and bacon upset and distressed him" had me chuckling for sure! I could certainly get on board with coffee and rolls in bed every day!
DeleteConfession: first time I've read an AC book since high school (eek). Enjoyed being reintroduced to this author...thank you Emily and Audrey! I thought this was a fun mystery and spent the whole novel wondering whodunnit. The ending did not disappoint with all the twists. However I was somewhat thrown/confused by Freddie's husband and the role he played at the end of the story. Anyone else have this same reaction?
ReplyDeleteOoo that is a good thought RE: Freddie's husband. I (Audrey) think it might have been a way to give a name/"face" to the "J." person from Poirot's list of suspects that he and Hastings always thought might show up at some point? And also, perhaps, tie up the loose end of Freddie's erratic behavior? And/or explain why she always seemed to be covering for someone? It proves to be fairly anticlimactic, but at the same time, very AC-esque by leaving all the reader's questions answered.
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