UK Reading Lists
Enjoyed The Murder of Roger Ackroyd? : A Reading List
Such have been our preoccupations in King’s Abbot for the last few years. We have discussed Ackroyd and his affairs from every standpoint.
Throughout 2026 we are celebrating the 100th anniversary of The Murder of Roger Ackroyd, an incredible novel which changed the course of Agatha Christie's life forever. Whether you are new to this iconic case, or are approaching your 100th re-read, we hope you enjoy exploring the book with us in its anniversary year. Enjoyed the novel, and wondering which Christie case to pick up next? Here are a few we recommend.
The Mysterious Affair at Styles [1920]
Discover the first published case for Poirot, narrated by his old friend Hastings. A chance reunion in Essex leads Captain Hastings to seek assistance from Poirot to solve the poisoning of the lady of the house, Emily Inglethorp. Her habit for changing her will brings plenty of inhabitants under suspicion, but who was expecting the lion’s share of the inheritance? Her much-younger second husband Alfred, as well as her two sons from her first marriage come under fire. Inspector Japp is on hand to help get to the truth.
The Big Four [1927]
A daring tale of espionage and intrigue… but also a Poirot book written at a similar time to The Murder of Roger Ackroyd. Originally a short story collection that Christie turned into a novel, the Belgian we meet in this story is actually preparing for his village retirement (despite being published after Ackroyd). This action-packed adventure begins with a former Secret Service member dying in Poirot’s flat and the consequent pursuit of the power-hungry four from the title. A great story to explore next, it shows off Christie’s creative range and prowess.
The Murder at the Vicarage [1930]
Colonel Protheroe is keen to go over the church accounts with the vicar of St Mary Mead. Reverend Clement is keeping a secret from the Colonel, but would like to avoid fuelling the village’s gossip machine any further. When Protheroe is found dead, in the Vicarage of all places, the problem becomes much more personal for him and his charming wife Griselda. Inspector Slack must get to work, but it might take the assistance of an astute local, Miss Marple, to solve this one.
Lord Edgware Dies [1933]
Hidden drug habits and outspoken servant networks are not exclusive to King’s Abbot. In this novel, in which the titular character also ends up dead, Agatha Christie returns to some of the themes that make The Murder of Roger Ackroyd so engaging. The story takes place in London, and amidst dinner parties and luxury hotels, actress Jane Wilkinson enlists Poirot’s help to gain a divorce from Lord Edgware. But before the paperwork can be signed Edgware is found dead, and the suspects all have alibis. Captain Hastings narrates, and Inspector Japp also features.
One cannot be interested in crime without being interested in psychology. It is not the mere act of killing, it is what lies behind it that appeals to the expert. You follow me, Hastings?
The Moving Finger [1942]
Anonymous letters strike fear in the heart of the community of Lymstock. Even newcomers, siblings Jerry and Joanna Burton, can’t escape receiving one. As rumours swell Inspector Graves from Scotland Yard thinks he’s identified the type of culprit he is looking for, but his conclusions can’t prevent a second death. Miss Marple’s skills of deduction, and cunning plan to catch the murderer in the act, prove she’s no shrinking violet. This village will be glad she turned up to help…
A Murder is Announced [1950]
The local paper invites members of Chipping Cleghorn to a murderous parlour game. The out-of-place announcement attracts attention, as villagers descend on Little Paddocks and become unexpected witnesses to a genuine killing. But who is the man who turned up at lights-out, and why were shots fired? Just as The Murder of Roger Ackroyd reflects the changing times post WW1, this story details post WW2 changes and the detective prowess of Poirot has been swapped for the skills of Miss Marple.
Miss Marple leaned back in her chair. She murmured under her breath, ‘People are really very alike, everywhere.’
After the Funeral [1953]
A death in the family leads to a household full of suspects. Richard Abernethie’s sprawling network of relations all stand to inherit from his demise, he was a wealthy man, after all. However, his sister Cora’s pronouncement that he was murdered isn’t taken too seriously. That is, until she is found dead the next day. Abernethie’s solicitor is keen to get to the bottom of the difficult circumstance, and his friend, Hercule Poirot, must examine the family in more detail to discover the truth.
Endless Night [1967]
Wayward Michael Rogers isn’t the settling down type, as he tells us in his own words. He has big dreams though, and a chance trip to see a property called Gipsy’s Acre will change his life. Michael marries Ellie Guteman, a wealthy heiress who longs to escape from familial restrictions. The couple hire architect Santonix to construct their perfect home, but a village curse makes it hard for them to settle in amidst the threats and rumours.
