Sparkling Cyanide by Agatha Christie

“Sparkling Cyanide” is a novel written by Agatha Christie, one of the most famous and prolific mystery authors of all time. The book was first published in 1945 under the title “Remembered Death” in the United States. However, in the United Kingdom, it was published under the title “Sparkling Cyanide,” which is the more commonly known title today.

The story revolves around the suspicious death of a wealthy and beautiful young woman named Rosemary Barton. She dies at her birthday celebration in a restaurant after drinking a glass of champagne laced with cyanide. The case is initially ruled as suicide, but her husband, George Barton, becomes convinced that it was murder.

A year after Rosemary’s death, her husband decides to host a dinner party at the same restaurant, inviting the same guests who were present at the tragic event a year ago. His aim is to expose the truth about his wife’s death and to unmask the murderer among the attendees.

The characters attending the dinner party include friends, family members, and associates of the deceased, all with their motives and secrets. As the evening progresses, tensions rise, and old wounds resurface, leading to shocking revelations and unexpected twists. Throughout the narrative, Agatha Christie weaves her trademark clever plot twists and red herrings, keeping readers engaged until the final revelation of the killer’s identity.

As with many of Agatha Christie’s works, “Sparkling Cyanide” showcases her mastery of the mystery genre, delivering an intricate and engaging puzzle for readers to solve alongside the characters. If you enjoy classic whodunit mysteries and a brilliantly crafted plot, “Sparkling Cyanide” is a book worth exploring.