The review highlights the cleverness of the murder’s incongruity in the idyllic setting and appreciates Christie's skill in weaving an entertaining mystery with a cast of multiple police officers and the indispensable Miss Marple.
This perspective admires the way Agatha Christie uses the shocking placement of a corpse in an otherwise peaceful environment to heighten intrigue and tension. The reviewer notes the slightly overdone police presence but finds the addition of Miss Marple’s sharp intellect a perfect counterbalance that enriches the story. The tone of the novel, mixing lightness with a thrilling mystery, is seen as a strength that makes the novel enjoyable and engaging, with the social dynamics adding to the narrative’s charm.
Quick quotes
The corpse must shock not only because it is a corpse but also because it is shockingly out of place.
Christie nails this requirement with demonstrable ease and finesse.
Dolly only calls upon one sleuth, her friend Jane Marple. Initially, Dolly invites her friend to investigate as part of the fun.