“The Idol House of Astarte” is a short story by Agatha Christie, featuring her famous detective, Miss Marple. It was first published in 1928 and later included in the collection “The Thirteen Problems” (also known as “The Tuesday Club Murders”).
Plot synopsis
The story is narrated by Dr. Pender, one of the members of the Tuesday Night Club, where each member recounts a mystery they have encountered. Dr. Pender tells the tale of a murder that took place at a house party he attended.
The setting is an old manor house called Silent Grove, owned by Sir Richard Haydon. He invites a group of friends for a weekend, including a woman named Diana Ashley, who has a mysterious and somewhat exotic presence. One evening, Diana decides to hold a “dramatic” event in the garden, near an old stone summerhouse known as the Idol House of Astarte, dedicated to the ancient goddess Astarte.
During the gathering, Diana pretends to be possessed by the spirit of Astarte and dances in front of the idol. Suddenly, Sir Richard Haydon falls to the ground, stabbed by an unseen force. The guests are shocked and mystified by how the murder could have happened in front of so many witnesses without anyone seeing the assailant.
Dr. Pender explains that despite thorough investigations, no rational explanation for the crime could be found. The police were baffled, and it seemed as though some supernatural force was at play.
Miss Marple, however, solves the mystery by pointing out that the simplest explanation is often the correct one. She deduces that the killer used the element of surprise and distraction provided by the “possession” performance to commit the crime.
The Review
Agatha Christie, the undisputed queen of mystery, has a knack for weaving tales that leave readers spellbound, and “The Idol House of Astarte” is no exception. As one of the gems from “The Thirteen Problems” collection, this short story showcases Christie’s unparalleled ability to blend suspense, intrigue, and a touch of the supernatural.
Christie transports us to the atmospheric Silent Grove, a manor house steeped in mystery and surrounded by ancient legends. The garden, with its eerie Idol House of Astarte, serves as the perfect backdrop for a tale that dances on the edge of the supernatural. The vivid descriptions and eerie ambiance create a palpable sense of suspense, drawing readers into the story’s enigmatic world.
The story features a diverse group of characters, each with their own quirks and secrets. Diana Ashley, with her exotic charm, Sir Richard Haydon, the enigmatic host, and a cast of guests with hidden motives, all contribute to the rich tapestry of the narrative. Each character is meticulously crafted, adding depth and intrigue to the plot.
Christie’s genius shines through in the intricate and cleverly constructed plot. The central mystery – a murder committed in plain sight yet unseen by any witnesses – is a testament to her storytelling prowess. The blend of rational deduction and seemingly supernatural elements keeps readers on their toes, eagerly turning pages to uncover the truth.
Miss Marple, with her keen insights and sharp intellect, is the true star of the story. Her ability to see through the smoke and mirrors, to understand human nature and unravel the most perplexing mysteries, is nothing short of brilliant. In “The Idol House of Astarte,” she once again proves why she is one of literature’s most beloved detectives.
Golden Age of Detective Fiction 
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