Agatha Christie

Agatha Christie by Lucy Worsley offers a mesmerising and insightful journey into the life of one of the most renowned and celebrated writers in the history of literature. This compelling biography goes beyond the surface to explore the enigmatic life of the iconic 'Queen of Crime', unravelling the mysteries of her rich and vibrant existence.

'A smart and highly entertaining portrait of a literary powerhouse' - The Times Books of the Year

'A riveting portrait' - Guardian Books of the Year

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'Worsley's sparkling biography brings a fresh eye to Christie's life and work, firmly busting the myth that she, or her novels, were cosy.' - Daily Mail

'Every Christie fan should read this' - The Times

'Shows the Queen of Crime in a new light.' - Daily Telegraph

'Worsley's book excels in bringing a broader historical perspective to Christie's life and work, and her enthusiasm is infectious.' - Observer

'Nobody in the world was more inadequate to act the heroine than I was.'

Why did Agatha Christie spend her career pretending that she was 'just' an ordinary housewife, when she clearly was not? As Lucy Worsley reveals, Christie was thrillingly, scintillatingly modern. She enjoyed surfing in Hawaii, had a passion for fast cars, and was deeply intrigued by the emerging science of psychology, which played a crucial role in helping her navigate through periods of devastating mental illness.

So why, despite all evidence to the contrary, did Agatha present herself as a retiring Edwardian lady of leisure? Christie was born in 1890, a time when society had stringent expectations about what women could and couldn't do. This biography not only highlights the achievements of an internationally renowned bestselling writer but also tells the story of a woman who, despite the constraints of class and gender, became an astonishingly successful working individual.

With access to personal letters and rarely seen papers, Lucy Worsley's biography is both authoritative and captivating. It enables readers to appreciate Agatha Christie as more than just a literary icon but as a pioneering woman who, against the odds, forged a remarkable path in the twentieth century. Agatha Christie by Lucy Worsley is a must-read for any fan of the legendary author, offering fresh perspectives and an enhanced appreciation for the woman behind the mysteries.