The Christie Affair

Framed around the real life 11-day disappearance of mystery writer Agatha Christie in 1925, and told from the point of view of Nan O'Dea, Archie Christie's mistress and eventual second wife, this intriguing and lyrical book was a joy to read. It spins an alternative version of the facts to reveal a different “why” to the well-documented events and a surprising yet logical motive behind the actions of all the principal players. The story dives into the past, to the rolling hills of Ireland, a handsome boy-next-door and a convent for out-of-wedlock mothers, to the present day where a double homicide has occurred at a fancy hotel at the same time police forces across England are engaged in a manhunt for the missing author. There are two touching love stories threaded through the narrative, as well as insights into the depth of a mother's love. Bravo to Nina de Gramont's story-telling as well as her intriguing and satisfying denouement.