The Murder of Roger Ackroyd

The Murder of Roger Ackroyd is one of Agatha Christie's most celebrated novels and a defining work in detective fiction. Published in 1926, it features her iconic Belgian detective, Hercule Poirot, who has retired to the quiet English village of King's Abbot. However, Poirot is soon drawn back into action when the wealthy Roger Ackroyd is found murdered under mysterious circumstances.

The story is famous for its innovative narrative style and shocking twist ending. The novel is narrated by Dr. James Sheppard, a close friend of Ackroyd and the village doctor, who becomes Poirot's "Watson" for the investigation. As Poirot unravels the case, the story reveals intricate secrets, personal motives, and hidden relationships among the villagers. Christie's daring choice of narrator in this book was groundbreaking and led to much debate in the crime fiction community.

The Murder of Roger Ackroyd is often praised for subverting readers' expectations and reshaping the conventions of the whodunit genre. Its ending has made it both beloved and controversial, and it remains a must-read for fans of mystery fiction. This book established Christie's reputation and solidified her status as one of the greatest mystery writers of all time.