Death Comes as the End

Readers widely praise Death Comes as the End for its unique and captivating setting in Ancient Egypt, a significant departure from Agatha Christie's more typical English locales. Many reviewers highlight the book's success as both a historical novel and a mystery, commending Christie's meticulous research and ability to transport them to the ancient city of Thebes with authentic detail and atmosphere. The story is frequently described as complex, deeply engaging, and less "cozy" than other Christie works, offering a darker, more psychological exploration of human nature, jealousy, and malice. Reviewers appreciate the intricate plot, the numerous murders that keep the tension high, and the clever twists and misdirection that often prevent them from guessing the culprit until the very end. The character development, including a wise, Marple-esque figure, is also noted as a strong point, making it a memorable and satisfying read for many.

Despite its many strengths, some aspects of the book received mixed feedback. A few readers found the initial pace slow, with the early chapters containing extensive family drama that could feel tedious before the mystery fully takes hold. The large cast of characters was occasionally confusing, and some reviewers felt that the clues leading to the murderer were somewhat sparse, making the mystery less solvable for them or, conversely, too easily guessed by others. The resolution was described by one reviewer as "theatrical and overly elaborate" and by another as "anticlimactic," suggesting it didn't always meet expectations. Additionally, the main character, Renisenb, was sometimes perceived as naive or making questionable decisions, and the romantic subplot was noted by some as detracting from the central mystery rather than enhancing it. There were also comments that despite the ancient setting, some characters' motivations felt anachronistic or generic.

Overall, Death Comes as the End is highly recommended, particularly for dedicated Agatha Christie fans seeking a distinctive entry in her bibliography. It is well-suited for readers who appreciate historical fiction blended with a murder mystery, offering a rich, immersive setting and a more psychological approach to crime than her traditional stories. Those open to a darker, less conventional Christie narrative, with a focus on human motivations and family dynamics across millennia, will likely find this a compelling and rewarding read. However, readers preferring a fast-paced, clue-driven mystery from the outset or a more traditional Christie protagonist might find its unique elements and initial pacing a significant shift.