Le train de 16h50

Reviewers largely praise this book for its engaging and unique premise, where a witness aboard one train observes a murder occurring in a parallel passing train. Many highlight Lucy Eyelesbarrow as a particularly strong and resourceful character, often acting as a capable proxy for Miss Marple in the investigation. Her role in infiltrating the suspected location and gathering clues is frequently cited as a major positive, along with her interactions with the eccentric Crackenthorpe family. The novel is appreciated by fans for its classic Christie formula, offering a fast-paced and fun read filled with intriguing characters and a compelling train setting that contributes to the mystery's charm. The overall plot is often described as well-crafted, with many finding the eventual solution surprising and ingenious.

However, several reviewers express disappointment regarding Miss Marple's limited presence, feeling she delegates too much of the legwork and is not central enough to the investigation. The pacing of the middle section is a common point of criticism, with some finding it slow and that the mystery dragged on without significant progress. The ending, while surprising to some, is a divisive element; many describe it as feeling rushed, poorly executed, or "out of nowhere," with insufficient clues or logical deduction leading to the culprit. Some found the reasoning behind the motive unconvincing or the identification of the murderer slipshod, leading to an anticlimactic conclusion for those expecting a more detailed "whodunit" explanation.

In conclusion, this book is generally considered a solid and entertaining Agatha Christie mystery, but not necessarily one of her masterpieces. It offers a captivating start and features a memorable secondary protagonist in Lucy Eyelesbarrow, making it a good choice for readers who enjoy classic cozy mysteries, particularly those with a unique initial setup and a focus on character dynamics within a country house setting. It is recommended for fans of Christie who are comfortable with Miss Marple taking a less active role and who can overlook some pacing issues or a less satisfying denouement, seeking instead a fun and diverting read.