The Annotated--The Mysterious Affair at Styles

The annotation of this classic approaches the text from the perspective of a student of literature. The editor examines the plot, characters and setting in how they contribute to moving the story along. In some cases more emphasis is placed on characters or plot or the setting. Plot is the story being told, characters carry the plot through with their words and actions. Setting gives the characters a place in which to advance the plot. Additionally, the story has been Americanized by replacing such words as flavour with flavor and colour with color.
"The Mysterious Affair at Styles" is narrated by Captain Hastings, an old friend of the Belgian detective Hercule Poirot. Together the two of them go to Styles and eventually are embroiled in murder. As in true Christie fashion, there are liars and sub-plots which can lead the reader off into the wrong direction if not paying attention. All clues to the identity of the murderer manifest them-selves as the story unfolds. The astute reader will arrive at the same conclusion as Poirot if not sidetracked by red herrings.