Taken At The Flood - Agatha Christie

Taken At The Flood is yet another genius novel by Agatha Christie. Including this one, I have read only three of her novels (And Then There Were None; Black Coffee) and she is fast becoming one of my favourites.

The plot revolves around Hercule Poirot, the famous investigator and a small village called Warmsley Vale. The Cloade family was always dependant on Gordon Cloade, a rich businessman man who gave a huge amount of financial support to his family of around 6 people. Every time one of them suggested opening up a bank account, or saving money, or using their own income to pay their taxes, Gordon would put his foot down. He took care of everything and assured them that he will continue to do so after his death. Accordingly, he distributed property, finances and precious possessions equally amongst the different households. On one of his business trips, he met an attractive young widow –a Mrs. Rosaleen Underhay and fell in love with her. A few weeks after their hasty decision to get married, Gordon Cloade was killed by an unfortunate bomb blast. Since he was not able to write a new will, all his possessions were passed over to his wife. Due to the war, everyone was economically unstable. That is, everyone except Rosaleen. She was an extremely timid woman who was easy to manipulate. The Cloade family would have played the sympathy card and would have conned her to get their fair share if it wasn't for her arrogant and selfish brother- David.

What strategies do the family decide to employ to get the money? Who is behind 3 more subsequent deaths? Is Captain Underhay, Rosaleen’s first husband really dead? What does Hercule Poirot uncover? What truth is David trying to hide? What lies are the Cloades’ hiding? Who are the unforeseen accomplices? What are the consequences? Why won't you start reading the book?

Much like every other teenager, I get distracted by the internet. I purchased this book recently at the Hyderabad airport to keep myself occupied during my 3-day trip to Kochi. I was sure I would find the novel interesting but I didn't expect to find such a drastic change in my priorities.