* Classic Detective Fiction: Featuring the brilliant detective Hercule Poirot, who uses his "little grey cells" and keen observation to solve complex crimes. These stories are known for their intricate plots, clever twists, and emphasis on logic and deduction. Examples: "Murder on the Orient Express", "The Murder of Roger Ackroyd", "Death on the Nile".
* Country House Mystery: This subgenre often involves a group of suspects trapped in a secluded location, where a murder occurs. The setting is typically a stately home or a remote village, and the characters are usually members of the upper class. Examples: "The Murder at the Vicarage", "The Body in the Library", "Crooked House".
* Psychological Suspense: Christie explored the darker aspects of human nature and the motivations behind crime. These stories often feature unreliable narrators, psychological manipulation, and a focus on the inner lives of the characters. Examples: "And Then There Were None", "The ABC Murders", "The Secret Adversary".
* Cozy Mystery: While not as frequent as other genres, Christie wrote some cozy mysteries featuring Miss Marple. These stories are more lighthearted and focus on small-town life and quirky characters. Examples: "The Murder at the Vicarage", "The Mirror Crack'd from Side to Side".
Common Themes:
* The Importance of Logic and Observation: Christie's detectives rely heavily on logic and careful observation to solve crimes.
* The Unexpected Twist: Many of her stories feature a surprising revelation or twist, often challenging the reader's initial assumptions.
* The Unreliable Narrator: Christie often employed unreliable narrators to keep the reader guessing and create suspense.
* Human Nature: Her stories explored themes of greed, jealousy, revenge, and other human weaknesses that drive people to commit crimes.
While best known for mystery and detective fiction, Christie also wrote a number of novels outside of this genre, including romance, historical fiction, and even a play. But her signature style and mastery of the mystery genre earned her a timeless place in literary history.