DETECTIVE: Hercule Poirot
ALLIES: Captain Arthur Hastings, Inspector James Japp
OTHER CHARACTERS: Emily & Alfred Inglethorpe, John & Mary Cavendish, Lawrence Cavendish, Cynthia Murdoch, Evelyn Howard, Dorcas, Annie, Dr. Bauerstein, Dr. Wilkes, Mr. Wells
SUMMARY: In the midst of the turmoil of World War I, Captain Arthur Hastings encounters his old friend John Cavendish, who invites him to stay at his elegant home, Styles Court. Upon arrival, Hastings encounters another old friend -- Hercule Poirot, a retired Belgian policeman who is staying at a refugee hostel provided by Mrs. Inglethorpe, the owner of Styles Court. When Mrs. Inglethorpe is mysteriously murdered, Hastings talks Poirot into investigating. So begins Hercule Poirot's first case.
NUMBER OF DEATHS: 1
METHOD OF MURDER: poisoning