I now understand why Murder on the Orient Express is one of the most famous murder mysteries ever written. It is exquisitely crafted and very gripping.  The entire plot consists of Poirot having a series of conversations and interviews with different characters, but the lack of action never feels boring. 

I went into this book already knowing the ending, as I had previously seen both film and TV adaptations (although my memory was hazy on detail). Surprisingly, that in no way harmed my enjoyment of the book. Even knowing the outcome, I missed numerous vital clues and was impressed at the end by just how many tiny moments and overlooked bits of dialogue ultimately proved to be pivotal. 

It must be said that the book (written in the 1930s) does have an uncomfortable amount of stereotyping people by their nationality. That said though, as you read on you do realise that some of those stereotypes are not all that they initially seem, and Christie also does not spare English people from these stereotypes despite being English herself. 

I loved this and will absolutely be continuing with Christie's books.