The Big Four

"The Big Four" is a novel by Agatha Christie, first published in 1927. Unlike many of her other mysteries featuring Hercule Poirot or Miss Marple, "The Big Four" introduces a different protagonist, Captain Arthur Hastings, who returns from Argentina to find himself embroiled in a dangerous and elaborate international conspiracy.

The story begins with Captain Hastings meeting Poirot in London after years apart. Poirot reveals to Hastings that he has been engaged in a dangerous struggle against an international crime syndicate known as "The Big Four." This powerful organization is composed of four masterminds controlling crime across the globe. Poirot's quest involves unraveling their intricate network and thwarting their sinister plans to control world events.

The novel consists of various interconnected episodes involving espionage, political intrigue, and murder, as Poirot and Hastings travel across Europe, encountering danger at every turn. Each chapter presents a different challenge and puzzle to be solved, contributing to the larger narrative of dismantling "The Big Four."

As Poirot and Hastings navigate the treacherous landscape of espionage and crime, they encounter a variety of characters, including spies, impostors, and individuals with hidden agendas. The story is filled with twists, unexpected alliances, and ingenious strategies employed by both sides.

"The Big Four" is considered one of Christie's more atypical novels, diverging from the standard format of her mysteries and incorporating elements of espionage and international intrigue. While it may differ in style from her more traditional detective stories, the novel still features Christie's signature clever plotting and suspenseful storytelling, keeping readers engaged in a gripping tale of intrigue and espionage as Poirot endeavors to dismantle this powerful criminal organization.