A Pocket Full of Rye

A Pocket Full of Rye (1953) Agatha Christie (Miss Marple)

This is one of the stories that has always stuck with me–probably because of the rye mentioned in the title.

Rex Fortescue dies in his office, and the police immediately suspect murder.

“I gather you don’t think it was natural death,” he said dryly.

“Not a dog’s chance of it,” said Dr. Bernsdorff robustly. “I’m speaking unofficially, of course,” he added with belated caution.

Unfortunately, for them, the prime suspect also dies, as does a maid–which is what brings Miss Marple to Yewtree Lodge to seek the truth.

One of the characters I find most fascinating in this story is Mary Dove.

“I work only for the extremely rich who will pay anything to be comfortable. I pay top prices and so I get the best of what’s going.”

“Such as the butler?”

She threw him an amused, appreciative glance. “There’s always that trouble with a couple. Crump stays because of Mrs. Crump, who is one of the best cooks I’ve ever come across. She’s a jewel and one would put up with a good deal to keep her.”

I’ve already started the next book, and I feel like the main character there is an apology of sorts for Mary Dove in this story.

The other interesting character is Miss Ramsbottom.

“Struck down at last in his arrogance and sinful pride. Well, it had to come.”

“I hope it’s not a shock to you?” It obviously wasn’t but the inspector wanted to hear what she would say.

Miss Ramsbottom gave him a sharp glance over the top of her spectacles and said: “If you mean I am not distressed, that is quite right. Rex Fortescue was always a sinful man and I never liked him.”

She’s not a bad woman, but she is an unpleasant one, which makes her very interesting.

Publisher: William Morrow Paperbacks

Rating: 8/10

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