Retro Book Review: At Bertram’s Hotel

Just going to pause in reviewing new releases and upcoming releases to talk about At Bertram’s Hotel, by Agatha Christie.

I really enjoyed this one because some of Christie’s novels, and specifically Miss Marple’s mysteries, have this quieter theme of respectability and respectable appearances. I’m thinking of that entire subplot in The Sittaford Mystery where everyone suspects that Mr. Duke might be *gasp* a retired tradesman, so no one wants to question his background too much in case they should be confronted with this information and have to decide whether to continue to socialize with him. But here, at Bertram’s Hotel, it’s really the main plot. Who is actually respectable in this thoroughly British, thoroughly upper-class London hotel?

At Bertram’s Hotel has a twisty story with coincidences and fun twists. It’s a page turner, you definitely want to see how all the odd events resolve, but the book’s not in a hurry. I liked the digressions about a heiress unable to get ahold of her inheritance, and some of the minor characters deserve their own books.

There’s also a lot about “real” British food and how to cater to Americans. Usually I cringe at descriptions of Americans abroad (You know what I mean, with American tourists loudly refusing to attempt a second language, for example) but this one, about American visitors  wanting the British experience, but with good heating and coffee at breakfast… well, ok, fine. You got me there. I do like proper heating.

Yes, there are a couple of the extreme coincidences that may strain a reader’s belief. Surely Miss Marple can’t be bumping into every single character, every single time something shady happens? When would she get her shopping done? But it’s not the most far-fetched mystery, and the sweet, fluttery old lady being present at the action but being underestimated by all the major players is kind of a theme in all the Marple books.

Fans of Agatha Christie will also enjoy the new Marple collection by modern suspense writers and The Woman on the Orient Express.

Literary Treats has a great readthrough with guesses and solutions. Contains spoilers, obviously! You should read it yourself first and see how your guesses line up!