This, Christie's 5th Poirot book (although it takes place earlier in time than the third, The Murder of Roger Ackroyd, as this novel was earlier published as a series of stories), is by far the weakest to that point. Poirot is up against a conspiracy for world domination, and he runs around in disguises, with poisoned darts in his cigarettes and little bombs. It is not unusual for Poirot to - as he says - "play the comedy," but much of this action feels out of character. And the ending is unsatisfying. The plan of the villains seems supremely inadequate.

I found it entertaining enough, but any of these others are better: The Mysterious Affair At Styles, Murder on the Links, Poirot Investigates, the Murder of Roger Ackroyd, and Peril at End House (i.e., every other Poirot book I have read recently). Go there first.

This ranks as my least favorite Agatha Christie mystery. All of her puzzles are contrived but they are also usually fun. This one just didn't work.

I love, love, love Agatha Christie. When I read the back cover of "The Big Four", though, I became a little skeptical about how she could cover such world intrigue with huge characters in such a short book.

I should have listened to my instincts. This book seems as if A) she was in a hurry to get something out on a deadline, or B) it was written by someone else entirely.

It was choppy, predictable, pointless, and very far-fetched. I hope this is not the first Agatha Christie read for someone, because otherwise it will be their last, and they will forever wonder what the fuss is about her.

I gave it two stars instead of one only because it's worth a read ONLY if you are trying to read her complete collection.

One of my favorite Poirot mysteries ever! Probably second to his last mystery, Curtain. (If you like Sherlock Holmes, read Curtain and The Big Four...you'll love them.)
Poirot and Hastings are on the trail of a criminal organization, and it really seems as though they are in over their heads. It's also a very active plot. Instead of Poirot spending most his time exercising his "little grey cells" in an armchair, he and Hastings do a lot of traveling.
My favorite character in all fiction is Sherlock Holmes, and this book reminds me of Doyle's Holmes mysteries in many ways. I think there are even a few deliberate references written in by Christie. Some might complain and call it derivative, but I loved it!

If you like a mystery to think over and try to solve, this will not be one of your favorite Agatha Christie's. This is an account of Poirot's uncovering of the Big Four. It wasn't one of my favorites.