Plot Structure, 'Towards Zero' - hidden clues

[Emma]

Spoiler Alert.

I loved Towards Zero. It was such a page turner. I loved the detail that was given to the back story to the murder and the anticipation of who was going to be murdered.

I found the structure of this novel interesting and wonder if anyone reading it guessed the murderer or worked it out? I found there were very little clues in this novel. I found there was only one real clue and this was revealed very late in the novel (Audrey's having had an affair while married to Neville). Neville's absence at the hotel on the night of the murder was alluded to, but that was dependent on Ted Latimer telling the truth.

For me, the murderer’s identity was kept ‘hidden’ and it would have been difficult for a reader to work it out. I found this an interesting plot structure, the book definitely was a page turner.

Did anyone else feel this novel's murder was kept 'hidden' ?

[Brad]

I also am a huge fan of TZ, Emma. The short scene told from the killer's point of view of planning a murder is brilliant, especially when we finally learn whose murder is being planned. The weaving in of the tale of the psychotic child with the telltale "flaw" is chilling, and Christie does a masterful job of hiding that flaw in plain sight. It's also Superintendent Battle's most "human" case, especially in the way his daughter's troubles help him solve the case. I was hoodwinked by this one and enjoyed being fooled!

[John]

I agree, Brad, "Towards Zero" is great. In addition to what you have said, I think the characterisation is also very rich (including that of Superintendent Battle!).

[Mary]

I found it a fascinating book, love the start , the fine Italian hand writing...I think it is quite a haunting story. I love the description of Audry, i could see her so clearly , so frightened. very clever writing.

[Louise]

I didn't guess, I remember it coming as a complete surprise to me. I like this one very much, I am very fond of Superintende
nt Battle, I wish Christie had written more books with him.