Yes, I have read this before, but have read it again, leading a group to read the first 5 Poirots and the first 5 Marples. So I am reading it with an eye to what I can point out to them.

The story is narrated by Captain Hastings and is set maybe 3 or 4 years after the first novel which introduced the Poirot/Hastings "team". Although this is only the second time we have seen Poirot in action, Hastings implies they have worked other cases together since THE MYSTERIOUS AFFAIR AT STYLES. In a reference to Inspector Japp from Scotland Yard in the opening pages, Hastings says that he had "more than once introduced us to an interesting case."

At the beginning we get an update on what Hastings and Poirot have been doing, and in France Poirot meets up with the Commissary of Police with whom he worked on a case in 1909.

As investigating the murder begins, the "team" is joined by Inspector Giraud from the Surete, who is much younger, and obviously regards Poirot as a "has-been". One of the themes of the novel is the comparison of the methods Poirot and Giraud use - the difference between "little grey cells and logic" and what Poirot disparagingly calls Giraud's methods. Giraud is very sarcastic to Poirot. Eventually they have a bet on who will solve the case first.

Poirot elucidates his principles of investigation but Hastings is embarrassed by his friend's lack of action, and even betrays Poirot, as well as showing quite clearly how easily duped he himself can be.

The plot is quite complex and the reader needs to keep on their toes to make sure they understand each nuance.

We are introduced also to Poirot's "romantic streak", as he match-makes for Hastings and chooses a wife for him.

There are several denouements, a couple caused by the fact that poor old Hastings has not been able to make sense of what has happened.

I am also listening to the audio version read by Hugh Fraser but will review that separately. ( )

This audio edition of Murder on the Links is a recording of a BBC Radio full-cast dramatization, not the actual novel, which I've never read. (I prefer Jane Marple to Hercule Poirot.) I've read about and listened to old radio dramas, so I agree that, like books, they're good for the imagination. One advantage over TV and movies is not having to look at an actor who doesn't at all resemble the author's description. The sound effects are good.

Almost all of the action takes place in France. Hastings can't begin to keep up with his friend, Poirot's, little grey cells, but neither did I. There's an arrogant French policeman who foolishly believes he's better than Poirot. It's fun anticipating his comeuppance. There are some strong female characters, especially the one who wants Hastings to call her 'Cinderella'. Who murdered the millionaire and why turned out to be more twisted than I anticipated.

Murder on the Links is a good listening experience for mystery lovers. ( )