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The Idol House of Astarte is the second story in Agatha Christie's The Thirteen Problems, where Miss Marple once again showcases her sharp intellect in unraveling a mysterious crime. The tale is recounted during a gathering of the Tuesday Night Club, this time by Dr. Pender, who recalls a strange and eerie incident that occurred during a house party on a remote island.
In the story, a group of friends, including Dr. Pender, visit a secluded estate where their host, Sir Richard Haydon, takes them to an ancient grove featuring a small temple dedicated to the goddess Astarte. During the visit, one of the guests, Diana Ashley, playfully enacts a ritual in the "haunted" Idol House, but what begins as a harmless jest soon takes a dark turn when Sir Richard is suddenly struck down, seemingly by an invisible force.
The bizarre circumstances of the attack puzzle everyone, as no physical weapon can be found, leading to speculation of supernatural involvement. However, Miss Marple's insightful knowledge of human behavior and her belief in logical explanations help her solve the mystery, revealing a far more earthly explanation behind the sinister events.
The Idol House of Astarte is a masterfully crafted mystery that combines elements of the supernatural with Christie's trademark wit and clever plotting. Through Miss Marple's quiet but astute deductions, the story unfolds with suspense and intrigue, making it a standout in the collection.