This book is more a spy thriller than just a mystery as the exceptional Belgian detective, Hercule Poirot, gets greatly involved in international intrigue and espionage. He attempts to defeat a ruthless cartel trying to dominate the world ... in essence super criminals forming a cruel coalition. Poirot's efforts include help from his closest friend, Captain Arthur Hastings, and also Inspector Japp of Scotland Yard. As we begin the tale, Hastings is just returning from a voyage at sea that he despises and is venting his displeasure as he looks forward to joining his friend. As we begin in this different manner, we will hear what he was thinking as his boat came in.

Other Christie/Poirot books here narrated by John Rayburn include The Murder of Roger Ackroyd, The Mysterious Affair at Styles, and The Murder On the Links.