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Cards On The Table
Agatha Christie

Cards On The Table

Quick Answer

Read "Cards On The Table" as the 13th book in the Hercule Poirot Mysteries sequence. This follows the recommended publication order to preserve character development.

Sequence Warning

⚠️ Do NOT read before "The A.b.c. Murders" (Book 12)

❓ Can I skip this book?
❌ No — Required

This book is essential to the core narrative and character development.

Verdict Insight: As the 13th installment, this volume is critical for following the central narrative progression and plot development.

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2011274 pp
It was the match-up of the century: four sleuths--Superintendent Battle of Scotland Yard; Mrs. Ariadne Oliver, famed writer of detective stories; Col. Race of His Majesty's Secret Service; and the incomparable Hercule Poirot - invited to play bridge with four specially invited guests, each of whom had gotten away with murder! But before the first rubber was completed, the host was dead.
Next Recommended Book

Dumb Witness

Book #14 of 19 in Series

Complete Series Reading Order

Publication Order

Preserves character reveals and plot twists exactly as the author intended.

Chronological Order

May spoil surprises but improves timeline clarity for deep lore fans.

Order Confidence

high Confidence

Why this order?

Our team of curators analyzes publication history, author interviews, and internal narrative continuity to establish the definitive reading sequence. This ensures zero spoilers and maximum narrative impact.

Why This Order Is Confusing

Many reading lists for Hercule Poirot Mysteries conflict because early publishers often labeled short story collections as standalone novels, or rearranged internal chronologies for marketing. This guide follows original author intent and narrative continuity to settle the debate for good.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I skip reading Cards On The Table?

This book is essential to the core narrative and character development.

Can I read Cards On The Table before The A.b.c. Murders?

No. We recommend reading The A.b.c. Murders first. Cards On The Table is the 13th book in the series and follows the core narrative established in earlier volumes.

Is Cards On The Table required reading for the Hercule Poirot Mysteries?

Yes, it is a core installment in the series reading order and contains critical character development and plot progression.

What comes after Cards On The Table in the reading order?

The next recommended book after Cards On The Table is Dumb Witness (Book #14).