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Sparkling Cyanide
Agatha Christie

Sparkling Cyanide

Quick Answer

Read "Sparkling Cyanide" as the 6th book in the Standalone Novels sequence. This follows the recommended publication order to preserve character development.

Sequence Warning

⚠️ Do NOT read before "No Second Chance" (Book 5)

❓ Can I skip this book?
❌ No — Required

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

Verdict Insight: As the 6th installment, this volume is critical for following the central narrative progression and plot development.

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2009288 pp
Six people sit down to a sumptuous meal at a table laid for seven. A sprig of rosemary -- 'rosemary for remembrance' -- marks the empty place. It is the first anniversary of the horrific death by cyanide-laced champagne of the beautiful and troublesome Rosemary Barton. The assembled guests are the same participants at the meal a year prior, and Rosemary's widower, George Barton, is determined to prove that one of them is a murderer. But George's dinner party, and his plans for justice, will go terribly awry, as another death will come to haunt this date. Colonel Race of the British Secret Service, friend of Hercule Poirot (and a featured player in Cards on the Table and Death on the Nile), is on the scene to investigate.
Next Recommended Book

How Jane Austen Inspire Us All

Book #6 of 524 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 Standalone Novels 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 Sparkling Cyanide?

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

Can I read Sparkling Cyanide before No Second Chance?

No. We recommend reading No Second Chance first. Sparkling Cyanide is the 6th book in the series and follows the core narrative established in earlier volumes.

Is Sparkling Cyanide required reading for the Standalone Novels?

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

What comes after Sparkling Cyanide in the reading order?

The next recommended book after Sparkling Cyanide is How Jane Austen Inspire Us All (Book #6).