The brutal murder of Cora Lansquenet following her brother's funeral forces Hercule Poirot to investigate a family secret that someone is willing to kill to protect. When Cora suggests at the funeral that her brother was murdered, her subsequent death by hatchet transforms a simple inheritance dispute into a complex criminal investigation. Poirot must navigate the web of deceit woven by the surviving family members, each of whom possesses a motive to keep the truth buried. The narrative utilizes a classic third-person perspective to track Poirot's methodical gathering of clues and his psychological assessment of the suspects.

This novel is widely regarded as a quintessential example of Christie's mastery of the traditional detective genre. Readers and critics frequently highlight the clever misdirection and the psychological depth of the family dynamics presented in the story. The presence of Hercule Poirot provides a familiar and grounding force that allows the intricate plot to unfold with precision. It remains a staple for those who appreciate the classic puzzle-style mystery where every detail serves a purpose in the final revelation.