A retired spinster on holiday in the Caribbean finds herself embroiled in a murder investigation when a stranger's cryptic question leads to his death. Miss Jane Marple, seeking respite from her rheumatism in the idyllic St. Honoré, is approached by a Major Palgrave who shows her a photograph of a murderer. The next day, Palgrave is found dead, and the photograph is missing. Miss Marple must unravel the secrets of the Golden Palm hotel, including the reclusive millionaire Jason Rafiel, the hotelier's nightmares, and the strange behavior of other guests, to identify the killer before they strike again.

Agatha Christie's A Caribbean Mystery is a classic example of her later works, often praised for its atmospheric setting and intricate plotting. The novel is noted for introducing the character of Jason Rafiel, who becomes a significant figure in subsequent novels. Readers and critics frequently highlight Miss Marple's sharp intellect and her ability to solve complex crimes even when seemingly out of her element. The book is considered a solid entry in the Miss Marple canon, offering a satisfying puzzle with a well-concealed solution.