I originally bought this book because I read other Agatha Cristie books (Hercule Poirot) and thought I might as well try a Miss Marple book, even though the character did not seem to appeal to me. I came away with a very enjoyable reading experience, and I will probably read other Miss Marple books in the future.This book is an easy pleasure read. The story is easy enough to follow, and it isn't too long winded. I actually read the whole book in one sitting (although "locked up" in an air plane).As far as classic mystery characters go, I still like Holmes and Poirot better, but I ended up pleasantly surprised.