
Zmijski vrh
"Ordeal by Innocence" (1958) by Agatha Christie is a suspenseful crime story that explores the consequences of a miscarriage of justice and family secrets. "Snake's Peak" stands out for its dark atmosphere and deep insight into the human psyche.
The story takes place in the English country home of the Argyle family. Two years earlier, Rachel Argyle, a wealthy philanthropist, was murdered, and her adopted son Jacko was convicted of the crime. Jacko dies in prison, but Dr. Arthur Calgary, a scientist who claims to have proof of Jack's innocence, appears, having provided him with an alibi that night.
Calgary's arrival shakes the Argyle family, as it reopens a painful past. All the members - widower Leo, his secretary and future wife Gwenda, adopted children Mary, Michael, Tina and Hester, and housewife Kirsten - become suspects. Each of them has a motive: money, jealousy or hidden resentment towards Rachel, the domineering mother. As Calgary investigates, he uncovers a web of lies, repressed emotions and family tensions. The tension grows as the truth about the killer threatens to destroy the fragile family balance.
Christie masterfully constructs a psychological drama, focusing on the consequences of guilt and innocence. The novel is not a classic detective story, but an exploration of moral dilemmas and questions: is it better to leave the past buried? The denouement is unexpected, revealing a killer whose motives are driven by deeply hidden emotions.
Two copies are available
Copy number 1
- Slight damage to the cover
Copy number 2
- Damaged covers
- Signature of previous owner
- Traces of patina