Fifteen short stories were first published in the UK, unillustrated, in The Sketch magazine. Christie wrote them following a suggestion from its editor, Bruce Ingram, who had been impressed with the character of Poirot in The Mysterious Affair at Styles. The Affair at the Victory Ball The Adventure of the Clapham Cook The Cornish Mystery The Adventure of Johnnie Waverly The Double Clue The King of Clubs The Lemesurier Inheritance The Lost Mine The Plymouth Express The Chocolate Box The Veiled Lady The Submarine Plans The Market Basing Mystery The stories below were published as follows: Double Sin: First published in the 23 September 1928 edition of the Sunday Dispatch. Wasp's Nest: First published in the 20 November 1928 edition of the Daily Mail.

With his career still in its formative years, we learn many things about how Poirot came to exercise those famous 'grey cells' so well. Fourteen of the eighteen stories collected herein are narrated by Captain Arthur Hastings—including what would appear to be the earliest Poirot short story, 'The Affair at the Victory Ball,' which follows soon on the events of The Mysterious Affair at Styles.Two of the stories are narrated by Poirot himself, to Hastings. One, 'The Chocolate Box,' concerns Poirot's early days on the Belgian police force, and the case that was his greatest failure: 'My grey cells, they functioned not at all,' Poirot admits. But otherwise, in this most fascinating collection, they function brilliantly, Poirot's grey cells, challenging the reader to keep pace at every twist and turn.

The disappearance of a wealthy woman ́s cook at one end, a cold-blooded murder at the other. This time, Hercule Poirot will get a little reminder to never dismiss a case as trivial. Finally, the Belgian detective uncovers an elaborate plot to hide an ever darker crime.

"The Affair at the Victory Ball" unfolds as an enthralling short story within Agatha Christie's Hercule Poirot series. In this intriguing narrative, the fastidious Belgian detective Hercule Poirot attends the glamorous Victory Ball, only to find himself entangled in a perplexing mystery when a murder takes place during the festivities. As Poirot navigates the opulent world of high society and investigates the elaborate masquerade, readers are treated to a captivating blend of Christie's signature wit, meticulous plotting, and clever deductive reasoning. The narrative weaves a tapestry of deception, hidden motives, and unexpected twists that keep readers on the edge of their seats. "The Affair at the Victory Ball" stands as a testament to Agatha Christie's ability to craft compelling short mysteries. With Poirot's brilliant insights and the author's knack for suspense, this story provides enthusiasts with another delightful opportunity to unravel a captivating mystery in a condensed and elegant setting.

Previously published in the print anthology Poirot’s Early Cases. Poirot investigates a murder in which the only clue is a box of chocolates

"Market Basing Mystery" plunges readers into a captivating short story penned by Agatha Christie, featuring the astute detective Hercule Poirot. In this narrative, Poirot is summoned to investigate a curious case involving the disappearance of a wealthy banker, Marcus Hardman, in the quaint town of Market Basing. As Poirot navigates the intricate social dynamics and explores the mysterious circumstances surrounding Hardman's vanishing act, readers are treated to a delightful blend of Christie's signature wit, clever deductions, and unexpected turns. The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of a seemingly idyllic town hiding secrets beneath its charming façade. "Market Basing Mystery" stands as another testament to Agatha Christie's ability to weave a compelling mystery in a concise format. With Poirot's unparalleled insights and the author's storytelling finesse, this short story offers enthusiasts an engaging glimpse into the world of Hercule Poirot's investigations.

The famous Belgian detective visits an old friend in a remote area. John Harrison asks the reason for this surprise visit and Poirot confesses that he is investigating a murder that has not yet been committed. A series of clues will put Poirot on alert and he will do everything possible to prevent the planned crime from taking place.