The Harlequin Tea Set

A Harley Quin Short Story

By: Agatha Christie

Narrated by: Hugh Fraser

Waiting for his car to be fixed, Mr. Satterthwaite sits in a tea shop called the Harlequin café, thinking of his friend Harley Quin, whom he hasn’t seen in many years. Then, in a burst of sunshine, the very same Mr. Quin walks through the door, along with his diligent dog, Hermes. Satterthwaite is telling him the very long history of the family he is off to visit, when their conversation is interrupted by the abrupt entrance of a member of that very same family, intent upon replacing her harlequin cups. Satterthwaite desperately asks Quin to accompany him on his trip, but the ever-enigmatic Quin simply leaves his friend with one word, “Daltonism.” What does that word mean, and what is the significance of Quin turning up at the tea shop on that day?

Exciting

I loved this short story! Black dog & messages. I love Fraisers reading too! I would buy more.

Short but interesting

This short story has all the elements of a classic Christie novel, but in bite-size form. I had never read a Harley Quinn short story before, but he might be my new favorite Christie character. Of course, I will always love Poirot, but I do enjoy being able to enjoy one of my favorite writers stories without a big time investment. It was a simple story tied up in a nice bow at the end that left me with a smile on my face.

Harlequin

This is one of my favorite Agatha Christie’s. I have read every one that I can get my hands on.

Narrator can’t save this snoozer

The sale selection of Agatha Christie shorts is all over the place. I enjoyed The House of Lurking Death, and liked The King of Clubs, but found this novella to be utterly forgettable.

Narration is difficult to understand,

The story wasn't interesting enough to listen to the poor narration. I had difficulty understanding Hercule Poirot's dialog.