This novel has an unusual sequel. Five years after its publication, Christie adapted it into a play, which speaks to the author's special love for her work. But, paradoxically, after the revision, one character was missing... Hercule Poirot himself!

Poirot is invited to spend the weekend at the estate of his acquaintance, Lady Encaithell, called 'The Hollow.' Upon arrival, the detective sees a remarkable sculptural composition: Dr. Christow lies picturesquely in a pool of red paint, his wife Gerda stands over him with a pistol, and the other guests stand frozen around in 'silent pause.' However, the reality had nothing in common with art: the red paint turned out to be blood, and the pistol in the woman's hands was real. Murder is evident. Poirot discovers that the deceased had led a rather complicated personal life in life, and all his 'attachments' are currently at 'The Hollow.' All the evidence points to Christou's wife. But Poirot senses something is wrong...