The Mysterious Affair at Styles, with eBook characters

Appears from the start

A former Army officer recovering from wartime service, and the narrator of the case. While on leave he accepts an invitation to Styles Court, where his old acquaintance John Cavendish lives. Earnest and observant but quick to settle on a theory, he becomes Poirot's friend and informal assistant when the household is shaken by a suspicious death.

Appears from the start

Hastings's old friend and the elder Cavendish son. He lives at Styles with his wife and remains financially dependent on his wealthy stepmother, Emily Inglethorp. His invitation brings Hastings into the household shortly before the murder.

Appears from the start

John Cavendish's poised and reserved wife. She lives at Styles but seems emotionally distant from her husband, and Hastings is immediately struck by her self-command and beauty.

Appears from the start

John's younger brother, a quiet man who once studied medicine. He also lives at Styles and depends on his stepmother's support. His medical knowledge and guarded manner attract attention after her death.

Appears from the start

The wealthy owner of Styles Court and stepmother of John and Lawrence. Energetic, charitable, and accustomed to directing the household, she has recently married a much younger man. Her control of the family money leaves several people around her dependent on her favor.

Appears from the start

Emily's new husband, many years her junior. His heavy beard, elaborate manners, and apparent influence over his wife have made him deeply unpopular with much of the Styles household.

Appears from the start

Emily's blunt, capable companion and distant relation. She openly despises Alfred Inglethorp and tells Hastings that she distrusts his motives. Her fierce protectiveness of Emily culminates in a quarrel that sends her away from Styles.

Appears from the start

A young orphan taken in by Emily and treated as a member of the household. She works at a hospital dispensary during the war, giving her practical familiarity with medicines and poisons. Lively and direct, she becomes a particular friend of Hastings.

First appears in chapter 4

A celebrated former Belgian police detective living nearby with other refugees. Small, impeccably dressed, and methodical, he relies on close observation and the orderly use of reason. Hastings seeks his help after Emily Inglethorp's death.

First appears in chapter 5

A London police inspector who has worked with Poirot before. He arrives to conduct the official inquiry and respects Poirot's abilities even when their interpretations of the evidence differ.

First appears in chapter 2

A physician and toxicology specialist whom Hastings encounters near Styles. His grave manner and scientific expertise make a strong impression during the tense days around Emily Inglethorp's death.