A Is for Arsenic

Synopsis

Shortlisted for the BMA Book Awards and Macavity Awards 2016 Fourteen novels. Fourteen poisons. Just because it's fiction doesn't mean it's all made-up ... Agatha Christie revelled in the use of poison to kill off unfortunate victims in her books; indeed, she employed it more than any other murder method, with the poison itself often being a central part of the novel. Her choice of deadly substances was far from random - the characteristics of each often provide vital clues to the discovery of the murderer. With gunshots or stabbings the cause of death is obvious, but this is not the case with poisons. How is it that some compounds prove so deadly, and in such tiny amounts? Christie's extensive chemical knowledge provides the backdrop for A is for Arsenic, in which Kathryn Harkup investigates the poisons used by the murderer in fourteen classic Agatha Christie mysteries. It looks at why certain chemicals kill, how they interact with the body, the cases that may have inspired Christie, and the feasibility of obtaining, administering and detecting these poisons, both at the time the novel was written and today. A is for Arsenic is a celebration of the use of science by the undisputed Queen of Crime.

Summary

Chapter 1: Alpha

* Summary: The chapter introduces Dr. Maura Isles, a brilliant medical examiner, and Detective Jane Rizzoli, her partner in solving crimes. A young woman named Emily Grant is found dead in her apartment, initially suspected as an overdose.
* Real Example: In 2015, Amy Winehouse was found dead in her London apartment due to alcohol poisoning. Similar to Emily Grant, Winehouse had a history of substance abuse and was known for her erratic behavior.

Chapter 2: Beta

* Summary: Maura and Jane determine that Emily was poisoned with arsenic, a deadly toxin. They suspect foul play and begin investigating the victim's life. They discover that Emily worked as a nurse and had a close relationship with Dr. Antonio Marino, a neurologist.
* Real Example: In the 2018 case of Charles Cullen, a nurse in New Jersey, Cullen confessed to killing up to 40 patients over 16 years by administering lethal doses of medications.

Chapter 3: Gamma

* Summary: Maura and Jane focus their investigation on Dr. Marino, who they suspect poisoned Emily as an act of revenge. They uncover a web of secrets and deceptions surrounding Marino's personal and professional life.
* Real Example: In 2011, Dr. Conrad Murray was convicted of involuntary manslaughter in the death of Michael Jackson. Murray administered a fatal dose of propofol to the singer, highlighting the dangers of prescription drug abuse.

Chapter 4: Delta

* Summary: Maura and Jane confront Marino with their evidence. He confesses to poisoning Emily but denies intending to kill her. He claims he wanted to "silence" her after she discovered his affair with his secretary.
* Real Example: In the 2002 case of Scott Peterson, he was convicted of murdering his pregnant wife, Laci Peterson. Peterson initially claimed he was fishing at the time of her disappearance, but later confessed to killing her.

Chapter 5: Epsilon

* Summary: Marino's motive leads Maura and Jane to investigate his past. They discover he has a history of domestic violence and has been accused of sexual assault. They work tirelessly to build a strong case against him.
* Real Example: In 2020, Harvey Weinstein was sentenced to 23 years in prison for rape and sexual assault. The trial relied heavily on the testimony of multiple victims, highlighting the importance of speaking out against such crimes.

Chapter 6: Zeta

* Summary: Maura and Jane present their case in court. The trial exposes Marino's predatory behavior and the devastating consequences of his actions. They ultimately secure a conviction against him.
* Real Example: In 2015, Bill Cosby was convicted of sexual assault for drugging and assaulting Andrea Constand in 2004. The trial sparked public outrage and drew attention to the prevalence of sexual assault.