Agatha Christie expert receives international recognition

The author of three books on Agatha Christie’s novels and screen adaptations, Mark’s latest release, Agatha Christie’s Marple: Expert on Wickedness has been nominated for Best Non-fiction at the 2025 Agatha Awards. Organised by Malice Domestic, a major convention dedicated to championing the mystery genre, these awards celebrate the very best authors and experts working in this area today.

In 2022, Mark was nominated for a prestigious Edgar Award, which honours mystery titles across film, TV, the stage and literature. A role model for students looking to carve out their own paths in research, Mark gives both BA and MA learners the opportunity to learn first-hand what goes into building a recognisable portfolio. He says:

“I know from experience that students really value having lecturers and tutors who work from material that they have created themselves, whether from research and writing or production work. We offer more than just teaching from a textbook – doing our own research gives our students confidence that they are learning from people actively involved in uncovering new information and offering new perspectives.”

Agatha Christie’s Marple: Expert on Wickedness was released in September 2024. Exploring the enduring pull of Miss Marple, Mark draws on previously unpublished material to give readers fresh insight into a heroine who was first introduced to readers in 1927.

At Solent, Mark is instrumental in guiding PhD students during the development and delivery of their thesis and teaches on BA (Hons) Film and Television as well as MA Film Production. He says:

“It’s essential that universities offer the best for their students, and this includes ensuring that staff are acting at the forefront of their specialisms. At Solent, we work hard to make sure that we are contributing to wider communities as well as providing a supportive research environment. It’s wonderful to see this research rewarded.”