The Murder on the Links · Character

Jack Renauld

Paul Renauld's passionate, impulsive son, torn between a dazzling neighbor and a secret actress fiancée, and uncomfortably close to the murder scene.

major

Also known as M. Jack Renauld, Jack, young Renauld, M. Renauld fils

First appearance: iii at the villa genevi ve

As a major figure in The Murder on the Links, Jack Renauld is not background color—the story leans on what they do once the chapter opens.

Returns unexpectedly after missing his sailing; admits to quarreling with his father over his wish to marry Marthe Daubreuil.

In the storyXI: Jack RenauldOpen this moment free

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Jack is the heir whose love affair with Marthe Daubreuil his father forbids, and whose hidden engagement to Bella Duveen gives him two reasons to be suspected. He arrives at the villa the night of the murder, flees in confusion, and finds himself the obvious suspect when the daggers and the inheritance are counted. His divided loyalties and his father's criminal blood make him the case's most painful question: is he a grieving son or a parricide?

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See Jack Renauld in iii at the villa genevi ve

Character Web

7 connections

A slice of how Jack Renauld sits in the book — open the reader for the full interactive map.

Relationship types

Other

Character groups

Backstory and secondary characters
Protagonist
Murder suspects and witnesses

+2 more in the full Character Web

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Narrative arc

Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.

Setup
Escalation
Breaking point
Aftermath
Closing

This is the story's dramatic climax because it marks the emotional and psychological peak where the narrator,…

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In the story

Jack Renauld appears across 16 companion beats. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.

XI: Jack Renauld
Returns unexpectedly after missing his sailing; admits to quarreling with his father over his wish to marry Marthe Daubreuil.
XII: Poirot Elucidates Certain Points
Referenced through Mrs. Renauld's words to him, which Hastings finds significant.
XIII: The Girl with the Anxious Eyes
Overheard reassuring Marthe Daubreuil that their troubles are over and nothing can part them.
XIV: The Second Body
Also fails to identify the dead man, reacting in a completely natural manner.
XV: A Photograph
Revealed to have arrived in Merlinville on the night of the crime, though he had previously claimed to be in Cherbourg.
XVII: We Make Further Investigations
Arrives at Poirot's request, is sent to Abbalac to inquire about a valise, and admits to being in Merlinville on the night of the crime.
XVIII: Giraud Acts
Arrested by Giraud for the murder of his father; remains silent when confronted.
XIX: I Use My Grey Cells
Arrested by Giraud; stands white and limp, making a damning admission.
XX: An Amazing Statement
The letter found in the overcoat is now attributed to him, and his relationship with Bella Duveen is discussed.
XXI: Hercule Poirot on the Case!
Mentioned as the son of Georges Conneau; Poirot notes the psychological indictment of heredity against him.
XXII: I Find Love
Mentioned as the object of Bella's love and the reason for her jealousy.
XXIII: Difficulties Ahead
Jack is in prison, charged with murder, and Hastings fears that saving Bella might lead to Jack's conviction and execution.
An Unexpected Denouement
Appears haggard and distraught; obstinately conducts his own defense, admitting to being in Merlinville and recognizing the dagger, seemingly to protect Bella.
XXVI: I Receive a Letter
Mentioned as Bella's love interest and the man arrested for the murder.
XXVII: Jack Renauld's Story
Released from custody, he recounts the night of the murder and expresses guilt over his father's death.
XXVIII: Journey’s End
Learns the truth about his father's past and Marthe's guilt; decides to start a new life in South America and is urged to reconcile with Bella.

Chapter companion notes

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See Jack Renauld in iii at the villa genevi ve

See Jack Renauld in XI: Jack Renauld