Is reading crime stories by the author Agatha Christie and other foreign stories unlawful (haram)?

Foreign stories cannot be judged generally. However, if a story contains lewd language or descriptions of forbidden matters that invite immorality and arouse desires, then it is impermissible to read it. But if the story is free from such things, and its subject matter is beneficial or for entertainment, then there is no harm in reading it, provided that it does not become a habit that distracts from acts of obedience and wastes time.