I know it’s hard to keep up with the constant stream of new releases in your favourite genre. Every month, or even every week, several new books tempt you to buy and read them. But how about taking a step back and diving into some timeless classics? These are the books that defined the mystery genre—the original whodunnits and locked-room mysteries. The best part? You can find many of these classics completely free. So, if you have your favourite reading apps at the ready, check out these free mystery books from classic authors. You may want to download them as soon as possible because the price may not stay free forever.
The Thirty Nine Steps
By John Buchan
“The Thirty-Nine Steps” is a classic adventure novel that follows Richard Hannay, an ordinary man thrust into extraordinary circumstances. The story begins when Hannay, recently returned to London and feeling bored with his life, meets his neighbor, Franklin Scudder, who claims to be a spy on the run from a dangerous international conspiracy. When Scudder is murdered in Hannay’s apartment, Hannay finds himself framed for the crime and must flee for his life. With both the police and enemy agents hot on his trail, Hannay must use all his wits and resourcefulness to stay ahead of his pursuers and prevent a catastrophe.
The Queen of Spades
by Alexander Pushkin
The story centers around Hermann, a young German officer in the Russian army who becomes fixated on uncovering a secret gambling strategy that could make him rich. He learns of an old Countess, known for her mysterious winning streak at cards, who allegedly possesses the secret to winning.
Driven by his desire for wealth, Hermann infiltrates the Countess’s household by courting her ward, Lizaveta Ivanovna. One night, he confronts the Countess, demanding she reveal her secret. The confrontation leads to a tragic turn of events, and the consequences haunt him to the brink of madness.
The Murder on the Links
by AGatha christie
In Agatha Christie’s “The Murder on the Links,” Hercule Poirot and his friend Captain Hastings travel to France after receiving a distressing letter from Paul Renauld, who fears for his life. Upon arrival, they find Renauld has been murdered, his body discovered on a golf course near his villa. The case is complicated by a mysterious note, a second body, and multiple suspects, including Renauld’s wife and neighbors.
Poirot must navigate a web of deceit, mistaken identities, and hidden motives to uncover the truth. As he meticulously pieces together the clues, he reveals a surprising connection to a past crime and ultimately exposes the murderer. With its clever twists and engaging plot, “The Murder on the Links” showcases Christie’s signature storytelling prowess.
Exploring these free mystery books not only provides endless entertainment but also offers a fascinating glimpse into the roots of the genre. So, why not dive into these timeless tales? With many available for free, it’s the perfect opportunity to experience the brilliance of the original whodunnits. Happy reading, and may your sleuthing skills be sharp!
For more insights and recommendations on classic literature, be sure to check out our other posts in the Literary Muse category.
