Murder By The Book is a beloved independent bookstore in Houston that specializes in thrillers, mysteries, and suspense for readers of all ages. Located in the heart of the city, the shop is open Monday through Saturday from 10 AM to 6 PM and Sunday from 11:30 AM to 4 PM. Beyond books, the store also carries fun, mystery-themed merchandise like tote bags, pins, stickers, mugs, shirts, puzzles, and more—perfect for any book lover.
Prices are reasonable for a specialty bookstore, with most paperbacks ranging from about $15 to $20 and hardcovers typically between $25 and $30. The staff is friendly, welcoming, and always ready to help you discover your next great read, whether you’re a longtime mystery fan or just getting into the genre.
One of the standout features of the store is how well-organized it is. Sections are thoughtfully divided into categories like British mysteries, American mysteries, foreign mysteries, espionage, historical mysteries, a small fantasy section, and even a children’s area—making it easy to browse and explore.
The store also has a dedicated section highlighting upcoming author visits, including the featured books and event dates, so you can plan ahead for signings and discussions. With comfortable seating areas throughout and a spacious layout, it’s easy to spend hours reading, browsing, and soaking in the cozy atmosphere.
For any mystery lover, this is definitely a Houston spot worth visiting.
Another cool feature at Murder By The Book is their staff picks section. This is where the team shares their personal book recommendations, making it super helpful if you’re not sure what to read next. Each pick usually comes with a short description or note from a staff member, giving you insight into why they loved the book. It’s a great way to discover hidden gems, explore new authors, and trust that you’re getting a recommendation from someone who truly loves the genre.
Another fun activity Murder By The Book offers is its author signing events—perfect for any book lover looking for a more personal experience. You can preorder your book directly from the store, attend the signing session, and get your copy personally signed by the author. It’s such a unique way to connect with your favorite writers and be part of the mystery-reading community. Be sure to sign up for their newsletter or check their website regularly to stay updated on which authors are visiting each month—you might just catch one of your favorites!
I actually had the chance to attend one of their author signings, and it was such an amazing experience. I went to see Ande Pliego for her debut novel You Are Fatally Invited, and she was incredibly sweet and engaging. She shared insights into her writing process and what inspired the story, which made the event feel even more personal and special. She even handed out fun stickers and little goodies, which made the experience feel extra memorable.
I actually had the chance to attend one of their author signings, and it was such an amazing experience. I went to see Ande Pliego for her debut novel You Are Fatally Invited, and she was incredibly sweet and engaging. She shared insights into her writing process and what inspired the story, which made the event feel even more personal and special. She even handed out fun stickers and little goodies, which made the experience feel extra memorable.