I LOVE local bookstores & this one is one of the best in Houston in my humble opinion. First off, the place is huge with a large selection to match. If you're a mystery, crime, or espionage lover, this place is for you. And if you aren't, there's a good chance this place will still have something that will catch your eye. The staff is kind & passionate about reading. There's even staff-recommended books which is always fun. This place holds book signings, crafts, & other engaging events. Most of the time when I visit, there's something going on. The community building they facilitate is amazing! It's a cozy space with a well-defined personality where you can lose yourself between the bookshelves. read more

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If you like murder books this is all that they sell here. Unfortunately I made a comment to my Partner about some of the items on the very top shelf, the older lady that works there stated loudly "items on top shelf are not for sell." Which at no time I did ask her if anything was for sell, she just was listening to my conversation with my partner. As for books I didn't stay long in this store to really buy anything. read more

Picked up some new reads at one of my favorite book stores in Houston. Murder By The Book specializes in mystery, crime, and fantasy genres. It offers an array of books, including new, used, first editions, and collectibles, and hosts author events. The knowledgeable staff provides personalized recommendations, creating a welcoming atmosphere for readers. While in today I picked up Oyinkan Braithwaite novels: My sister the serial killer and Cursed Daughters. An employee informed me that she would have a book signing 11/13. Perfect timing! I can't wait to meet her. The other two books I purchased were Death in a Budapest Butterfly and Play the fool. Murder by the Book is a book lovers dream. The little girl in me gets excited every time I step in. read more

Murder by the Book - Today's book haul - Bookstores Near Me - Houston, Texas

If you're a fan of murder mysteries, this bookstore is a dream come true. From the moment I walked in, I could feel the atmosphere buzzing with suspense and curiosity--themed decor, shelves stacked with thrillers, and a staff that clearly lives and breathes the genre. Everyone was incredibly kind and genuinely passionate about helping customers find a good read. Theres literally something here for every mystery lover. Highly recommend stopping by. read more

Murder by the Book - Bookstores Near Me - Houston, Texas

A local bookstore that focuses on crime, mystery, and thriller books. The interior is clean and spacious with a old school bookstore vibe. Books are nicely sectioned for easy found. There is a section for Texas writers and a section for foreign writers and so on. The sole employee was very friendly and helpful. The bookstore is located in a small strip shopping center with very limited parking. read more

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I visited this bookstore for a Walter Mosley book signing for his new 2024 book- Farewell Amethystine. A copy of the book was required to get a line number. It's easy to locate the bookstore from the street. There is a small one row parking lot in front of the building....first come first serve. Otherwise, you must locate parking on the side streets. Thankfully, no parking meters were located on the street I parked on and in safe surroundings. Upon entry, the checkout desk is to your right of the aisle in the medium sized bookstore. The friendly staff greet visitors upon entry, in the cozy and comfortably sectioned bookstore. One side of the bookstore is designated for events with ample seating for at least 30. And a small one person restroom is in the rear. read more

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Independent book store that focuses on mystery books. Pleasant and helpful staff. Support this gem of a book store! read more

Murder by the Book - Bookstores Near Me - Houston, Texas

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I have driven by Murder by the Book countless times and finally stopped in to pick up a few books from local authors! Welcomed in and the store associate helped me find two books that I am sure I will enjoy! Check them out online for their events and to read about the authors. They have author signing events and panels. read more

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This place is more than a simple store: it is the ultimate destination for crime-fiction buffs! Staff recommendations couldn' t be more accurate, and the carefully selected stock is incomparable (I went home with a signed copy of a Tana French novel!). A Walter Mosley event Q&A felt like catching up with old friends. Cozy, chaotic, and just magical. My shelves appreciate me dearly, my bank account not so much. read more

Murder by the Book - Bookstores Near Me - Houston, Texas

Great local bookstore with a wide selection. It is very clean. The staff is nice and very knowledgeable about book recommendations. They do not sell toys which is nice to know this place is more about books than other items. Parking was easy and they have a great selection for horror books too. 5 out of 5 stars. My only con is I wish I lived closer. read more

Sally and Brenda are soo knowledgeable about the books and authors, they read A LOT. Sally said 3 books a week!! This store has a long history of famous authors in the shop; with special events often. Several places to sit and relax. Opened in 1980 it stocks new/used paperbacks, first editions, mystery magazines, etc Spent $155 in 15 minutes! Photos included. The "killers of a certain age" was left at the shop because the author is coming there for a signing that my friend can't make (we live in Galveston Co) so Sally/Brenda will get it signed for her to pick on another day. LOVE it! read more

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Easily the best bookstore in town. They have great gifts for the mystery lover in your life too. The staff are all book lovers and make stellar recommendations and they put on the best events. Shop local and support independent businesses- and murder by the book is a great place to start read more

Murder by the Book - MBTB hosted an evening with the Alley Theater's Todd Waite, who plays Sherlock in Baskerville. - Bookstores Near Me - Houston, Texas

Murder mysteries is my favorite book genre, so finding this bookshop is awesome!! The owners are lovely people, thank you! P.s they have cool puzzles!! read more

I have zero knowledge or interest in murder mysteries. My wife loves and devours them. I went in to get my wife their "book" socks. A young lady there recommended two books. When I have everything to my wife on her birthday. She went nuts. She loves the two authors (both first time novelists). I went back and got more books. This was cheaper than jewelry and more loved. My wife was stunned I even went in there. This place knows what they are doing. A+++ read more

Our family favorite bookstore in Houston! We've been shopping here for several years now. The staff always has new ideas and reviews to help guide your selection. read more

A bit pricey and seemingly wary of new people to the store. One cashier stalked us through the book store as if we were about to steal something. If you like mystery novels however, this is a good place to geek out, and support local. read more

Murder by the Book - Bookstores Near Me - Houston, Texas

Great little independent bookstore. They focus on crime, mystery, and espionage titles with author appearances and signings a pretty regular thing judging by the event calendar and author pictures everywhere. Books are organized by region of the world where the story takes place (UK, US, and elsewhere) rather than by title or author. The staff were very friendly, and I found the spot overall to be quite charming with a wonderful layout and decor. I'm more of a nonfiction reader, but still ended up buying a children's book about a mystery at the Houston Astros' stadium, Minute Maid Park (As a good Houstonian and Astros fan should). I do like to support independent bookstores, and this one definitely warrants it with the quality of its selections and operations. When I'm in the market for a crime novel, this will be my first stop. read more

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Love this place, rustic and charming, great selection of books, now puzzles, and gifts for book lovers. If they don't have what you want in stock, they will order for you. Their staff are super helpful with book selections. It's great to be able to feel the book to decide if it's the right one for you. They still have autographed books also. I love to support local business!! Highly recommended! read more

Murder by the Book - Great series - Bookstores Near Me - Houston, Texas

Although I did not find a book I was seeking, this place is a well clean and organized place, something every good book person can appreciate. There are many sections based around the crime, mystery, and other related genres. The store clerks were nice, cheerful, and made sure to check if you need help finding something. I would come back here if I were ever on the market for a book in the genre they hold. read more

The owner's mother was less than cordial and I decided to buy the Kindle version of a book instead of the print edition. Full disclosures: I did buy 2 books and my daughter also bought two for me as a gift. Lesson to be learned for bookstore owners: if a customer shares they had read hundreds of books, don't discount them, but ask what they had read and show them around the store. The store was light, bright and welcoming, but she wasn't. I had my iPad with me and could have shown her my Kindle library. And when I mentioned prior series, the other woman had never heard of it. Hadn't heard of Lawrence Block's Burglar series?! Seriously. Excuse the rant. read more

Murder by the Book - Bookstores Near Me - Houston, Texas

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Since the early 90's this little bookstore has been my goto for mysteries and thrillers. Once upon a time, David Thompson ran the place. He knew every customer and read and knew every book on their shelves - no lie. He knew the authors, the publishers, the entire business like the back of his hand. His legacy remains on the shelves in the form of index cards with hand written descriptions of some of his favorite books. His wife McKenna has carried on the vibe of this tiny store. If you are a book lover, or just want to see why independent book stores must remain a part of society, check this groovy dive of a bookstore out. I absolutely love visiting this place. Oh yeah, check out their website for a schedule of visiting authors. Those events are super fun. read more

Murder by the Book - Bookstores Near Me - Houston, Texas

Murder By The Book is a destination bookstore for mystery readers and writers. It's one of a small handful of thriving mystery bookstores in the country, and as such, it's a huge draw for crime writers on book tour--like me, for example. I did a reading here at the end of October and had an excellent time. The staff was welcoming and enthusiastic, and I enjoyed meeting the local mystery fans. I signed a ton of books, so if you're in the market for a novel by Steph C. from Yelp, Murder By The Book can hook you up. I also loved browsing the store, which was well stocked with crime novels, full bookshelves all around. I ended up buying The Neon Rain by James Lee Burke and two novels by Ellen Byron, a friend of mine from Los Angeles who was scheduled to visit the following week. If you're a crime lover in Houston, you should take full advantage of Murder By The Book, which must be the most prominent mystery bookstore in the region. It's a wonderful place for fans of the genre, and I hope to visit again next time I have a book out. read more

I make a point of finding independent bookstores when I travel for work and this place did not disappoint- it's focus is mystery novels but there is much more that this genre available. The best, best part though, is the memorabilia all over. The Lego Bookstore! The original posters and letters! The Detective Barbie! I bought 7 books and almost exceeded my luggage allowance. Very friendly staff too. And an independent coffee store next door! I told them they need to set up a B&B out back so I can return in vacation. read more

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We visited here as Shana was told about it by a customer in Austin. It was a very cool and unique place, small independent bookstores are already rare and this one stood out even with that. It dealt in mostly mystery but had whole sections on local writers and American, European and other unique ways to spilt up writers. There was a bargain area where books were a dollar so you could find or try a new writer to you for cheap. They had autographed copies, which was a nice feature. The decor was very cool, lots of artwork and posters for movies based on books they would or did sell there. Local flair like a Kinky Friedman poster. They had several regulars come in, even in the short time we were there. If I had one issue it is the ladies in the store, they knew their stuff and were talkative to the regulars but kind of stand offish and not rude but just vibes they gave off is the best way I can say it. Had I not been with Shana I might not have stayed. Still a small matter overall, they did answer your questions and rang us up quickly. I would still suggest this place just know as a non regular you won't get the greatest service. They also had shirts and coffee mugs for sale as another way to support this bookshop. Also in almost all areas of books had signs, some small and others big. They talked up an artist/writer or a certain book so you could have some information and a feel for that writer. Cool little additional touch that helped read more

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For best context, please note that I live about 7.5 hours from Murder by the Book. I'm an avid reader of thriller, mystery, and suspense. In 2022, I was planning to make the drive for a Ruth Ware event that I was unable to make due to a COVID diagnosis at the last minute. The shop worked with me to not only get my preordered book but have it signed without my presence then mailed to me! This year, the shop hosted Ruth again and I centered a mini family vacation around it. The shop pulled a number for me that felt true to the timing of when I placed the preorder. On signing day, the shop itself was packed! There wasn't room to sit nor stand to where the author could be seen. I arrived 30 minutes early, but clearly should've arrived earlier should I have wanted a view. The shop had my book and line number waiting for me and things went off without a problem in the least! It's important to note that there isn't much room for parking. The streets were full and the parking around back is limited. If I were to attend another event here, I'd Uber or take a cab and plan to arrive an hour early. (Driving for 7.5 hours, not being able to see was a bummer... lesson learned!) I'm not sure if the venu would allow you to bring a compact folding chair, but just in case you can't find a seat, this may be a good question to ask. The shop is very well organized, merchandised and tidy. It was a really great event! If the shop could invest in speakers to be strategically placed throughout the shop, that would be wonderful as it was hard to hear the author at times. Overall, I highly recommend the shop, the staff, and attending an event here! Great job all! read more

Murder by the Book - Author Ruth Ware at the signing table - Bookstores Near Me - Houston, Texas

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Murder by the book is a lovely independent bookstore with a wide selection of mysteries. But it's just that a mystery bookstore. Not a place to feel safe to read any other genre or meet new people. The books are overpriced and aren't even always the best written ones. I hate writing such a poor review for an independent bookstore because of the importance of keeping books local; however, this one is overhyped. The only reason I even go here is for the author signings and the Coffee shop next door. Recently, I've noticed how rude the ladies and the owner are. I went in around a week ago to purchase a copy of Run away by Harlan Coben because he was doing a book signing the next week. When I walked in they looked me up and down and kept doing their thing which isn't a problem to me typically, because I like to of my own thing too; but it's weird NOT to greet someone in your store. It just seemed unprofessional. Anyway, I found the book quickly and decided to purchase it immediately before forgetting about it. When I went to buy it I asked if there was anyway to leave it in the store because that's what I did the last time he had a signing here. The lady rudely started to get pissy about it and say " why would that be an option? You bought the book and should be able to keep up with the yellow slip." I personally felt attacked but moved on and bought the book. I wanted to keep looking around and they just judged me the whole time! Now, yesterday was the book signing and I was ready to get there and get over my beef with these ladies however, it only grew. The minute I walked in the energy was tense. The locals had saved rows of seats and the owner was allowing people to save lots of seats even 4 hours before it began. The author was late so I decided with some other people there to go across the street and go eat something. While talking to some other people the lady from last week rudely interrupted our conversation and said " can I help you?" And I said no we're just waiting here for a minute and she goes " well you need to move because you can't wait here but you can wait outside". It's disgusting how rude these people are to the people keeping them in business. ********With that in mind I'm only giving them two stars for the poor customer service and overpriced books. read more

With author events paused for the foreseeable future, I took a virtual trip to this independent, mystery bookstore in Houston. From the comfort of my computer chair, with a glass of wine at hand, I was able to hear Marie Benedict, one of my favorite authors, discuss her latest historical novel about the mysterious disappearance of Agatha Christie. McKenna, the store owner, ably directed the discussion and audience q&a. The event was shown live on the store's YouTube channel as well as being on Facebook. Recordings of past events are posted on the YouTube channel. I have already noticed a couple of previous events I would like to catch. Most of the events are held on weeknights at 7 pm central and the majority are free. The calendar for January is pretty full, which is an endorsement as this can be a slow time of year in the world of books. read more

Very off putting customer service. This store carries more than just mystery. They carry fantasy, horror and others genres. I've even been here for a book signing/author talk for a fantasy romance series. My experiences were positive until now. I called the store to check on a book that I was going to purchase from Amazon but thought I would see if they had it here and support a local business but after I told the associate the title of the book that I was looking for she replied in a saccharine tone, "no, we wouldn't carry 'that'." She didn't bother to check the system or even ask the name of the author. She then said nothing else and left it up to me to awkwardly end the call. The book was from the horror genre and the author is quite well respected. Even if they weren't you could pay patrons the respect of checking. It's not a big deal that you don't stock some books but it's not necessary to have such an attitude. Will look elsewhere and support other local bookstores from now on. read more

Murder by the Book is my favorite bookstore. I am an avid mystery/thriller reader and this bookstore is my go to. I also really like how the books are organized by where the author is from. The staff are extremely helpful and will help you order online as well. They also bring in a ton of authors for signings and different events. read more

I'm really ambivalent about this bookstore. I love the selection and organization of the books. I can go right to my favorite historical mysteries without wading through true-crime, etc. I've attended author signings, bought many books here, introduced friends and family to the store, and even shown it off to out of town visitors. But I really have a problem with the ambiance and customer service. I have never once been greeted when I walked in the store and I've actually had employees audibly sigh and give other expressions of annoyance when I've asked if they've read and enjoyed a particular book. I understand these types of questions might get old, but they come with the territory of working in a small specialized bookstore. Two nights ago I attended my first "Murder By the Book Recommends" and it really cemented my dislikes of this store. Even though it was after hours and an event, I wasn't greeted when I walked in. I asked a fellow attendee where to find the information about the books employees would be talking about. OK, maybe they were busy. But during the recommendation segment, there were several obviously high-spending customers who continuously interjected their opinions. These customers received all the employees attention. Each employee also gave away a book. But it wasn't a raffle. It was a knowledge based give away, and again these favored customers yelled the answers quickly and received the giveaways. Totally discouraging and really repellent. I did decide to buy a couple books, but no "thanks for coming" during check out. Just straight unhappy business and out the door. The experience was so unpleasant that this morning I unsubscribed to the bookstore's mailing list. So if you want to browse in specific genres, this is the place to be. But if you want any customer service or respect on any level better than a Subway, this is not the place for you. read more

With the amount of money I have spent buying books at list price from MbB and the number of book signings I have attended, it is a reasonable expectation that someone from behind the counter would acknowledge me when I come in to shop. It's as if it's my first time in the store each time I walk in. The lack of respect for my business from the staff has negated whatever guilt I might otherwise have for feeding my insatiable murder and suspense Jones on line or from one of the remaining big box bookstores. One of my reasons for shopping indie is to know and be known. Don't expect it here. They often have appearances of many of my favorite authors whom I would otherwise not get to see. On those occasions, I'll bite the bullet and go see a writer whose works I like. read more

Bless me literary father, for I have sinned. I have committed utter atrocities in the name of efficiency and expedience. I have committed the sin of audio books and let somebody else do the imagining for me. I feel so ashamed of myself for doing that, but fortunately, this place came to the rescue. So many books, so many recommendations, and an at home feeling that makes you want to get lost and never find your way out. The staff is friendly, and there are books for your every taste. As evidence by my dropping plenty of cash on my first visit. Now I just have to read them in order!! read more

COST: You will pay full price for books here .... And who am I kidding, I cannot afford that. BUT ... EVENTS: They have the big writers come here for signings. I'd pay full price for that (sometimes) KIDS: Don't bring yours. Even though they have a kids section, they didn't seem too happy that mine wanted to sit and look through the books. ATMOSPHERE: It's more grab-and-go, rather than browse-friendly .... at least if you either bring a young kid or like to browse lots over the books CONCLUSION: I'm too big of a word nerd to not like this place. I wish that they had sales. read more

Murder by the Book - Bookstores Near Me - Houston, Texas

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First off, best Mystery bookstore period. Any type of mystery, they have it and it's nearly impossible to stump the staff on requests, authors, genres or even the "I once read a book with a red cover but I can't remember the title...". I only say nearly because it's possible, but I haven't seen it. This staff cares and are doing a wonderful job during COVID 19 following all recommendations and setting standards. Big bonus, they do amazing author interviews on FB live and they're all archived online (Facebook and YouTube). This establishment is fundamental to our happiness in Houston, and is a treasured landmark in an amazing neighborhood. Visit for a book, leave with utter satisfaction. read more

One of the best book stores In Houston I love that they have authors in for readings and signings. Love they have a section devoted to Texas authors too. The staff is very knowledgeable and will go out of way to recommend new authors. Always a good place to spend an hour just browsing. Always go home with at least one new book. read more

I wish you guys were in Katy but I love your bookstore so much. I am a true crime & thriller reader! So YES! I'm in love with your store.

We enjoyed our visit to this used bookstore, we've been meaning to go by and check this place out for a while now.....a friend at the place I just retired from loves this place....got books autographed by some of his favorite authors, attaboy Glen bob..... read more

Murder by the Book - store front - Bookstores Near Me - Houston, Texas

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We visited this bookstore for a book signing and asked multiple times if they were pet friendly before attending so there were no issues. We were told over and over again that as long as our dog was on a leash they are pet friendly. Not even 1/2 way through the discussion and book signing we were asked to leave with our dog. Keep in mind our dog did not bother anyone and made no barking or other noises. It was THEIR store dog who would not stop barking even before she had seen our dog. The associate that asked us to leave was VERY rude and we will not be coming back to this bookstore because of the experience we had. If you are going to ask people with their pets to leave then please do not say you are pet friendly so we can leave our pooch at home. read more

My favorite bookstore! I'm a book-a-holic so I usually come out with an arm load. They also host a lot of book signings by well known authors and many who will become so. The staff are friendly and helpful too. If you love to read you probably already know this place. If not stop by once and you'll become a regular. read more

We stopped by MbtB on advice of a friend and avid reader. It was closed due to the pandemic. Fine. I looked inside and saw people. A woman came out and handed a bag of books to a customer. In other words, call in your order. Fine. The woman turned to me and said sternly, "six feet". I said, "I guess you are closed". She said, "is this sign not clear", pointing to the hand written sign on the bottom of the glass door. After learning she was the owner I said, "you are incredibly rude". Yes, I saw the sign but thought with a number of people inside, you might be open. She said nothing. She did redefine Social Distancing for me. When it comes to Murder By The Book, six feet is not nearly distant enough. Steve S. read more