The Crystal Stopper by Maurice Leblanc — cover

The Crystal Stopper

The Crystal Stopper is a mystery novel written by Maurice Leblanc and originally published in 1912. It is one of the best tales of detective Arsene Lupin.

In this case, Lupin is confronted with a false accusation of murder that will send two of his accomplices to prison. And one of them has a very good relationship with Lupin, so he must do everything in his power to save her from the guillotine.

It is one of the most adrenaline-pumping detective novels, and the tension builds until we discover what the mystery of the elusive "Glass Stopper" is. Will it be the key to the whole case?

"The two boats fastened to the little pier that jutted out from the garden lay rocking in its shadow. Here and there lighted windows showed through the thick mist on the margins of the lake. The Enghien Casino opposite blazed with light, though it was late in the season, the end of September. A few stars appeared through the clouds. A light breeze ruffled the surface of the water."

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Mystery Adventure Fiction Crime Justice Ingenious Plots Class Conflict

Public domain (US)·No sign-up·DRM-free·Real text, not scans

Pages
254
Reading time
6 hours 16 minutes
Pace
Intermediate
First published
1912
Language
French

114 years later, still timely

Why Read The Crystal Stopper in 2026?

Lupin collides with state secrets and a clockwork plot where one small object can topple reputations. A sleek, high-stakes mystery.

Today's connection

Think deepfakes and leaks: how one artifact can rewire a narrative. It’s a fun lab to discuss transparency, power, and spin.

Heist precision

Mechanics that click.

Power games

Courts, press, police.

Twist velocity

Turns you won’t guess.

Perfect for Fans of Classic Detective Stories Readers Interested in Early 20th Century French Literature Lupin Enthusiasts

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About the author

Portrait of Maurice Leblanc

Maurice Leblanc · 1864–1941

Suave capers and clever twists led by a gentleman thief with wit, nerve, and style.

11 books by Maurice Leblanc in the library →

If this one stays with you…