The Secret of the Old Clock
The Secret of the Old Clock is a mystery novel by Carolyn Keene, first published in 1930. It is the first book in the Nancy Drew Mystery Stories series and introduces the resourceful young amateur detective.
Nancy becomes involved in a dispute over the estate of Josiah Crowley, whose fortune has been left to the wealthy Topham family. Several of his struggling relatives and friends believe that he intended to provide for them, leading Nancy to suspect that another will may exist.
Following a series of clues and facing dangerous criminals, Nancy discovers that the missing document is hidden inside an old clock. Her courage and determination help expose the truth, restore the rightful inheritance, and establish her reputation as a clever and fearless detective.
"“It would be a shame if all that money went to the Tophams! They will fly higher than ever!”
Nancy Drew, a pretty girl of sixteen, leaned over the library table and addressed her father who sat reading a newspaper by the study lamp.
“I beg your pardon, Nancy. What were you saying about the Tophams?”"
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Public domain (US)·No sign-up·DRM-free·Real text, not scans
Copyright note. The Secret of the Old Clock by Carolyn Keene is believed to be in the public domain in the United States only. It may still be copyrighted in other countries. If you are not in the United States, please check your local laws to ensure this eBook is in the public domain in your country before downloading The Secret of the Old Clock in PDF or EPUB.
- Pages
- 139
- Reading time
- 3 hours 24 minutes
- Pace
- intermediate
- First published
- 1930
- Language
- English
96 years later, still timely
Why Read The Secret of the Old Clock in 2026?
A contested inheritance, a missing will, and a teenage sleuth who trusts her own observations over adult assumptions. Nancy Drew's opening case runs on clues and nerve, set in a small-town America of clear stakes and brisk chapters.
Today's connection
A competent, self-directed young heroine never goes stale: a natural gateway mystery for young readers and an easy, nostalgic revisit for adults.
Sharp observation
Clues over assumptions.
Rightful inheritance
Fairness against the powerful.
Fearless start
Where Nancy Drew begins.
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About the author
Carolyn Keene
The name on every Nancy Drew cover — one pen, many hands, and a girl detective who outlived them all.