Looking for a good mystery? We're here to help.

Delving into a gripping mystery novel is a thrilling adventure that book lovers cherish. The Independent Mystery Booksellers Association (IMBA) is dedicated to curating and providing access to some of the most captivating whodunnits in literature. As a community of independent booksellers, we pride ourselves on connecting readers with tales that will keep them on the edge of their seats.

NEWS: Try Our Search Engine

In our ongoing effort to bring the finest in mystery literature to our patrons, the IMBA is developing a state-of-the-art search engine. This tool is designed to help you easily find mysteries across several member stores. Although the system is in the beta testing phase, we invite you to take a test-drive today and experience the future of mystery book shopping.

Evanovich & Henry Top July Bestseller Lists

July 1999 was an exciting month for mystery writers, with Janet Evanovich and Sue Henry leading the charge as the top-selling authors at IMBA member stores. Notably, Avon Books demonstrated its prowess in the mystery genre, publishing three of the top ten hardcovers and four of the top ten paperbacks. Explore our complete bestseller lists to discover more must-read mysteries.

Lehane Wins 1999 Dilys Award

Dennis Lehane's masterful mystery, Gone, Baby, Gone, has earned the 1999 Dilys Award, a prestigious accolade granted by the IMBA to the new title we "most enjoyed selling" the previous year. Published by William Morrow, Lehane's novel stands out as a favorite among booksellers and readers alike. Learn more about the significance of the Dilys Award and its previous recipients.

IMBA Opposes Ingram Takeover

Standing firm in our dedication to independent bookselling, on December 5, 1998, the IMBA formally expressed opposition to Barnes & Noble's proposed acquisition of Ingram. Our letter to the Federal Trade Commission outlines our concerns about the impact on the industry and the importance of maintaining diverse channels for the distribution of mystery literature. To understand more about this pivotal moment in bookselling history, see a copy of our letter.

Traveling Through the Pages: A Literary Adventure

For those with a passion for travel and mystery, combining both interests can create an unparalleled experience. Imagine embarking on a journey to the real-life locations that inspired your favorite mystery novels. As you traverse cities and landscapes, clutching a book from an IMBA member store, you're not just a tourist, but an explorer unraveling the secrets of thrilling narratives against the backdrop of the world's most enchanting destinations. Books, like travel, open doors to new realms—get ready to step through.