How to read the Arsène Lupin books in order

If you’ve recently finished Netflix’s Lupin and are dreaming of Lupin Part 2, never fear - there’s still plenty of mystery to keep you occupied while you wait. Fans of the French-language Netflix show might have to hold on a little longer to see what becomes of professional thief Assane Diop. But if you’re eager for more, then you might be even more intrigued by the novels the hit series is based on. 

Just like many brilliant shows like Bridgerton, Lupin takes its inspiration from a popular book series. French writer Maurice Leblanc wrote a number of books and short stories, following the exploits of the original gentleman thief, Arsène Lupin.

Although many of the earlier works are available in English editions, some of the later ones can only be found in the original French.

But whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in Leblanc’s Lupin books, or even just brush up on your language skills by reading some pretty exciting stories, there’s plenty of drama and scheming to enjoy.

Lupin books in English

Arsène Lupin, Gentleman Burglar

In the first Arsène Lupin novel by Maurice Leblanc, readers are introduced to the gentlemen thief and master of disguise. The character was first unveiled in a series of short stories serialized in the magazine Je sais tout. 

Arsène Lupin vs. Herlock Sholmes

Focusing on a battle of wits between the nimblest French thief and the shrewdest British detective, gentleman thief Arsène Lupin finds himself pitted against ageing detective Herlock Sholmes. Originally titled, Arsene Lupin vs. Sherlock Holmes, the name was changed after complaints from Sherlock Holmes author, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.

The Hollow Needle 

This famous novel sees gentleman thief, Arsène Lupin looking into The Mystery of the Hollow Needle. After all, the needle hides a secret that the Kings of France have been handing down since the time of Julius Caesar - the most fabulous treasure you could ever imagine. 

Arsène Lupin in 813

After being accused of murder, Arsène Lupin heads the police investigation, intending to clear himself by finding the true killer.

The Crystal Stopper

Arsène Lupin could have finally met his match in Deputy Daubrecq, a cunning detective who foils Lupin's most cunning robberies and thefts. Can the world's greatest thief get his act together? 

The Confessions of Arsène Lupin

This thrilling book consists of ten adventures of the famous character, Arsène Lupin, a gentleman thief and detective.

The Teeth of the Tiger

When wealthy Cosmo Mornington dies, he stipulates in his will that if no heirs can be found after three months, one hundred million francs will go to his executor and friend Don Luis Perenna, except that Perenna is none other than master thief Arsène Lupin.

The Golden Triangle: The Return of Arsène Lupin 

Captain Belval, learning of a threat to his beloved nurse, rescues her from her would-be assailants, only to find himself involved in a plot involving her husband and millions of francs worth of gold. As layer upon layer of conspiracy emerges, there's only one man who can be counted on to uncover the truth. 

Arsène Lupin: The Island of the Thirty Coffins

Arsène Lupin is summoned back to France by one of his friends and travels to the accursed island of Sarek off the coat of Brittany in order to save the beautiful Veronique d'Hergemont from the clutches of the murderous Vorski.

The Eight Strokes of the Clock

Featured here as part of a wider collection of Arsène Lupin stories, The Eight Strokes of the Clock is an ultimate mystery to be unravelled.  

The Secret Tomb

The Secret Tomb is similarly part of a wider collection here, where the exploits of gentleman thief Arsène Lupin are sure to keep readers on the edge of their seats. 

Arsène Lupin vs. Countess Cagliostro

Lupin is pitted against the beautiful but deadly Countess Cagliostro, in an attempt to find the treasure of the Candlestick with Seven Branches. 

The Melamare Mystery

Arsène Lupin, under the pseudonym Jean d'Enneris, is hired by jewel magnate Van Houben after actress Régine Aubry is kidnapped and a diamond is stolen. 

Arsène Lupin original French Editions 

And the story doesn't end there! If you fancy delving into some more Lupin books, then why not give one of these French editions a go?

• Le Pardessus d'Arsène Lupin
• La Demoiselle aux Yeux Verts 
• L'Homme à la Peau de Bique
• L'Agence Barnett et Cie
• Le Cabochon d'Émeraude 
• La Femme aux Deux Sourires
• La Cagliostro se Venge 
• Les Milliards d'Arsène Lupin
• Le Dernier Amour d'Arsène Lupin

Will you be reading the Arsène Lupin books before the release of Lupin Part 2?