John Buchan is best known for the breathless chase of The Thirty-Nine Steps, but Huntingtower might be his most purely fun book. It swaps international spies for local heroes and delivers a story that feels both exciting and wonderfully warm.

The Story

Dickson McCunn, a recently retired and romantically-inclined grocer, heads to the Galloway coast for a quiet retirement adventure. His plans for peaceful contemplation are shattered when he stumbles upon Huntingtower, a remote estate. He soon learns from a group of resourceful working-class boys—the self-styled 'Gorbals Die-Hards'—that a young woman is being held captive there by a gang of men. This isn't just any kidnapping; the prisoner is a Russian princess, and her captors are ruthless Bolshevik agents after a hidden fortune in jewels. With no one else to help, Dickson and the boys decide to mount a rescue. What follows is a brilliant siege story, as this unlikely team uses cleverness, courage, and sheer grit to outwit their dangerous and well-armed foes.

Why You Should Read It

The magic here is in the characters. Dickson McCunn is a treasure. Watching this cautious, respectable man discover his own bravery is a joy. His partnership with the Gorbals Die-Hards—streetwise, loyal, and hilarious—is the heart of the book. Buchan doesn't write down to these boys; he treats their cunning and courage with total respect. The story moves at a great clip, full of tense moments and clever escapes, but it's always grounded by this wonderful sense of decency and friendship. It's an adventure that believes ordinary people can do extraordinary things, and that's a message that never gets old.

Final Verdict

Huntingtower is a hidden gem. It's perfect for anyone who loves a classic adventure but wants one with more heart and humor than your average thriller. If you enjoy stories about underdogs, clever kids outsmarting adults, or just a brilliantly told tale that will make you smile, this is your next read. Think of it as a cozy blanket and a shot of adrenaline, all in one paperback.