Two brothers, Frank and Joe Hardy, along with their friend Chet Morton, embark on a thrilling adventure when a series of car thefts plague their hometown of Bayport. The boys, inspired by their detective father, Fenton Hardy, decide to investigate the mysterious disappearances of expensive automobiles along the Shore Road. Their pursuit begins when they encounter Isaac Fussy, a wealthy fisherman, whose brand-new Cadillac has just been stolen. The boys take off on their motorcycles in hot pursuit, but a mishap leads to a crash that delays them. Despite the setback, they learn about a suspicious man named Gus Montrose, who has a history with the Dodd family, and they suspect he may be involved in the thefts. The Hardy boys continue their investigation, leading them to the Dodd farm, where they discover that Jack Dodd and his father have been wrongfully accused of the thefts. The boys work to clear their names while uncovering clues about the auto thieves. As they dig deeper, they find a hidden cave used by the thieves to store stolen cars and goods. After a series of close encounters, including being captured by the gang, the Hardy boys manage to escape and alert the police. With the help of law enforcement, they successfully apprehend the thieves and recover the stolen vehicles. The story culminates in a triumphant return to Bayport, where the Hardy boys are celebrated as heroes. They receive rewards for their bravery and ingenuity, and their reputation as amateur detectives is solidified. The adventure not only clears the Dodd family's name but also reinforces the Hardy boys' determination to continue solving mysteries, setting the stage for future escapades.
By Franklin W. Dixon · First published 1939 · Genre: Mystery, Adventure, Young Adult · 23 chapters