An adaptation of Los misterios de Laura (La 1, 2009 – 2014), a popular series from Spain, The Mysteries of Laura (NBC, 2014 – 2016) exemplifies the classical detective subgenre of mystery fiction. It also exemplifies the formula for the telling of stories within this subgenre. The Mysteries of Laura and the texts related to it suggest the classical detective story formula has a cross-platform and transnational nature. Works that reflect the classical detective formula appear in various media, including literature, film, and television. Classical formulaic texts also appear in countries throughout the globe. Through close analysis of The Mysteries of Laura and its genealogical texts, this dissertation explores the classical detective story formula’s cross-platform and transnational flows. First, this study examines the various dimensions of these flows. Secondly, the study also explores the aspects of the formula that facilitate these flows, including the promotion of audience participation and the reinforcement of capitalism. Finally, this study explores the implications of the classical detective story’s cross-platform and transnational flows for future research on media distribution.