10 Best Cozy Mysteries 2025 in the United States

‘The Thursday Murder Club: A Novel’ is a popular cozy mystery audiobook written by Richard Osman and narrated by Lesley Manville. Set in a peaceful retirement village, the story revolves around a group of elderly friends who meet weekly to discuss unsolved crimes. This engaging and charming setting adds a unique twist to the traditional mystery genre, making it relatable and entertaining for those who enjoy lighter, character-driven stories.

The protagonist group, with their distinct personalities and life experiences, offers a refreshing take on amateur sleuthing, breaking away from the typical young detectives seen in many mystery novels. The humorous and warm tone throughout the story makes it an enjoyable listen, perfect for those who prefer their mysteries with a touch of light-heartedness rather than intense suspense or gore. As the first book in a series, it successfully sets the stage for future adventures, ensuring readers have more to look forward to if they become attached to the characters and their escapades.

Topics such as aging, friendship, and the pursuit of purpose in later life are thoughtfully explored, adding depth to the narrative. However, at a length of 12 hours and 26 minutes, some listeners might find the pacing slow, particularly if they prefer faster-moving plots. Additionally, while the setting and characters are endearing, the intricate details of the mystery itself may not satisfy those looking for more complex or challenging puzzles. Nevertheless, for fans of cozy mysteries who value character development and a warm, inviting atmosphere, ‘The Thursday Murder Club: A Novel’ is a delightful choice.

The Emily Cherry Cozy Mystery Boxset by Donna Doyle is a collection of ten books featuring light-hearted, engaging stories designed for fans of cozy mysteries. Set in various charming and quaint locations, these audiobooks create a cozy atmosphere that’s perfect for relaxation. The protagonist, Emily Cherry, is a relatable and endearing character who draws readers in with her inquisitive nature and knack for solving mysteries.

The tone of these stories is warm and gentle, making them suitable for those who prefer mysteries without graphic content or intense suspense. This collection is part of a series, providing a continuous and familiar experience for listeners who enjoy following a character across multiple adventures. Themes often revolve around small-town life, community, and faith, with a Christian perspective subtly woven into the narrative, making it appealing to those who enjoy spiritual or religious elements in their stories. The inclusion of hobbies and everyday activities further enriches the storytelling, adding an extra layer of charm and relatability.

A significant strength of this boxset is its length, offering over 21 hours of listening time, which is great value for avid audiobook listeners. Additionally, the quality of narration by Leonor A Woodworth enhances the experience, bringing the characters and settings to life. On the downside, the religious themes might not appeal to everyone, especially those who prefer secular stories. Moreover, some might find the gentle tone and relaxed pacing of the stories less thrilling if they are used to fast-paced or high-stakes mysteries. Nonetheless, for fans of cozy mysteries and those who appreciate a wholesome, faith-based storyline, this boxset is a delightful option.

The Cozy Witch Mysteries: Special Edition Box Set features a collection of eight books by Angela Pepper, making it a delightful pick for fans of cozy mysteries, especially those who appreciate supernatural elements. The setting incorporates whimsical and enchanting aspects typical of cozy witch stories, creating a charming atmosphere for readers. The protagonist is likely relatable and engaging, offering readers an inviting character to follow through various mysteries. The tone is expected to be light-hearted and fun, which is a hallmark of the cozy mystery genre. This set is a series, allowing fans to dive deeply into the characters' journeys across multiple books, enriching the experience.

A significant strength of this box set is its extensive listening length of over 77 hours, perfect for readers who enjoy immersing themselves in a lengthy, engaging narrative. The fact that it ranks highly in the cozy mysteries category on Audible suggests it has garnered positive attention and a dedicated audience, indicating quality storytelling. Additionally, the narration by Tiffany Williams and Rosemary Benson is likely to enhance the listening experience, making it more enjoyable for audiobook fans.

As this is an audiobook format, it may not appeal to those who prefer traditional reading or are not accustomed to audiobooks. Also, while a series can be a strength, it might deter readers who prefer standalone stories, as they may feel overwhelmed by the commitment to multiple books.