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 Thursday Murder Club: A Novel is a delightful entry into the cozy mystery genre. The setting is a quintessentially charming retirement village, presenting an engaging backdrop for the story. The protagonist group is unique and refreshing, consisting of four elderly friends who come together to solve cold cases, led by their sharp wit and life experience. This ensemble adds depth and humor to the narrative, making the characters relatable and endearing.

The tone of the book is light-hearted and witty, which fits well within the cozy mystery category. It balances suspense with humor, making it an enjoyable and easy read without being too dark or intense. This book is the first in a series, which is appealing for readers who enjoy following their favorite characters through multiple adventures. It promises more to come, with the potential for character development and evolving storylines.

Themes of friendship, community, and ingenuity are prevalent throughout the story, and the hobbies and interests of the characters bring additional layers of charm and individuality. One potential drawback is that the pacing might be slow for readers who prefer fast-paced thrillers. Additionally, the light tone may not appeal to those looking for a more serious and intense mystery. However, for fans of cozy mysteries, The Thursday Murder Club offers a perfect blend of humor, intrigue, and heart-warming moments.

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.