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 'Curly Bay Cozy Mystery Boxset' is a Christian-themed cozy-mystery audiobook collection authored by Donna Doyle and narrated by Nancy Bober. Spanning 18 books with a total listening time of over 41 hours, this set is well-suited for those who enjoy long, engaging series rather than standalone stories. Set in the picturesque and charming Curly Bay, the consistent setting offers a comforting backdrop for mystery fans who appreciate a familiar locale.

The protagonist tends to be relatable and grounded in Christian values, which might appeal greatly to listeners who seek positive and faith-affirming characters. The tone throughout is light, engaging, and suitable for cozy mystery enthusiasts who prefer their mysteries without gore or intense suspense. Themes focus on faith, community, and solving whimsical mysteries, offering a wholesome listening experience.

As an audiobook, it benefits from the professional narration of Nancy Bober, who enhances the storytelling with her engaging voice. The lengthy total listening time might be daunting for some, and the niche focus on Christian themes may not cater to those outside this specific interest group. Additionally, those preferring standalone titles might feel overwhelmed by the commitment to an 18-book series. Suitable primarily for fans of Christian fiction and cozy mysteries, this box set promises hours of lighthearted mystery solving in a heartwarming community setting.