Rating: ★★★★☆

Genre: Mystery, Cosy Mystery

Available On: Amazon

The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman is a delightful and cleverly crafted cosy mystery novel. Set in the peaceful Coopers Chase retirement village, the story follows four residents—Elizabeth, Joyce, Ibrahim, and Ron—who form a club to investigate unsolved crimes. Their regular meetings, initially meant to discuss cold cases, take an unexpected turn when a local murder occurs, thrusting them into the middle of a live investigation.

The novel is charmingly written with a blend of humour and poignancy. Each member of the Thursday Murder Club brings a unique skill set to the table: Elizabeth, a former intelligence operative; Joyce, an ex-nurse; Ibrahim, a retired psychiatrist; and Ron, a once-famed trade union leader. This diverse mix of backgrounds not only aids their amateur sleuthing but also enriches the narrative with their distinct perspectives and interactions.

One of the standout features of the book is its character development. Osman has crafted an endearing cast whose personal histories and losses add depth to their camaraderie and determination. Their collective experience and wit often outshine the official police force, leading to both humorous and touching moments as they navigate the investigation.

Amateur Sleuthing

The plot kicks off with the murder of Tony Curran, a local builder with a dubious past. As the Thursday Murder Club delves into the investigation, they uncover a web of secrets and lies that stretches beyond their quiet village. The narrative alternates between the investigation and personal diary entries from Joyce, adding an intimate layer to the storytelling.

The book is praised for its intricate plotting, red herrings, and unexpected twists that keep readers guessing until the very end. The interplay between the amateur detectives and the official police officers, PC Donna De Freitas and DCI Chris Hudson, adds another layer of intrigue and humour to the story.

The Verdict On The Thursday Murder Club

The Thursday Murder Club is a refreshing take on the cosy mystery genre. Richard Osman’s debut novel is not just a whodunit but also a heartwarming exploration of friendship, ageing, and the joy of solving puzzles. Its endearing characters and engaging plot make it a must-read for fans of mysteries and those looking for a light yet thought-provoking read.

For those interested, The Thursday Murder Club is available on major book platforms and has garnered widespread acclaim, securing its place as a beloved addition to contemporary mystery fiction. This is the first book in a series and I can’t wait to read book two!

What Genre Is The Thursday Murder Club?

The Thursday Murder Club falls into the genre of cosy mystery, which probably explains why I enjoyed it (working on a cosy romance novel myself!). This genre is characterised by its light-hearted tone, often set in small, close-knit communities, and typically features amateur sleuths. The novel embodies these elements with its setting in a peaceful retirement village and its ensemble cast of elderly amateur detectives.

In addition to cosy mystery, the book also blends elements of traditional mystery and crime fiction. The central plot revolves around solving a murder, which is a hallmark of the mystery genre. The presence of multiple plot twists, red herrings, and a complex investigation aligns it with classic mystery storytelling.

The more enjoyable elements of the novel come from the inclusion of humour and slice-of-life fiction. Richard Osman’s background in television and comedy infuses the narrative with dry British humour, making the story entertaining and engaging despite its darker themes. The everyday lives and personal growth of the characters add a slice-of-life dimension, providing depth to their backgrounds and interactions.

By combining these elements, The Thursday Murder Club offers a unique reading experience that appeals to fans of cosy mysteries, traditional whodunnits, and character-driven narratives. Its heartwarming depiction of friendship and ageing, coupled with its intriguing mystery plot, makes it a standout in contemporary fiction.

Key Themes and Tropes In The Novel

Trope Count: 🔥🔥🔥🔥

Richard Osman’s The Thursday Murder Club is a masterful blend of mystery, humour, and poignant reflections on life. At its core, the novel is driven by its vibrant characters and the unique dynamics of their relationships. While the novel lacks the romance tropes I usually discuss, there are a few key themes and (non-romantic) tropes that make this book a standout in the cosy mystery genre…

Amateur Sleuths

The club members, though not professional detectives, use their life experiences and unique skills to solve the mystery, often outpacing the local police in their investigations. Elizabeth, Joyce, Ibrahim, and Ron each bring something unique to the table, turning their combined wisdom and varied backgrounds into effective investigative tools. This trope adds a layer of charm and ingenuity to the story, highlighting the resourcefulness and determination of the elderly protagonists.

Found Family

The bond between the club members is central to the story. Their friendship and mutual support create a ‘found family’ dynamic that adds warmth and depth to the narrative. Despite coming from different walks of life, the club members form deep, meaningful connections, demonstrating that family can be chosen and is not limited by blood relations. This theme resonates with readers, emphasising the importance of companionship and solidarity in later life.

Humour and Wit

The novel is infused with dry British humour and witty dialogue, making it a light-hearted read despite its murder mystery premise. Richard Osman’s background in television and comedy shines through in his writing, as he skilfully balances suspense with levity. The humour not only provides comic relief but also helps to develop the characters, making them more relatable and endearing.

Ageing and Mortality

The challenges and reflections on ageing are delicately woven into the story, providing a poignant backdrop to the mystery and highlighting the characters’ resilience and zest for life. Osman does not shy away from the realities of growing old but instead embraces them, showcasing the characters’ vitality and proving that life remains rich with purpose and adventure, even in retirement. This theme adds depth to the narrative, making it more than just a murder mystery but also a reflection on life’s later stages.

If you love cosy mysteries, you might also want to check out Verity Bright’s Lady Eleanor Swift series, starting with A Very English Murder…