The Thursday Murder Club Series: The Cozy Mystery Captivating Readers

Series So Captivating?

The Thursday Murder Club series captures readers with its delightful mixture of cozy setting, witty banter, and unexpected sleuthing by four pensioners. Set inside a charming retirement village, the retired spy, nurse, union leader, and psychiatrist turn amateur detectives, solving cold cases that lead them into real danger—but always with humor and heart.

Why This Cozy Mystery Series Stands Out

A Unique Blend of Charm and Whodunits

This series stands out because it flips typical mystery tropes. Instead of overworked detectives, the heroes are retirees sharing tea and theories. It’s refreshing. The tone leans cozy, yet it doesn’t shy away from higher stakes. The pacing is quick, with lots of short chapters, making it easy to pick up and hard to put down .

Record-Breaking Success From the Start

The debut novel broke records. Osman’s first entry became the fastest-selling adult crime debut ever in the UK and the first debut to reach Christmas No. 1 . Since then, every book in the series has topped major bestseller charts, including The New York Times and The Sunday Times .

Relatable Characters, Rich with Humor and Empathy

Elizabeth, Ron, Joyce, and Ibrahim are distinct characters—sharp-witted, seasoned, and brimming with life. Their friendship shines through the tension, and the mystery becomes secondary to watching them banter, bicker, and bond. As Liz French wrote in Library Journal:

“The crime, though ingeniously plotted … is not the main attraction. It’s the growing love and respect among the Thursdays and their kith and kin … that is the biggest draw.”

Evolution of the Series – Growing with Each Installment

Book-by-Book Highlights

• The Thursday Murder Club (2020) launches the concept in Cooper’s Chase, introducing us to the sleuths and their first murder case. It sells hundreds of thousands within days .
• The Man Who Died Twice (2021) picks up pace with stolen diamonds and a mobster, blending humor with higher risk .
• The Bullet That Missed (2022) dials up suspense—cold cases, a body mystery, and Elizabeth facing life-threatening threats .
• The Last Devil to Die (2023) tackles art forgery, trafficking, and personal loss. It becomes the fastest-selling hardback by a British author .
• The Impossible Fortune (2025) returns with a wedding, a disappearing guest, and a deadly code. It dives deeper into relationships and emotional stakes .

Adaptations Expand the Universe

The story has gone big—literally. A star-studded Netflix film premiered in August 2025, featuring Helen Mirren, Pierce Brosnan, Ben Kingsley, and Celia Imrie . Filming used real UK locations like Shepperton Studios, Englefield Estate, and scenic villages . The team is optimistic—Director Chris Columbus and the leads hope to make at least two more sequels .

The Series Experience – Why It Resonates (and When It Might Not)

What Fans Love

• Characters with depth and charm
• Cozy yet sharp pacing—short chapters that move fast
• A balance of light-hearted wit and genuine emotion
• Escapist yet grounded: crime, but with heart and humanity

Challenges Some Readers Mention

A few readers find the characters overwhelming early on—many names drop quickly, and it can feel like a lot to keep up with . Some suggest audiobooks or re-reading to ease in. Others simply don’t click with the tone or structure, and don’t finish. Cozy mysteries often ask you to trust the journey—and the writing style may not be for everyone .

How the Franchise Expands Beyond the Club

A New Series, Same Authorial Flair

Richard Osman continued his winning streak with We Solve Murders in 2024—a fresh dynamic duo and a different rhythm, though he promises the Thursday crew will return in later books . The new series debuted at No. 1 in the UK and nearly topped the NYT list —proof that his storytelling draws attention even outside the club.

A Media Ecosystem That Keeps Building

Between bestselling books, a major Netflix film, potential sequels, and a new series, Osman has created a layered universe. Readers and viewers can explore similar styles across formats—and each success boosts the others.

Conclusion

The Thursday Murder Club is a phenomenon—with grounding in its cozy murder mystery charm, delightful character-driven antics, and accessible pacing. It broke records, spun off a hit film, and inspired other creative projects. Sure, it’s not for every reader—but for those who love humor, aging wisdom, and a dash of criminal intrigue, it’s a treat hard to resist. If you’re already hooked, dive into The Impossible Fortune or catch the Netflix adaptation. If you’re curious but cautious, try the audiobook for an easier start.

FAQs

Are the books best enjoyed in sequence?

Yes. Each book builds on character relationships and backstory, making the earlier entries richer rather than skippable.

Is the Netflix film faithful to the books?

It captures the tone and characters, though adaptations often streamline plots. Fans say the chemistry and setting shine in any case .

What’s the easiest format to start with?

The audiobooks get high praise—voices help track characters, especially when the story floods names fast .

How many books are there so far?

Five books are out: from The Thursday Murder Club (2020) to The Impossible Fortune (2025). More are likely, and sequels are possible if the film succeeds .

What’s the secret to its charm?

It’s the contrast—the sharp minds of retirees solving mysteries with empathy, humor, unpredictability, and a cozy veneer that hides real depth.

Does the series explore serious themes?

Yes—aging, friendship, loss, and legacy. Crime is a vehicle for broader, emotionally resonant reflections, making it more than a whodunit.