Step into the cozy yet thrilling world of the Thursday Murder Club, where four spirited retirees turn their retirement village into a hotbed of mystery-solving! Written by British TV presenter Richard Osman, this bestselling murder mystery series blends wit, warmth, and clever plots, proving that age is no barrier to adventure. With Elizabeth, Joyce, Ron, and Ibrahim at the helm, the series has charmed readers worldwide with its heartwarming take on friendship and sleuthing.
Unlike typical crime novels, the Thursday Murder Club offers a refreshing twist: its heroes are septuagenarians who refuse to let retirement slow them down. From unraveling cold cases to tackling real-time murders, this quartet brings humor and wisdom to every page, making it a must-read for fans of cozy mysteries and sharp storytelling.
How the Thursday Murder Club Began
The Thursday Murder Club sprang from an unexpected source: a visit by Richard Osman to an upscale retirement village. Inspired by the vibrant community and its residents’ zest for life, Osman crafted his debut novel in secret over 18 months. Published in 2020 by Penguin Random House, the first book sparked a 10-way publishing auction, becoming the fastest-selling adult crime debut in UK history. Osman’s background in television, hosting shows like Pointless, infused the series with sharp dialogue and a knack for engaging audiences.
The Heart of the Thursday Murder Club
The series follows four retirees in the luxurious Cooper’s Chase retirement village in Kent: Elizabeth, a former spy; Joyce, a perceptive ex-nurse; Ron, a fiery ex-union leader; and Ibrahim, a thoughtful retired psychiatrist. The first book, The Thursday Murder Club (2020), sees them investigating a developer’s murder, weaving secrets and surprises. The Man Who Died Twice (2021) dives into diamond theft and betrayal, while The Bullet That Missed (2022) tackles a cold case turned deadly. The Last Devil to Die (2023) explores loss and antiques smuggling, with a fifth book, The Impossible Fortune, set for 2025.
The series shines through its themes of friendship, resilience, and defying ageist stereotypes. Osman’s cozy yet clever style balances laugh-out-loud moments with poignant reflections on aging and loss, set against the idyllic yet deceptive Kent countryside. Fans love the character-driven plots, where each retiree’s unique skills—Elizabeth’s cunning, Joyce’s quiet insight—drive the story, making every book a delightful puzzle.
Why the Thursday Murder Club Resonates
The Thursday Murder Club has redefined cozy mysteries, blending Agatha Christie-esque plotting with modern humor and emotional depth. Its global success—over two million copies sold by 2021 and a New York Times bestseller—stems from its relatable characters and universal themes. The series has inspired a Netflix film adaptation, with stars like Helen Mirren and Pierce Brosnan, and a stage play, cementing its cultural impact. Readers of all ages connect with its message: life’s adventures don’t end with retirement.
- About Thursday Murder Club
- Publication Years: 2020–2023 (fifth book in 2025)
- Number of Books: 4 (plus 1 upcoming)
- Awards: Shortlisted for the British Book Awards Crime & Thriller Book of the Year 2021
- Adaptations: Netflix film in production, stage play announced
Grab The Thursday Murder Club and dive into a world of cozy mysteries, clever twists, and unforgettable characters! Whether you’re a seasoned sleuth or new to the genre, Osman’s series will leave you smiling and guessing until the last page.