While many incredible mystery reads stray into a dark and gritty territory, some readers prefer a gentler touch. Cozy mysteries offer a more lighthearted approach to mystery novels, even if most of them still center around murder. The protagonists of these books are usually women, and their sleuthing is usually a hobby or side gig. Personal interest and drama is more heavily featured in these books, as they tend to try to make the story as accessible and relatable as possible.
The crimes in these novels all tie in to the investigator’s personal experience, whether they have a job as a librarian, chef, dog groomer, etc. The stories almost always take place in a small town, and a cast of quirky characters is guaranteed.
Whether you're new to the cozy scene or you'd just like to dive a bit deeper, here are some great places to start:
Be sure to browse the stories below for our eclectic collection of charming cozy mystery books!
What better way to celebrate a turn around the sun than…murder?
By Jena Brown
Moyes follows the loveable detective and his wife through nineteen riveting mysteries.
What a bright time, it’s the right time to read the night away…
Celebrate tradition with these Jewish mysteries.
These propulsive reads are the best gifts of all this holiday season.
By Kasey Noss
These cozy mystery series are still adding new books—and lucky for you, they've all come out in time for fall.
By Jena Brown
Halloween may be over, but the thrills live on.
By Kasey Noss
October just got a lot more mysterious.
By Kasey Noss
Don't have a clue where to start with Olivia Blacke? Search no further.
Time to hit the books.
By Jena Brown
Pack your spyglass with your sunscreen.
She may be an expert at tracking down antique books, but what about murderers?
Regardless, we enjoy every pun-chline.
These cozy hotel mysteries will make you think twice about booking your next vacation.
Fireworks are prettiest in the dark—and so is murder.
It's no mystery why her books are so well-loved.
Sometimes the only way to get out of trouble, is to get into it.
It really doesn't get much more Sicilian than this.
A story of disappearing teachers just in time for summer.
Mysteries, pageant queens, and psychic friends, oh my!