Welcome to the sunnier side of crime fiction.

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!

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10 Highly Anticipated New Mystery and Thriller Books Releasing in June 2024

Mystery and thriller books, like summer, have a knack for making us suffer–and enjoy it. 

Let's Get Crafty: Read This Exciting Excerpt of Crafting With Slander

The third book in the Gasper's Cove Mystery Series has everything a cozy mystery needs: corrupt politicians, murder, and crafts. 

Unlikely Sleuths: 8 Mysteries with Unconventional Crime Solvers  

Not your typical Sherlock Holmes, but they can crack the case.

These Sporty Cozy Mysteries Hit it Out of the Park

These detectives will try anything before throwing in the towel. 

13 Charmingly Cozy Irish Mysteries

These sleuths will need the luck of the Irish.

Why We Still Love Nancy Drew 

On our favorite girl-sleuth's enduring legacy.

Cozy Mysteries with Crafty Components

This cozy mystery roundup has sleuths that love to knit, quilt, scrapbook—when they're not solving crime. 

8 Delightfully Cozy Hannah Swensen Mystery Movies

Cracking murder cases and eggs in these Hannah Swenson mysteries.

The Legacy of Charlotte MacLeod, the Mistress of the Cozy Mystery

Your guide to the international bestselling mystery author’s greatest novels.