For readers who love their crimes gentle, their suspects quirky, and their stories served with a side of comfort
There’s something oddly comforting about a murder mystery that doesn’t keep you up at night with the horrors of crime, but instead invites you to sip on tea, curl up with a blanket, and solve a puzzle in the heart of a charming small town. That’s the beauty of cozy mystery books—they’re like a warm hug… with a body count. And if you’re someone who adores lighthearted mystery novels and cozy whodunnit books, this list is tailor-made for you.
Whether you’re new to the genre or a seasoned reader on the hunt for trending cozy mysteries 2025, here are 9 must-read cozy mysteries that balance the charm of quaint settings with the thrill of solving a murder. From cozy mysteries with recipes to cozy thrillers that keep things sweet yet suspenseful, we’ve got you covered.
So, grab a hot drink and let’s dive into the cozy crime novels that make murder feel… oddly delightful.
1. Arsenic and Adobo by Mia P. Manansala
Set in a Filipino family restaurant, this delicious debut kicks off with a murder that happens right at the dining table. When food critic (and ex-boyfriend) drops dead after eating Lila’s family’s food, she becomes the prime suspect.
This is one of those cozy mysteries with recipes that truly delivers on flavor—literally. Each chapter will leave you hungry, not just for the next clue but also for the next dish.
Why it feels like a hug with murder:
You get family banter, a small-town setting, hilarious aunties, and food that leaps off the page. Perfect for fans of cozy books for mystery lovers who also appreciate a solid cultural backdrop.
The book hits naturally:
One of the best cozy mysteries of recent years, Arsenic and Adobo is a staple in booktok cozy mysteries and a favorite among those searching for cozy fiction books that bring diversity and flavor to the genre.
2. The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman
Set in a sleepy retirement village in England, four pensioners with a flair for sleuthing meet every Thursday to solve cold cases… until a real one happens on their doorstep.
This title has earned its place on every list of cozy crime novels for its dry humor, charming characters, and surprisingly emotional depth. It’s not your average cozy mystery series, but it might just become your new favorite.
Why it feels like a hug with murder:
It’s clever, heartwarming, and full of delightful banter. You’ll want to join the club by the end.
Cozy mystery vibes:
With its gentle pacing and community-centered storytelling, it’s a shining example of gentle crime novels and a cozy whodunnit book done right.
3. A Deadly Inside Scoop by Abby Collette
Ice cream and intrigue—what’s not to love? This cozy mystery book stars Bronwyn Crewse, who reopens her family’s ice cream parlor in the middle of winter… only to find a body in the snow.
This is small town murder book perfection. Set in Ohio, it mixes family legacy, cold weather, and sweet treats with a dash of homicide.
Why it feels like a hug with murder:
The descriptions of homemade ice cream alone are comforting. Combine that with a heroine you root for and you’ve got the perfect blend of cozy and chilling.
Trending alert:
This book is rising fast among cozy mysteries trending in 2025 and is one of those cozy thrillers that keeps things PG but still totally gripping.
4. Books Can Be Deceiving by Jenn McKinlay
If you’re a librarian with a knack for solving crime (or wish you were), this one’s for you. The first in the Library Lover’s Mystery Series, this book introduces Lindsey Norris, who stumbles into a murder investigation when her friend is accused of killing her ex.
Books about books? Sign us up. This is a classic cozy mystery recommendation and a gentle reminder of why readers fall in love with cozy mystery series in the first place.
Why it feels like a hug with murder:
Because every scene practically smells like old books and coffee. It’s one of those amateur sleuth books that makes you want to visit your local library and ask for mystery recommendations.
5. Death by Dumpling by Vivien Chien
When a health inspector mysteriously dies after eating food from the Ho-Lee Noodle House, Lana Lee must clear her family restaurant’s name.
Set in a bustling Asian plaza, this mystery offers something unique: a fusion of modern life, cultural commentary, and a dash of romance. It’s a standout in cozy crime novels with bite (and dumplings).
Why it feels like a hug with murder:
Because nothing says comfort like noodles, meddling mothers, and the mystery of a poisoned dumpling.
Bonus points:
It fits right in with cozy mysteries trending, especially for readers craving diverse voices in the cozy mystery books genre.
6. Murder at the Vicarage by Agatha Christie
No list of murder cozy novels would be complete without Dame Christie herself. This book introduces Miss Marple—one of the original amateur sleuths and queen of gentle crime novels.
Set in the fictional village of St. Mary Mead, this is as cozy fiction as it gets—church gossip, nosy neighbors, and of course… a body in the vicar’s study.
Why it feels like a hug with murder:
Because it defined the genre. If you’re diving into cozy mystery recommendations, start here.
Classic meets current:
Even today, Murder at the Vicarage holds up and remains a blueprint for modern cozy books with murder.
7. Battered Women’s Club by Ellery Adams
This hidden gem in the cozy mystery books world stars a group of women who meet at a secret club—each recovering from abuse and betrayal—only to find themselves involved in murder investigations.
It’s empowering, gripping, and warm in a way that feels real and raw. It’s not your average cozy whodunnit book, but it checks all the boxes: tight friendships, small-town charm, and justice served.
Why it feels like a hug with murder:
Because it reminds you that strength, healing, and sleuthing go hand-in-hand.
New favorite:
It’s a rising star among trending cozy mysteries 2025 and deserves more love from fans of cozy thrillers.
8. The Secret, Book & Scone Society by Ellery Adams
A bookshop. Freshly baked scones. Women with secrets. And yes—a murder to solve.
This is the ultimate pick for fans of cozy fiction books and booktok cozy mysteries who want their stories to feel like therapy wrapped in mystery. Each woman in this book heals through community… and a shared mission to find a killer.
Why it feels like a hug with murder:
It’s soft, soulful, and sprinkled with cinnamon and secrets.
Don’t miss:
The included scone recipes make it one of the most beloved cozy mysteries with recipes out there.
9. A Murder is Announced by Agatha Christie
Yes, another Christie entry. But hear us out. A mysterious newspaper ad announces the time and place of a murder in a sleepy village—and everyone shows up to watch it happen.
This is a high point in cozy whodunnit books—smartly plotted, quietly thrilling, and absolutely brimming with charm.
Why it feels like a hug with murder:
Because even murder can’t disturb the ritual of tea and village gossip. This book feels like a masterclass in cozy mystery books and is perfect for those craving a satisfying puzzle.
Final Thoughts: Cozy Murders, Comfort Reads
The cozy mystery genre is a world of its own—a place where crime is never cruel, justice always prevails, and the heroine is usually an amateur sleuth with a cat, a baking obsession, or a nose for secrets. These stories don’t just entertain; they soothe. Whether you’re browsing for small town murder books or hunting for cozy mysteries trending on BookTok, there’s always a new title waiting to wrap you up in comfort and curiosity.
So next time someone asks, “Why do you like books with murder in them?”, just smile and say: “Because it makes the tea taste better.”
And if you’re looking for more cozy mystery recommendations, keep exploring articles like this one—written for Riya’s Blogs, where bookish hearts find their home.
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