Cozy mysteries offer a unique blend of intrigue and comfort. Typically set in small towns or close-knit communities, they feature amateur sleuths, minimal explicit violence or gore, and a focus on puzzle-solving and character relationships.
Whether you're new to the genre or looking for your next charming read, here are 20 authors whose works capture the spirit of cozy mysteries, ranging from foundational classics to modern favorites:
Agatha Christie is a master at mystery storytelling. If you’re new to her work, a good start might be “Murder on the Orient Express.” The famous detective Hercule Poirot boards a luxurious train headed across Europe.
During the journey, someone commits murder, and the train stops because of heavy snow. With nowhere to go, Poirot begins questioning passengers, each of whom has something to hide.
Christie builds suspicion carefully in a puzzle that keeps readers guessing until the surprising final discovery. If you enjoy cleverly constructed mysteries, Christie’s unique talent is worth exploring.
Dorothy L. Sayers is an English author who created clever and stylish mysteries featuring detective Lord Peter Wimsey. In her book “Whose Body?”, Wimsey investigates a strange murder where an unknown man is discovered dead in a bathtub, wearing nothing but a pair of glasses.
Wimsey sorts through various clues and curious details to uncover the truth behind the crime. The story has an engaging plot, witty dialogue, and well-crafted characters that make it enjoyable to read.
Dorothy L. Sayers’ books are perfect for readers who appreciate cozy mysteries with clever puzzles and charming detectives.
Ngaio Marsh is a mystery writer from New Zealand known for her detective novels featuring Chief Inspector Roderick Alleyn. Her book, “A Man Lay Dead,” introduces readers to Alleyn as he investigates a murder that happens during a weekend party at a large country house.
The event’s highlight is a murder game, but the entertainment turns serious when they discover a real murder. The charm in Marsh’s stories comes from Alleyn’s calm and intellectual approach, carefully solving crimes by considering both facts and human nature.
If you enjoy classic detective stories with clever puzzles and well-drawn characters, Ngaio Marsh’s work could be a great addition to your reading list.
Margery Allingham is an English author known for her cozy mysteries featuring detective Albert Campion. Her novel “The Crime at Black Dudley” introduces readers to Campion in a secluded countryside manor filled with eccentric guests.
The story unfolds during a mysterious game involving a sinister dagger, when an actual murder happens. Campion, a clever and charming detective, slowly uncovers hidden secrets among the guests.
The manor’s isolated setting, quirky characters, and clever puzzle-solving create a relaxed yet intriguing atmosphere perfect for cozy mystery fans. Allingham’s storytelling is witty and inviting, making it easy to get absorbed into Campion’s adventure.
Joanne Fluke is an author known for cozy mysteries filled with warmth and tasty desserts. Her popular series begins with “Chocolate Chip Cookie Murder,” where readers meet Hannah Swensen, owner of The Cookie Jar bakery in a small Minnesota town.
When she discovers a delivery man murdered behind her shop, Hannah decides to investigate the crime herself. This mystery combines amateur detective work with tempting cookie recipes woven into the story.
Readers who enjoy charming towns, approachable characters and delicious culinary scenes often find Joanne Fluke’s mysteries enjoyable and comforting.
Alexander McCall Smith is a writer known for cozy mysteries full of warmth and humor. His book “The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency” introduces Precious Ramotswe, a patient and kind woman who opens Botswana’s first female detective agency.
She solves small-town mysteries and puzzles using common sense and her understanding of human nature. The cases range from people who have gone missing to suspicion of deceitful husbands, but there’s always a gentle simplicity to her work.
The story paints a cheerful picture of life in Botswana, highlighting the wisdom and cleverness of its main character. Readers who enjoy cozy mysteries with heartwarming stories about everyday situations might enjoy discovering McCall Smith’s detective adventures.
Rhys Bowen writes historical mysteries that are engaging and filled with interesting characters. One of her notable books is “Her Royal Spyness.”
The story is set in 1930s London and revolves around Lady Georgiana, a young woman who is 34th in line to the throne but doesn’t have much money or freedom.
When she’s asked by the queen herself to spy on a potential scandal, Georgiana must juggle royal duties, money troubles, and unexpected mysteries. Bowen’s writing is witty and fun, and she brings the era to life with great detail.
This book gives readers a vivid look at royal life mixed with an enjoyable mystery to solve.
If you’re curious about cozy mysteries with themes around tea, crafts or cooking, Laura Childs is an author who delivers enjoyable, comfortable reads. Her book “Death by Darjeeling” introduces readers to Theodosia Browning, owner of the Indigo Tea Shop in Charleston.
During an elegant garden event, one of the guests is discovered dead, and suspicion soon falls on her establishment’s teas. To protect her reputation and clear her name, Theodosia investigates the murder herself.
The story mixes charming neighborhood characters, friendly dialogue and intrigue against the background of Charleston’s historic cityscape. Readers interested in cozy mysteries set in inviting, community-focused environments may enjoy exploring Laura Childs’ Tea Shop mysteries.
Ellery Adams writes cozy mysteries filled with intriguing details and engaging characters. In “The Secret, Book & Scone Society,” readers meet Nora Pennington, a bookstore owner with a unique talent for recommending the perfect book to heal someone’s emotional wounds.
Set in the small town of Miracle Springs, the story follows Nora as she teams up with three new friends to solve the suspicious death of a visiting businessman. Each woman shares her own secret, which adds depth to their friendship and draws the reader closer.
Adams creates a warm atmosphere in her bookshop setting, filled with mystery, friendship and comforting descriptions of books and pastries. Readers who enjoy cozy mysteries set in charming small towns will find much to appreciate in Ellery Adams’ novels.
Lilian Jackson Braun is an author known for her cozy, entertaining mysteries featuring charming characters and clever storylines.
Her series “The Cat Who Could Read Backwards” introduces Jim Qwilleran, a reporter who moves to a small town and teams up with his quirky Siamese cat Koko.
Soon after settling in, strange events begin happening around town, including a series of accidents involving local artists. As Qwilleran investigates, Koko’s unusual antics seem to hint at important clues.
Braun’s easygoing storytelling, wit, and memorable characters make her novels enjoyable and relaxing for mystery readers.
Nancy Atherton is known for her cozy mystery novels, especially her “Aunt Dimity” series.
In “Aunt Dimity’s Death,” the first book of the series, Lori Shepherd inherits a cottage from a woman named Dimity Westwood, whom Lori knew only from the bedtime stories her mother told her. Lori travels to England, and there she finds out Aunt Dimity was actually a real person.
She then discovers a diary that lets her communicate with Aunt Dimity, even after death. With the help of this unusual connection, Lori tries to uncover why Dimity wanted her to inherit the cottage and the secrets Dimity left behind.
The book balances hidden secrets, warm characters, and a gentle charm that make it an enjoyable read for lovers of cozy mysteries.
Susan Wittig Albert is known for her cozy mystery series “China Bayles Mysteries.” Her books follow China Bayles, a former lawyer who leaves behind her stressful career and opens an herb shop in a small Texas town.
In “Thyme of Death,” the first book of the series, China finds herself investigating the suspicious death of a close friend, who the police say committed suicide. China is convinced something isn’t right and begins asking questions in her small community.
Readers enjoy Albert’s realistic small-town characters, the inviting descriptions of herbs and gardening, and the thoughtful way China gradually uncovers the truth.
M.C. Beaton is an author known for her cozy and humorous mysteries set in charming British villages. Her popular series, “Agatha Raisin and the Quiche of Death,” introduces readers to Agatha Raisin, a retired PR executive who settles into village life in the Cotswolds.
After entering a village baking competition, she becomes a prime suspect when someone dies after eating her famously purchased quiche. As Agatha tries to clear her name, readers get a good mix of humor, mystery, and a glimpse into quirky village dynamics.
This engaging and funny story is great for anyone who likes amateur sleuths and lighthearted mysteries.
Rita Mae Brown is an author known for intriguing cozy mysteries featuring small towns and memorable characters. In her book “Wish You Were Here,” readers meet Mary Minor “Harry” Haristeen, a lively and curious postmistress in the tiny town of Crozet, Virginia.
When strange postcards addressed to murder victims start appearing at the post office, Harry finds herself caught in a puzzling investigation.
With the help of her clever pets, especially her intelligent cat, Mrs. Murphy, she seeks clues and encounters surprising secrets hidden beneath the surface of her quiet town. The characters and gentle humor make this cozy mystery one readers easily enjoy.
Jenn McKinlay writes cozy mysteries filled with humor and charming small-town settings. In “Books Can Be Deceiving,” the first book in her “Library Lover’s Mystery” series, readers meet Lindsey Norris, a librarian settling into her new role at Briar Creek’s public library.
When her best friend Beth becomes the prime suspect in a murder investigation, Lindsey must step in to clear Beth’s name. The search takes her through a close-knit community, colorful neighbors, and surprising twists.
McKinlay’s storytelling style is lighthearted, entertaining, and filled with dialogue that brings the townspeople’s personalities vividly to life. If you enjoy humorous, feel-good mysteries set around libraries and book lovers, Jenn McKinlay might soon become a favorite author.
Victoria Thompson is the author behind the cozy mystery series known as the “Gaslight Mysteries.” These stories take readers to late 19th-century New York City.
One book from the series, “Murder on Astor Place,” introduces Sarah Brandt, a midwife who finds herself involved in solving a murder case. It begins when a young woman from a prominent family is found dead in a boarding house.
Sarah teams up with Detective Sergeant Frank Malloy to uncover the truth. The book explores issues of social class, hidden family secrets and multiple suspects.
Readers who like historical settings and characters who rely on intuition and observation might enjoy Victoria Thompson’s cozy mysteries.
Donna Andrews writes cozy mysteries filled with humor and quirky characters. In her book “Murder with Peacocks,” Meg Langslow returns to her hometown to help plan three family weddings. Meg quickly finds herself juggling family drama and bridal chaos.
Then things become worse when an unpleasant guest turns up dead. Meg must figure out who among the wedding party could be a murderer, all while keeping the weddings from falling apart.
Andrews delivers lots of amusing moments along with the mystery, making the book entertaining and enjoyable until the final page.
Hannah Dennison writes cozy mysteries with a charming English backdrop and entertaining characters. In her book “Murder at Honeychurch Hall,” readers meet Kat Stanford. Kat is a former TV celebrity who decides to visit her mother in the countryside.
Upon arriving, Kat discovers her mother has bought an old carriage house on a sprawling estate. Soon after, Kat finds herself wrapped in village secrets, quirky neighbors, and an unexpected murder.
The story is full of twists and humor, set in the picturesque English countryside. This cozy mystery provides a mix of fun, suspense, and delightful characters that make you eager to read the whole series.
If you’re looking for mysteries that mix cozy charm with interesting characters, G.A. McKevett has a story worth picking up. “Just Desserts” introduces us to Savannah Reid, a spirited private investigator from Georgia who loves good food and solving crimes.
Savannah’s job gets tricky when she investigates the murder of a diet clinic owner known for her harsh methods and dangerous secrets. The plot moves quickly as Savannah handles suspects, unexpected clues, and the troubles of her own lively friends.
McKevett’s writing combines humor and warmth amid the suspense, making “Just Desserts” an enjoyable mystery you might want to explore.
Sherry Harris is a cozy mystery author known for her “Sarah Winston Garage Sale Mystery” series. Her book “Tagged for Death” introduces readers to Sarah Winston, a smart and resourceful woman who navigates life after a divorce by organizing garage sales.
The story takes place in the charming town of Ellington, Massachusetts. Things become complicated for Sarah when her ex-husband is accused of murder after his new girlfriend turns up dead.
Sarah finds herself in the middle of the investigation as she searches for clues among neighborhood yard sales. Harris creates a quirky and authentic small-town atmosphere with intriguing puzzles and relatable characters that keep readers engaged.