I am of course, referring to the phenomenon of cosy crime novels, not committing actual crimes! In cosy crime novels, everyday characters take on the role of investigators, solving crimes in smaller, close-knit communities. The focus is on the nuances of the investigation itself, rather than the explicit details of the crime.

When thinking of the best private investigator UK readers often conjure up images of Sherlock Holmes or Miss Marple. While these classic detectives have stood the test of time, there’s been a notable rise in the number of cosy crime and cosy mystery series available to readers today.

The cosy crime genre has also given rise to hybrids, such as cosy fantasy, which is becoming increasingly popular. Below, we explore why these genres are so appealing and where you can find some great series to get started.

Why Are Cosy Crime Novels So Popular?

The key appeal for many readers is that the action in cosy crime novels takes place largely off the page. While there may be smaller crimes unfolding as part of the plot, the major crime or mystery is never described in graphic detail.

Cosy crime novels steer clear of the violence, gore, or horror that are often present in mainstream crime and thriller books. When reading a cosy crime novel, you can almost imagine yourself delving into the works of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle or Agatha Christie.

Another reason for the growing popularity of cosy crime novels is their shorter length. These books can be enjoyed quickly, making them perfect for relaxation or a holiday read.

Typically set in small towns or rural communities, cosy crime novels often revolve around a local business owner or someone deeply rooted in the community. The core cast of characters is usually small, forming an investigative team that works either alongside or in spite of the local police force.

Where to Find Cosy Crime Novels

Cosy crime is still an emerging genre, so it might not always be listed in your local bookshop or library. However, if you’re intrigued by the genre, don’t be discouraged—there are thousands of cosy crime books out there waiting to be discovered.

One of the best aspects of this genre is that many cosy crime series are extensive, rather than stand-alone novels. Some of the most popular series have over twenty books, giving readers the opportunity to spend plenty of time with their favourite characters.

Finding cosy crime novels online is easy—simply search the internet for a list of series, or visit a website like Goodreads, which can recommend books by genre and show what your friends are reading.

Other platforms like The StoryGraph or the Libby library app will tailor suggestions based on your reading habits. Once you start exploring cosy crime novels, you’ll soon find yourself with plenty more recommendations to enjoy.