If you’re interested in modern crime fiction with heart, humour, and clever plots, looking into the order of Richard Osman books is a great place to start. Richard Osman, a British author and television personality, has become a bestselling writer known for his cosy yet sharp mystery novels. His stories often feature engaging characters, witty banter, and plot twists that appeal to a wide range of readers, especially fans of classic detective fiction with a modern twist. Osman’s most popular books fall within the Thursday Murder Club series, which follows a group of four retirees solving realworld mysteries from their retirement village. Beyond this series, Osman has also written standalone fiction and contributed to triviastyle nonfiction books early in his career. Understanding the reading order and the themes of each book can enhance your experience, whether you’re new to his work or expanding your collection. Here’s a comprehensive look at his books and the order in which they were published.
Who Is Richard Osman?
Richard Osman is a British author, television presenter, and former quiz show host best known for his work on popular TV programmes before becoming a novelist. He made a dramatic entrance into fiction in 2020 with his debut novel, The Thursday Murder Club, which quickly became a global bestseller and set the stage for a beloved mystery series. His writing is often described as cosy mystery with a witty and warm tone, blending characterdriven storytelling with puzzles and overarching themes about friendship, ageing, and community. Over the years, Osman’s novels have attracted a dedicated readership and achieved commercial success around the world.
The Thursday Murder Club Series
The Thursday Murder Club series is Richard Osman’s signature work and is regarded as essential reading for fans of his fiction. The books follow four friends Elizabeth, Joyce, Ibrahim, and Ron who live in the peaceful retirement community of Coopers Chase and meet every Thursday to discuss cold cases. Their weekly hobby turns into real sleuthing when they find themselves entwined in actual crimes, using their varied skills and experience to help solve them.
1. The Thursday Murder Club (2020)
This is the first book in the Thursday Murder Club series and Osman’s debut novel. Readers are introduced to the four central characters who, frustrated with retirement, decide to investigate unsolved crimes. Their first big case arrives when a local property developer is found murdered, setting the tone for the gentle humour and clever plotting that define the series. This book blends elements of traditional detective fiction with heartfelt character moments, making it a standout beginning to the series.
2. The Man Who Died Twice (2021)
The second installment continues the adventures of the Thursday Murder Club. In this book, the club is pulled into a highstakes case involving stolen diamonds and secret identities. The story expands on the characters’ personal lives while upping the stakes with more complex mysteries and new dangers lurking around every corner.
3. The Bullet That Missed (2022)
The third novel brings another mystery to the doorstep of the Coopers Chase retirees. This time, a cold case involving a missing TV journalist draws the group back into action. With layered plotlines and Osman’s signature humour, this book further explores the dynamics of the main quartet while delivering a satisfying and engaging whodunit.
4. The Last Devil to Die (2023)
In the fourth book, the Thursday Murder Club faces a new challenge that tests their trust in themselves and each other. It continues to blend suspense, wit, and emotional depth. The group’s chemistry and resilience remain at the forefront, while the plot unfolds with unexpected twists and turns that keep readers guessing.
5. The Impossible Fortune (2025)
The fifth book in the series, The Impossible Fortune, is scheduled for publication in 2025 and continues the mysteries surrounding the Thursday Murder Club. Early information suggests that the group deals with new puzzles involving highstakes situations and their characteristic blend of charm, cleverness, and observant eyes for details. This upcoming installment will likely expand the series’ themes while offering fresh challenges for the beloved characters.
Standalone and Other Works
In addition to the Thursday Murder Club series, Osman has diversified his catalogue with other fiction and nonfiction works. These books showcase different aspects of his writing style and interests beyond his most famous characters.
We Solve Murders (2024)
This standalone novel, published in 2024, introduces a fresh pair of protagonists Steve Wheeler, a former investigator, and his daughterinlaw Amy Wheeler, a private security professional. Together, they encounter a mysterious body and a bag of money that draws them into a globespanning mystery. While different from the Thursday Murder Club style, this book still contains Osman’s trademark humour and engaging plotting, making it appealing to fans of detective fiction.
NonFiction and Early Works
Before focusing on murder mysteries, Osman coauthored several nonfiction books, often linked to his television career. These books often revolve around trivia, cultural commentary, and challenge readers’ knowledge in playful ways. Examples include books about quirky topics, collections of questions, and humorous takes on everyday curiosities. These works reflect Osman’s background in quiz shows and his broad appeal to readers who enjoy both fun facts and thoughtful insights.
Reading the Books in Order
For new readers, following Richard Osman books in order especially within the Thursday Murder Club series can enhance the experience. Each book builds on the characters’ relationships, introduces new recurring figures, and deepens the overarching narrative about community, aging, friendship, and mystery solving. Although each novel features its own selfcontained mystery, reading them sequentially allows readers to appreciate character development and recurring themes more fully.
Why Order Matters
Reading the Thursday Murder Club books in order is recommended because character arcs continue across the series, and major events sometimes reference past novels. While standalone novels like We Solve Murders and earlier nonfiction works can be read independently, the main series benefits from chronological reading. Starting with The Thursday Murder Club and progressing through the sequels provides context, enhances emotional investment, and reveals patterns in storytelling that reward longterm readers.
Popularity and Impact
Richard Osman’s books, particularly the Thursday Murder Club series, have achieved significant popularity worldwide, with international bestseller status and wide readership. The series has resonated with readers of all ages, partly due to its focus on older protagonists who defy stereotypes and take centre stage in clever mysteries. Critics and fans alike praise Osman for his engaging prose, warm characterisation, and ability to balance humour with serious themes. The books are also being adapted into other media formats, helping expand their reach and influence even further.
Why Readers Love These Books
- Memorable Characters The core quartet of retirees are relatable, funny, and complex, making readers care about their journeys.
- Blended Genres Osman mixes cosy mystery with thoughtful reflections on life, aging, and community.
- Accessible Writing His stories are easy to read, with engaging pacing and clever plotting.
- Humour and Heart The books balance tension with wit and compassion, appealing to a broad audience.
Exploring the order of Richard Osman books reveals a rich tapestry of mystery, humour, and characterdriven storytelling that has captured the hearts of many readers around the world. Starting with The Thursday Murder Club and progressing through its sequels offers a rewarding journey into a cosy yet cleverly plotted series. Alongside this, standalone works like We Solve Murders and Osman’s early nonfiction contributions showcase his versatility as a writer. Whether you’re an avid mystery reader or looking for a new series to dive into, Richard Osman’s books provide an enjoyable and engaging reading experience filled with charming characters, intriguing puzzles, and thoughtful exploration of human themes.