17 Cozy Mysteries To Read That'll Make You Feel Like You Could Solve A Murder

*Puts on detective cap.*

As a reader, I'm a little too soft for true crime. But I do like to play detective every once in a while, so when I discovered the cozy mystery genre, I was all too ready to don my Sherlock Holmes cap.

Warner Bros. Pictutres

Usually set in charming places, these stories follow an amateur sleuth (with a pet in tow) as they get entangled in a murder and have to solve the crime. I know, I know... How can crime be cozy? Well, I asked Goodreads to share some of the faves in the genre so you'll just have to read one of the books below to find out!

1. Killer Content by Olivia Blacke

Berkley

What it's about: New York transplant Odessa is adjusting to her new life and summer job in Brooklyn when a fellow waitress's murder is captured in the background of a viral video. Though the cops have dismissed the case as an accident, Odessa knows better and sets out to find the truth...finding trouble along the way.

A promising review: "Ms. Blacke is an amazingly talented author because the realistic, snarky, vivid depictions of Brooklyn and her reflections of the artistic, complex, intense, entertaining mosaic of its hipster universe were strict, to-the-point definitions. Her perspective is so genuine, true, and smart just like her MC Odessa’s characterization." —Nilufer Ozmekik

2. A Deadly Inside Scoop by Abby Collette

Berkley

What it's about: Bronwyn Crewse returns to her small hometown of Chagrin Falls, Ohio, to help run her family's ice cream shop and bring it back to its former glory. Ahead of the grand re-opening, Win meets a man with a complicated connection to her family...later discovering his dead body in the snow. She finds herself embedded in the case; but when her own father becomes a primary suspect, she takes matters into her own hands to find the real killer.

A promising review: "Readers who enjoy cozy mysteries, culinary mysteries, ice cream (!), and culturally diverse characters will enjoy this first in a series." —Esme Addison

3. Mimi Lee Gets a Clue by Jennifer J. Chow

Berkley

What it's about: There are two things to know about Mimi Lee: She runs a pet grooming shop in Los Angeles called Hollywoof and she has a talking cat named Marshmallow. When Marshmallow reveals that local breeder Russ Nolan has been mistreating dogs, Mimi goes to give him a piece of her mind. The next day, he turns up dead. As the police's main suspect, Mimi works to clear her name, even enlisting the help of her cute neighbor Josh. But two animal lovers and a talking cat aren't a traditional crime-fighting team.

A promising review: "Mimi Lee Gets A Clue is a delightful book. Full of humor, memorable characters, and lovable animals, this fast-paced story kept me entertained from beginning to end. Add in a mystery that keeps you wondering, and Chow's new series becomes the perfect pick for cozy fans." —Marla Bradeen

4. Arsenic and Adobo by Mia P. Manansala

Berkley

What it's about: After breaking up with her food critic ex, Lila Macapagal moves back home to recover, helping to save her aunt's failing restaurant while she's there. When her ex turns up dead moments after a heated confrontation with him, Lila becomes the primary suspect. Determined to clear her name, Lila — with the help of her matchmaking aunts, barista best friend, and adorable dachshund — does whatever she has to do to solve the case.

A promising review: "I’m giving my five gazillion, family bonds, true friendship, mouthwatering dishes, riveting mystery, best characters, perfect multicultural representation stars! This is one of the best of best reads I’ve recently had! I highly recommend to all readers who are big fans of feel-good fictions, laugh-out-loud dark comedies, and 'unputdownable' cozy mysteries! This is FREAKING AWESOME!" —Nilufer Ozmekik

Get it May 4.

5. Dial A for Aunties by Jesse Q Sutanto

Berkely

What it's about: Blind dates are usually bad but when Meddelin Chan accidentally kills hers, things go from bad to worse. Her mom and meddling aunts help her get rid of the body, but things go awry and it's mistakenly shipped in a cake cooler to the site of the wedding Meddelin and her family are working at later that week. To make matters even more complicated, Meddy's long-lost love turns up as a guest. In one weekend, Meddy and her aunts have to try to evade murder chargers, pull off a high-class wedding, and get Meddy's ex to fall back in love with her.

A promising review: "What a ride. Dial A for Aunties has redefined what 'page-turner' means to me. Without even realizing it, I was 84% in, gripping my stomach from laughing too hard and extremely eager to reach the conclusion. If you're in the mood for laugh-out-loud humor, unprecedented mayhem (involving meddlesome family members and over-the-top drama), and delightful twists and turns at every corner, I highly recommend Dial A for Aunties." —Shealea

Get it April 27.

6. Killer Chardonnay by Kate Lansing

Berkley

What it's about: Parker Valentine's dream of opening her own winery in her hometown of Boulder, Colorado, has finally come true. When a critic shows up unexpectedly, she's worried that it'll put a damper on her opening day. However, a bad review turns out to be the least of her problems when the critic drops dead...right after tasting her chardonnay. #Killerchardonnay starts trending all across social media, so Parker decides to investigate what really happened before her dream starts to circle the bottom of the barrel.

A promising review: "Killer Chardonnay has all the elements of an excellent cozy mystery: a twisty plot that keeps you guessing, plenty of intrigue, a protagonist you want to cheer for, and the all-important surprise factor. The writing is superb, easy-flowing like the delicious wines described in the book. This book hit so many notes for me: what it takes to pursue a dream, family situations, romance, and delightful extras at the end that are absolutely brilliant!" —Anita Kushwaha

7. From Beer to Eternity by Sherry Harris

Kensington

What it's about: Keeping a promise she made to her late best friend Boone, Chicago librarian Chloe Jackson temporarily moves to Emerald Clove, Florida, to look after his grandmother. She expects to find a slow, frail retiree, but instead discovers a feisty bar owner named Vivi. When Vivi gets into an argument with an unruly customer — and his dead body is found behind the bar hours later — she becomes the primary suspect. If Vivi is sent to jail, Chloe would be breaking her promise to Boone, so she takes it upon herself to find the real killer...discovering that the little beach town is full of secrets.

A promising review: "I thought this was a charming and entertaining read. I enjoyed the writing style, the characters, the plot, and the setting. Chloe was a very enjoyable character. She was smart, caring, down-to-earth, and strong. I felt an instant connection to her and was rooting for her. The mystery was well crafted, with plenty of twists and red herrings to keep you engaged and guessing until the exciting reveal. This is a delightful cozy mystery, with a touch of humor, an intriguing and enjoyable cast of characters, and a gorgeous setting." —Natalia R.

8. A Sprinkling of Murder by Daryl Wood Gerber

Kensington

What it's about: Courtney has loved fairies ever since she was a little girl, but lost the magic in her life when her mom died. Now, almost 20 years ago, Courtney has rediscovered her love, opening a fairy garden business and tea shop in beautiful Carmel, California. When the business owner next door turns up dead near one of her fountains, Courtney finds herself the prime suspect and works to clear her name — with the help of a long-lost fairy friend.

A promising review: "A fairy garden/tea shop makes for a unique backdrop, and Gerber grabs every bit of whimsy from it that she can. Cute garden scenes crash against a broader murder investigation, though, and the result is a heightened sense of tension. Adorable fairies might be frolicking in a garden, but that doesn’t mean danger isn’t lurking around every corner. Add in numerous suspects, a few red herrings, and some enchanted investigating, and the result is a well-rounded, fun mystery." —Christopher

9. Poisoned Primrose by Dahlia Donovan

Tangled Tree Publishing

What it's about: On the brink of 40, autistic and asexual Pineapple “Motts” Mottley is craving the quaint life of a small village. When she inherits a cottage in Cornwall, Motts — with her cat and pet turtle in tow — moves in and revamps the garden...when a body of a missing local is discovered buried underneath. Curiosity piqued, she finds herself in entangled in the case beside Teo, the handsome detective. But when they get close to discovering the truth, the killer sets their sights on Motts...

A promising review: "Poisoned Primrose is that perfect little novel one could enjoy on a rainy afternoon with a hot cup of tea. It’s a delightful morsel that left me eager to see more of the marvelous cast of characters who inhabit the quaint little town. I look forward to Motts’ next adventure." —Joyfully Jay

10. To Kill a Mocking Girl by Harper Kincaid

Crooked Lane Books

What it's about: When Quinn Victoria returns to her hometown of Vienna, Virginia, to work as a bookbinder in her family's bookshop, she never expects to run into her ex-boyfriend or his new fiancée — her high school nemesis Tricia. She also never expects to find Tricia dead in the street...or to be a suspect in her murder. Her feelings about Tricia aside, she was a Vienna local and Quinn won't settle for someone taking down a member of their community. With the help of her cousin-turned-nun Sister Daria and her brother's hot best friend Detective Harrington, Quinn takes on the case.

A promising review: "I found this book to be an engaging read and hard to put down. Full of wonderful characters — and dogs — the town comes to life between the pages, and we have fun solving the mystery alongside Quinn and co. I will definitely be on the lookout for the next book in the series and I have no hesitation in recommending it to all lovers of cozy mysteries." —Kylie D.

11. Hems & Homicide by Elizabeth Penney

St. Martin's Press

What it's about: After the death of her beloved grandfather, Iris Buckley returns to her Maine hometown to help her grandmother bring her apron shop into the 21st century. But the discovery of remains in the basement — ones Iris recognizes — plus a fresh murder of the corrupt landlord of their building, puts those plans on hold. When her grandmother becomes a prime suspect, Iris enlists the help of her best friend and high school crush to solve the crime.

A promising review: "The author did a great job in depicting the small town atmosphere without making the situations feel contrived. There are plenty of red herrings in the story line along with a fast pace. It was certainly an entertaining read. This book contains plenty of themes ranging from murder to family relationships, romantic relationships, small towns, business startups, friendship, and much more." —PamG

12. One Poison Pie by Lynn Cahoon

Kensington

What it's about: When kitchen witch Mia Malone finds herself suddenly single and unemployed, she ventures to her grandmother's Idaho hometown, where magic is an open secret and witches and warlocks roam free. She starts a catering business that seems promising, until the client — who happens to be her grandmother's best friend — is found murdered with one of Mia's kitchen knives. As if that wasn't bad enough, Mia is next on the killer's list. Solving a murder, while trying to prevent your own, is more challenging than she could've imagined.

A promising review: "One Poison Pie is absorbing, easy to read, and filled with captivating characters, a touch of the paranormal, and a location that would inspire anyone. As well as a mystery that most readers will not figure out until the end. In other words, precisely what you would expect from a cozy and an author of Lynn’s caliber. I am elated to have a new witch series to read from a writer I feel is one of the industry’s finest authors. I heartily recommend this book and series to readers who love kitchen witches who give you riddles, thrills, and savory pleasure." —The Cozy Review

13. A Glimmer of Death by Valerie Wilson Wesley

Kensington

What it's about: Odessa Jones' empathic abilities have always helped her but they didn't prepare for her to lose her beloved husband or their business. Now a widow seeking work, she takes a job at a shady real estate firm with a piece of work boss and coworkers who loathe him. When her boss turns up dead, everyone becomes a suspect and...Dessa becomes a target.

A promising review: "You know that feeling when you get to the end of a really good book and you kinda smile to yourself, with pleasure or joy or simple contentment? That's this book. I loved it and will now go find everything else Valerie Wilson Wesley has ever written. This was a wonderful read!" —Julie Butcher

14. A Side of Murder by Amy Pershing

Berkley

What it's about: After her feud with her rival goes viral, chef Samantha Barnes needs to lie low so she leaves New York and heads to her great-aunt Ida's house in Cape Cod. But the house is falling apart and comes with a giant puppy that keeps her distracted from her new food critic gig. Not to mention her boss is difficult and her first love has reappeared as the town's new harbormaster. When a body is found floating in the pond outside a local eatery, it's written off as an accident but Sam isn't convinced. But digging into a murder proves to be a recipe for disaster.

A promising review: "Hooked! Wonderful characters and intriguing mystery. I recommend this book for those who love a mystery rooted in a fully realized place (rural Cape Code), with interesting characters who surround the mystery, and crisp, insightful writing! Oh, and fun cooking tips!" —Chloe Berger

15. Farm to Trouble by Amanda Flower

Poisoned Pen Press

What it's about: When Shiloh Bellamy leaves her big city job to help save her family's farm, she knows she has her work cut out for her. But, throw in the murder of their new investor and people pointing fingers at her dad? Well, that's nearly impossible. Still, failure is not an option; so despite her meddling family and an investigation that's working against her, she sets out to discover the truth to save her family, their farm, and her dreams.

A promising review: "I have to say I really loved the mystery in this book. The characters were developed and I loved getting to know them. I did not want to put this book down! I also love the farm parts of this book, and there were twists and turns that I didn't see coming. I cannot wait for the second book in this series! —Tina

16. Murder by Page One by Olivia Matthews

Hallmark

What it's about: When Marvey moves from Brooklyn to Georgia as a library's new community coordinator, she expects the sleepy, slow-paced life of the South. But when an author turns up missing at a bookstore event — and when their body is later discovered in the storage room— things pick up quickly. With no outside access into the store, there's a killer among them and Marvey uses her in-depth knowledge of crime novels to solve the case.

A promising review: "I loved this story from page one, and I'm not just saying that as an avid lover of books. Besides the gripping mystery throughout, the clever twists and turns were master class and had me on the edge of my seat. Also, it's been a while since I couldn't put a book down. Folks, you won't be able to put down this one. Make this book a must for your to-read lists!" —Kristin

17. Dogged by Death by Laura Scott

Crooked Lane Books

What it's about: After losing her fiancé, veterinary clinic, and life's savings, there's nothing keeping Ally Winter from relocating to her hometown of Willow Bluff, Wisconsin, to care for her grandfather after his hip surgery. When the local, sleazy lawyer is found murdered — with the only witness being his adorable boxer — Ally's true crime–loving grandpa tries to solve the case. Ally reluctantly agrees to assist him, not wanting to get tangled up in a murder...or with the detective on the case, who just so happens to be her high school crush.

A promising review: "An excellent read. Lovable characters. Great small town. Believable story line. Loved the "old friends become new friends" vibe. Warm, cozy read. And the animals were a wonderful addition to the story." —Polly Helms

Available July 13.

Which one are you going to read? Have a favorite cozy mystery not on the list? Tell us in the comments!