Monthly Themed Reading List: Cozy Mystery Book Recommendations

Do you like reading lists? Each month in 2025, I am posting a monthly themed reading list, and this month is all about cozy mystery book recommendations (I know, you’re surprised!). If you’re a fan of charming small towns, quirky characters, and just the right amount of suspense, cozy mysteries are the perfect genre to dive into.

Whether you love cozy bakeries, quirky detectives, or scenic locales, this month’s reading list has a selection that will keep you entertained and relaxed. Cozies are my “thing,” as you might know. Here are ten cozy mysteries to curl up with for a delightful escape.

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Cozy Mystery Book Recommendations

More cozy mystery book recommendations

“Death by Darjeeling” by Laura Childs

• Setting: Charleston, South Carolina
• Protagonist: Theodosia Browning, tea shop owner
• Why Read It: In this delightful series, Theodosia Browning runs a tea shop while unraveling a mystery involving murder. This cozy read is filled with vibrant Southern charm and the comforting allure of tea culture, making it a great pick for tea lovers and fans of lighthearted mysteries.
• Themes: Tea culture, Southern hospitality, friendships

“A Cajun Christmas Killing” by Ellen Byron

• Setting: Pelican, Louisiana
• Protagonist: Maggie Crozat, a Louisiana innkeeper and amateur detective
• Why Read It: Set in a charming Southern town during the holiday season, this cozy mystery mixes a festive atmosphere with an intriguing murder. Maggie Crozat, an innkeeper with a knack for solving crimes, finds herself investigating a Christmas killing amidst family drama and the holiday spirit.
• Themes: Family secrets, holiday charm, Southern life

“The Cat Who Could Read Backwards” by Lilian Jackson Braun

• Setting: Moose County, USA
• Protagonist: Jim Qwilleran, a journalist, and his cat, Koko
• Why Read It: A perfect blend of mystery and humor, this classic series features a quirky journalist and his clever cat, Koko, as they investigate mysterious deaths. The gentle tone and amusing interactions between the characters will keep you smiling as you solve the mystery alongside them.
• Themes: Humor, animal companions, small-town life

“Pushing Up Daisies” by M.C. Beaton

• Setting: The Scottish Highlands
• Protagonist: Hamish Macbeth, a police constable
• Why Read It: This series follows the witty and endearing Hamish Macbeth as he solves mysteries in the picturesque Scottish Highlands. The quirky characters and beautiful setting make this a perfect read for anyone who loves cozy small-town mysteries with a bit of humor and charm.
• Themes: Rural life, quirky characters, humor

“The Christmas Cookie Mystery” by Leslie Meier

(on Kindle Unlimited)

• Setting: Tinker’s Cove, Maine
• Protagonist: Lucy Stone, a reporter and amateur detective
• Why Read It: Set against a snowy New England backdrop, this holiday-themed mystery revolves around the murder of a Christmas cookie contest judge. As Lucy Stone investigates, readers are treated to a cozy setting, festive spirit, and a delightful mix of family and mystery.
• Themes: Holiday spirit, family dynamics, festive intrigue

“The Body in the Library” by Agatha Christie

• Setting: A country estate in England
• Protagonist: Miss Marple
• Why Read It: Another classic Miss Marple mystery, this one involves a body found in the library of a peaceful country estate. With Miss Marple’s keen eye for detail and her ability to uncover hidden secrets, this book will keep you guessing until the very end.
• Themes: Secrets, hidden motives, the complexities of social life

Cozy up with these mysteries

What is your favorite in this month’s list of cozy mystery book recommendations? They offer a variety of intriguing, heartwarming, and suspenseful stories. Whether you’re drawn to the charm of a Southern tea shop, a cozy English village, or a quiet Quebecois town, these books provide the perfect blend of mystery, charm, and comfort.

Some of my personal favorites include Kate Carlisle, known for her Fixer-Upper Mystery series, which combines renovation with a side of murder; Amanda Flower, whose Farm to Table series offers a delightful mix of farming, small-town charm, and intrigue; and Krista Davis, who brings a touch of whimsy to the cozy mystery world with her Domestic Diva Mystery series.

Whether you’re solving crimes alongside an amateur sleuth or savoring festive mysteries, these authors will ensure your reading adventures are full of mystery, warmth, and just the right amount of suspense. Grab your favorite blanket and enjoy a cozy reading escape this month.

Happy reading!

Read What is a Cozy Mystery, then follow me on Pinterest, Facebook, and Instagram, and subscribe to my newsletter to keep up with news about my book and any special offers! Be sure you grab your FREE 10-step checklist to plan your novel when you subscribe!

Hi, I’m Jen! I’ve been married for over 37 years, have 5 amazing kids, and have 3 adorable grandkids. I homeschooled our three youngest children and used to blog about homeschooling. I also taught Oral Communication as an adjunct instructor for over 5 years.

Jen Dodrill Writes is born of a passion of mine – to write a novel! My first cozy mystery – Birds Alive! – released Feb. 27, 2024!

When I’m not working, you’ll find me writing, spending time with my family, or curled up on the couch reading and drinking a mug of dark roast coffee. (Don’t forget to check out my mug shop – JDMugs!)