We Solve Murders by Richard Osman

A Cozy Mystery with a Global Twist

You know that feeling when you settle into your favorite armchair, cup of tea in hand, ready to dive into a new mystery? That comforting sensation of familiarity mixed with the tingling anticipation of the unknown? Well, buckle up, because Richard Osman’s latest offering, “We Solve Murders,” takes that cozy feeling and sends it on a whirlwind adventure around the globe. It’s like your gran’s knitted sweater decided to go skydiving—unexpected, thrilling, and oddly comforting all at once.

From the Thursday Murder Club to… Tuesday? Wednesday? Who Knows!

Fans of Osman’s wildly popular Thursday Murder Club series might be wondering, “Has he abandoned our beloved pensioner sleuths?” Fear not, dear readers. While “We Solve Murders” introduces us to a fresh cast of characters, it carries the same warmth, wit, and clever plotting that made us fall in love with Joyce, Elizabeth, Ibrahim, and Ron.

But instead of staying put in a quaint English retirement village, Osman takes us on a globetrotting adventure that would make James Bond reach for his bus pass. It’s like he’s taken the DNA of a cozy mystery, spliced it with an international thriller, and created a chimera that somehow works brilliantly.

Meet the New Detectives on the Block

Steve Wheeler: The Reluctant Globetrotter

At the heart of this new series is Steve Wheeler, a retired detective who’s perfectly content with his quiet life in the New Forest. He’s the kind of bloke who thinks adventure is trying a new flavor of crisps at the pub quiz. Steve’s idea of excitement is finding a lost dog or catching someone nicking loo roll from the village shop.

But Osman has other plans for our Steve. Before he knows it, he’s whisked away from his comfortable routine and thrust into a world of private jets, luxury hotels, and international intrigue. It’s like watching your dad try to figure out Snapchat—equal parts endearing and hilarious.

Amy Wheeler: Action Woman Extraordinaire

If Steve is the tortoise in this story, his daughter-in-law Amy is definitely the hare—if the hare were ex-military and could disarm a bomb while doing a handstand. Amy is a private security officer with a penchant for danger and a talent for finding trouble. She’s the yang to Steve’s yin, the hot sauce to his mild cheddar.

Together, they form an unlikely duo that’s as mismatched as socks in a tumble dryer, but twice as entertaining. Their banter is sharp, their dynamic is heartwarming, and watching them navigate their relationship while trying to solve murders is a joy.

Rosie D’Antonio: The Wild Card

Rounding out our main trio is Rosie D’Antonio, a world-famous author with a flair for the dramatic and a past more colorful than a bag of Skittles. Rosie is the kind of character who makes an entrance even when she’s exiting, and her presence adds a delightful layer of chaos to the proceedings.

Imagine if Dame Judi Dench decided to become a secret agent, and you’re halfway to understanding Rosie. She’s part maternal figure, part mischief-maker, and entirely entertaining.

A Plot That Keeps You Guessing

From the New Forest to… Everywhere

The story kicks off when Amy, tasked with protecting Rosie, finds herself in the crosshairs of a mysterious killer. Before you can say “British Airways,” she’s calling in Steve for backup, and our unlikely trio is off on a whirlwind tour of murder hotspots.

Osman weaves a complex web of intrigue that spans continents, involving everything from money laundering to social media influencers. It’s like he’s taken every plot from a season of “Midsomer Murders” and tossed them into a blender with a dash of “James Bond” and a sprinkle of “Influencer” hashtags.

Twists, Turns, and Frequent Flyer Miles

The pacing is relentless, with our heroes bouncing from one exotic location to another faster than you can say “jet lag.” One minute they’re in the idyllic New Forest, the next they’re dodging bullets in St. Lucia or unraveling conspiracies in Dubai.

But amidst all the globetrotting and gunfire, Osman never loses sight of his characters’ humanity. There are moments of genuine emotion, particularly in Steve’s quiet reflections on his late wife, that ground the story and give it heart.

Osman’s Signature Style

Humor That Hits the Spot

If you’ve read any of Osman’s previous works, you’ll know he has a knack for humor that’s sharper than a well-honed cheese knife. “We Solve Murders” is no exception. The dialogue crackles with wit, and even in the tensest moments, there’s usually a quip or observation that’ll make you chuckle.

From Steve’s bemused observations about the world of international travel (“Do they really not have proper tea on these fancy planes?”) to Rosie’s outrageous anecdotes (“Did I ever tell you about the time I played poker with the Pope?”), the book is peppered with laughs that feel natural and unforced.

A Cast of Colorful Characters

One of Osman’s strengths is his ability to create memorable characters, and “We Solve Murders” is populated with a rogues’ gallery of delightful eccentrics. There’s Jeff Nolan, Amy’s enigmatic boss with more secrets than MI6. Henk van Veen, a Dutch close-protection expert who’s as smooth as Gouda cheese. And let’s not forget Max Highfield, a Hollywood action star whose brain seems to operate on a different frequency from the rest of humanity.

Each character, no matter how minor, feels fully realized and adds flavor to the story. It’s like walking into a pub and finding that every patron has a fascinating tale to tell.

A Few Bumps in the Road

Juggling Act

While Osman’s ambition in crafting such a complex, globe-spanning plot is admirable, there are moments when it feels like he’s juggling one too many chainsaws. The sheer number of characters and plot threads can be overwhelming at times, and you might find yourself flipping back a few pages to remind yourself who’s who and what’s what.

Suspension of Disbelief

Let’s be honest—the plot requires a hefty suspension of disbelief at times. The ease with which our heroes jet around the world and stumble upon crucial clues can stretch credibility. But if you’re willing to go along for the ride, it’s a thoroughly enjoyable journey.

The Verdict

“We Solve Murders” is a rollicking good time that manages to blend the charm of a cozy mystery with the excitement of an international thriller. It’s like Osman has taken Miss Marple, given her a Red Bull, and sent her on a round-the-world cruise.

While it may not have quite the same depth of character development as the Thursday Murder Club series (yet), it more than makes up for it with its breakneck pace and globe-trotting adventure.

Steve, Amy, and Rosie are a trio you’ll want to spend more time with, and the ending leaves plenty of room for future installments. One can only imagine what corners of the globe (and what outrageous situations) Osman will send them to next.

Who Should Read This?

If you’re a fan of Osman’s previous work, this is a no-brainer. But even if you’re new to his writing, “We Solve Murders” is an excellent entry point. It’s perfect for anyone who:

• Enjoys mysteries with a healthy dose of humor
• Likes their cozies with a side of international intrigue
• Has ever dreamed of solving crimes while racking up frequent flyer miles
• Appreciates characters who feel like old friends by the end of the book

Final Thoughts

“We Solve Murders” is like a perfect cup of tea—comforting, refreshing, and leaves you wanting more. It’s a promising start to what could be another beloved series from Richard Osman. So grab your passport (or just a comfy blanket), settle in, and prepare for a mystery that’ll take you around the world and back again.

Just don’t be surprised if you find yourself eyeing your neighbors suspiciously at the next pub quiz. After all, you never know where the next globe-spanning conspiracy might be hatching.

(Because every good detective needs a trench coat, even if they’re solving murders in the Bahamas.)