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- Title: Thursday Murder Club: A Novel
- Author: Richard Osman
- Narrator: Lesley Manville
- Length: 0.51849537
- Version: Abridged
- Release Date: 22-Sep
- Publisher: Penguin Audio
- Genre: Mystery, Thriller & Horror, Detective Stories, Cozy Mystery
- ISBN13: 9.78E+12
There’s something about Richard Osman’s *Thursday Murder Club: A Novel* that feels like sitting down to a warm cup of tea in a cozy kitchen, only to discover the tea is spiked with intrigue. And when paired with Lesley Manville’s impeccable narration, it transforms into an audiobook experience that is as endearing as it is captivating. Listening to this production reminded me of those Oaxaca evenings when the family matriarch would weave tales of the town’s past—her voice drawing us into a world that felt both comforting and thrillingly alive. Manville’s performance took me back to those intimate storytelling sessions, where every pause, inflection, and cadence carried meaning.
The story unfolds in a seemingly serene retirement village where four septuagenarians, Elizabeth, Joyce, Ron, and Ibrahim, meet weekly in the Jigsaw Room to delve into cold cases. Calling themselves the Thursday Murder Club, this unlikely band of sleuths finds themselves unexpectedly tackling a live case when a local property developer is murdered. What follows is a labyrinth of secrets, surprises, and humor, all wrapped in Osman’s signature wit.
Osman’s writing is a masterclass in balancing charm with sharp observation. Each member of the Thursday Murder Club is vividly brought to life, their quirks and histories interwoven into the narrative so seamlessly that you feel you’re part of their circle. Elizabeth, the formidable leader with a mysterious past, reminds me of a spirited guide I once met in Lisbon who seemed to know every secret the city held. Joyce, whose diary-like entries punctuate the story, is a gentle observer with a knack for cutting through the noise—a voice that made me think of the quiet wisdom you find in unexpected places.
Thematically, the book explores aging, friendship, and the persistence of curiosity. It made me reflect on the time I spent in a small village in the French countryside, where the older residents had an unquenchable thirst for storytelling and connection. Much like Osman’s characters, they proved that age is not a barrier to adventure or wit.
And then there’s Lesley Manville. Her narration is nothing short of sublime. She captures each character with precision, giving them distinct voices that feel authentic and lived-in. Elizabeth’s authoritative yet playful tone, Joyce’s gentle musings, and Ron’s gruff charm all come alive under Manville’s skillful performance. Her pacing is impeccable, effortlessly guiding listeners through both the humor and the suspense. You can almost hear the twinkle in her voice during the lighter moments and the weight of her breath in the more serious ones. It’s a performance that elevates the audiobook into an art form.
The audio quality is crisp and clear, allowing Manville’s narration to shine without any distractions. The production team deserves credit for ensuring that the listening experience is as immersive as the story itself.
If I had to find a limitation, it would be that the plot occasionally relies on coincidences that stretch believability. However, in a story so delightfully self-aware, it feels like part of the charm rather than a flaw. The twists are plentiful and satisfying, and the emotional beats land with sincerity.
Comparatively, *Thursday Murder Club* stands apart from traditional cozy mysteries due to its unique setting and characters. Fans of Agatha Christie will appreciate the clever plotting, but Osman’s humor and contemporary sensibilities make this a fresh take on the genre.
This audiobook is perfect for anyone who loves a good mystery without the grimness that often accompanies the genre. It’s also a wonderful choice for those who appreciate stories of community and resilience. Whether you’re a seasoned mystery fan or new to the genre, this is a tale that will keep you hooked from beginning to end.
As the last chapter played out and Manville’s voice faded, I found myself reluctant to leave Coopers Chase and its delightful residents. Much like my drives through the Atacama Desert, where the colors of the landscape shifted with every mile, *Thursday Murder Club* reveals new layers with every twist, keeping you engaged and enchanted.
If you’re ready to dive into a story that will make you laugh, think, and maybe even shed a tear or two, I can’t recommend this audiobook enough. And if you can get it as a free download, even better—you’re in for a treat.
With gratitude for stories that remind us of the richness of life,
Marcus Rivera
Marcus Rivera
