The 10 Best Cozy Mysteries to Read This December

Here at Once Upon a Book Club, we love it when the December chill sets in, as curling up with a book seems the most natural thing in the world to do! We happen to think that nothing beats a cozy mystery to keep you glued to your seat and turning those pages!

Whether you're a seasoned sleuth or just dipping your toes into the world of amateur detectives, our list of murder, mischief, and holiday cheer is sure to brighten your winter nights. From small-town charm to locked-room puzzles, each story promises a perfect blend of suspense, warmth, and a sprinkle of humor. So grab a blanket, light the fire, and let the mysteries begin!

Limited Edition Cozy Mystery Mini Box

If you love surprises as much as we do, you need to check out our Cozy Mystery 2024 Mini Box! Featuring A Big Fat Greek Murder by Kate Collins, this box includes TWO adorably wrapped gifts to open as you read—a little extra mystery to enjoy. Plus, there’s a custom-designed quote print, bookmark, and collectible sticker to make your reading experience even cozier.

About the Book

Athena Spencer, single mom and amateur sleuth, has her hands full with a garden center job, a mischievous pet raccoon, and now a murder investigation at a Greek wedding rehearsal gone wrong. When the groom ends up with scissors in his back and Athena’s sister is accused of the crime, the tzatziki hits the fan. Can Athena untangle this mess before someone else’s wedding dreams turn into a nightmare?

The Christmas Murder Game by Alexandra Benedict

What’s better than a classic locked-room mystery? One with a festive twist, of course! The Christmas Murder Game brings us to the snowbound Endgame House, where Lily Armitage must solve riddles to uncover family secrets… and maybe a murderer. Tensions rise faster than the snow drifts as her estranged relatives turn from players to suspects. Think Knives Out meets your favorite Christmas movie — but with sharper knives!

The Secret, Book & Scone Society by Ellery Adams

Books, scones, and a pinch of mystery—what more could you want? In The Secret, Book & Scone Society, Nora Pennington uses her knack for pairing the perfect book with troubled souls to help solve a murder. Set in the charming town of Miracle Springs, this is the book equivalent of a warm hug on a frosty evening. Just be warned: you may find yourself craving scones and tea by chapter three.

A Midwinter’s Tail by Sofie Kelly

Two words: magical cats. Yes, librarian Kathleen Paulson’s furry friends, Owen and Hercules, are back to lend a paw in solving another murder. Set in the picturesque town of Mayville Heights, this delightful mystery is filled with charm, Christmas spirit, and just enough mischief to keep you guessing. A Midwinter’s Tail is perfect for those who like their mysteries with a side of whiskers and whimsy.

Shock and Paw by Cate Conte

Maddie James thought running a cat café would be all cuddles and coffee… until a murder disrupts her holiday season. With her best friend accused of the crime, Maddie and her feline companions must uncover the truth. Shock and Paw is equal parts festive and feline—purrfect for curling up with a warm blanket and a cup of cocoa. Bonus: you might finally understand what your cat is staring at all the time.

The Most Wonderful Crime of the Year by Ally Carter

Rival authors trapped in a snowbound estate? Check. A missing mystery writer? Check. Sparks flying and a murder to solve? Double check. The Most Wonderful Crime of the Year delivers humor, suspense, and just the right amount of holiday magic. If you’ve ever dreamed of solving a mystery while sipping eggnog in a grand English manor, this one’s for you.

We Solve Murders by Richard Osman

Retired investigator Steve Wheeler and his daring daughter-in-law, Amy, are on a whirlwind adventure full of danger, secrets, and family dynamics. We Solve Murders is a perfect blend of wit, suspense, and heartfelt moments. With exotic locales, sharp banter, and Osman’s signature charm, this fast-paced mystery will have you laughing and gasping in equal measure.

The Mystery of Mistletoe Motel by Camille Cabrera

A marketing gimmick gone wrong or something truly spooky? The Mystery of Mistletoe Motel blends humor, heart, and holiday hijinks as sisters Lacy and Stacy try to save their family’s business. Misplaced belongings, odd guests, and possible ghosts make this cozy mystery a quirky and festive delight. Be prepared for some laugh-out-loud moments… and maybe a desire to stay in a haunted motel.

A Most Agreeable Murder by Julia Seales

What happens when you mix Regency-era elegance with a penchant for murder? In A Most Agreeable Murder, Beatrice Steele is a delightfully unconventional heroine whose obsession with true crime comes in handy when a guest collapses mid-minuet. With its satirical humor and witty twists, this historical mystery feels like Jane Austen met Agatha Christie at a particularly scandalous dinner party.

The Winter Mystery by Faith Martin

Jenny Starling is back, and this time, she’s cooking up more than Christmas pudding. Set in a snow-covered country house, The Winter Mystery serves up family drama, secrets, and a murder that threatens to ruin Christmas Eve. Jenny’s quick wit and determination make her the perfect amateur sleuth, ensuring you’ll be hooked until the very last page.

Conclusion

So there you have it—ten cozy mysteries to make your December reading merry and bright. Whether you’re in the mood for festive cheer or a side of suspense with your eggnog, these books have you covered. And if you’re itching for even more mystery and fun, don’t forget to grab our Limited Edition Cozy Mystery Mini Box for an experience that’s as delightful as unwrapping a holiday gift.

Happy sleuthing!