The Thursday Murder Club: Book Review

image credit: chirpbooks

You may recognise Richard Osman as a popular TV presenter, known for hosting Pointless. Osman is also an author and has penned three books in his Thursday Murder Club series which have become global bestsellers. I’ve been reading the first in the series and thought I would review it here to encourage others to give it a go if they haven’t already.

The story is centred around four elderly friends in a peaceful British retirement village in Sussex, who meet every Thursday to solve cold cases. When a real murder connected to their estate (Coopers Chase) occurs, they spring into action, defying age-related stereotypes with intelligence, humour, and quick-wittedness. Through his story, Osman deftly shines a light on the lives of older people who are often overlooked or underestimated in mainstream fiction.

When did you last read a book or watch a film or tv series which featured the lives of older members of society as a focal point? There are certainly shows out there – Abfab, Golden Girls, but they definitely buck the trend.

One of the most charming things about The Thursday Murder Club is that it portrays ageing not as a diminishment but as a phase of life still ripe with adventure, mystery, and personal growth. Elizabeth, Joyce, Ibrahim, and Ron, the series' main characters, use their life experience, wisdom, and tenacity to confront criminals, outwit the police, and bring humour to the most tense situations. These characters provide a refreshing shift from the trope of the elderly as merely frail or passive—they’re determined, bold, complex, and fun-loving.

This kind of representation matters because stories shape the way we see the world. When we make older people visible in fiction, we’re also acknowledging and reinforcing their importance in society. Characters (and people!) that have lived longer naturally bring rich histories, stories, and unique perspectives that can elevate a narrative’s depth and nuance. In fact, one of the most refreshing aspects of the book is its portrayal of older characters. Elizabeth, Joyce, Ibrahim and Ron are all sharp, capable and adventurous. Having older characters in these proactive, engaging roles challenges the messaging we increasingly receive as we get older – that we no longer have such an important role to play in society.

The story doesn’t shy away from the challenges of ageing, such as health issues and loss, which brings into even starker contrast the resilience and complexity of its characters. Throughout, underlining the joy and humour of later life, there is a bittersweet acknowledgement of life’s inevitable culmination in the loss of friends and family, which reminds you not to underestimate the novel as simply a light-hearted flick, or to underestimate the apparent life of ease one might be quick to associate with retirement living.

By depicting seniors as vibrant individuals, Osman invites us to rethink ageing. We’re reminded that mystery, excitement, and discovery don’t end with youth—they can take place at any age.

The popularity of The Thursday Murder Club demonstrates a desire for stories that honour every stage of life; it’s a celebration of resilience, wisdom, and the idea that life remains full of potential at any age. I highly recommend you head to your nearest bookshop and get a copy if you haven’t already!

Author Bio: Chania Fox is a freelance writer with experience in publishing and copywriting. Chania has previously worked for Linen Press, the UK's leading independent female publishing press, as well as working as a copywriter for a global design consultancy with high-profile international clients. She is also available on Linkedin.