“Every puzzle has its own story. And every story has someone willing to solve it, if you look hard enough.”
Richard Osman’s The Bullet That Missed, the third installment in the Thursday Murder Club series, is a delightful blend of humor, heart, and mystery. This novel doesn’t just deliver an engaging whodunit; it offers a deeply moving exploration of friendship, resilience, and the joy of shared experiences. With its clever twists, endearing characters, and sharp wit, Osman proves once again that the Thursday Murder Club series is one of the most charming and emotionally resonant in the genre.
Lens on Storyline Specs
In The Bullet That Missed, the beloved quartet—Elizabeth, Joyce, Ron, and Ibrahim—set out to solve a cold case involving Bethany Waites, a journalist who vanished a decade ago while investigating a financial fraud scheme. Though her car was found at the bottom of a cliff, her body was never recovered. The case grows increasingly complex as the club unravels layers of deception, danger, and intrigue.
Meanwhile, Elizabeth is thrust into a perilous situation when a former KGB agent presents her with a deadly ultimatum: solve a murder from her past or risk deadly consequences. This subplot heightens the stakes, adding an undercurrent of tension that makes this book feel even more gripping than its predecessors.
Osman’s signature storytelling style—short, snappy chapters with alternating perspectives—keeps the pacing brisk and engaging. He balances humor, suspense, and emotion with precision, ensuring that every moment, whether a shocking revelation or a tender exchange between friends, feels meaningful.
Lens on Big Ideas
Justice and Redemption
At its core, The Bullet That Missed explores justice and redemption, as characters confront their past decisions and seek ways to make amends or create meaningful change. Osman delves into the moral complexities of righting past wrongs and the lasting impact of unresolved crimes, making the novel more than just a simple whodunit.
Community and Friendship
The theme of community and friendship is particularly strong, reinforcing how the bonds between the Thursday Murder Club members enable them to face challenges with humor and courage. Their loyalty to each other and their shared determination to solve mysteries is not just about uncovering the truth but about finding purpose and connection in their later years. Osman skillfully reminds us that no matter our age, the need for companionship and meaningful pursuits never fades.
Empathy and Perspective
Another key theme is the power of empathy and perspective. Each member of the club brings their own life experiences to the investigation, showing how different viewpoints and skills contribute to problem-solving. The novel emphasizes that wisdom is not just about knowledge but about the ability to understand others and approach situations with both logic and compassion. Through their adventures, the characters illustrate that intelligence and intuition can be just as valuable as youthful energy when it comes to tackling life’s mysteries.
Living Fully and Embracing Change
Beyond its murder mystery, The Bullet That Missed is ultimately a novel about living fully, adapting to change, and embracing the complexities of life. Osman encourages readers to rethink how society perceives aging, urging us to recognize the capabilities, strengths, and contributions of older individuals. The book suggests that life’s later years can be just as thrilling, unpredictable, and full of possibility as any other stage.
Lens on Time and Place
Set in the picturesque yet lively Coopers Chase retirement community, the novel juxtaposes its tranquil setting with the high-stakes mysteries its residents untangle. Osman weaves contemporary issues, including financial corruption and espionage, into the narrative, grounding the story in modern realities while maintaining its timeless themes of resilience and human connection.
The novel’s ability to mirror real-world concerns while remaining lighthearted and engaging makes it a standout in the cozy mystery genre. It is both an escape and a reflection of the world we navigate.
Lens on You (Action and Impact)
What resonates most about The Bullet That Missed is its invitation to reflect on life’s later chapters and the meaningful adventures that still await. The Thursday Murder Club embodies the idea that curiosity, camaraderie, and purpose are vital at every age. Their unwavering support for one another is both inspiring and heartwarming.
Experiencing this story through the audiobook, narrated by Fiona Shaw, added another layer of enjoyment. Shaw’s performance, especially her portrayal of Joyce, brings an extra dose of warmth and humor to the narrative.
This book also reaffirmed my appreciation for mysteries featuring older protagonists—stories that celebrate their wisdom, humor, and agency while offering a fresh perspective often overlooked in mainstream fiction.
Who Should Read This?
- Fans of cozy mysteries that blend humor, intrigue, and emotional depth.
- Readers who enjoy character-driven stories with a strong sense of friendship and community.
- Anyone who appreciates narratives that challenge ageist stereotypes and celebrate resilience.
Book Recommendations
If you enjoyed The Bullet That Missed, here are some additional reads with similar themes:
- The Life Impossible by Matt Haig – A heartfelt story about rediscovering purpose later in life.
- The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid – A compelling fictional memoir of a Hollywood star’s dramatic life.
- The Old Woman with the Knife by Gu Byeong-mo – A gripping tale about a 65-year-old assassin confronting her past.
Discussion Questions
- What do you think makes the Thursday Murder Club so compelling as a group?
- How does The Bullet That Missed challenge common stereotypes about aging and retirement?
- Which themes in the novel resonated most with you, and why?
Final Thoughts
The Bullet That Missed exemplifies what makes the Thursday Murder Club series so special—it’s witty, smart, and deeply moving, with a cast of characters who feel like old friends. Whether you’re new to the series or a longtime fan, this installment will leave you reflecting on the value of friendship, the richness of life’s experiences, and the notion that it’s never too late for a new adventure.
Have you read The Bullet That Missed or other cozy mysteries featuring older protagonists? Share your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear your recommendations!
