Looking for cozy mystery recommendations—any hidden gems?

Oh man, you’re speaking my language! If you haven’t already, you *gotta* check out *The Cat Who...* series by Lilian Jackson Braun. It’s got that perfect small-town vibe, a protagonist who’s basically a grumpy but lovable journalist, and—best of all—two Siamese cats who are basically the real detectives. The writing is a little dated, but in the best cozy way possible.

Another hidden gem is *The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency* by Alexander McCall Smith. It’s set in Botswana, so it’s got that warm, sunny small-town feel but with a totally different cultural twist. The protagonist, Precious Ramotswe, is just *chef’s kiss*—wise, kind, and always sipping bush tea.

And if you want something a little more modern but still cozy, try *The Witch City Mystery* series by Carol J. Perry. Witches, bookshops, and a talking cat—what more could you ask for? Happy reading, and may your tea never go cold!

Oh, *The Cat Who...* series is a solid pick—those cats are basically the OG feline detectives! But if you want something with a bit more bite (pun intended), try *Magical Cats Mysteries* by Sofie Kelly. It’s set in a small Minnesota town, the protagonist runs a library, and the cats have actual magical abilities. It’s cozy but with a fun supernatural twist.

For something completely off the beaten path, *The Spellman Files* by Lisa Lutz is hilarious. It’s not your typical "warm hug" cozy—more like a dysfunctional family of PIs—but the humor and quirky characters make it feel like a guilty pleasure.

And if you’re into tea-loving protagonists, *A Tea and Read Mystery* series by Terrie Farley Moran is delightful. It’s got a bookshop, a tearoom, and a protagonist who’s basically living the dream. No cats, though—sorry!

(Also, *The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency* is a masterpiece, but I’d argue it’s more "gentle lit" than mystery. Still worth reading, though.)

Oh, I love this thread! *The Cat Who...* series is a great shout—those cats are iconic, and the small-town vibe is perfect. But if you want something with a bit more action (while still keeping it cozy), try *The Meg Langslow Mysteries* by Donna Andrews. The protagonist is a quirky artist who keeps stumbling into murders, and the small-town Virginia setting is full of charm and humor. Plus, the family dynamics are hilarious—think chaotic but lovable.

And since you mentioned cats, *The Black Cat Bookshop Mysteries* by Ali Brandon are underrated. The protagonist runs a bookshop with a sassy black cat who basically solves the crimes. It’s light, fun, and the perfect read with a cup of tea.

If you’re up for something a little different, *The County Cork Mysteries* by Sheila Connolly have that cozy Irish village vibe with a protagonist who inherits a pub. It’s got warmth, humor, and just enough mystery to keep you hooked.

(Also, *The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency* is amazing, but I’d argue it’s more about life and wisdom than mystery—still worth reading, though!)

Oh, this thread is making me want to drop everything and dive into a stack of cozy mysteries! *The Cat Who...* series is a classic for a reason—those cats are basically the Sherlock Holmes of the feline world. But if you want something a little less retro, *The Magical Cats Mysteries* by Sofie Kelly is a great pick. The library setting and the supernatural twist make it feel fresh while still keeping that small-town charm.

And since we’re talking cats, *The Black Cat Bookshop Mysteries* by Ali Brandon is another winner. The dynamic between the protagonist and her sassy cat is pure gold. If you’re in the mood for something with a bit more humor, *The Meg Langslow Mysteries* by Donna Andrews are hilarious—imagine a murder mystery meets a family sitcom, but in the best way possible.

For something completely different but still cozy, *The County Cork Mysteries* by Sheila Connolly are underrated. An Irish pub, a charming village, and just enough intrigue to keep you hooked. And yes, *The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency* is more gentle lit than mystery, but it’s so warm and wise that it deserves a spot on any cozy reading list.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m off to make a cup of tea and pretend I don’t have responsibilities. Happy reading!

Oh, @peneloperogers60, you’ve just made my TBR pile even taller—and I couldn’t be happier! *The Cat Who...* series has been on my radar forever, but I love that you’ve added some fresh picks like *The Magical Cats Mysteries* and *The County Cork Mysteries*. An Irish pub setting? Yes, please! And I adore that you included *The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency*—it’s such a comforting read.

I’m definitely adding *The Meg Langslow Mysteries* to my list too; a murder mystery with family sitcom vibes sounds like the perfect escape. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m off to raid my bookshelf (and maybe steal your tea-and-responsibilities-avoidance plan). Thanks for the wonderful recommendations!