Did you know that The Thursday Murder Club was the most purchased title in the UK in 2021? That was enough of a reason for me to want to check out this cosy murder mystery.
The story is set in a retirement village, Coopers Chase, where four unlikely characters – Ibrahim, Ron, Elizabeth and Joyce meet in the Jigsaw room once a week to discuss cold case murders. They may be pensioners, but don’t underestimate them. Each one is clever, savvy and determined in their own right, you would take them on at your peril.
The fabulous four kick into action when they learn that Tony the builder has been found murdered in his house. He is an associate of Ian who is the owner of the retirement village. If I am being honest, I was a bit surprised that they cared enough to hunt down the killer, as it is obvious that they didn’t particularly like (the owner) as he came across as greedy and ruthless.
The other thread of the story involves Father Matthew Mackie, who is concerned that the nun’s cemetery is being threatened with removal to make way for more apartments. At this point I must mention that the retirement village is built around an old convent, and the Garden of Eternal Rest is the piece of land in question. Needless to say that this thread leads to more murder (and mayhem).
Into the mix throw two police officers who are assigned to the case. The lead investigator is Chris. Chris comes across as a man who is good at job but a bit jaded (of course his situation will improve as soon as gets a girlfriend). He is assisted by Donna, a young and very enthusiastic constable who yearns to be in the thick of all the action but doesn’t get the chance while she is still working as a beat cop. I really enjoyed the dynamic between the police and the oldies. The residents had great respect for the police and were keen to help as much as they could (which of course would give them valuable experience for their murder club meetings).
At this point in the story the action really starts to pick up where the group end up having to investigate not one, but two murders! As a reader, I would advise you to sit back and enjoy the ride.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and could see, to some extent, what the hype was all about. However, it didn’t necessarily leave me wanting to immediately pick up the second book in the series. While I enjoyed the fact that the main cast of characters were older, that the author was breaking stereotypes about the elderly, the scenario is not exactly breaking new ground. Having said that, if you want a cosy piece of escapism, then The Thursday Murder Club is the book for you.