The Bullet That Missed

Richard Osman continues his streak of delightful and intelligent mysteries with The Bullet That Missed, the third instalment in The Thursday Murder Club series.

This time, the beloved quartet - Elizabeth, Joyce, Ibrahim, and Ron - find themselves unraveling the decades-old case of a missing television journalist, Bethany Waites. But, as always, trouble finds them first, and soon they are entangled in a plot involving fraud, murder, and a dangerous criminal who wants Elizabeth to assassinate a target - or else.

One of Osman's greatest strengths remains his impeccable character work.

The four retirees are as sharp, funny, and loveable as ever. Joyce's diary entries provide endless amusement, Ron brings his working-class grit, and Ibrahim's gentle intellect shines through.

Elizabeth, however, truly steals the show in this book, as she faces a moral dilemma that adds an extra layer of tension and depth.

The mystery is well-paced, filled with clever twists and the perfect mix of humour and suspense. Osman's signature wit is ever-present, making the book as funny as it is gripping.

His ability to balance multiple storylines - including friendships, aging, and personal struggles - without losing sight of the central mystery is impressive.

While the novel follows the established formula of the series, it never feels repetitive. Instead, it deepens the characters' relationships and adds emotional weight, particularly in Elizabeth's storyline.

The camaraderie and warmth between the club members make the book not just an engaging mystery but also a heartwarming read.

For fans of the series, The Bullet That Missed is another triumph - an entertaining, charming, and deeply satisfying read that proves Osman's storytelling magic is far from fading​.