The “Thursday Murder Club” series (by Richard Osman) gets its own post for our private book club.
Because come on.
When I read the first one, I knew. I’d be with these people for the whole ride.
It might be important to tell you I’m really very likely to enjoy a book. I’m not the kids of discerning reader that says, “Octogenarians solving murders? That’s not particularly believable.” Oh, yes, sir. I believe every word. Go ahead and try me.
Elizabeth. Brilliant, snarky, superior, beloved Elizabeth. She who sees all, and still manages to almost underestimate her friends. Elizabeth who can drop mentions of cold-war era ops into sentences and have me nodding along? She who hides firearms in her handbag? She had me hooked in her first appearance in the first book. And her Stephen? Stephen brings me to so many tears.
Ibrahim. Gentleness personified. His quiet wisdom, his understanding of why people behave the way they do, his physical vulnerabilities. All of these combine in a perfectly lovable character.
Ron. I didn’t buy your gruffness, Ron. And your West Ham shirts and ties? Yes, indeed. There is something deeply likable about a fictional man who is just a little too eager to share the spotlight with flawed secondary characters.
And Joyce. Oh, Joyce. Edwin Mayhem? Her journal voice? The practical side of her? I will never be surprised (but always thrilled) at her ability to hide drugs or diamonds, her innocence that gives way to piercing recognition, and her perfect voice.
The secondary characters are delicious. The settings, perfect. I’m not particularly likely to figure out a mystery. This doesn’t bother me at all. I’m delighted to go along for the ride, and I’m determined to love the journey. I will eat every single one of these books right up, as well as “We Solve Murders.” I’m in, and in I’ll stay.