Discover the secrets of the “cozy mystery” in this exploration of the genre.
The Cozy Mysteries of Masterpiece Mystery! airs Sunday, June 8 at 9:30 p.m. and streaming live and on the PBS App & WXXI app.
Go behind-the-scenes of Grantchester, Magpie Murders, Moonflower Murders, The Marlow Murder Club, and Miss Scarlet to learn what makes these mysteries so enchanting.
What is a Cozy Mystery?
There’s no strict definition for the cozy mystery, though the main rule of thumb seems to be that the story contains no graphic violence and generally, no swearing or sex. These are more lighthearted crime narratives—you won’t be so disturbed that you need to sleep with lights on. A focus on plot and character development ensures a predictable and reassuring experience offering escapism without being too heavy.
Importantly, the cozy mystery’s protagonist is an amateur sleuth who uses intellect and life experience to solve a case. Think Agatha Christie’s Miss Marple. These affable amateur detectives typically have an emotional investment behind their probing. They also know their neighbor’s quirks and habits, elicit confidences, and ultimately work out the solution before law enforcement does.