Best Cozy Culinary Mysteries Books of 2025

The Stranger in the Lifeboat by Mitch Albom is a thought-provoking novel that explores what would happen if God appeared in times of crisis. After a ship explosion leaves ten passengers stranded at sea, they pull a man from the water who claims to be "the Lord." Albom keeps readers guessing until the end, leaving them to ponder their deepest beliefs. Narrated by one of the passengers, the story is discovered in a notebook a year later, adding another layer of mystery. The Stranger in the Lifeboat is a fast-paced, compelling read that challenges readers to consider where they might find answers to their prayers.

Mastering the Art of French Murder by Harriet Welty Rochefort is a charming historical mystery set in post-WWII Paris. The story follows Tabitha Knight, Julia Child's (fictional) best friend, as she learns to cook and navigate the city with the help of her neighbor Julia. However, their world is turned upside down when a body is found in Julia's building, and a note with Tabitha's handwriting is discovered in the victim's pocket. Tabitha sets out to clear her name and find the real killer. Fans of historical mysteries and Parisian culture will enjoy this delightful book.

The Golden Spoon is a thrilling locked-room mystery novel that combines the suspense of Only Murders in the Building with the excitement of The Great British Bake Off. The story follows six bakers as they compete on a TV show set in a Vermont estate. However, when a body is discovered, everyone becomes a suspect. The Golden Spoon is an exciting and suspenseful novel that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. The unique blend of mystery and baking competition makes this book a must-read for fans of both genres.

Big Trouble on Sullivan's Island by Susan M. Boyer is a delightful Southern mystery novel, the first in the Carolina Tales series. The protagonist, Hadley Cooper, is a charming and quirky private investigator who finds herself in the middle of a murder investigation after her client is found dead. Boyer's writing is witty and engaging, and the setting of the lush Lowcountry adds to the book's charm. The book is a perfect beach read, with a fast-paced plot and a satisfying ending. Overall, Big Trouble on Sullivan's Island is a fun and entertaining read that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next book in the series.

The Secret, Book, and Scone Society is back with another cozy mystery, Paper Cuts. Nora Pennington, the bookstore owner and bibliotherapist, finds herself in the midst of a murder investigation after her ex-husband's new partner is killed. As Nora and her friends from The Secret, Book, and Scone Society try to clear her name, they stumble upon more secrets and a long-forgotten past that threatens to unravel their town. Kirkus Reviews praises the book for its "red herrings" and tips on choosing books. The mix of magical realism and mystery makes Paper Cuts a delightful read for fans of the genre.

The Body by the Sea: A Brittany Mystery by Jean-Luc Bannalec is a fascinating traditional detective mystery book that takes place in Concarneau, a town on the sea in Brittany. Commissaire Georges Dupin is tasked with finding out what happened to Doctor Chaboseau, who fell to his death from his home above the Amiral. With only two new colleagues to help, Dupin uncovers secrets and motives that lead to a surprising conclusion. The book's descriptions of Brittany are mesmerizing, and readers will be ready to pack their bags and head to Brittany by the end of this one. Overall, The Body by the Sea is a well-crafted mystery that will delight fans of the genre.

Caramel Pecan Roll Murder by Joanne Fluke is a culinary cozy mystery novel that follows Hannah Swensen, a professional baker and amateur sleuth, as she investigates a murder case that occurred during a local fishing competition. Packed with delicious-sounding recipes, the book offers a delightful blend of mystery and baking. Fluke’s writing style is engaging, and the plot is well-crafted with unexpected twists and turns that keep the readers hooked until the end. Overall, Caramel Pecan Roll Murder is a must-read for cozy mystery lovers and foodies alike.

The Missing Sapphire of Zangrabar: A Patricia Fisher Mystery (Patricia Fisher Cruise Ship Mysteries) is a humorous and cozy mystery by Steve Higgs. The story follows a middle-aged housewife, Patricia, who goes on a three-month tour of the world on a luxury cruise ship after emptying her cheating husband's bank accounts. However, she finds herself accused of murder and embroiled in a thirty-year-old priceless jewel theft. With the help of her butler and his gym instructor friend, Patricia turns detective to solve the case. The book is a fun and fast-paced adventure that will keep readers entertained until the end.

Joanne Fluke's Pink Lemonade Cake Murder is a delightful addition to the Hannah Swensen Mystery series. The book revolves around Hannah's investigation into a retired professional MLB player's murder during the Tri-County Summer Solstice Celebration in Lake Eden, Minnesota. With her mother's reputation on the line and a plethora of desserts to bake, Hannah can't afford to strike out in her quest to find the killer. The book features over a dozen cookie and dessert recipes from The Cookie Jar, making it a treat for mystery and baking enthusiasts alike. Overall, Pink Lemonade Cake Murder is an enjoyable and mouthwatering read that will leave readers wanting more.

The Life We Bury is a compelling debut novel by Allen Eskens. The story follows college student Joe Talbert as he interviews a dying Vietnam veteran and convicted murderer, Carl Iverson, for an English class assignment. As Joe delves deeper into Carl's past, he struggles to reconcile the heroism of the soldier with the despicable acts of the convict. Along with his neighbor, Joe uncovers the truth, but their efforts are hampered by his dysfunctional family and haunting childhood memories. This psychological fiction book is a page-turner, with well-developed characters and a gripping plot that keeps the reader engaged until the very end.