Best 15 Christmas Cozy Mysteries Book List for Readers
Christmas cozy mystery books
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If you’re anything like me, you’ll agree there’s nothing quite like curling up with a mug of hot cocoa and diving into a good book when the chill of winter starts to bite.
Now, what if that book could incorporate the warmth of the season, the joy of Christmas, and the thrill of a mystery all in one? Sounds great, right?
That’s exactly what my Christmas cozy mysteries book list offers! This carefully curated selection provides the perfect literary escape for those long winter nights.
What’s even better is that these cozy mysteries are totally clean! You won’t find any swearing or explicit scenes.
So, fellow book lovers, are you ready to cozy up and get reading?
Christmas cozy mysteries book list for adults
1 | Murder in Christmas River by Meg Muldoon
Cozy Mystery Romance
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆3.71 out of 5 stars
Cinnamon Peters is a fierce contender at the annual Gingerbread Junction Competition in Christmas River. But when a body turns up in the woods near her pie shop, winning the competition becomes the least of her worries.
As her world crumbles around her, Cinnamon and an unexpected ally must solve the mystery before it’s too late.
This book is a charm! You’ll meet whimsical, endearing characters that feel like old friends, getting caught in their small-town antics. Imagine a cozy, quaint town that wraps you in a warm hug, a place where everyone’s a familiar face.
But don’t be fooled, there’s a dash of mystery, nothing too wild, just enough to keep you on your toes. So, if fun characters, cozy vibes, and a perfect of mystery tickle your fancy, add this one to your reading list.
2 | Sugar Cookie Murder by Joanne Fluke
Cozy Mystery Romance
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆3.73 out of 5 stars
In Lake Eden, Minnesota, holiday preparations find Hannah Swensen in the thick of it, testing recipes for her Lake Eden Holiday Buffet Cookbook at the annual Christmas Buffet. But the joyous occasion soon takes a dramatic turn with the murder of Martin Dubinski’s glitzy Vegas wife – and Hannah’s mother’s vintage cake knife is the murder weapon!
With a snowstorm trapping everyone at the community center, it’s Hannah’s job to sift through the suspects and find the killer.
Isn’t it wild how a chilling murder mystery can crank up the drama? This book absolutely nails it, making it a compelling read. You’ve got humor, wit, and a captivating mystery all wrapped up in one – the perfect companion for a lazy, cozy holiday afternoon.
And hey, it’s part of the Hannah Swensen cozy mystery series, so there’s a whole world of books waiting for you once you fall for the characters – which you will, believe me!
“P.S. If it’s not a secret, will you tell me how you got my dollhouse inside our living room last Christmas? I know its too big to fit down the chimney. I measured.”
― Joanne Fluke, Sugar Cookie Murder
3 | Hercule Poirot’s Christmas by Agatha Christie
Cozy Mystery
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆4.50 out of 5 stars
When holiday cheer turns to fear at the Lee family reunion on Christmas Eve, it’s up to Hercule Poirot to unravel the mystery. As the despised patriarch, Simeon Lee, lies in a pool of blood, everyone is a suspect.
Agatha Christie’s characters are as real as it gets, making you feel like you’re right there in the room with them.
However, beneath the cozy atmosphere lies a plot that twists and turns like a mountain road. The suspense, the guessing game, and the satisfying finale make it a must-add to your Christmas cozy mysteries book list.
Go ahead, grab a cup of hot cocoa, sink into a comfortable armchair and lose yourself in this delicious literary sundae. You won’t be disappointed!
“I believe the present matters—not the past! The past must go. If we seek to keep the past alive, we end, I think, by distorting it. We see it in exaggerated terms—a false perspective.”
― Agatha Christie, Hercule Poirot’s Christmas
4 | Murder at Mistletoe Manor by Holly Tierney
Cozy Mystery
⭐️⭐️⭐️☆☆ 3.50 out of 5 stars
Klarinda Snow runs the charming Mistletoe Manor Bed & Breakfast in the picturesque town of Windy Pines, Idaho. Unusually for a Tuesday night in December, all seven rooms get booked. Amid the flurry of guests, things start to go awry. Clumsy guests or revenge plot? Klarinda’s not so sure.
Reading this holiday mystery book was a delightful ride, like settling by a cozy fire with a cocoa mug, captivated by the Christmas magic yet thrilled by every twist.
The blend of Yuletide cheer and ‘whodunit’ mystery, coupled with charming characters and witty dialogues, added a refreshing flavor. Each character death was a crucial turning point, stirring genuine emotions.
The icing on the cake? An unpredictable ending, neatly wrapping up the story, making it an unforgettable holiday read.
5 | The Twelve Clues of Christmas by Rhys Bowen
Historical Cozy Mystery
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.09 out of 5 stars
While my love, Darcy O’Mara, is in South America, I’m stuck at Castle Rannoch with my goofy brother, Binky, and grumpy sister-in-law, Fig.
Unexpectedly, I get a gig as a holiday party hostess in the quaint village of Tiddleton, straight out of A Christmas Carol! But my joy is short-lived as Freddie, the local annoyance, dies in a supposed accident, followed by more “accidents” in the following days.
Is it connected to a recent prison break or an old witch’s curse? But with Darcy’s arrival, anything seems possible in this wild wonderland.
This book, with its compelling mix of mystery, local Christmas traditions, historical details from the 1930s, and a sprinkle of light, sweet romance, was an absolute delight to read.
Peppered with recipes and perfect for a cozy winter’s night, it’s the ideal addition to your Christmas cozy mysteries book list.
6 | Rest Ye Murdered Gentlemen by Vicki Delany
Cozy Mystery
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.83 out of 5 stars
In the Christmas-loving town of Rudolph, New York, festive cheer runs year-round. But this holiday season, a murder dampens the spirit. Merry Wilkinson, owner of Mrs. Claus’s Treasures, is busy prepping her float for the Santa Claus parade when sabotage strikes.
A meddling journalist in town complicates things, and when Merry finds him poisoned, her best friend Vicky becomes the prime suspect. It’s up to Merry to play detective and find the true Scrooge bringing chaos to Christmas Town.
This book is a cozy mystery lover’s delight – it’s like cuddling up in a snug blanket with a cup of hot cocoa. With vibrant characters and a community that makes you feel right at home, it’s an instant addition to my Christmas cozy mysteries book list.
7 | Bones of Holly by Carolyn Haines
Cozy Mystery, Romance
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.18 out of 5 stars
Sarah Booth, Tinkie, and baby Maylin are spending Christmas in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, judging a library tree contest. Their fellow judges, bestselling authors Sandra O’Day and Janet Malone, are known for their intense rivalry.
Their feud escalates when both choose to write on Al Capone’s 1920s rum-running era. After a public bookstore brawl, Sandra disappears – a ploy or a real issue? Accusations fly, turning the spotlight on Janet. As Sarah Booth and Tinkie unravel this mystery, they stumble upon deep, local secrets involving esteemed families.
Reading this book was like finding a surprise gift under your holiday tree—full of charm, mystery, laughter, and a touch of paranormal. The characters aren’t just ink on paper, they’re sitting right with you, bantering away and making you part of their world.
Let’s not forget the deep dive into Mississippi’s rich heritage—it’s like your own personal tour! And the roller coaster ride of clues and red herrings? It’s a delightful journey you won’t want to end.
8 | It Came Upon a Midnight Shear by Allie Pleiter
Cozy Mystery
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.01 out of 5 stars
The festive season at Y.A.R.N. is shaping up nicely, with a shop expansion and community Christmas tree. The arrival of Vincenzo Marani, bringing with him the rare, luxurious vicuña yarn, is the cherry on top.
But when Libby’s ex, Sterling, shows up only to end up dead, things quickly unravel. The precious yarn disappears, Sterling’s overbearing family descends, and the vicuña try to leg it. With her world in a tangle, Libby needs to untwist the truth before she swaps knitting for handcuffs.
Who doesn’t love a book that keeps you on pins and needles, right? This riveting mystery had me racing through the pages, completely losing track of time.
The character dynamics are amazing, like plunging into a whirlpool of complex human emotions and interactions. And the setting? Pure magic.
The festive season is so vividly captured, you’ll practically smell the gingerbread and hear carols in the air. A perfect holiday treat!
9 | As the Christmas Cookie Crumbles by Leslie Budewitz
Cozy Mystery Romance
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.96 out of 5 stars
In Jewel Bay, holiday spirits are high. At Murphy’s Mercantile, manager Erin Murphy is gearing up for a festive season, but things take a dark turn. Local girl Merrily Thornton, who’s put her troubled past behind, vanishes.
With her parents against her and a robbery at her workplace, Merrily is the prime suspect—until she’s found dead with Christmas lights around her neck. As Erin races against time to find the killer, the danger escalates. Can she solve the mystery before Christmas Eve?
This book absolutely nails the holiday vibe – think sipping hot cocoa by a roaring fire, but with a side of suspense that will keep you glued to the page. The beautifully drawn characters and setting will transport you straight into their world, and the plot?
Full of unexpected twists and turns that will leave you gobsmacked. It’s the perfect blend of cozy and thrilling, a must-read that will keep you guessing till the very end. Can’t recommend it enough!
10 | Six Cats a Slayin’ by Miranda James
Cozy Mystery, Animals
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.16 out of 5 stars
As Christmas nears, Charlie is juggling new family additions and a neighbor’s mysterious intentions. Suddenly, Charlie becomes a kitten foster parent, finding a box of five kittens on his doorstep. Meanwhile, his neighbor Gerry gears up for a grand holiday bash, trying to make her mark on Athena.
But, Gerry’s party ends in her untimely death. Charlie and his girlfriend, Helen Louise, noticed Gerry’s heated exchanges with some notable personalities. Can they unravel this mystery before it spoils the festive season? Stay tuned with Charlie and his Maine Coon cat, Diesel as they embark on this quest.
This book, my friend, has cozily nestled itself right into my Christmas cozy mysteries book list – and boy, does it deserve it! The characters are memorable, practically leaping off the page, and the cats – just purr-fect!
With humor as warming as cocoa by the fireplace and a mystery that keeps unwinding like a never-ending gift, it’s a delight from start to finish.
If you’re a Miranda James fan, you know what I’m talking about. If you’re not, well, you’re in for a treat. Do yourself a favor, add this to your must-read list. Trust me, you’ll be thanking me later!
11 | Corpse at the Christmas Cookie Exchange by Cindy Bell
Cozy Mystery
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.64 out of 5 stars
Amidst the festive joy, Maddie Mills is thrilled to be back in her hometown. Living with her Westies, reconnecting with family, and reviving her parents’ bakery, she’s all set to celebrate Christmas.
Invited to a cookie exchange, she’s excited to showcase her baking prowess and mingle with locals. But joy turns into a mystery when a party guest is found dead.
Maddie steps in to solve the riddle, but the police chief isn’t too keen. With a victim who’s not short on enemies, it’s a tougher task than Maddie anticipated. Can she solve it before Christmas? Or is she in too deep?
With a homey small-town setting that becomes as much a character as the quirky, relatable cast, this book draws you in from the get-go.
Its intriguing plot keeps you second-guessing until the end, peppered with twists that feel like a surprise snowball to the face! So, if you’re looking for a cozy Christmas mystery, then this is your book. It’s a festive treat you wouldn’t want to miss.
12 | A Christmas Candy Killing by Christina Romeril
Cozy Mystery
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.73 out of 5 stars
Twin sisters Alex and Hannah run Murder and Mayhem, a mystery bookshop famous for its Killer Chocolates. Drama stirs when Jane, their elderly neighbor, finds a real-life murderer from a true-crime show living in their peaceful village.
After sharing her suspicions, Jane is found dead the next day with a box of the sisters’ chocolates. Despite being on the sheriff’s suspect list, Alex delves into Jane’s journal, making a list of potential culprits from the villagers.
The truth is coming, and Christmas might bring more than just festive cheer for Alex.
If you’re craving a rollicking ride of a book, this one’s a must-read!
Imagine a roller coaster of wit, humor, and suspense that keeps you gripped from start to finish. The plot? Fast-paced and never gives you a moment’s respite. Characters? Meet Alex and Hannah – you’ll adore their charm and wit.
And the hilariously named chocolates, such as Strychnine Strawberry and Ricin Raspberry Creams, add an unexpected twist of humor. Trust me, this book’s blend of laughter and mystery is exactly what your reading list needs!
13 | Mistletoe Murder by Leslie Meier
Cozy Mystery
⭐️⭐️⭐️☆☆ 3.58 out of 5 stars
Busy bee Lucy Stone is juggling holiday preparations, a night job at Country Cousins, and a mystery. When she stumbles upon the company’s rich founder, Sam Miller, dead in his car, she can’t shake off her detective instincts – something’s not right.
Amid her chaotic Christmas run-up, she’s unraveling a tangled web of secrets behind Miller’s death. And as she edges closer to the truth, she finds herself on the killer’s Christmas list. Can she solve the mystery before her own bells jingle?
Despite its age, this murder mystery novel truly holds up. Its charm has a timeless quality that instantly pulls you in. Lucy, along with the ensemble of supporting characters, is so richly detailed and full of life that you can’t help but be drawn into their world.
The intricate family dynamics interwoven with an intriguing mystery plot line add an extra layer of depth, keeping you on your toes as you navigate through the story.
14 | The Mousse Wonderful Time of Year by H.Y. Hanna
Cozy Mystery
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.36 out of 5 stars
When Gemma Rose envisioned her holiday, it was full of Yuletide goodness, family time, and Oxford’s white Christmas. But a surprise snow-in at a country manor changes plans. A murder mystery unfolds, complete with a body in the library and a plethora of suspects.
Good thing Gemma’s got the inquisitive Old Biddies and her mischievous cat Muesli to help crack the case. Amidst carol singing, holiday baking, and flannel PJs, can Gemma solve this Christmas conundrum?
I can’t help but recommend this book—it’s an absolute gem on any Christmas cozy mysteries book list! Imagine being whisked away to Oxford during the holidays, savoring its quirky traditions, delightful scenery, and unique British humor.
The characters are as real as they get, and their playful banter will have you hooked. And the mystery? It’ll keep you up at night, guessing and piecing together clues. The ending is a complete surprise! Don’t miss out on this holiday treat.
15 | Twelve Slays of Christmas by Jacqueline Frost
Cozy Mystery Romance
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.94 out of 5 stars
Soon-to-be-bride Holly White finds herself single just before Christmas. She heads home to Mistletoe, Maine, hoping the holiday magic will lift her spirits. But a cloud hangs over the festive season when local crank Margaret Fenwick is found dead at Holly’s family’s tree farm, Reindeer Games.
With the murder weapon linked to the farm, suspicion falls on Holly’s father, Bud. Determined to clear his name, Holly sets out to find the real killer, all while the Christmas countdown ticks on.
This Christmas cozy mystery was an absolute delight! Every page felt like a thrilling roller-coaster ride, with an intriguing plot full of unexpected twists and turns that kept me guessing till the end.
Plus, the subtle romance was the perfect icing on the cake, blending seamlessly with the festive cheer. In short, this is just the book to cozy up with on a chilly winter’s night. Trust me, it’s worth it!
“You have to make things happen, not wait around hoping something might happen to you.”
― Jacqueline Frost, Twelve Slays of Christmas
Did you discover the best Christmas cozy mysteries book list?
And there you have it! My hand-picked, mistletoe-kissed Christmas cozy mysteries book list. Whether you’re a long-time lover of cozy mysteries or simply looking for something to get you in the festive spirit, there’s a book here for you.
Each one is a snow-globe world of intrigue, suspense, and Christmas cheer, perfect for curling up with a hot chocolate and a twinkling tree.
So, go ahead and treat yourself this holiday season. Why not start a new tradition of reading a Christmas cozy mystery every year?
After all, nothing says ‘Christmas’ quite like a good mystery wrapped up in holiday lights!
Remember, the magic of Christmas isn’t just in the big day itself, but also in the stories we share.
So pick up a book, dive into a mystery, and let the holiday spirit engulf you.
Happy reading!
