The more I write the more I want to read and, although I read all genres, I tend to gravitate toward cozy mysteries (no surprise.) Cozies tend to have many of the same subjects and tropes, but each one is still unique and offers a new mystery to solve. Here are six reasons why I love reading cozy mysteries.
1. A Likable, and often Sassy, Sleuth
The main character of a cozy mystery, the amateur sleuth, is usually someone I’d love to be BFFs with. Whether she’s outgoing or shy or spunky or fearless, she ends up getting into all sorts of adventures, and it would be fun to tag along. The sleuth is often a pleasant person who has a strong community supporting her and is someone I’d love to meet up with for a cup of tea.
2. A Quirky Sidekick
Speaking of tagging along, often the sleuth is paired up with someone she is close with: a friend, sister, cousin, employee, etc. And I love when the sidekick adds a bit of comic relief, either by having a witty personality or aiding the sleuth in getting into even more scrapes than she would alone.
3. A Location I want to Visit
Most locations are fictional, though some are real, but all are places I would love visit. A charming small town is often the setting of a cozy mystery with quaint bookshops I want to shop at, delicious cafés I want to eat at, and beautiful parks and beaches I want to go for a walk at.
4. A Cute Animal Sidekick
Many sleuths have a dog or cat who joins them on their adventures. The pets sound adorable, sometimes offer some humor, and bonus points for having a name related to the theme of the book. Which leads me to…
5. A Fun Theme
Cozies come with a theme which is usually related to the sleuth’s occupation or hobby. Many are culinary or literary themed, but others might feature a certain craft or unique occupation. I love learning about these different themes.
6. An Engaging Puzzle
Cozies aren’t about the violence or terror of the crime, but about solving whodunit and why. It’s always fun trying to put together the pieces of the puzzle alongside the amateur sleuth, though often I’m thrown for a twist at the end!
Those are my six main reasons for loving cozy mysteries, though there are others! Do you like to read cozies? What do you love about them? What other genres do you love to read?
I also love them for the locations! I always want to go visit these little towns and go to the coffee shops and bakeries.
They all seem so picturesque!