I have so wanted to like these books as I like the author. I have read the first book in the series, and whilst I didn't dislike it, I didn't really like it either. I have heard from others that the second book of the series was much better, so decided to read it. The storyline was much more interesting and as I knew some of the characters it was easier to read. However, I still just struggled with the storyline and lost interest very quickly. I just don't think I'm a cozy crime kind of person! I really like the author, but I think I should probably give up trying to read this series now as it's obviously not my kind of thing.

The loveable Thursday Murder Club are back again, and this time they’re in even deeper waters with the involvement of MI5, a drugs cartel and many people in danger.

Elizabeth centers more in this and we know she has a past in detective/police work, but here we get an insight to her past as an operative and spy. It really is wonderful how she can play both spy and charming old lady when she needs to! I love how many layers there are to her character and that we keep learning more about her. I think there will be more surprises as the series goes on.

There are lots of witty one liners and funny moments as is usual, especially from dear Joyce (wait till you read her Instagram username) but what I love is that Osman weaves the funny moments in with a brilliant plot and shocking twists. He also writes sad bits extremely well and they always make me teary. The scene with Ron and Ibrahim in the hospital had me reaching for a tissue!

Osman’s narrative is so refreshing, straightforward and doesn’t skimp on a real story either. Every character is loveable and every scene will have you laughing, shocked or hooked. The sequel is definitely a glow up of the first book which I adore, because you always want the sequel to be even better and this one was.

The ironic bits are what make the story really. There’s Elizabeth’s husband, Stephen, who has dementia but knows every detail of murders and who has given who drugs, Ron and Ibrahim’s friendship and the fact Chris is now dating Donna’s mum. You could never call Osman predictable, as you never know what he’ll come out with next and his works prove that. It’s absolutely brilliant.

It’s the following Thursday and, just when it seems that things can’t possibly get any more exciting for the stalwarts of the Thursday Murder Club, Elizabeth receives a letter from a former colleague who is planning to move into a flat within the Coopers Chase retirement community. Never one to divulge more than is strictly necessary about her past, Elizabeth eventually reveals to Joyce, Ron and Ibrahim that she last saw fellow ex-spy Marcus Carmichael back in 1980-something… when she was tasked with identifying his body.

Marcus’s sudden resurrection is only one aspect of the latest puzzle facing the four octogenarian investigators, as they soon discover that there are also missing diamonds, gangland grudges and would-be assassins to deal with, and that’s before the first real murder occurs.

The Man Who Died Twice is the second case to be tackled by Elizabeth, Joyce, Ron and Ibrahim, crime fiction’s favourite band of sleuthing seniors, who have yet to encounter a puzzle they can’t solve. The central mystery is every bit as fun and compelling as the friendship and banter among the main characters.

The Man Who Died Twice
By Richard Osman

We now have a second visit to The Thursday Murder Club at Cooper Chase retirement village in Fairhaven. Another adventure for ‘The murder Club’ to the missing uncut diamonds.

The book follows many twists, turns and dead ends. With the sadness, the humour and the many characters. The book’s a joy to read at any time. It gives you hope at the darkest times and shows things are not always as they seem.

An even better book than the first although each can be read as a stand alone book.

As a former Sussex resident I have loved these well written books for many reasons; they deal with some very taboo subjects of daily life with sensitivity and humour which works beautifully but does not insult the subject matter and lastly the nostalgia for me is an extra bonus! 2 previous books much loved - I’ve bought the next in anticipation.

Thank you Richard Osman a well deserved

I absolutely loved this second instalment. Richard Osman truly has a way with words that is hard to come across. The character relationships were built on beautifully in this and Osman’s writing continues to improve. Excited to see where the story goes.

A great follow up! Love this series and really glad I got to read this on netgalley. A good plot for a follow up novel and still had the charm of the first book as well as our favourite characters.

This was slightly disappointing to me- I feel like the ‘brand’ of this series doesn’t quite fit me. It was an enjoyable read, do’t get me wrong, but a little boring and not quite as funny as it thinks it is. Many thanks to Netgalley for an arc of this book

Sadly, this wasn't my cup of tea. Richard is a good writer, but this just didn't grab me.. It's not cozy enough for me, but I understand why it will be a best seller.

I absolutely adore this series of books and I was delighted to get the opportunity to read The Man Who Twice. I loved the story and getting to meet all my favourite characters from the previous book. I simply couldn’t put it down and read it over the course of a day. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.

I really enjoyed this book, and liked it more than book 1. It’s a series that’s definitely worth sticking with, and I’m looking forward to reading book 3. I liked the characters more now that I know more about them, and love their friendship. They’re great to read about and made me laugh several times in this book. The thing that I struggle with at times is that there’s quite a few different storylines happening, and each storyline has several characters. However, the writing is easy to read which helps to avoid confusion, and after a few chapters I can wrap my head around who’s who and what’s happening. These books are really easy to read and I do like the writing. I’m not normally a fan of mystery books, but this series surprises me every time. I’m looking forward to reading book 3 very soon.

Another good installment in the series. Love the characters and a fascinating plot that got better as it went on. Looking forward to the next one.

A very interesting narrative style, which keeps you wanting to know what’s coming next, but cleverly fills in background and keeps the plot moving along. Ticked all thr boxes for me!

I listened to this one and it wasn’t a bad listen, i didn’t enjoying as much as other reviewers seemed to though. A cosy mystery. 3.5⭐️

Another mystery for The Thursday Murder Club to solve from the comfort of their lovely care home. The band of amateur super sleuths, led by Elizabeth, gather all the evidence and work together to solve the puzzle. Lots of fun, humour and friendship makes this a super read. Thank you to Net Galley for an arc in exchange for an honest review.

Another Thursday murder club gem that keeps you guessing.

Even though you get all the relevant information, and you think you’re following the plot, you don’t really work things out properly until the book’s finished! It’s very clever, with some wickedly funny bits spread throughout, Joyce’s Instagram username bit cracked me up, and Ovaltine is a terrific fake name, just saying. This is a joy to read.

Unfortunately this book was not for me, it was a bit slower than I would like and it just didn't hold my attention. I am sure other people will love it!

I adored this book and this series is shaping up to be a firm fave!
I love being back with the characters, and seeing more of their backstories. Joyce made me laugh at loud multiple times with her Instagram mishaps, it felt so realistic- My mum also thought that was hilarious, but her sister (a Joyce if there ever was) did not understand that joke at all- and that made it all the more funnier to me!
Highly recommend if you enjoy cosy mysteries

Very enjoyable and yet again, I didn't work out who the killer was. Love the pensioners humour and wit

I was hesitant to read The Man Who Died Twice as I had seen so many reviews stating it was not as good as the first book inn the series but I loved this. The characters are fabulous and there is never a dull moment. I can't wait for the third book.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with a free e-copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

I do really enjoy the tongue in cheek humour of the Thursday Murder Club and this quartet of octagenarions hasnt failed to amuse and entertain whilst they search out the missing diamonds and with that a killer!
I love how it is all so simple for them and yet there are twists and red herrings all over the story but reading it doesnt feel like work.
Lots of fun to read and I am looking forward to the next