The Bullet That Missed by Richard Osman

The Bullet That Missed is the third story in The Thursday Murder Club series by Richard Osman. I absolutely love The Thursday Murder Club, so I was very excited to read it.

The action in The Bullet That Missed starts soon after the previous novel, The Man Who Died Twice, ends. There are some continuing characters from the previous book, including glamorous drug dealer, Connie Johnson.

The Thursday Murder Club members are investigating the disappearance and murder of local television reporter, Bethany Waites. Bethany had been working on a big story when she died. If they can work out what the story was, can they track down the murderer? Joyce uses her sweet old lady charm to secure a meeting with Bethany’s TV presenter colleague, Mike Waghorn.

Former spy Elizabeth is in trouble again. She has two weeks to kill or be killed. Can she tell her friends about it or should she go it alone to keep them safe? Meanwhile, she is getting increasingly worried about husband Stephen’s health. How much longer can she look after him before accepting the inevitable that he will need to go into a home?

Ron finds a girlfriend in new character, make up artist Pauline, and Joyce is now the proud owner of a dog called Alan.

With police officers, Chris and Donna, and Polish handyman, Bogdan, on side, Elizabeth, Joyce, Ron and Ibrahim meet criminals, TV stars and the chief constable, as they try to work out what happened to Bethany Waites.

Once again, the story is told in very short chapters. Most of the chapters are in the third person, with a few straight from Joyce’s diary. Joyce narrates the more exciting bits of the investigation, with lots of reference to shopping, swimming pools and people’s lovely outfits.

The Bullet That Missed is another brilliant and joyful read from Richard Osman. The characters are all so likeable and the humour is just wonderfully British. There is plenty of politeness, cups of teas and Waitrose.

Do you need to have read the previous books to enjoy The Bullet That Missed? Technically you don’t, but why wouldn’t you? The Thursday Murder Club series is a huge publishing phenomenon for a reason. These books are very funny and very warm, just what we all need right now. I can’t recommend them highly enough.