1. About the Author: Richard Osman – Redefining the Cozy Crime Genre
Richard Osman is a British author, television presenter, and producer. Widely recognized for hosting Pointless, Osman made a literary breakthrough with his debut novel The Thursday Murder Club in 2020. This bestselling series follows a group of elderly amateur sleuths in a retirement village who solve murders in their spare time.
What sets Osman apart is his unique blend of humor, wit, and heart. His writing offers sharp crime-solving plots wrapped in warmth and humanity, making his work equally appealing to young and mature readers. The Bullet That Missed is the third installment in the series and continues to deliver Osman’s trademark charm and clever storytelling.
2. About the Narrator: Fiona Shaw – Breathing Life into Every Character
Fiona Shaw, an acclaimed Irish actress known for her roles in Harry Potter and Killing Eve, brings her seasoned performance skills to this audiobook. With a rich, expressive voice and a masterful grasp of character nuances, Shaw makes every scene come alive. She is joined by Steph McGovern and Richard Osman in a bonus interview section, offering a delightful behind-the-scenes perspective.
Shaw’s narration captures the cozy and mysterious tone of the novel while clearly distinguishing each character — from Joyce’s quirky innocence to Elizabeth’s calm cunning. Her performance adds a vibrant emotional layer that enriches the listening experience.
3. About the Book: The Bullet That Missed – When a Missed Bullet Reveals a Buried Truth
The Bullet That Missed is the third novel in the Thursday Murder Club series and falls within the cozy crime/thriller genre. This time, the gang investigates the mysterious disappearance of a television journalist, whose work uncovered dark secrets in high places. The case, thought to be closed, suddenly takes a deadly turn.
Key Details:
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Goodreads Rating: 4.36/5 (Over 250,000 reviews)
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Award Nomination: British Book Awards 2023 – Crime & Thriller Book of the Year (nominated)
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Sales: Over 2 million copies sold (series-wide); consistently ranked in the Top 10 on Audible UK
The novel stands out not just for its crime-solving plot but also for its endearing characters, comedic timing, and deep reflections on aging, friendship, and purpose.
4. Book Review: The Whisper of Truth Beneath Layers of Humor
The Bullet That Missed skillfully combines classic whodunit tension with the light-hearted warmth Osman is known for. The plot traces the team’s efforts to solve the presumed murder of a journalist — a trail that leads them into dangerous territory involving politics, revenge, and past sins.
Strengths:
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Lovable, well-developed characters
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Smart blend of humor and suspense
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Poignant themes about life, aging, and friendship
Weaknesses:
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Multiple subplots may distract some readers
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Slow buildup in the first half
Notable Praise:
“Richard Osman has created a new genre: crime with a big heart.” – Val McDermid
“Clever, funny and so very British.” – The Guardian
Personal Thoughts:
What I loved most about The Bullet That Missed was its humanity. While the murder mystery is intriguing, the soul of the book lies in its characters — elderly sleuths who, despite their age, still chase purpose, joy, and connection. The story reminded me that aging isn’t the end but another chapter of discovery and courage. It’s a comforting and inspiring read that lingers long after the last page.
5. Audiobook Review: When Voice Acting Becomes Storytelling
The audiobook version of The Bullet That Missed, narrated by Fiona Shaw, is a standout performance. Shaw captures every nuance — from witty banter to tense moments — with remarkable clarity and emotion. Her portrayal brings each character to life in a way that feels theatrical yet intimate.
Highlights:
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Rich character portrayal
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Great pacing and tonal balance
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Bonus interview with Richard Osman and Steph McGovern adds value
Drawbacks:
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Some listeners may need time to adjust from Lesley Manville’s narration in previous books
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Joyce’s voice is occasionally too soft for noisy environments
Critical Acclaim:
“Fiona Shaw delivers a multilayered joy… a brilliant performance deserving of an Earphones Award.” – AudioFile Magazine
Personal Thoughts:
I listened to this audiobook on a long drive, and I was completely immersed. Fiona Shaw’s voice made me feel as if I were sitting with these characters at their Thursday meetings. Even though I missed Lesley Manville initially, Shaw won me over with her unique style. The audiobook adds a theatrical richness that makes it a top-tier listening experience — highly recommended for both new and returning fans.
6. Who Should Read or Listen to This Book?
The Bullet That Missed is a perfect fit for:
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Fans of cozy mysteries and lighthearted crime fiction
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Readers who enjoy character-driven stories with heart
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Older readers seeking relatable protagonists
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New audiobook listeners — the narration is clear and easy to follow
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Anyone looking for an uplifting, humorous, and intelligent read
If you’re tired of overly dark thrillers and crave something clever, warm, and a little quirky — this is the book for you.
7. Conclusion
The Bullet That Missed by Richard Osman proves that mystery novels can be both smart and heartwarming. Whether you’re reading or listening to the audiobook, you’re in for a delightful ride filled with humor, intrigue, and compassion.
If you’re looking for a mystery that offers more than just a twist — one that gives you laughs, life lessons, and lovable characters — this book absolutely belongs on your to-read list.
8. Where to Listen to the Audiobook
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