In a cozy mystery, the tone is light and the characters rely on their instincts and wits rather than professional training.
Some authors in this genre prefer the term "traditional" mysteries.
Cozies feature amateur detectives, generally accompanied by cats, knitting gear, pots of tea, and other domestic accoutrement, living in suburban or country settings, althought there is a sub-genre, the "edgy" cozy that often has an urban setting and a greater element of suspense because the protagonist's safety is in jeopardy.
According to Cozy-Mystery.com, the best website devoted to the genre, “Cozies don't usually involve a lot of gory details or explicit ‘adult situations’ either.”
Amatuer detectives generally have an occupation that allows for a flexible schedule, such as academia or journalism, and an “in” with the police either through their job or a personal relationship, sometimes marriage.
Diane Mott Davidson’s Goldie Bear is as much of a challenge to her long suffering police husband as Lucy Ricardo was to Ricky.
Agatha Christie’s Jane Marple, a keen observer of human nature, was connected to “The Yard” through her nephew.
On Saturday, November 22 at 2:00 pm the Library will host a Women of Mystery program featuring a panel discussion with three accomplished writers of cozy mysteries.
Rosemary Harris's Pushing up Daisies is the first in a series of mysteries featuring master gardener Paula Holliday.
Jane K. Cleland is the author of the Josie Prescott Antiques Mysteries, which have been referred to as an “Antiques Roadshow for mystery fans.”
Hank Phillippi Ryan’s book Prime Time was this year’s Agatha winner for Best First Novel.
This will probably be your last chance to take some time to relax and enjoy yourself for an afternoon before the “holidaze” kicks in, so mark your calendar now!
Books will be available for purchase and signing. The perfect kick-off for your holiday shopping.
