“The Bullet That Missed”, the third book in Richard Osman’s Thursday Murder Club series, pulls readers back into a world of clever twists, sharp humor, and heartwarming friendship. As a big fan of the series, I’m super excited to jump into this new adventure with my favorite retired friends. Richard Osman doesn’t disappoint, blending his trademark wit with a plot that’s as twisty as ever, keeping you on the edge of your seat. 

 

The story kicks off with a gripping start. This time, the Thursday Murder Club is diving into a cold case that’s been off the radar for ten years. It’s all about the death of a TV journalist whose car was found near a cliff, but the body never turned up. As the gang starts digging into the case, they face a tantalizing question: was this really a suicide, or could it be a murder with no clues left behind? The stakes get even higher when they’re threatened by a new adversary known as the ‘Viking’, who gives Elizabeth an ultimatum—kill former KGB chief Viktor Illyich or watch him kill Elizabeth’s friend Joyce. With danger coming from all sides, the Thursday Murder Club has to race against the clock to uncover the truth while keeping themselves safe. 

 

One of the coolest things about this book is how Richard Osman effortlessly juggles two main storylines without losing the plot. Even with multiple issues at play, the narrative stays smooth and engaging. Richard Osman’s knack for introducing fresh surprises and unexpected twists makes each page feel exciting. Readers will be drawn into a smart, well-crafted story while still enjoying the series’ trademark humor. 

 

Richard Osman also uses this book to dive into some deeper, thought-provoking themes. One standout moment is when Viktor Illyich has a life-changing realization about himself. Despite his wealth and achievements, Viktor sees that he’s missing genuine emotional connections. As he faces his own mortality, he understands that he lacks close friends who truly care. This moment offers a stark contrast to the tight-knit bond of the Thursday Murder Club. Even in their later years, their friendships and family ties remain strong and sincere. They find joy and comfort in their retirement community, sharing their lives and experiences with one another. Richard Osman cleverly uses Viktor’s epiphany to highlight that real human connections and true friendship are worth far more than material success. This theme drives home the idea that the relationships we build and the impact we make on others are what really give life its meaning. 

 

Overall, “The Bullet That Missed” is a thrilling read that not only delivers on the mystery front but also adds depth with its emotional and reflective themes. While “The Man Who Died Twice”, the second book in the series, is still my top pick, this third installment is incredibly satisfying and deepens my admiration for the Thursday Murder Club series.