If You Love Sherlock Holmes, You’ll Love These Historical Cozy Mysteries

If you love clever sleuths, charming historical settings, and cozy mysteries you can devour in a weekend, you’re going to love today’s recommendations. Historical cozy mysteries combine all the fun of amateur detective work with the immersive world-building of historical fiction. They’re the perfect reads when you’re craving a smart story without the heavy drama of a typical crime novel.

Inspired by a recent episode of the What to Read Next Podcast, we’re highlighting three binge-worthy historical cozy mystery series featuring brilliant female leads—plus a bonus pick that feels like a modern Miss Marple come to life. Let’s dive in!

What Makes a Great Historical Cozy Mystery?

• Strong, independent female protagonists
• Rich, detailed historical settings
• Clever, engaging mysteries
• A touch of humor, romance, or social commentary

If this sounds like your perfect reading experience, keep reading for our top picks.

1. Mastering the Art of French Murder by Colleen Cambridge

Post-WWII Paris is the setting for this charming series where Julia Child herself plays a supporting role. In Mastering the Art of French Murder, Julia’s best friend gets swept into a murder investigation when Julia is mistakenly suspected. Set amid the backdrop of the Cordon Bleu cooking school, this series offers cozy intrigue, delightful Parisian vibes, and a nostalgic glimpse into the life of the OG culinary influencer.

Why You’ll Love It: The perfect blend of cozy mystery and foodie fiction set against the dreamy backdrop of post-war Paris.

Buy Mastering the Art of French Murder on Amazon

2. A Curious Beginning (Veronica Speedwell Series) by Deanna Raybourn

Veronica Speedwell is not your typical Victorian woman. She’s a naturalist determined to travel the world and live independently—until she becomes embroiled in a murder mystery that reveals shocking secrets about her past. With a slow-burn romance, a circus disguise, and daring adventures, the Veronica Speedwell series is perfect for readers who love feminist heroines and smart, action-packed plots.

Why You’ll Love It: Adventure, romance, and a fearless heroine who refuses to let society define her.

Buy A Curious Beginning on Amazon

3. A Study in Scarlet Women (Lady Sherlock Series) by Sherry Thomas

If you’ve ever wondered what Sherlock Holmes would look like as a woman navigating Victorian society, this series is for you. Charlotte Holmes creates a fictional brother “Sherlock” to operate under the constraints of her time, solving mysteries while challenging societal norms. The Lady Sherlock series offers clever twists, Easter eggs for Holmes fans, and an irresistible feminist perspective.

Why You’ll Love It: A fresh, smart retelling of Sherlock Holmes with a brilliant female lead and layered storytelling.

Buy A Study in Scarlet Women on Amazon

Bonus Recommendation: The Potting Shed Murder by Paula Sutton

Written by beloved English lifestyle influencer Paula Sutton, The Potting Shed Murder introduces a protagonist who mirrors Sutton’s own charming countryside life. It’s cozy, picturesque, and perfect for readers who love a gentle mystery wrapped in English garden aesthetics.

Why You’ll Love It: Feel-good English countryside vibes with a side of sleuthing, perfect for fans of cozy domestic mysteries.

Buy The Potting Shed Murder on Amazon

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re yearning for Parisian adventures, Victorian intrigue, or a charming English garden setting, these historical cozy mysteries are sure to satisfy. Start with the series that fits your mood—you won’t regret it!

Want even more cozy mystery recommendations? Be sure to sign up for the What to Read Next Newsletter where we share bonus book picks, personal favorites, and behind-the-scenes reading life updates.

Happy reading!

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Related Posts:

• Best Cozy Mystery Series Featuring Female Sleuths
• Cozy Mysteries Set in Europe
• Beginner’s Guide to Historical Mysteries