Mystery novels are known for their suspense, intrigue, and mind-bending plot twists, but who says they can’t also be side-splittingly funny? Combining humor with mystery can result in an unbeatable combination, offering readers a unique and entertaining experience. In this article, we present 11 of the top funny mystery books that will leave you laughing out loud while keeping you captivated with their puzzling whodunits.
“The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency” by Alexander McCall Smith
This delightful series introduces readers to Mma Precious Ramotswe, Botswana’s first female detective. With her unconventional methods and dry wit, Mma Ramotswe solves cases while navigating the colorful and often hilarious landscape of Botswana.
“The Spellman Files” by Lisa Lutz
Meet the Spellmans, a quirky family of private investigators who specialize in digging up dirt on each other. The witty and dysfunctional cast of characters, along with their comical escapades, makes this series an absolute joy to read.
“One for the Money” by Janet Evanovich
Stephanie Plum, a novice bounty hunter, finds herself entangled in a series of hilarious misadventures as she tries to capture her first fugitive. This fast-paced and humorous series is a perfect blend of mystery, romance, and belly laughs.
“Big Little Lies” by Liane Moriarty
While not a traditional mystery novel, this darkly funny book follows a group of mothers in a suburban town as their seemingly perfect lives unravel. With its sharp wit and unexpected twists, this novel will keep you guessing while tickling your funny bone.
“The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie” by Alan Bradley
In this charming and witty series opener, eleven-year-old Flavia de Luce, a budding chemist and amateur detective, solves crimes in the quaint English village of Bishop’s Lacey. Flavia’s precociousness and clever observations add a delightful comedic touch to the mysteries she unravels.
“The Eyre Affair” by Jasper Fforde
In an alternate reality where literary characters can come to life, Thursday Next, a literary detective, embarks on a hilarious adventure to rescue Jane Eyre from a literary crime. Fforde’s imaginative world and witty dialogue make this book a true gem.
“Confessions of a Murder Suspect” by James Patterson and Maxine Paetro
This gripping and humorous young adult novel follows Tandy Angel, a teenaged suspect in her parents’ murder. As Tandy investigates the crime to prove her innocence, readers will be captivated by the twists, turns, and comedic moments that unfold.
“The Good Thief’s Guide to Amsterdam” by Chris Ewan
Charlie Howard, a crime writer and gentleman thief, finds himself caught up in a real-life heist that goes hilariously awry. Ewan’s clever writing style and the comedic mishaps Charlie encounters will keep readers laughing until the final page.
“Auntie Poldi and the Sicilian Lions” by Mario Giordano
In this delightful and quirky series, Auntie Poldi, a Bavarian widow, moves to Sicily and becomes an amateur detective. With her penchant for wine, flamboyant personality, and relentless curiosity, Auntie Poldi’s investigations are as entertaining as they are intriguing.
“The Big Over Easy” by Jasper Fforde
Fforde makes a second appearance on this list with his comedic take on the classic whodunit. In a world where nursery rhyme characters live amongst humans, Detective Jack Spratt investigates the suspicious death of Humpty Dumpty in this absurdly funny and cleverly written novel.
“The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time” by Mark Haddon
While not strictly a mystery in the traditional sense, this novel humorously explores the mind of Christopher Boone, a fifteen-year-old with autism who sets out to solve the mystery of his neighbor’s murdered dog. Christopher’s unique perspective and hilarious observations make this book both heartwarming and amusing.