Netflix may have found its next binge-worthy franchise, and it's coming from the mind behind one of the decade's most beloved mystery series. Richard Osman, the bestselling author of The Thursday Murder Club, is teaming up with the streamer once again—but this time, his latest book, We Solve Murders, is being developed as a television series, not a film.
Osman, who first made his name as a TV presenter and producer, has become the reigning king of cozy crime fiction. His Thursday Murder Club series, which follows a group of elderly sleuths in a quiet British village, was a massive hit and was adapted into a star-studded Netflix movie. Now, with We Solve Murders, Osman is expanding his universe with a more fast-paced, international twist—and Netflix is eager to bring it to the small screen.
A Fresh Take on Cozy Crime
While We Solve Murders retains the warmth and wit that made Osman famous, it trades the sleepy village for exotic locales and high-octane chases. The story introduces an unlikely trio: Amy Wheeler, a young private security officer; Steve, her retired cop and pub trivia-loving father-in-law; and Rosie D'Antario, a fabulously wealthy celebrity novelist. Together, they find themselves entangled in a global conspiracy after Amy is framed for a series of influencer murders.
The first book kicks off with Amy guarding Rosie on a remote island off South Carolina, only to be accused of crimes she didn't commit. Forced to flee, she calls on Steve for help, and the pair—along with Rosie—embark on a thrilling international adventure to clear Amy's name and uncover the truth. The sequel, We Chase Shadows, is set for release later this month and will see the trio running their own detective agency, investigating a murder in the Italian hills.
A Potential Franchise in the Making
Developing We Solve Murders as a series offers Netflix a chance to build a broader mystery franchise that stands apart from The Thursday Murder Club. While both share Osman's signature charm, the new series features younger characters, more exotic settings, and a more action-oriented plot. The generational diversity of the main trio—Amy is in her 20s, Steve in his 50s or 60s, and Rosie somewhere in between—ensures there's something for cozy crime fans of all ages.
Though the series is still in development and hasn't been officially greenlit, the potential is undeniable. Osman's writing is known for its heartfelt characterizations and clever plotting, and We Solve Murders promises to deliver that same appeal on a grander scale. It's the kind of high-stakes, visually stunning mystery that Netflix has mastered, making it a project worth watching closely.
For fans of the genre, this could be the next big thing in streaming crime drama. And if you're looking for more gripping mysteries in the meantime, check out our list of the most genius mystery movies ever made or dive into Anya Taylor-Joy's underrated thriller. For those who prefer international intrigue, this overlooked German spy thriller on Netflix is a hidden gem.
