Written By Melanie Gilbert 

Picture this: snow gently falling outside, the warm glow of twinkling lights on a perfectly decorated tree, and you, cozied up with a blanket and a steaming mug of cocoa, immersed in a tale of intrigue and festive cheer. Welcome to the world of Cozy Christmas Mysteries—yes, it’s a thing! This subgenre blends the heartwarming magic of the holidays with the thrill of solving a good mystery. 

Whether in books, movies, or TV shows, these stories invite us into charming small towns and bustling city neighborhoods where amateur sleuths unravel puzzling “whodunits,” all against the backdrop of holiday joy. Let’s dive into what makes Cozy Christmas Mysteries special and explore some of the best examples to add to your seasonal must-watch and must-read list. 

What Is a Cozy Christmas Mystery? 

To understand the appeal of this category, you first need to know what defines a “cozy” mystery. Unlike hard-boiled crime novels or edge-of-your-seat thrillers, cozy mysteries are all about atmosphere and charm. They often feature amateur detectives (think bookshop owners, bakers, or retired teachers) solving crimes in tight-knit communities where everyone knows everyone….and where secrets can’t hide for long! 

Now, add a sprinkle of holiday magic to this mix: festive decorations, busy holiday markets, family gatherings, and snowy settings. These stories capture everything we love about the season—goodwill, togetherness, nostalgia—while keeping us guessing with a clever plot. 

Why We Love Them 

Christmas mysteries offer the perfect mix of relaxation and mental engagement. They’re like a puzzle you solve while wrapped in holiday warmth.  Seasonal backdrops of peppermint-scented cafes, crackling fireplaces, and twinkling lights create a safe and inviting atmosphere, even when a crime is afoot. 

Also, these stories are often accessible to a wide range of audiences. Without graphic violence or disturbing content, they’re a great way to introduce mystery lovers of all ages to the genre. Families can enjoy them together, whether through books or holiday movie marathons. 

And finally, what’s Christmas without a little magic and meaning? These stories don’t just entertain—they celebrate the values we associate with the holidays: kindness, resilience, and the importance of community. Plus, the inevitable resolution of the mystery ensures everything ends on a high note; perfect for the season of joy. 

On Screen 

This season, UPtv’s holiday lineup brings a delightful mix of cozy Christmas mysteries that blend festive cheer with intriguing problem-solving capers. Here are a few of our favorites: 

NEW!  “North by North Pole: A Dial S Mystery,” Zoey dreams of orchestrating the perfect Christmas festival in her hometown of Willow Creek. However, her vision faces challenges as she clashes with her partner, Dalton, and encounters mysterious events threatening the festival’s success. With a touch of Santa’s magic, this tale intertwines mystery and romance in a heartwarming holiday setting. 

A small-town detective delves into a series of holiday thefts in A Christmas Thief.   As private investigator Lana Lawton pieces together clues, she uncovers a surprising link to her own past, leading to unexpected revelations that add depth to this festive mystery.   

In The Case of the Christmas Diamond , blue-collar Andy is accused of stealing a multimillion-dollar gem during a holiday gathering at her wealthy friend’s estate. With the assistance of a renowned mystery writer, she navigates a sea of affluent guests to unmask the true thief, delivering suspense and holiday spirit in equal measure. 

These films offer a perfect blend of seasonal warmth and captivating mysteries, making them ideal for cozy holiday viewing. 

In Literature 

Need a screentime break? Cozy Christmas literature is brimming with options. Curl up and escape into one of these quaint stories: 

Mistletoe and Murder by Carola Dunn  

Set in the 1920s, this entry in the Daisy Dalrymple series is a classic blend of historical charm and holiday mystery. When Daisy heads to a grand manor for Christmas, she gets more than she bargained for—murder at the holiday table. 

The Twelve Clues of Christmas by Rhys Bowen 

This delightful mystery features Lady Georgiana Rannoch solving a series of deaths in a picturesque English village during the holidays. It’s brimming with seasonal cheer, quirky characters, and just the right amount of suspense. 

A Christmas Hope by Anne Perry 

Set in Victorian England, this historical mystery is steeped in atmosphere. When a woman is killed at a Christmas gathering, an amateur sleuth must untangle the web of lies surrounding her death, all while navigating the festive season. 

Rest Ye Murdered Gentlemen by Vicki Delany 

The first book in the A Year-Round Christmas Mystery Series features a Christmas-themed tourist town and its year-round yuletide shop owner. When a journalist is found dead during the holiday season, it’s up to the heroine to save Christmas and solve the crime. 

Embrace the Vibe 

The Cozy Christmas mystery genre is a little gift to ourselves during the busy holiday season. It lets us unwind while keeping our minds and imaginations engaged, and it offers the perfect mix of seasonal cheer and suspense.  Want to go all-in on this genre? Gather family or friends for a movie night and see who can solve the mystery first.  Don’t forget the snacks –  peppermint bark and popcorn are a must for hardworking crime solvers! 

Need some ideas for a new family movie to stream? Check out our favorite family-friendly movies and series. Stream anytime on UP Faith & Family. Start your 7-day free trial today. 

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Melanie Gilbert owns Choral Communications and resides in Atlanta with her husband, daughter, and two cats.