Richard Osman’s The Bullet That Missed is a compelling addition to the mystery genre, praised for its clever plot twists and engaging characters. Readers appreciate the witty dialogue and intricate storytelling. However, some critics feel the pacing is uneven in parts. Overall, it’s a delightful and entertaining read with minor setbacks.

Fans of cozy mysteries and clever, character-driven narratives will enjoy The Bullet That Missed by Richard Osman. Ideal for readers who love Agatha Christie's detective tales or Louise Penny's atmospheric novels, this book offers wit, intricate plotting, and endearing characters that promise a delightful escape.

The Bullet That Missed by Richard Osman, the third book in the Thursday Murder Club series, follows a group of seniors—Joyce, Elizabeth, Ron, and Ibrahim—investigating the disappearance of journalist Bethany Waites, who uncovered VAT fraud and is presumed dead. Meanwhile, Elizabeth is threatened and kidnapped by someone who wants her to kill a former KGB agent who opposes cryptocurrency.

Humorous / Mysterious / Emotional / Suspenseful / Heartwarming

**Joyce Meadowcroft**  
A 77-year-old widow who is a member of the Thursday Murder Club and has a dog named Alan. She writes in her diary and develops a growing interest in writing, inspired by her late husband.

**Elizabeth Best**  
A former MI5 spy in her late seventies and a key member of the Thursday Murder Club. Married to Stephen, she is known for her love of secrets and storytelling.

**Ron Ritchie**  
A retired actor and trades union official who now lives at Coopers Chase and is an enthusiastic member of the Thursday Murder Club. Ron is characterized by his recognizable West Ham shirts and is open to new experiences.

**Ibrahim Arif**  
A psychiatrist and member of the Thursday Murder Club, who enjoys solving puzzles and talking to criminals. Known for his keen intellect, he assists with various cases.

**Bogdan Jankowski**  
An ally of the Thursday Murder Club, always ready to undertake tasks for Elizabeth. Bogdan is pragmatic and develops romantic feelings for police constable Donna.

**Stephen Best**  
Elizabeth's husband, a character faced with the challenges of dementia. Despite his memory issues, he plays a critical role in solving mysteries alongside Elizabeth.

**Viktor Illyich**  
A Ukrainian former KGB agent and foil to Elizabeth, known for his intelligence and persuasive nature. He becomes entangled with the Thursday Murder Club due to his past.

**Henrik Hansen**  
Originally known as the Viking, he is characterized by his substantial wealth gained through cryptocurrency. He has a complex relationship with the Thursday Murder Club.

**Jack Mason**  
A gangster with connections to VAT fraud, Jack is a figure entrenched in a criminal lifestyle. He is involved with several key characters throughout the narrative.

**Mike Waghorn**  
A 61-year-old newscaster on South East Tonight known for being a public figure and friend to Bethany. He faces personal challenges and helps connect various plot threads.

**Bethany Waites**  
A former newscaster on South East Tonight from a younger generation than Mike. Her investigative work and disappearance are central to the mystery in the narrative.

**Pauline Jenkins**  
A makeup artist on South East Tonight who becomes romantically involved with Ron. She helps various characters navigate personal concerns and challenges.

**Fiona Clemence**  
A host on Stop the Clock, catapulting to fame after joining South East Tonight. Fiona encounters Elizabeth and Joyce in their investigative efforts.

**Andrew Everton**  
The chief constable and antagonist, whose aspirations lead to a double life involving crime. He is known for his vanity and involvement in publishing detective novels.

**Donna De Freitas**  
A police officer and partner to Chris, working together on cases with ties to her personal life. Donna is involved in relationships that enrich her character development.

**Chris Hudson**  
A police officer working with Donna to investigate criminal cases. He maintains professional and personal connections with various characters in the story.

**Connie Johnson**  
A prison inmate holding VIP status, with a complex past involving other characters. As a savvy and bright woman, she uses her position to influence events.

**Heather Garbutt**  
A prisoner entangled in the VAT fraud case, known for her blackmail situation and personal interests, such as writing poetry. Her narrative is central to unfolding events.

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Part 1: “Around Every Corner, a Familiar Face”

Prologue-Part 1

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Part 2: “Raise a Glass to New Friends”

Part 2, Chapters 20-36

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Part 2, Chapters 37-54

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Part 2, Chapters 55-69

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Part 3: “Catch Up on All the News”

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