The Man Who Died Twice

Book Review: The Man Who Died Twice, author Richard Osman. Book Two

Richard Osman’s The Man Who Died Twice is the much anticipated sequel to his wildly successful debut novel, The Thursday Murder Club. Released in 2021, this charming and witty mystery continues the adventures of four septuagenarians. Elizabeth, Joyce, Ibrahim, and Ron—living in the idyllic Coopers Chase retirement village. With a knack for solving cold cases and outsmarting even the sharpest detectives. This eclectic quartet finds themselves entangled in another gripping and delightfully complex whodunit. Osman’s sophomore effort not only lives up to the high expectations set by his first book but also deepens the emotional resonance of his characters and themes. Packed with humour, suspense, and heartwarming moments, The Man Who Died Twice is a delightful blend of traditional mystery and modern storytelling that proves Osman is no one-hit wonder.

Plot Overview

The story picks up shortly after the events of The Thursday Murder Club. This time, the gang faces a more personal and dangerous challenge. Elizabeth, a former spy, receives a letter from an old flame and former colleague, Douglas, who is now in hiding. Douglas claims to have stolen £20 million worth of diamonds from a violent criminal syndicate and believes his life is in danger. When he turns up dead—or does he?—Elizabeth and her friends are drawn into a high-stakes investigation involving murder, betrayal, and international intrigue.

Complicating matters is a subplot involving Ibrahim, who is attacked and robbed in a seemingly unrelated incident. This prompts Ron and Joyce to rally around their friend, adding a layer of emotional depth to the narrative. As the plot unfolds, Osman masterfully weaves these threads together, creating a tapestry of intrigue, humour, and poignancy.

Characters

One of the standout features of The Man Who Died Twice is its vibrant and endearing cast. Osman’s characters are not just well-drawn but also deeply human, each grappling with their own vulnerabilities and triumphs.

Elizabeth: The de facto leader of the group, Elizabeth’s sharp mind and steely resolve make her a force to be reckoned with. Her complex history as a former spy adds intrigue to her character, and her relationship with Douglas introduces an emotional vulnerability that humanises her.
Joyce: The heart of the group, Joyce’s diary entries provide much of the book’s humour and warmth. Her keen observations and unassuming demeanour make her an invaluable member of the team, often catching details others overlook.
Ibrahim: The methodical and introspective Ibrahim takes on a more central role in this instalment. His assault and subsequent struggle with fear and vulnerability offer a touching exploration of resilience and friendship.
Ron: The brash and opinionated Ron provides comic relief but also reveals a softer side as he supports his friends through their trials.

Osman excels at capturing the nuances of friendship, particularly among older adults. The camaraderie and mutual support within the group are both heartwarming and inspiring. Despite their advanced ages, these characters are vibrant, capable, and full of life—a refreshing departure from the often one-dimensional portrayals of elderly protagonists in popular fiction.

Themes

Beyond its engaging plot, The Man Who Died Twice explores a range of themes that elevate it from a mere mystery novel to a rich and thought-provoking work of fiction.

Friendship and Community: At its core, the book is a celebration of friendship. The bond between the members of the Thursday Murder Club is the emotional anchor of the story, showcasing the power of connection and mutual support.
Ageing and Resilience: Osman challenges stereotypes about aging, portraying his characters as resourceful, dynamic, and fully capable of solving crimes. He also addresses the vulnerabilities that come with age, such as Ibrahim’s struggle with fear after his attack.
Morality and Redemption: The story delves into questions of right and wrong, particularly through the character of Douglas. His shady past and attempts to make amends add moral complexity to the narrative.

Humour and Levity in Adversity: Osman’s trademark wit shines throughout the book. Even in the face of danger and loss, his characters find moments of levity, reminding readers of the resilience of the human spirit.

Strengths

Complex, Engaging Plot: The book’s intricate plot keeps readers guessing until the very end. Osman expertly juggles multiple storylines, tying them together in a satisfying conclusion.
Memorable Characters: The Thursday Murder Club members are as endearing as ever. The supporting cast including Douglas and the bumbling yet lovable police officers Chris and Donna add depth and humour to the story.
Emotional Depth: Osman strikes a perfect balance between humour and heart, exploring themes of loss, aging, and resilience without ever becoming maudlin.

Humour: The book is genuinely funny, with sharp wit and clever observations that make it a joy to read.

Weaknesses

While The Man Who Died Twice is a thoroughly enjoyable read, it’s not without its minor flaws. The plot, while engaging, occasionally strains credulity, particularly in its more action-packed moments. Additionally, some readers may find the pacing uneven, with the middle section slowing down as Osman delves into character development and subplots. However, these are minor quibbles in an otherwise outstanding book.

Conclusion

The Man Who Died Twice is a triumphant follow-up to The Thursday Murder Club. Richard Osman has crafted a mystery that is not only clever and entertaining but also deeply moving and thought-provoking. With its memorable characters, intricate plot, and sharp wit, the book is a testament to Osman’s talent as a storyteller.

Fans of the first book will find much to love here, and newcomers will quickly be drawn into the world of Coopers Chase and its delightful residents. The Man Who Died Twice is more than just a mystery novel. It’s a celebration of friendship, resilience, and the joy of living, no matter your age.

Whether you’re a seasoned mystery aficionado or simply looking for an engaging and heartwarming read, this book is a must-read. Osman has once again proven that age is no barrier to adventure—or to creating unforgettable stories.

Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links on this site may be affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. This helps support Crimes in Bramley and allows us to continue to create content. Thank you for your support!

Check Latest Price on Amazon Here