When it comes to cozy mysteries, I tend to lean toward stories set in the past—times that feel simpler but no less intriguing. Victorian-era mysteries are especially fun for me to read. The sleuths have to rely on cleverness and observation, without all the modern-day technology and science. There’s also something timeless about them—unlike some contemporary novels, these stories never feel outdated.

If you’re curious about diving into Victorian cozy mysteries, here are five series that might just make their way onto your reading list.

The Countess of Harleigh Series by Dianne Freeman

After American-born Countess of Harleigh is widowed, she suddenly finds herself with more freedom than she ever had as a wife. In the first book of the series, A Lady’s Guide to Etiquette and Murder, she starts a new life with her young daughter, rents her own home and invites her younger sister to London to prepare her for society. But her plans begin to unravel when the police receive a letter suggesting she had something to do with her late husband’s death. Together with the help of her charming neighbor, George Hazelton, she sets out to clear her name. This 7-book series is smart, witty, with unexpected romance. The audiobooks, narrated by Sarah Zimmerman, are excellent. 

The Penny Green Victorian Mystery Series by Emily Organ

This 12-book series follows Penny Green, one of the first female reporters on Fleet Street in 1880s London. Penny is a determined and resourceful journalist who finds herself entangled in various mysteries as she investigates through the gritty city streets. The first book, Limelight, Penny works with Inspector James Blakely to uncover the truth behind her friend Lizzie’s death in the world of theater. It is an appealing, well-written series.  

Miss Merrill and Aunt Violet Mysteries by Anita Davison

This delightful series features Hannah Merrill, a spirited young woman, who works in her eccentric Aunt Violet’s bookshop in post-WWI England. In Murder in the Bookshop, the first book of the series, Hannah’s best friend is found dead in the bookshop. As the mystery unfolds, Hannah and her opinionated aunt find themselves wrapped up in a tale of murder and espionage. There are three books so far with a fourth on the way. Each one is a treat!

Charlotte & Thomas Pitt Series by Anne Perry

The first book, The Cater Street Hangman, introduces Inspector Thomas Pitt as he pursues an elusive strangler. During the case he meets Charlotte Ellison, a proper lady who doesn’t know quite what to make of the persistent and slightly irritating policeman. This long running series has 32 books, and while it has been around for a while, it doesn’t feel dated whatsoever. Each story features Charlotte helping Thomas solve cases in her own clever way.

The Inspector and Mrs. Jefferies by Emily Brightwell

Mild-mannered Inspector Witherspoon is known as a capable and respected detective in the police force. What no one knows – not even him – is that his widowed housekeeper, Mrs. Jefferies, (herself a police widow) is quietly helping him with each case. With the assistance of her household staff, she keeps the investigations on track behind the scenes. There are 41 books in this series! I started with book 17, Mrs. Jefferies Pleads Her Case, and had no trouble jumping right in.

If you’re in the mood for a cozy mystery that mixes historical charm with clever sleuthing, these series are a great place to start.

Have you read any of these? Do you have a Victorian mystery I should try next? Let me know in the comments!