Richard Osman's The Man Who Died Twice offers witty dialogue and charming characters, maintaining the appeal of his debut. The humor and clever plot twists keep readers engaged. However, some critics feel the pacing lags and the secondary characters lack depth. Overall, it remains a delightful and entertaining read.

A reader who would enjoy The Man Who Died Twice by Richard Osman likely appreciates clever, character-driven mysteries with a dash of humor. Comparable to fans of Agatha Christie's Hercule Poirot series or Louise Penny's Still Life, this audience enjoys intricate plotting and charming, relatable protagonists.

The Man Who Died Twice follows the residents of Coopers Chase retirement village, members of the Thursday Murder Club, as they face a new adventure involving Elizabeth’s ex-husband, Douglas, who has stolen diamonds and is pursued by dangerous criminals. The novel intertwines humor and serious themes through dual narratives, alternating between Joyce’s diary entries and third-person perspectives, contributing to a fast-paced, intricate story. Involves themes of aging and dementia.

Humorous / Suspenseful / Mysterious / Bittersweet / Heartwarming

- The Man Who Died Twice is the second installment in Richard Osman's cozy mystery series, The Thursday Murder Club, which became one of the fastest-selling novels since records began in the UK.
- Author Richard Osman is not only a writer but also a well-known British television presenter, recognized for co-hosting the quiz show Pointless.
- The book was celebrated for its engaging humor and intricate plot, earning it high praise for its portrayal of elderly amateur detectives solving mysteries in a charming retirement community.

**Joyce Meadowcroft**  
A retired nurse and member of the Thursday Murder Club known for her cheerful and positive demeanor, she is the novel's first-person narrator, writing diary entries that detail her perspectives and interactions.

**Elizabeth Best**  
An unofficial leader of the Thursday Murder Club and former spy with MI5, Elizabeth is known for her intelligence and leadership skills, guiding the club through various mysteries.

**Ibrahim Arif**  
An 80-year-old retired psychiatrist and member of the Thursday Murder Club from Egypt, he faces personal challenges after an assault but remains a cerebral and dignified presence.

**Ron Ritchie**  
A former trade union leader and member of the Thursday Murder Club, known for his straightforwardness and working-class background, he often contrasts with the more cerebral members of the club.

**Donna De Freitas**  
A police constable and friend to the Thursday Murder Club, she navigates her role within the local police force while forming important alliances with the club members.

**Chris Hudson**  
A detective chief inspector in Fairhaven police force, he is a friend to the Thursday Murder Club and often collaborates with them outside the bounds of traditional law enforcement.

**Bogdan Jankowski**  
A Polish builder with a complicated past, Bogdan works closely with the Thursday Murder Club, providing support and displaying loyalty, particularly to Elizabeth and Stephen.

**Stephen Best**  
Elizabeth’s third husband, whose battle with dementia affects his day-to-day life, but he continues to exhibit moments of clarity and intellectual prowess.

**Douglas Middlemiss**  
An active MI5 agent and one of Elizabeth's ex-husbands, characterized by his outdated charm and attitudes that often clash with modern society.

**Sue Reardon**  
An MI5 agent depicted as an antagonist, her similarities to Elizabeth provide insight into her cunning and strategic mind.

**Martin Lomax**  
A middleman for international criminals, he plays an antagonistic role due to the theft of valuable diamonds that complicate his dealings.

**Frank Andrade Jr.**  
A mafia member from New York involved in retrieving stolen diamonds, highlighting the novel’s international criminal elements.

**Connie Johnson**  
Known as Fairhaven’s “queenpin,” she manages a drug operation and becomes entangled in a subplot involving the local police.

**Ryan Baird**  
A minor criminal whose assault on Ibrahim triggers a personal vendetta by the Thursday Murder Club, showcasing his reckless behavior.

**Poppy**  
A young MI5 officer new to espionage, her sensitive nature and bond with Joyce are significant episodes during her assignment.

**Lance James**  
A former Special Boat Service member and MI5 operative with personal struggles, adding complexity to the diamond theft storyline.

**Sally Montague / Siobhan**  
A character who deceives others by assuming a false identity, creating intrigue and confusion within the narrative.

**Patrice**  
Donna’s mother and Chris’s romantic interest, involved in a subplot that highlights personal relationships in the story.

**Sylvia Finch**  
Opens and closes the narrative, providing a connection to themes of loss and dementia, with a personal backstory unfolded later.

**Kendrick**  
Ron’s young grandson whose presence acts as a catalyst in Ibrahim’s journey toward emotional recovery.

Richard Osman

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Novel

Thursday Murder Club

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Before You Read

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Overview

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The Man Who Died Twice Summary and Study Guide

Background

The Man Who Died Twice Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “Your Friends Are Sure to Visit”

Part 1, Chapters 1-10

The Man Who Died Twice Part 1, Chapters 1-10 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 11-20

The Man Who Died Twice Part 1, Chapters 11-20 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 21-29

The Man Who Died Twice Part 1, Chapters 21-29 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 30-39

The Man Who Died Twice Part 2, Chapters 30-39 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “At Times, You Won’t Believe Your Eyes”

Part 2, Chapters 40-50

The Man Who Died Twice Part 2, Chapters 40-50 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 51-63

The Man Who Died Twice Part 2, Chapters 51-63 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “So Many Day Trips for You to Enjoy”

Part 3, Chapters 64-70

The Man Who Died Twice Part 3, Chapters 64-70 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 71-74

The Man Who Died Twice Part 3, Chapters 71-74 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 75-78

The Man Who Died Twice Part 3, Chapters 75-78 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 79-84

The Man Who Died Twice Part 3, Chapters 79-84 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Man Who Died Twice Character Analysis

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Themes

The Man Who Died Twice Themes

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The Man Who Died Twice Symbols & Motifs

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The Man Who Died Twice

Before You Read

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