BEN’S BOOK REVIEWS: JULY 2025

By Ben Robinson.

As the summer holidays loom, we all surely want nothing more than to sit on a warm beach enjoying a comedic novel. All genres of book have humorous stories within them. No matter how dark a book can get – we all need a little comic relief from time to time. Here, I have suggested three books which are filled with mystery, murder, and fantasy – so there is something for all avid readers to choose from.  

Hotel Avocado – by Bob Mortimer 

Bob Mortimer’s newest novel ‘The Hotel Avocado’ is a brilliant mystery sequel to ‘The Satsuma Complex’. The book is brimming with his unique laugh out loud humour, and it sees us return to his much-loved characters. Gary, a legal assistant, is battling the new world he seems to have discovered. It is one filled with change, mystery, and danger. And when he needs to move away from London, which is no longer safe for him as he is now embroiled in its criminal underworld, what better place than the Hotel Avocado. Mortimer introduces a quirky bunch of characters, including the intriguing figure Mr. Sequence… But what stands out most of all is Mortimer’s hilarious storytelling; and his jokes coupled with mystery will keep you turning the pages for hours.  

The Thursday Murder Club – Richard Osmond 

Richard Osman’s The Thursday Murder Club is a clever, warm-hearted whodunit. Set in a quiet retirement village, a group of elderly amateur sleuths meet weekly to solve cold cases. That is, until a real murder lands in their laps. The story which follows is a hilarious, sharp, and surprisingly moving tale, with plenty of twists and character relationships which are brilliantly endearing. Osman’s dry wit and care for his characters shine through. It’s not just a tale about solving crime, it’s about friendship, growing old, and staying curious.  

Good Omens – Terry Pratchett, and Neil Gaiman 

Good Omens is a fantastical, chaotic journey through the world. The book is the joint genius of Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman. The story follows an angel and a demon, Aziraphale and Crowley, who’ve grown to like Earth and decide to cause mischief. What follows is a string of trouble, from which the pair take glee; all leading to mistaken identity, with a dash of classic British humour. Beneath the absurdity of the book is satire and unexpected warmth from the duo. It’s a cult classic for good reason. Witty, weird, and strangely profound.  

Share:

Share
Tweet
Pin it

Comments:

  • No comments yet.
  • Add a comment

    Follow us

    Most Popular

    Get The Latest Updates

    Subscribe To Our Weekly Newsletter

    No spam, just weekly York events updates and the odd competition. 

    Stay in the loop.

    Sign up to our mailing list and we’ll keep you in the know