Cozy vs. Amateur Sleuth Mysteries: How to Spot the Difference

Cozy mysteries and amateur sleuth mysteries are often confused because most cozies feature an amateur sleuth, but they’re defined by completely different things. Cozies limit violence, language, and gore on the page, while amateur sleuth stories are simply mysteries solved by ordinary people without professional credentials. Understanding this distinction helps you pick the right mystery subgenre for your reading mood.