Craving Cosy Crime? 3 Must-Watch Series That Rival 'Death in Paradise' This June

For fans of sun-drenched murder mysteries and quirky detectives, the wait for the next season of Death in Paradise can feel like an eternity. The BBC’s beloved crime dramaatrapped viewers with its 15th season earlier this year, and the 16th installment isn't expected until early 2027. But fear not: a trio of delightfully “cosy” crime dramas has emerged, each offering the same warm, puzzle-box charm that made Saint Marie a television staple.

Whether you’re drawn to Italian coastal vistas, New England small-town secrets, or the rugged beauty of New Zealand, these three shows are expertly crafted to fill the void. We’ve broken down the best alternatives streaming right now—each one earning praise from critics and fans alike as worthy successors to the Death in Paradise throne.

Why the Cosy Crime Genre Endures

The appetite for “cosy” or “gentle” crime has only grown since Death in Paradise premiered in 2011. With its emphasis on character, scenic locations, and clever whodunits rather than graphic violence, the genre offers viewers a comforting escape. The BBC series, now led by Don Gilet as DI Mervin Wilson, has become a cultural institution, averaging 6 million viewers per episode in the UK alone.

This June, streaming platforms are leaning into that demand. From ITVX to Acorn TV, the landscape is rich with mysteries that prioritise atmosphere and wit over gore. Here are the three best bets to keep your detective instincts sharp.

‘A Taste For Murder’ — Capri’s Culinary Whodunit

Debuting in April on ITVX, A Taste For Murder has quickly become a fan favourite. The series stars Warren Brown (Luther, Strike) as widowed Metropolitan police detective DCI Joe Mottram, who travels to the stunning island of Capri with his daughter Angelica (Beau Gadsdon) to process their grief. What begins as a healing vacation soon turns into an investigation when a British tourist is found dead, followed by the suspicious drowning of a local diver.

Viewers have been effusive in their praise, with one X user writing, “Death in Paradise meets Whitstable Pearl meets Recipes for Love and Murder — and I’m absolutely here for it.” Another declared, “If you like light-ish murder mysteries, give it a try. Similar theme to Death in Paradise but I think it’s much better. Gorgeous scenery, food, and a better cast, honestly.” The series balances emotional depth with sun-soaked intrigue, making it an ideal binge-watch for June.

Where to watch: ITVX (UK).

‘You’re Killing Me’ — Brooke Shields’s New England Puzzle

Premiering on Acorn TV in May, You’re Killing Me stars the incomparable Brooke Shields as Allie, a novelist living in a quaint New England town. When a close friend is murdered, Allie teams up with a true-crime podcaster (Amalia Williamson) to uncover the truth. The series leans into the Murder, She Wrote tradition but quickly establishes its own voice, mixing sharp dialogue with genuine suspense.

One IMDb reviewer called it a “perfect mystery series,” while another predicted it would “find its place in the cosy mystery pantheon.” Fans have especially praised Shields’s performance, noting her comedic timing and warmth. “I never saw her movies or series before, so I didn’t know what to expect, but I was instantly pleased. The support cast is enjoyable too. Kudos to the writers for some clever dialogue,” wrote a five-star reviewer.

With its autumnal New England aesthetic (even in summer viewing), the show offers a visually distinct alternative to Death in Paradise while maintaining the same page-turning appeal.

Where to watch: Acorn TV.

‘The Brokenwood Mysteries’ — New Zealand’s Long-Running Gem

For those who crave a series with serious longevity, The Brokenwood Mysteries is currently airing its 12th season on Channel 4 and U&Drama. Set in the seemingly idyllic town of Brokenwood, New Zealand, the show follows Detective Mike Shepherd (Neill Rea) as he untangles murders that repeatedly rattle the community. The official synopsis describes it as “a series about a detective who arrives on assignment in a small town where memories—and animosities—run deep.”

Viewers have hailed it as “outstanding,” with one social media comment noting, “I look forward to future episodes of this refreshing NZ ‘whodunnit,’ which for me rates better than Midsomer, definitely better than Death in Paradise, but perhaps not quite as good as Lewis or Frost.” The show’s dry humour and sprawling character arcs have earned it a cult following, and the latest season promises more twists in the New Zealand countryside.

Season 12 arrives on digital July 20, but earlier seasons are already streaming for newcomers to catch up.

Where to watch: U&Drama, Channel 4 (UK).

The Future of Cosy Crime

As Death in Paradise continues to sail into the 2027 season, the cosy crime genre shows no signs of slowing down. With streaming platforms investing heavily in female-led mysteries, international settings, and cross-generational casts, the next wave of these gentle thrillers may even surpass the original. Whether you retreat to Capri, New England, or New Zealand this June, one thing is clear: the perfect puzzle is always waiting just around the corner.

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