‘The Impossible Fortune’ de Richard Osman (Penguin · 18 de mayo, 2026)

The Impossible Fortune (Mystery / Crime Fiction)

Richard Osman, the record-breaking author of The Thursday Murder Club series, brings his signature wit and keen eye for human nature to a brand-new mystery. This novel marks a exciting chapter in Osman’s career, blending the cozy charm of a classic “whodunnit” with a modern, high-stakes plot that keeps readers guessing until the very end.

About the Author: Richard Osman

Richard Osman is an English television presenter, producer, and novelist who has become a titan of the literary world. Before his meteoric rise as a writer, he was widely known for co-hosting the BBC quiz show Pointless and for his work behind the scenes on numerous hit programs. His debut novel, The Thursday Murder Club, became a global phenomenon, selling millions of copies and revitalizing the “coszy mystery” genre. Osman’s writing is celebrated for its warmth, sharp British humor, and deeply empathetic character work. He has a rare gift for making readers laugh out loud one moment and feel a pang of genuine emotion the next, all while constructing intricate puzzles that satisfy even the most seasoned mystery fans.

Synopsis

“The Impossible Fortune” centers on a puzzle that seems unsolvable and a prize that everyone wants, but no one can quite grasp. The story introduces a cast of characters who are as flawed as they are likable, each brought together by a mysterious inheritance or an extraordinary stroke of luck that feels too good to be true.

When a massive fortune is left behind under bizarre and cryptic conditions, a group of unlikely allies—and rivals—must navigate a series of mental and physical challenges to claim it. However, as the quest progresses, it becomes clear that the “fortune” isn’t just about money; it’s tied to a long-buried secret that certain powerful people would kill to keep hidden. The narrative explores the themes of greed, the complexity of friendship, and the idea that our greatest treasures are often things we didn’t know we were looking for.

As with all of Osman’s work, the plot is driven by clever dialogue and a sharp observational style. He masterfully subverts genre tropes, providing plenty of red herrings and “Aha!” moments. This Penguin edition promises a reading experience that is both comforting and exhilarating—a perfect blend of intelligence and heart. It is a story about the choices we make when faced with the impossible, and the realization that sometimes the biggest gamble of all is trusting someone else.