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Hayden & Friends #2
Cirque du Slay
In the rollicking mystery, perfect for fans of Steven Rowley and Elle Cosimano, the circus becomes the stage for a high-profile murder investigation.
With quirky LGBTQ+ amateur sleuths, Cirque du Slay will delight readers looking for a madcap mystery with high-flying excitement!
Pint-sized Seattle middle school teacher and gay dating blogger Hayden McCall and his best friend Hollister are invited to a fundraiser for Bakers Without Borders. The celebrity performer, Kennedy Osaka, is the artistic director of Mysterium, an upscale circus arts show combining magic, acrobatics, and a Michelin-star dinner. But Kennedy is a no-show—until she’s found dead in her hotel suite.
When frenemy Sarah Lee is discovered in the room with the body, Hayden and Hollister are on the case to find the real culprit before Sarah Lee is charged with the crime.
The suspects for the murder are as unique as Mysterium a Russian trapeze artist, a cowgirl comedian sharp-shooter, an over-cologned operations director, a feisty, green-haired costume manager, and Adrenalin!, a sexy troop of Romanian male acrobats...If Hayden and Hollister are to clear Sarah Lee of suspicion, they’ll have to outsmart a killer for whom trickery is art.
With quirky LGBTQ+ amateur sleuths, Cirque du Slay will delight readers looking for a madcap mystery with high-flying excitement!
Pint-sized Seattle middle school teacher and gay dating blogger Hayden McCall and his best friend Hollister are invited to a fundraiser for Bakers Without Borders. The celebrity performer, Kennedy Osaka, is the artistic director of Mysterium, an upscale circus arts show combining magic, acrobatics, and a Michelin-star dinner. But Kennedy is a no-show—until she’s found dead in her hotel suite.
When frenemy Sarah Lee is discovered in the room with the body, Hayden and Hollister are on the case to find the real culprit before Sarah Lee is charged with the crime.
The suspects for the murder are as unique as Mysterium a Russian trapeze artist, a cowgirl comedian sharp-shooter, an over-cologned operations director, a feisty, green-haired costume manager, and Adrenalin!, a sexy troop of Romanian male acrobats...If Hayden and Hollister are to clear Sarah Lee of suspicion, they’ll have to outsmart a killer for whom trickery is art.
304 pages, Hardcover
Published March 5, 2024
12 people are currently reading
2523 people want to read
About the author
Rob Osler
8 books188 followersRob Osler is the USA Today Bestselling author of THE CASE OF THE MISSING MAID, book one in the new historical Harriet Morrow Investigates series. Praise for the novel: a Publisher's Weekly STARRED REVIEW, a New York Times "Standout Historical Release," The Washington Post's "Best Novels to Cozy Up With," a Historical Novel Society Editor's Choice, and an Amazon Editor's Pick.
CIRQUE DU SLAY, the follow-up to acclaimed DEVIL'S CHEW TOY is the 2025 Winner of the Anthony and Left Coast Crime Awards for Best Humorous Novel.
Rob's short story, MISS DIRECTION (Ellery Queen Mystery Magazine, Sept/Oct 2023), was a finalist for the 2024 Mystery Writers of America Edgar Award, and his short story, ANALOGUE (also EQMM), won the Mystery Writers of America 2022 Robert L Fish Award.
Rob is a member of Mystery Writers of America, Sisters in Crime, and Queer Crime Writers. He is a graduate in philosophy from the University of Puget Sound and earned a master's degree in business from the University of Washington's Foster School.
After many years living in Chicago and Seattle, he resides in California with his husband and a tall, gray cat. Discover more at robosler dot com
CIRQUE DU SLAY, the follow-up to acclaimed DEVIL'S CHEW TOY is the 2025 Winner of the Anthony and Left Coast Crime Awards for Best Humorous Novel.
Rob's short story, MISS DIRECTION (Ellery Queen Mystery Magazine, Sept/Oct 2023), was a finalist for the 2024 Mystery Writers of America Edgar Award, and his short story, ANALOGUE (also EQMM), won the Mystery Writers of America 2022 Robert L Fish Award.
Rob is a member of Mystery Writers of America, Sisters in Crime, and Queer Crime Writers. He is a graduate in philosophy from the University of Puget Sound and earned a master's degree in business from the University of Washington's Foster School.
After many years living in Chicago and Seattle, he resides in California with his husband and a tall, gray cat. Discover more at robosler dot com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
dnf
March 21, 2025I was really hoping for a fun campy cozy mystery with this one, but the sizeism / anti-fatness with Burley is disappointing ("hugging her was like clinging to a mattress" p. 20, WTF). Then a trans character is introduced with "While he looked like a man--or as much of a man as I did--there were just enough visual cues to suggest he might be transgender" (his "wide hips" are also mentioned).
There is some good humour and banter here and the mystery had potential, but I do not want transphobia and anti-fatness in my queer cozy mysteries! DNF
There is some good humour and banter here and the mystery had potential, but I do not want transphobia and anti-fatness in my queer cozy mysteries! DNF
September 27, 2023
Thank you NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the opportunity to review "Cirque du Slay" by Rob Osler!
A LGBTQ+ group of friends, headed by Hayden and Hollister, must solve the murder of the artistic director of the coolest circus troupe, Mysterium, in order to save their frenemy from being charged with the crime.
While the premise sounds amazing and checks so many boxes, the execution is a letdown.
The characters are one-dimensional, poor imitations of traditional archetypes, the majority of whom are blurting out sarcastic or cringy quips with every piece of dialogue.
There's also way too much unnecessary description. Yes, we want to be able to visualise what the characters are seeing, but there's a line where description just becomes useless padding. Along with that, the author has the characters verbally repeat what has already happened in the story over and over again. At some point, the author must have a little faith in his readers to remember what happened five pages prior.
There's also a cruel thread throughout the book of commenting on people's weight which is very ironic considering the general theme of "accept who you are/be who you're supposed to be" etc. This is especially prevalent with one of Hayden and Hollister's friends. She's a bigger woman and practically every scene where she is present is making a joke or a jab at her size. At one point, when Hayden is hugging her, he even likens her to a MATTRESS. Oh, and did I mention that her name is BURLEY? It's almost laughable.
If you can ignore all that, which it's kind of difficult to, the actual setting of the circus is pretty fun and provides some nice gags and set-ups throughout the story.
Overall, "Cirque du Slay" has very little going for it, but if you'd like to read something mindlessly, then there could be worse books to go for.
A LGBTQ+ group of friends, headed by Hayden and Hollister, must solve the murder of the artistic director of the coolest circus troupe, Mysterium, in order to save their frenemy from being charged with the crime.
While the premise sounds amazing and checks so many boxes, the execution is a letdown.
The characters are one-dimensional, poor imitations of traditional archetypes, the majority of whom are blurting out sarcastic or cringy quips with every piece of dialogue.
There's also way too much unnecessary description. Yes, we want to be able to visualise what the characters are seeing, but there's a line where description just becomes useless padding. Along with that, the author has the characters verbally repeat what has already happened in the story over and over again. At some point, the author must have a little faith in his readers to remember what happened five pages prior.
There's also a cruel thread throughout the book of commenting on people's weight which is very ironic considering the general theme of "accept who you are/be who you're supposed to be" etc. This is especially prevalent with one of Hayden and Hollister's friends. She's a bigger woman and practically every scene where she is present is making a joke or a jab at her size. At one point, when Hayden is hugging her, he even likens her to a MATTRESS. Oh, and did I mention that her name is BURLEY? It's almost laughable.
If you can ignore all that, which it's kind of difficult to, the actual setting of the circus is pretty fun and provides some nice gags and set-ups throughout the story.
Overall, "Cirque du Slay" has very little going for it, but if you'd like to read something mindlessly, then there could be worse books to go for.
February 18, 2024
There's nothing depressing or explicit in this hilarious cozy mystery filled with characters who are LGBTQIAP. ALL of the characters truly are and none of the humor is mean.
One of the friends who is a circus performer is found dead by another of the friends and the local law have her in their sights. So all of the rest get together to find the right murderer and I got to laugh myself silly. Loved it! Good sleuthing and great fun.
I requested and received an EARC from Crooked Lane Books via NetGalley. Thank you!
Hayden & Friends #2
One of the friends who is a circus performer is found dead by another of the friends and the local law have her in their sights. So all of the rest get together to find the right murderer and I got to laugh myself silly. Loved it! Good sleuthing and great fun.
I requested and received an EARC from Crooked Lane Books via NetGalley. Thank you!
Hayden & Friends #2
October 14, 2023
Special thanks to Crooked Lane and NetGalley for the arc. Hayden and Hollister are at it again, my favorite gay male and lesbian amateur sleuth team deep in another murder mystery. H&H are polar opposites physically but have become the best of friends over the past year. This time they set out to find a murderer in a traveling Cirque-esque show. Lots of fun, author Osler crafts a warm and enticing cozy sure to make you want to be a part of the gang. Love Hayden’s personal arc. Want more of Hollister in book 3. Bestie queer sleuths rule.
October 20, 2024
Hayden and his best friend Hollister are invited to a fundraiser for Bakers without Borders. When the celebrity performer, Kennedy Osaka, is a no show, Hayden's frenemy Sarah Lee is determined to find her, only to find Kennedy dead and Sarah arrested as a suspect in her murder. Hayden and Hollister must investigate inside Mysterium, an upscale circus to find the true killer.
When I started listening to Cirque du Slay, I did not realize that this was part of a series. Although you do miss the introduction of some secondary characters, the author does a great job in giving a summary of Hayden and Hollister's first investigation.
This was a fun cozy mystery. I enjoyed the investigation into Mysterium. The author did a great job in describing the circus acts and the performers of the show. I found myself laughing out loud at some of the antics that Hayden and Hollister find themselves in. One thing I truly enjoyed was the posts from Hayden's blog that were posted throughout this book. The posts gave a great insight into Hayden's character, and I hope they continue in the next book of this series.
Cirque du Slay is out now.
Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the opportunity to review Cirque du Slay. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
When I started listening to Cirque du Slay, I did not realize that this was part of a series. Although you do miss the introduction of some secondary characters, the author does a great job in giving a summary of Hayden and Hollister's first investigation.
This was a fun cozy mystery. I enjoyed the investigation into Mysterium. The author did a great job in describing the circus acts and the performers of the show. I found myself laughing out loud at some of the antics that Hayden and Hollister find themselves in. One thing I truly enjoyed was the posts from Hayden's blog that were posted throughout this book. The posts gave a great insight into Hayden's character, and I hope they continue in the next book of this series.
Cirque du Slay is out now.
Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the opportunity to review Cirque du Slay. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 27, 2024
I am really loving Rob Osler’s Hayden & Friends Cozy Mystery Series! Fast paced with a hilarious cast of characters Cirque du Slay kept me chuckling and guessing until the last page!
📚 Second in the Series
🎪 Circus
🏳️🌈 LGBTQIA+
🔍 Cozy Mystery
🕵️♂️ Amateur Sleuth
🐾 Adorable Pups
😹 Hoot and a Half
Method Read: 🎧
Pete Cross did a fantastic job narrating and bringing the story to life!
Thank you Dreamscape Media for the gifted copy!
📚 Second in the Series
🎪 Circus
🏳️🌈 LGBTQIA+
🔍 Cozy Mystery
🕵️♂️ Amateur Sleuth
🐾 Adorable Pups
😹 Hoot and a Half
Method Read: 🎧
Pete Cross did a fantastic job narrating and bringing the story to life!
Thank you Dreamscape Media for the gifted copy!
March 19, 2024
ARC accessed via Netgalley courtesy of Dreamscape Media.
When celebrity circus performer Kennedy Osaka is killed, and Sarah Lee - friend to Osaka, and our protagonist's enemy-turned-frenemy - is caught with the weapon in her hands, Hayden and his erratic queer friends task themselves with finding the true villain. But one can't help but wonder whether the most obvious answer isn't the right one - after all, didn't Sarah Lee go to Kennedy's hotel in quite the rage?
I'm a bit late in reviewing this title, which came out earlier in March, mostly because I wanted to read the first part of the series before. And I have to say, that despite sharing some weaknesses with the previous book, there was also some improvement in craft. The pacing issues I noticed in the last book were barely there, probably aided by the more traditional structure of the storyline, which was a fairly standard murder mystery. It being standard, however, is not necessarily a bad thing since it allows the author to put work towards other elements of the story.
I also appreciated that Hayden being a teacher was more relevant to the story - we didn't quite see him work with kids, however, we saw the way anti-queer legislation in education affected his life outside the classroom.
The thing that kept this from being a favorite was the characters - it just seemed so flat. Some characters could have had scenes cut without the story losing anything, while other characters like Camilo, who is central to Hayden's conflict in this book, don't get enough scenes to justify the influence they exert on the story. I think the best character in the series by a mile is Jerry, an old man Hayden has a very wholesome relationship with.
When celebrity circus performer Kennedy Osaka is killed, and Sarah Lee - friend to Osaka, and our protagonist's enemy-turned-frenemy - is caught with the weapon in her hands, Hayden and his erratic queer friends task themselves with finding the true villain. But one can't help but wonder whether the most obvious answer isn't the right one - after all, didn't Sarah Lee go to Kennedy's hotel in quite the rage?
I'm a bit late in reviewing this title, which came out earlier in March, mostly because I wanted to read the first part of the series before. And I have to say, that despite sharing some weaknesses with the previous book, there was also some improvement in craft. The pacing issues I noticed in the last book were barely there, probably aided by the more traditional structure of the storyline, which was a fairly standard murder mystery. It being standard, however, is not necessarily a bad thing since it allows the author to put work towards other elements of the story.
I also appreciated that Hayden being a teacher was more relevant to the story - we didn't quite see him work with kids, however, we saw the way anti-queer legislation in education affected his life outside the classroom.
The thing that kept this from being a favorite was the characters - it just seemed so flat. Some characters could have had scenes cut without the story losing anything, while other characters like Camilo, who is central to Hayden's conflict in this book, don't get enough scenes to justify the influence they exert on the story. I think the best character in the series by a mile is Jerry, an old man Hayden has a very wholesome relationship with.
June 9, 2024
4.5 rounded up. A delightful sequel, absolutely love our duo Hayden and Hollister and their friends. Jess was a great addition to this book as well, it was lovely to see a trans dude join the friend group.
The circus setting was fun and interesting, and the inclusion of a few performances watched and participated in like the disappearing act and the knife throwing were engaging and kept tensions high.
Throwing in a love interest related to the case was done well and both helped further the plot with excuses to snoop and upped the tension since I was worried about how the two would impact one another.
We get some character development with Hayden becoming more confident than in the first book, and coming out of his shell more, while still being true to himself with his kind and gentle nature. I find his intergenerational friendship with Jerry and love of animals as endearing as ever.
I find this series so charming, and it’s a wonderful queer queer mystery. I’m loving these friendship-focused modern cozy mysteries that feel fresh and engaging and kind.
Fans of Thursday Murder Club and/or Gregory Ashe’s new queer cozy mystery series “The Last Picks” would enjoy this series quite a bit. And fans of this would likely enjoy those!
And shout out to the narrator, I did the audio and he did a wonderful job. I particularly liked that Jess spoke with a smooth voice in a lower register than Hayden. They are described as very physically similar so I wasn’t sure what to expect with the voice but it was a great choice and fit how their personalities are so different, despite looking alike.
The circus setting was fun and interesting, and the inclusion of a few performances watched and participated in like the disappearing act and the knife throwing were engaging and kept tensions high.
Throwing in a love interest related to the case was done well and both helped further the plot with excuses to snoop and upped the tension since I was worried about how the two would impact one another.
We get some character development with Hayden becoming more confident than in the first book, and coming out of his shell more, while still being true to himself with his kind and gentle nature. I find his intergenerational friendship with Jerry and love of animals as endearing as ever.
I find this series so charming, and it’s a wonderful queer queer mystery. I’m loving these friendship-focused modern cozy mysteries that feel fresh and engaging and kind.
Fans of Thursday Murder Club and/or Gregory Ashe’s new queer cozy mystery series “The Last Picks” would enjoy this series quite a bit. And fans of this would likely enjoy those!
And shout out to the narrator, I did the audio and he did a wonderful job. I particularly liked that Jess spoke with a smooth voice in a lower register than Hayden. They are described as very physically similar so I wasn’t sure what to expect with the voice but it was a great choice and fit how their personalities are so different, despite looking alike.
March 4, 2024
This is a light-hearted, short, and fast paced cozy murder mystery. It is filled with quirky characters, gimmicky banter, and an unrelated relationship blog side plot.
It was a clever premise with mediocre delivery. I could have done without the relationship blog, and the author's obsession with describing everyone's size. Seriously, Hayden's nickname was based on how short he was, and he had a friend literally named Burley who was frequently described as extremely large. For a book that promoted being yourself in regards to gender and sexual preferences, there was a lot of body size shaming which I found obnoxiously hypocritical.
Hayden's frenemy/neighbor is accused of murdering a circus performer. Hayden is gay, his bff Hollister is a lesbian, and they pose as reporters to go to the circus and try to figure out who actually committed the murder.
The book did get significantly more entertaining about halfway through, but unfortunately I would not read another in this series. I appreciate the ARC from NetGalley and the publishers.
It was a clever premise with mediocre delivery. I could have done without the relationship blog, and the author's obsession with describing everyone's size. Seriously, Hayden's nickname was based on how short he was, and he had a friend literally named Burley who was frequently described as extremely large. For a book that promoted being yourself in regards to gender and sexual preferences, there was a lot of body size shaming which I found obnoxiously hypocritical.
Hayden's frenemy/neighbor is accused of murdering a circus performer. Hayden is gay, his bff Hollister is a lesbian, and they pose as reporters to go to the circus and try to figure out who actually committed the murder.
The book did get significantly more entertaining about halfway through, but unfortunately I would not read another in this series. I appreciate the ARC from NetGalley and the publishers.
November 24, 2023
Thank you Netgalley for letting me review this book.
I really enjoyed the play on words. Part circus, part mystery, part suspense.
When a performer ends up dead the race is on to find out who the killer is, before a possible suspect takes the fall for it.
The story was really entertaining while keeping you on your toes to try and find out what really happened,
#Netgalley #Cirque Du Slay
I really enjoyed the play on words. Part circus, part mystery, part suspense.
When a performer ends up dead the race is on to find out who the killer is, before a possible suspect takes the fall for it.
The story was really entertaining while keeping you on your toes to try and find out what really happened,
#Netgalley #Cirque Du Slay
March 24, 2024
All my favorites are back in a new adventure. Middle-school teacher Hayden is still having dating issues and blogging about it. His best friend Hollister is still having dating issues and not talking about it. When they go to a circus fundraiser for their friend Burley's bakery, they discover the star performer, Kennedy, is a no-show. Sarah Lee, their sorta friend and employee at the bakery is steaming. After all she was the one who got her high-school frenemy, Kennedy to agree to the show. She storms out to give Kennedy a piece of her mind.
Unfortunately, Kennedy is going to be a permanent no-show, and unless Hayden and company can discover the true culprit, Sarah Lee may take the fall. What ensues is a unique and funny investigation with a cast of characters ranging from a knife throwing cowgirl to a very hunky team of Romanian acrobats. Not to mention a Hayden look-alike.
I loved this story, maybe even more than the first in the series, The Devil's Chew Toy. Nah. They're both fabulous. My only complaint is that it ended. I want to spend more time with Hayden's circle and hope there's another one coming soon.
Unfortunately, Kennedy is going to be a permanent no-show, and unless Hayden and company can discover the true culprit, Sarah Lee may take the fall. What ensues is a unique and funny investigation with a cast of characters ranging from a knife throwing cowgirl to a very hunky team of Romanian acrobats. Not to mention a Hayden look-alike.
I loved this story, maybe even more than the first in the series, The Devil's Chew Toy. Nah. They're both fabulous. My only complaint is that it ended. I want to spend more time with Hayden's circle and hope there's another one coming soon.
June 4, 2024
Another really fun and heartfelt mystery with characters that I love. Friendship is such a big factor in this story and I love how much Hayden cares about his friends that he is willing to jump into danger to try and prove them innocent. There are lot of moving parts and interesting characters in this book that made it so interesting to read. I loved the description of the different performance acts and people in the show. I was completely baffled as to what really happened and loved the dramatic reveal and ending. Not only drama and danger, but there are lots of laughs along the way.
What I also really love in this book is the emphasis on how someone's gender identity or sexuality is of course important, but only one small aspect and there is so much more to someone and they shouldn't be only thought of by that one factor. There is also a lot of introspection via Hayden's blog posts about how important it is to accept change and also love yourself before looking for love.
Note: I listened to the audiobook and it is fantastic! highly recommend!
What I also really love in this book is the emphasis on how someone's gender identity or sexuality is of course important, but only one small aspect and there is so much more to someone and they shouldn't be only thought of by that one factor. There is also a lot of introspection via Hayden's blog posts about how important it is to accept change and also love yourself before looking for love.
Note: I listened to the audiobook and it is fantastic! highly recommend!
put-down-for-now
February 26, 2024Need!
September 15, 2023
Thank you, Rob Osler and NetGalley, for the ARC. I leave this review voluntarily and happily. Also, thank you publishers for your hard work!
At first, I had to DNF as so much was going on in my life during that time, but I picked it back up. I'm glad that I did. I enjoyed the book. The mystery of going through the steps the main characters did to find out who the killer is. This book isn't gorey, or violent. It's definitely for those who enjoy who done it. It makes you think about who the killer is and whether they will figure it out.
This book shows you that friendship means something, and no matter who you are, you are perfect the way you are. I enjoyed that this book was part of the LGBTQ+. You don't get to see much of those. Well, at least the area I live in anyway. It was refreshing, and truly, I enjoyed every moment of it.
Thank you once again for allowing me to read this book.
At first, I had to DNF as so much was going on in my life during that time, but I picked it back up. I'm glad that I did. I enjoyed the book. The mystery of going through the steps the main characters did to find out who the killer is. This book isn't gorey, or violent. It's definitely for those who enjoy who done it. It makes you think about who the killer is and whether they will figure it out.
This book shows you that friendship means something, and no matter who you are, you are perfect the way you are. I enjoyed that this book was part of the LGBTQ+. You don't get to see much of those. Well, at least the area I live in anyway. It was refreshing, and truly, I enjoyed every moment of it.
Thank you once again for allowing me to read this book.
August 22, 2024
Thank you NetGalley for this e-arc! The premise of this story is what first brought me in. Queer best friends investigating a murder with a circus setting? There was potential. But that sadly didn't carry through for me.
First and foremost, this book desperately needed sensitivity readers. I can't count how many times I read a description or an encounter and could only think: yikes. There were even some comments that the mc made towards his best friend that were intended as jokes but they came across in bad taste at best.
On top of that, the writing style itself seemed to rely too much on describing things that weren't important to the story and mystery. Whatever intrigue the premise had was lost. I could tell that the author was trying to achieve a lot and sprinkle in some important messages, but they ultimately fell flat. Unfortunately, the above issues (and some other pet peeves of mine that showed up) took away from the potential enjoyment this started with.
First and foremost, this book desperately needed sensitivity readers. I can't count how many times I read a description or an encounter and could only think: yikes. There were even some comments that the mc made towards his best friend that were intended as jokes but they came across in bad taste at best.
On top of that, the writing style itself seemed to rely too much on describing things that weren't important to the story and mystery. Whatever intrigue the premise had was lost. I could tell that the author was trying to achieve a lot and sprinkle in some important messages, but they ultimately fell flat. Unfortunately, the above issues (and some other pet peeves of mine that showed up) took away from the potential enjoyment this started with.
April 15, 2024
A newly appointed artistic director of a Cirque-du-Soleil type show, Mysterium, is found murdered in her hotel suite. The killer is found with a pair of enormous bloody scissors in her hands. She couldn't have done it, could she?
It's up to Hayden and Hollister, a gay cis 26 yr. old male school teacher, and a tall mohawk-sporting black cis lesbian, to clear their friends' name.
Hayden, Hollister and their colorful counterparts are on the case and they will do everything in their power to clear an innocent and bring a killer to justice. One big problem? Who the heck is it?
A long list of suspects, including the bitchy hair-aerialist, the green-haired catty seamstress, the sharpshooter, the smelly manager, or the hunky acrobatic troupe (one of whom might have an interest in Hayden), all blend together in this sensory, funny, heartfelt and even suspenseful murder mystery.
Personally, I fell for it and didn't figure it out in time, doggone it. Rob Osler's colorful cast of characters, especially the Mysterium Cast and Crew, bring Hayden and Hollister's story so much life. Osler does a great job with his descriptions of the various acts, crafting various motives and red-herrings that are off-set by a few hilarious hijink moments (the houseboat scene made me think of the movie Clue, as well as a few others), and provided with a fun introduction to a potential third story in Hayden and Friends mystery. I am actually hopeful that Hayden's blog becomes a reality in at least one respect.
There is only one thing wrong with this book: a character typo towards the story's climax. I don't think the character involved could literally be in two places doing two very different activities in front of the other characters, when one of those is incapacitated, but I'll leave that to you, readers.
It's up to Hayden and Hollister, a gay cis 26 yr. old male school teacher, and a tall mohawk-sporting black cis lesbian, to clear their friends' name.
Hayden, Hollister and their colorful counterparts are on the case and they will do everything in their power to clear an innocent and bring a killer to justice. One big problem? Who the heck is it?
A long list of suspects, including the bitchy hair-aerialist, the green-haired catty seamstress, the sharpshooter, the smelly manager, or the hunky acrobatic troupe (one of whom might have an interest in Hayden), all blend together in this sensory, funny, heartfelt and even suspenseful murder mystery.
Personally, I fell for it and didn't figure it out in time, doggone it. Rob Osler's colorful cast of characters, especially the Mysterium Cast and Crew, bring Hayden and Hollister's story so much life. Osler does a great job with his descriptions of the various acts, crafting various motives and red-herrings that are off-set by a few hilarious hijink moments (the houseboat scene made me think of the movie Clue, as well as a few others), and provided with a fun introduction to a potential third story in Hayden and Friends mystery. I am actually hopeful that Hayden's blog becomes a reality in at least one respect.
There is only one thing wrong with this book: a character typo towards the story's climax. I don't think the character involved could literally be in two places doing two very different activities in front of the other characters, when one of those is incapacitated, but I'll leave that to you, readers.
March 21, 2024
A light hearted and fast paced queer and cosy crime novel.
Circe Du Slay follows dynamic duo Hayden and Hollister, as they test their amateur crime solving abilities to clear their innocent friend’s name. Their investigation takes them to the travelling home of the wild and wonderful Mysterium circus show.
Although this book is the second of a series titled ‘Hayden and Friends’, I read it as a standalone and didn’t feel like I was disadvantaged at all. However, after reading this one, I’d definitely be looking into the previous novel and any future ones in this series.
I really enjoyed the narrator of the audiobook and felt he really brought the book to life and had a clear and unique depiction of each character.
One particular downfall for this book was there was a lot of unnecessary plot lines that either didn’t add anything to the story, or didn’t get wrapped up by the end of the novel which is always a little disappointing.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and thought it was such a fun read! I especially loved the queer found family aspects of the story.
Circe Du Slay follows dynamic duo Hayden and Hollister, as they test their amateur crime solving abilities to clear their innocent friend’s name. Their investigation takes them to the travelling home of the wild and wonderful Mysterium circus show.
Although this book is the second of a series titled ‘Hayden and Friends’, I read it as a standalone and didn’t feel like I was disadvantaged at all. However, after reading this one, I’d definitely be looking into the previous novel and any future ones in this series.
I really enjoyed the narrator of the audiobook and felt he really brought the book to life and had a clear and unique depiction of each character.
One particular downfall for this book was there was a lot of unnecessary plot lines that either didn’t add anything to the story, or didn’t get wrapped up by the end of the novel which is always a little disappointing.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and thought it was such a fun read! I especially loved the queer found family aspects of the story.
March 5, 2024
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
Cirque du Slay is the second book in the Hayden & Friends series from author Rob Osler. The story is set in chilly, spring-time Seattle where Hayden and Hollister ping-pong between the Mysterium grounds, Jess’ houseboat, and the bakery run by Burley and Sara Lee. The short chapters are all told from Hayden’s perspective and, every now and again, the murder mystery plot is broken up with blog posts Hayden publishes to his queer slice-of-life blog.
I jumped into this book not knowing there was an earlier story in the series. It’s not my usual approach, but even before I realized there was more backstory to be had, I thought the events in this book stand well enough on their own.
Read Camille’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
Cirque du Slay is the second book in the Hayden & Friends series from author Rob Osler. The story is set in chilly, spring-time Seattle where Hayden and Hollister ping-pong between the Mysterium grounds, Jess’ houseboat, and the bakery run by Burley and Sara Lee. The short chapters are all told from Hayden’s perspective and, every now and again, the murder mystery plot is broken up with blog posts Hayden publishes to his queer slice-of-life blog.
I jumped into this book not knowing there was an earlier story in the series. It’s not my usual approach, but even before I realized there was more backstory to be had, I thought the events in this book stand well enough on their own.
Read Camille’s review in its entirety here.
March 13, 2024
Cirque du Slay by Rob Osler
Thank you for the gifted copy @crookedlanebooks and the free audiobook @netgalley @dreamscape_media
Blurb:
“In this rollicking mystery, perfect for fans of Steven Rowley and Elle Cosimano, the circus becomes the stage for a high-profile murder investigation. With quirky LGBTQ+ amateur sleuths, Cirque du Slay will delight readers looking for a madcap mystery with high-flying excitement!
✨My thoughts:
This is the second book in the Hayden & Friends Cozy Mystery series and I thought it was funny (in a good way). I loved the play on words. I started listening to this as an audiobook and finished it as a physical book while switching back and forth depending on how my day went. *This is my favorite way to experience a book* Pete Cross (narrator) did a great job keeping me entertained and interested while I was listening to the audiobook. I’d say the audiobook and physical book translated about the same experience wise for me. If you have this on your TBR, you’ll be able to get through it rather quickly. It’s the second in the series but could be read as a standalone in my opinion, which is always a plus! This cozy mystery is a book you found easily enjoy during a relaxing weekend or even read before bed. Cirque du Slay is out now!
Happy reading 📖
Thank you for the gifted copy @crookedlanebooks and the free audiobook @netgalley @dreamscape_media
Blurb:
“In this rollicking mystery, perfect for fans of Steven Rowley and Elle Cosimano, the circus becomes the stage for a high-profile murder investigation. With quirky LGBTQ+ amateur sleuths, Cirque du Slay will delight readers looking for a madcap mystery with high-flying excitement!
✨My thoughts:
This is the second book in the Hayden & Friends Cozy Mystery series and I thought it was funny (in a good way). I loved the play on words. I started listening to this as an audiobook and finished it as a physical book while switching back and forth depending on how my day went. *This is my favorite way to experience a book* Pete Cross (narrator) did a great job keeping me entertained and interested while I was listening to the audiobook. I’d say the audiobook and physical book translated about the same experience wise for me. If you have this on your TBR, you’ll be able to get through it rather quickly. It’s the second in the series but could be read as a standalone in my opinion, which is always a plus! This cozy mystery is a book you found easily enjoy during a relaxing weekend or even read before bed. Cirque du Slay is out now!
Happy reading 📖
October 5, 2023
This is the second book in a series. I didn’t know that going into it, but it didn’t really matter. It can be read as a stand-alone. Anything you need to know about the first book is explained as needed throughout the book.
Really enjoyed the banter between the main characters and all the secondary characters. Loved the LGBTQ representation in the story as well. Interested to find out more about Jess in book 3 (making assumptions that there will be a book 3).
As for the mystery aspect, I might consider it more of a cozy mystery given the humor used in the telling.
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review. Watch for Cirque du Slay to come out March 5, 2024.
Really enjoyed the banter between the main characters and all the secondary characters. Loved the LGBTQ representation in the story as well. Interested to find out more about Jess in book 3 (making assumptions that there will be a book 3).
As for the mystery aspect, I might consider it more of a cozy mystery given the humor used in the telling.
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review. Watch for Cirque du Slay to come out March 5, 2024.
July 2, 2024
This is my lesson to not pick a book up at the library just because the title is funny. Despite not reading the first book of the series I found it exceedingly easy to jump right in and follow along with the very predictable plot.
December 28, 2024
2nd book of Hayden & friends, love this group, they make me smile 😊
March 13, 2024
Hayden and friends are back for a second amateur sleuthing adventure. With its lovable queer-friendly cast and high-stakes-yet-cozy vibe, this sequel is a pleasure to read. Major props to the audiobook narrator for another stellar performance — so many different voices!
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for the ARC. Available now!
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for the ARC. Available now!
March 31, 2025
I hope there will be many more of those because I'm HOOKED!
October 1, 2023
First, let me say that with a name like “Cirque Du Slay” I had no idea what to expect. The premise was interesting, as it talks about Hayden and Hollister, two best friends who try to solve the murder of the artistic director of the circus Mysterium, so they can save their not-so-friend from being unjustly charged with the crime.
As you can see, the book was promising, but the execution was a complete letdown. From all the characters being one-dimensional and cringey dialogue, to phrases that were more than uncomfortable to read.
This book is in desperate need of sensitive readers. There were so many comments, jokes and situations in which they were needed, and I truly believe the book would’ve been a bit better with them.
Aside from that, the writing style relies too much on description, and reminding of you of things that happened a chapter ago. This was all unnecessary, and although I can comprehend the need to remind the reader what has happened in a mystery book, it was repetitive and at some point it just got annoying.
Rating: ☆ 1/2
Thank you Net-Galley for the e-arc!
As you can see, the book was promising, but the execution was a complete letdown. From all the characters being one-dimensional and cringey dialogue, to phrases that were more than uncomfortable to read.
This book is in desperate need of sensitive readers. There were so many comments, jokes and situations in which they were needed, and I truly believe the book would’ve been a bit better with them.
Aside from that, the writing style relies too much on description, and reminding of you of things that happened a chapter ago. This was all unnecessary, and although I can comprehend the need to remind the reader what has happened in a mystery book, it was repetitive and at some point it just got annoying.
Rating: ☆ 1/2
Thank you Net-Galley for the e-arc!
February 17, 2025
Goodreads needs a six star scale so that 3=good, not recommended and 4=good, recommended. This is a 4 on that scale - good, not great but enjoyable.
This is Osler’s second book in the series and he maintains the same level of quality (no second book letdown). The murder occurs offscreen and there is suspense and action without a lot of violence - it’s a lighthearted mystery, almost a cozy.
I like all the characters and I’m glad Osler has brought Hayden’s friend Jerry more into the story.
One appealing thing about the series is that it features LGBTQ+ people as main characters where that is just part of their identity, not something that is essential to the plot or treated as special or unusual. The negative thing about the series is main character’s (Hayden McCall’s) blog, about gay dating that just takes us out of the story and is not necessary or relevant. Especially in this book where two blog entries explain the point that being gay or trans is no one’s while identity - it’s a big “telling not showing” flaw that is unnecessary because the showing is accomplished very well.
This is Osler’s second book in the series and he maintains the same level of quality (no second book letdown). The murder occurs offscreen and there is suspense and action without a lot of violence - it’s a lighthearted mystery, almost a cozy.
I like all the characters and I’m glad Osler has brought Hayden’s friend Jerry more into the story.
One appealing thing about the series is that it features LGBTQ+ people as main characters where that is just part of their identity, not something that is essential to the plot or treated as special or unusual. The negative thing about the series is main character’s (Hayden McCall’s) blog, about gay dating that just takes us out of the story and is not necessary or relevant. Especially in this book where two blog entries explain the point that being gay or trans is no one’s while identity - it’s a big “telling not showing” flaw that is unnecessary because the showing is accomplished very well.
March 4, 2024
1⭐️
This is my first time giving a 1 star review. I was really looking forward to this audiobook. The premise looked promising, but once i started listening I was so disappointed.
The narrator is trying to do women’s voices but the result is so bad and stereotypical. Like every woman sounds high pitched or sultry.
The comments on the body of a big character were scandalous. I couldn’t stand it.
I always finish books provided for a honest review, but this time I couldn’t stand it. I’m a proud feminist and this book is everything I’m not.
Thank you netgalley for providing the arc. This is my honest review.
This is my first time giving a 1 star review. I was really looking forward to this audiobook. The premise looked promising, but once i started listening I was so disappointed.
The narrator is trying to do women’s voices but the result is so bad and stereotypical. Like every woman sounds high pitched or sultry.
The comments on the body of a big character were scandalous. I couldn’t stand it.
I always finish books provided for a honest review, but this time I couldn’t stand it. I’m a proud feminist and this book is everything I’m not.
Thank you netgalley for providing the arc. This is my honest review.
April 21, 2024
Ugh. The cozy mystery aspect remains good. Not too complex to be cozy. Not so incredibly obvious as to be boring. The backdrop of a Fancy Circus makes for fun scenes, too.
But the white CIS gay male POV strikes again. The OBSESSION with appearance made for so many cringy thoughts and comments. When paired against the preachy blog posts about love and acceptance it was like verbal whiplash. At this point it just reads like the author has no idea how to write about diverse characters.
But the white CIS gay male POV strikes again. The OBSESSION with appearance made for so many cringy thoughts and comments. When paired against the preachy blog posts about love and acceptance it was like verbal whiplash. At this point it just reads like the author has no idea how to write about diverse characters.
March 17, 2024
I picked up this book because it involved two of my favorite things: circus and murder mystery! Unfortunately, it was not exciting on either of those fronts. There was nothing exciting about this book. The murder mystery was not very mysterious. I forced myself to finish it, but I do not have anything good to say about it.
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