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Backstage Mystery #1
There's No Murder Like Show Murder
Tasha Weaver has seen her fair share of divas come and go while working as the costume shop head at the Eastbrook Playhouse, but her beloved theater is put at risk when the star of the show is killed in this fun but deadly debut for fans of Ellery Adams and Kellye Garrett.Tasha Weaver is most at home in the cozy backstage world of the Eastbrook Playhouse. As the costume shop head at the charming regional theater, she’s used to watching dramatic acts of love and revenge from the shadows. But when Kurt Mozer–the insufferable Broadway reject who stars in their production of Annie Get Your Gun–is shot center stage, the spotlight turns to her. Everyone knows Kurt was difficult to work with and after he got into a fight with both the director Marnie Mason and the artistic leader Arthur Winston, he promptly decided to quit the show. In deep financial trouble, the Eastbrook Playhouse depended on a big name like Kurt to keep afloat. With reporters coming in from the big apple to Tasha’s little corner of Connecticut, she realizes it's up to her to save their local theater and keep her community safe. After all, the show must go on… But what do you do when the killer could very well be one of your loved ones? With the help of her friends, her long-time crush Bruno Machado, and her feline colleague Hilly, Tasha must catch a murderer before the shining lights of the playhouse go out forever.
288 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 23, 2024
16 people are currently reading
3479 people want to read
About the author
M.S. Greene
1 book29 followersM. S. Greene is a playwright, lyricist, screenwriter, novelist, and overall theatre nerd living the dream in New York City. Under his full name—Matthew Greene—his scripts have been produced on both coasts and several places in between. When he’s not hunched over a keyboard, he can be found teaching, directing, and working to close the arts education gap with some of the city’s most talented young people. He lives in Manhattan with his boyfriend and far too many books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 114 reviews
July 22, 2024
This appears to be the author's first novel and it is a good one! He also writes plays and lyrics and more.
The story centres around the Eastbrook Playhouse where the cast are in full swing with rehearsals for a production of Annie Get Your Gun. Our main character, Tasha Weaver, is head of the costume department and also a long-time devotee of the Playhouse which is currently struggling with making a profit. Then the leading man is murdered and it looks as though the play will not go on. Tasha decides to help the police find the murderer.
I enjoyed the book and although Tasha was a little interfering, probably a good characteristic for a sleuth, I liked her too. I guessed the murderer despite the author's red herrings, but that did not spoil the book for me at all. All the activity in the Playhouse really rang true. The author knew his subject really well and it showed.
Recommended for all lovers of cosy mysteries. Four stars.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
The story centres around the Eastbrook Playhouse where the cast are in full swing with rehearsals for a production of Annie Get Your Gun. Our main character, Tasha Weaver, is head of the costume department and also a long-time devotee of the Playhouse which is currently struggling with making a profit. Then the leading man is murdered and it looks as though the play will not go on. Tasha decides to help the police find the murderer.
I enjoyed the book and although Tasha was a little interfering, probably a good characteristic for a sleuth, I liked her too. I guessed the murderer despite the author's red herrings, but that did not spoil the book for me at all. All the activity in the Playhouse really rang true. The author knew his subject really well and it showed.
Recommended for all lovers of cosy mysteries. Four stars.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
July 17, 2024
Tasha Weaver worked the costume department at Eastbrook Playhouse and when the star of the show - Kurt Mozer - had another tizzy fit over the fit of his current costume, rehearsal was postponed for the time. Tasha found Kurt at the nearby cafe and went in to talk some sense into him, which saw him head back to the theatre and go inside. Within moments, when Tasha was outside with other cast members, shots were heard and Kurt was dead. With the show facing financial ruin, Tasha felt the pressure on herself to find the murderer - much to the chagrin of the local police.
Would Tasha discover who had killer Kurt - and why? She knew she had to do it quickly so momentum didn't fail - but it seemed to be heading that way...
There's No Murder Like Show Murder with its catchy title and eye-catching cover was a little disappointing to me. Too wordy and involved, which let the fun out of the cosy for me. Hilly was the best character by far :) Recommended to fans of cozies.
Would Tasha discover who had killer Kurt - and why? She knew she had to do it quickly so momentum didn't fail - but it seemed to be heading that way...
There's No Murder Like Show Murder with its catchy title and eye-catching cover was a little disappointing to me. Too wordy and involved, which let the fun out of the cosy for me. Hilly was the best character by far :) Recommended to fans of cozies.
August 10, 2024
Dollycas's Thoughts
Tasha Weaver grew up working at the Eastbrook Playhouse selling tickets and handing out playbills, now she is head of the costume shop. The current production is Annie Get Your Gun and everyone has high hopes that bringing in former Broadway star Kurt Mozer will bring in the much-needed dollars for the fledging playhouse. But Kurt is not easy to work with. He has tons of complaints. He gets in fights with the artistic leader Arthur Winston and director Marion Mason. Disagreements so fierce Kurt decides to quit the show. Tasha thought she had talked him into staying but before he could make his intention known he was shot at center stage.
The man's death brings in the press from New York which is not good for the playhouse. Tasha takes it upon herself to save her beloved theatre and catch the killer fearing it is someone close to her. No matter what, the show must go on so with a little help from the technical director and her long-time crush Bruno Machado, and assistance from a frisky feline Hilly, Tasha is determined to bring the killer down before the curtains go up.
______
Mr. Greene had the huge task of introducing a large cast of characters and making each unique and memorable as the story continued. It takes a lot of people to put on a theatre performance, on stage, behind the curtains, out front, and in the office. I had trouble keeping some of the characters straight at first, but they became clear as I kept reading. Tasha grows so much from the beginning to the end of this book. She has a great backstory and is connected to all the characters in meaningful ways. The characters all have plenty of room for growth as the series continues.
The problem with the first book in a series, especially those with an abundance of characters, is having the time and pages to develop a complex mystery. There were some well-placed red herrings but I pinned down the guilty party early in the book. I did enjoy following Tasha as she tried to sleuth out the killer and her surprise A-ha moment.
I was delighted by the playhouse theatre theme and observing all that takes place behind the scenes. It is clear that Mr. Greene is a "theatre nerd" and is writing what he knows and is passionate about.
There's No Murder Like Show Murder has given the Backstage Mystery Series a good start with a strong foundation to build on in future stories.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
Tasha Weaver grew up working at the Eastbrook Playhouse selling tickets and handing out playbills, now she is head of the costume shop. The current production is Annie Get Your Gun and everyone has high hopes that bringing in former Broadway star Kurt Mozer will bring in the much-needed dollars for the fledging playhouse. But Kurt is not easy to work with. He has tons of complaints. He gets in fights with the artistic leader Arthur Winston and director Marion Mason. Disagreements so fierce Kurt decides to quit the show. Tasha thought she had talked him into staying but before he could make his intention known he was shot at center stage.
The man's death brings in the press from New York which is not good for the playhouse. Tasha takes it upon herself to save her beloved theatre and catch the killer fearing it is someone close to her. No matter what, the show must go on so with a little help from the technical director and her long-time crush Bruno Machado, and assistance from a frisky feline Hilly, Tasha is determined to bring the killer down before the curtains go up.
______
Mr. Greene had the huge task of introducing a large cast of characters and making each unique and memorable as the story continued. It takes a lot of people to put on a theatre performance, on stage, behind the curtains, out front, and in the office. I had trouble keeping some of the characters straight at first, but they became clear as I kept reading. Tasha grows so much from the beginning to the end of this book. She has a great backstory and is connected to all the characters in meaningful ways. The characters all have plenty of room for growth as the series continues.
The problem with the first book in a series, especially those with an abundance of characters, is having the time and pages to develop a complex mystery. There were some well-placed red herrings but I pinned down the guilty party early in the book. I did enjoy following Tasha as she tried to sleuth out the killer and her surprise A-ha moment.
I was delighted by the playhouse theatre theme and observing all that takes place behind the scenes. It is clear that Mr. Greene is a "theatre nerd" and is writing what he knows and is passionate about.
There's No Murder Like Show Murder has given the Backstage Mystery Series a good start with a strong foundation to build on in future stories.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
August 22, 2024
Solid start for a new series (or what I think is supposed to be a new series). As with all first in the series, there is a lot of world building that, while important, takes a bulk of the writing so the mystery is condensed and sometimes easier to figure out. The setting of the theatre is unique but there are a lot of details thrown at you that tend to bog down the text. The characters, and there were a number of them, were interesting but I didn’t really connect with any of them. Curious to see how this develops as the series continues (if it does).
I received a copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.
I received a copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.
March 1, 2024
This first in a new series by a new to me author. I enjoyed this book a lot.
The book is set in a local community theater which I found interesting and nice change from the regular cozy locations.
Tasha is a costume designer who loves her theatre. When the lead actor of their latest production is murdered Tasha takes it upon herself to solve this who done. If she doesn’t she risks ‘lights out’ her beloved theatre.
5 stars
Thank you NetGalley for opportunity to read this book. All opinions are my own.
The book is set in a local community theater which I found interesting and nice change from the regular cozy locations.
Tasha is a costume designer who loves her theatre. When the lead actor of their latest production is murdered Tasha takes it upon herself to solve this who done. If she doesn’t she risks ‘lights out’ her beloved theatre.
5 stars
Thank you NetGalley for opportunity to read this book. All opinions are my own.
July 22, 2024
The author of this book is a playwright so readers of this cozy mystery get an authentic look behind the scenes of the theatre. The main character, Tasha Weaver, runs the costume shop at a Connecticut playhouse and searches for a killer when the suspicious death of their star threatens to permanently shutter the theatre. Tasha has the wrong suspect at first, but her costuming knowledge comes in handy to solve the case. I was also surprised when the killer's identity was revealed.
There are some pacing issues, but overall this is a fun cozy with a likable main character and a unique setting. Tasha is smart and hard-working and loves her job and the Eastbrook Playhouse. The case is resolved in a satisfying way and I like the possibility of romance for Tasha in the future. 3.5 stars
I received an advance copy of this ebook at no cost from NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.
There are some pacing issues, but overall this is a fun cozy with a likable main character and a unique setting. Tasha is smart and hard-working and loves her job and the Eastbrook Playhouse. The case is resolved in a satisfying way and I like the possibility of romance for Tasha in the future. 3.5 stars
I received an advance copy of this ebook at no cost from NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.
April 17, 2024
Tasha leads a quiet but busy life, heading up the costume shop at the local theatre. But when their lead actor winds up dead after Tasha has just convinced him to not quit their production at the last minute, she feels partially responsible. So, she's on the case. But because their star was so difficult to work with, there's no shortage of suspects. Tasha's going to have her hands full.
Who is this author? Does he write under another name? Because how does a first time author get a cozy mystery to come out in hardback? As a customer, I don't buy HB cozies, but especially not the first in an unknown series from an unknown author.
Anyway, the mystery was fine. I didn't love the MC. She was mousy and fairly boring. There were also a LOT of people who seemed to be in charge at the theatre and, not being familiar with the inner workings of stage shows, I had no idea what they all did. I feel like we were told when they were I produced, but that wasn't information I retained, so it got confusing. I wouldn't read more if this indeed a series.
Who is this author? Does he write under another name? Because how does a first time author get a cozy mystery to come out in hardback? As a customer, I don't buy HB cozies, but especially not the first in an unknown series from an unknown author.
Anyway, the mystery was fine. I didn't love the MC. She was mousy and fairly boring. There were also a LOT of people who seemed to be in charge at the theatre and, not being familiar with the inner workings of stage shows, I had no idea what they all did. I feel like we were told when they were I produced, but that wasn't information I retained, so it got confusing. I wouldn't read more if this indeed a series.
December 2, 2023
#TheresNoMurderLikeShowMurder is a first in a new series that I thoroughly enjoyed.
Tasha Weaver is the head of Costumes at the Eastbrook Playhouse, located in Connecticut.
The designers and actors are preparing for the debut of Annie Get Your Gun, featuring Kurt Mozer.
The playhouse needs this production to be a hit, otherwise the building may be in danger of being sold, and the new plans don't appeal to everyone.
When Kurt is killed and another actor is threatened, Tasha digs in her heels and is determined to find the truth, even if it puts those she cares about on the suspect list.
I really liked the characters in this book and the story was well written and kept me guessing until the end.
I'm looking forward to reading more in this series.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of the book.
Tasha Weaver is the head of Costumes at the Eastbrook Playhouse, located in Connecticut.
The designers and actors are preparing for the debut of Annie Get Your Gun, featuring Kurt Mozer.
The playhouse needs this production to be a hit, otherwise the building may be in danger of being sold, and the new plans don't appeal to everyone.
When Kurt is killed and another actor is threatened, Tasha digs in her heels and is determined to find the truth, even if it puts those she cares about on the suspect list.
I really liked the characters in this book and the story was well written and kept me guessing until the end.
I'm looking forward to reading more in this series.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of the book.
May 13, 2024
A murder in the theater seems like it's been done to death, however this story is a new take on death in a theater and had me completely stumped (which by the way, I prefer because I like the surprise of the actual reveal)!
Life in the theater is never easy - long hours, thankless tasks, constant changes with costumes and lines, plus the ego of actors, but for Tasha Weaver, the theater is her lifeand she loves it! That is until the star is murdered on the stage of an empty theater in the dark of night. While Tasha is trying to figure out who the culprit is so she can save her beloved theater, she learns all kinds of information that point to a myriad of guilty parties and she has to sort out who is who in this theatrical puzzle.
As for most cozies, this was a fun, quick read; I am excited to see how Tasha's character develops as the series goes on. There is also a possible love connection and a cat named Hilferty, so it's got it all.
I received an ARC of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Life in the theater is never easy - long hours, thankless tasks, constant changes with costumes and lines, plus the ego of actors, but for Tasha Weaver, the theater is her lifeand she loves it! That is until the star is murdered on the stage of an empty theater in the dark of night. While Tasha is trying to figure out who the culprit is so she can save her beloved theater, she learns all kinds of information that point to a myriad of guilty parties and she has to sort out who is who in this theatrical puzzle.
As for most cozies, this was a fun, quick read; I am excited to see how Tasha's character develops as the series goes on. There is also a possible love connection and a cat named Hilferty, so it's got it all.
I received an ARC of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 1, 2024
I was surprised that this book was written by a man and I almost didn’t read it because of that but I’m glad I did. I really enjoyed the main character. The mystery was good and I didn’t guess the who or the why. I hope we get a little more of the hinted at romance in the next book. I liked the cast of characters and I liked the honest reactions to her snooping; she upsets some of her closer friends by being suspicious of them and I thought that was a real reaction to the situation.
April 10, 2025
Is this book going to change your life? No. But it got 5 stars from me for doing what it intends to do: entertain. I loved all the characters, the mystery, the setting. I was so sad when it was over.
February 13, 2024
I enjoyed this book.it has a lot of details about show biz, the author obviously has been in showbiz or has done a lot of research. I did think it got a bit tendentious in the middle. Lots of guesses who the bad guy was and trying to fit suspects into the role. Going around in circles. I did start to suspect who the killer is, I narrowed it down to 2 people and one of them is the killer. #There’sNoMurderLikeShowMurder #NetGalley
July 27, 2024
This was one of the longest short books I have read in a long time [so many words, so little actually said] and I'm sorry to say, I didn't really enjoy it [I did love Hilly the Cat, and that Bruno was from my beloved adopted country of Brazil, AND that the author strove to make sewing/crafting cool - we need more of that. I also loved the narrator of the audiobook, who did her best to try and infuse life into this massive word salad] and by the end [I kept reading in hopes that it would get better for me - *SPOILER ALERT* it did not. ;-) ]I was just bored and glad it was finished [as was my mother who had to listen to me kvetch about this book for a couple of hours].
I knew who the killer was the second they came on the page [AND the why; I kept trying to talk myself out of it, but it really couldn't have been anyone else], the minutiae of theater details were just too much, even for this theater-obsessed person, and the "romance" part bordered on ICK for me [I know I am NOT a romance fan, but I can tolerate some for the sake of the story if it is well-written; this [for me] was not. If I wanted a romance, I'd have just read a romance. Sigh] and it often felt like that was what the book really was genre-wise, rather than a cozy mystery.
Aso, the whole "well you've discovered such amazing clues, so of course you can also be a faux police person and I will share every detail with you, as long as you stay safe" by the police chief just made me roll my eyes [and truly felt so disgenious] EVERY. TIME. IT. WAS. ON. THE. PAGE. [why YES, my eyes are slightly sprained, thanks for asking].
This just didn't [obviously] work for me and I will unfortunately have to skip any future books by this author.
Thank you to NetGalley, M.S. Greene, and Crooked Lane Books for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I knew who the killer was the second they came on the page [AND the why; I kept trying to talk myself out of it, but it really couldn't have been anyone else], the minutiae of theater details were just too much, even for this theater-obsessed person, and the "romance" part bordered on ICK for me [I know I am NOT a romance fan, but I can tolerate some for the sake of the story if it is well-written; this [for me] was not. If I wanted a romance, I'd have just read a romance. Sigh] and it often felt like that was what the book really was genre-wise, rather than a cozy mystery.
Aso, the whole "well you've discovered such amazing clues, so of course you can also be a faux police person and I will share every detail with you, as long as you stay safe" by the police chief just made me roll my eyes [and truly felt so disgenious] EVERY. TIME. IT. WAS. ON. THE. PAGE. [why YES, my eyes are slightly sprained, thanks for asking].
This just didn't [obviously] work for me and I will unfortunately have to skip any future books by this author.
Thank you to NetGalley, M.S. Greene, and Crooked Lane Books for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 18, 2024
3.5 stars
This is the first book in a new series and it was a strong introduction to the protagonist, a cast of what I assume will be regular characters, and a good setting. However, I do think the author introduced too many characters for this first book, which didn't give enough space to really flesh our the supporting characters enough. I ended this with a basic picture of each, but not a great lot of detail, so I'm wondering if that will change in a second book.
I liked the setting and its history, which added to the mystery. I thought it a great way to set the scene and throw in some intrigue at the same time. I do wonder, whenever a cosy series is set in a small location, how a series will build from it. Will all the mysteries be within that one building? However future mysteries play out, this first mystery has a strong structure, so I can only imagine that future stories will build on that.
Protagonist, Tasha Weaver, manages the costume department for a small theatre. Her team is a varied bunch, but I want to understand them all better. For now, they are like shapes on a screen, not yet three-dimensional. Tasha herself I found to be a good protagonist. She is written with that tenacity a good cosy protagonist should have, and I found her desire to investigate infectious and believable.
It was an enjoyable and fun read.
Thanks to the author, publisher, and Netgalley for a free copy of this book for review. All comments are my own.
This is the first book in a new series and it was a strong introduction to the protagonist, a cast of what I assume will be regular characters, and a good setting. However, I do think the author introduced too many characters for this first book, which didn't give enough space to really flesh our the supporting characters enough. I ended this with a basic picture of each, but not a great lot of detail, so I'm wondering if that will change in a second book.
I liked the setting and its history, which added to the mystery. I thought it a great way to set the scene and throw in some intrigue at the same time. I do wonder, whenever a cosy series is set in a small location, how a series will build from it. Will all the mysteries be within that one building? However future mysteries play out, this first mystery has a strong structure, so I can only imagine that future stories will build on that.
Protagonist, Tasha Weaver, manages the costume department for a small theatre. Her team is a varied bunch, but I want to understand them all better. For now, they are like shapes on a screen, not yet three-dimensional. Tasha herself I found to be a good protagonist. She is written with that tenacity a good cosy protagonist should have, and I found her desire to investigate infectious and believable.
It was an enjoyable and fun read.
Thanks to the author, publisher, and Netgalley for a free copy of this book for review. All comments are my own.
Read
July 30, 2024There's No Murder Like Show Murder is a cozy mystery set at a small regional theater in Connecticut. Tasha Weaver is a costumer, but when the leading man of Annie Get Your Gun is murdered, she also becomes an amateur detective.
I wanted to read this novel because I enjoy cozy mysteries and love theater (especially musical theater). This was a terrific debut novel from M.S. Greene, and a fun read! I hope it is the start of a new series. (If so, I am in for the upcoming books!)
Tasha is a quick-witted amateur detective. I suspected the killer but enjoyed her detecting process. There is a lot to enjoy in this book, including the theater setting (which was very accurate and well drawn), her friends and colleagues, and her kitty friend Hilferty. I recommend There's No Murder Like Show Murder for other fans of cozy mysteries, and especially for anyone who also loves theater.
I wanted to read this novel because I enjoy cozy mysteries and love theater (especially musical theater). This was a terrific debut novel from M.S. Greene, and a fun read! I hope it is the start of a new series. (If so, I am in for the upcoming books!)
Tasha is a quick-witted amateur detective. I suspected the killer but enjoyed her detecting process. There is a lot to enjoy in this book, including the theater setting (which was very accurate and well drawn), her friends and colleagues, and her kitty friend Hilferty. I recommend There's No Murder Like Show Murder for other fans of cozy mysteries, and especially for anyone who also loves theater.
July 14, 2025
Oddly enough, this is the second first novel in a row that I've read about a woman solving a crime in a community theater. Head of the costume shop at the Eastbrook theater, Tasha Weaver has made the place a surrogate home, replacing her dead mother and her friends. When the aging Broadway star who is playing the lead in "Annie Get Your Gun" threatens to quit and is then murdered, Tasha has to snoop around, although the local police want her to stay out of it. But the more people in the theater come under suspicion, and the odder the dead man's actions seem, the more Tasha wants to find out the truth.
March 17, 2025
I enjoyed this new cozy mystery by a play write during the pandemic set in a small town theater. The difference aspects of funding and how many people had hands in it were very interesting.
I liked all the characters, didn’t really get the addition of the cat that seems to maybe have magic?
Would definitely read more in this series.
I liked all the characters, didn’t really get the addition of the cat that seems to maybe have magic?
Would definitely read more in this series.
February 5, 2025
Do authors get paid more the dumber they make their protags? What is that about in cozy mysteries?
April 30, 2025
What an absolute delight of a cozy mystery - especially fun for those of us who help with live theater behind the scenes!
September 1, 2024
I thought this was a good debut novel. It’s a cozy mystery set in a small town. I love cozy mysteries and theatrical productions- so it was a cute setting and fun story.
October 19, 2024
Great first novel from a young man I have known since he was in Kindergarten. Looking forward to more novels from him in the future.
June 19, 2024
Since the death of her mother ten years earlier, Tasha Weaver has made the Eastbrook Playhouse the center of her life. She runs the costume shop. The playhouse has been hitting some hard times, but it is hoped that the current production of Annie Get Your Gun with some Broadway names will turn things around.
But there is a lot of tension. Most of it is centered around has-been Kurt Mozer who is throwing his weight around. Both the artistic director Arthur Winston and the director Marnie Mason are at odds with him. When he threatens to quit with only a week or two until the production debuts, Tasha manages to appeal to his love of theater and talk him down. Unfortunately, Kurt's trip to the dark playhouse results in his murder by gunshot.
Feeling guilty for her part in getting Kurt to his place of death and worried for the future of her beloved playhouse, Tasha begins her own investigation into the murder. She's an insider which lets her share information she finds with the police detective assigned to the case.
Tasha has lots of suspects from the directors of the playhouse to a local property developer who has had his eyes on the land where the playhouse sits and who almost convinced the City Council to sell him the property.
This was an engaging story with interesting characters and a nicely twisty plot.
But there is a lot of tension. Most of it is centered around has-been Kurt Mozer who is throwing his weight around. Both the artistic director Arthur Winston and the director Marnie Mason are at odds with him. When he threatens to quit with only a week or two until the production debuts, Tasha manages to appeal to his love of theater and talk him down. Unfortunately, Kurt's trip to the dark playhouse results in his murder by gunshot.
Feeling guilty for her part in getting Kurt to his place of death and worried for the future of her beloved playhouse, Tasha begins her own investigation into the murder. She's an insider which lets her share information she finds with the police detective assigned to the case.
Tasha has lots of suspects from the directors of the playhouse to a local property developer who has had his eyes on the land where the playhouse sits and who almost convinced the City Council to sell him the property.
This was an engaging story with interesting characters and a nicely twisty plot.
December 29, 2024
Review of There’s No Murder Like Show Murder
If you love cozy mysteries with a dash of humor, a sprinkle of theatrical drama, and a cast of quirky characters, There’s No Murder Like Show Murder will absolutely steal the show. The book takes readers behind the scenes of a small-town theater production, where the drama isn’t just limited to the stage.
The protagonist, a sharp and witty amateur sleuth, gets drawn into solving a murder that occurs during rehearsals. The pacing is perfect, balancing clues, red herrings, and comedic moments that make you laugh out loud. The dialogue feels natural, and the relationships among the characters are richly developed.
One of the highlights of the book is its vivid setting. The theater world is brought to life with such authenticity, from the chaotic rehearsals to the eccentric personalities involved. The author has a knack for capturing the unique energy of live theater while keeping the mystery intriguing and the tension high.
With clever twists and an ending that ties up all the loose threads in a satisfying way, this is a delightful whodunit that’s as entertaining as it is engaging. A must-read for fans of theater and cozy mysteries alike!
5/5 stars.
If you love cozy mysteries with a dash of humor, a sprinkle of theatrical drama, and a cast of quirky characters, There’s No Murder Like Show Murder will absolutely steal the show. The book takes readers behind the scenes of a small-town theater production, where the drama isn’t just limited to the stage.
The protagonist, a sharp and witty amateur sleuth, gets drawn into solving a murder that occurs during rehearsals. The pacing is perfect, balancing clues, red herrings, and comedic moments that make you laugh out loud. The dialogue feels natural, and the relationships among the characters are richly developed.
One of the highlights of the book is its vivid setting. The theater world is brought to life with such authenticity, from the chaotic rehearsals to the eccentric personalities involved. The author has a knack for capturing the unique energy of live theater while keeping the mystery intriguing and the tension high.
With clever twists and an ending that ties up all the loose threads in a satisfying way, this is a delightful whodunit that’s as entertaining as it is engaging. A must-read for fans of theater and cozy mysteries alike!
5/5 stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 23, 2024
I love the title and the cover is wonderful. Any cozy with a cat is a plus for me. There were so many characters which means so many possible suspects. I had to take notes to make sure I got them all. I had no idea a theater production had so many different directors. I love that this book was a mystery but also an opportunity to learn about the world of theater.
Tasha reminded me of myself a few times during the investigation. I could see myself feeling the same way especially when it came to her social awkwardness. I absolutely loved that Hilly the cat showed up when Tasha needed her the most.
The mystery was done just right. I had no idea who it could be. I did appreciate how Detective Javitz changed his tune and opened up a little to Tasha. Oh wow, the ending! I didn’t see that coming. I guess that is what happens when you start to change your opinion of a character.
Thank you to the author for my copy in exchange for my review.
Tasha reminded me of myself a few times during the investigation. I could see myself feeling the same way especially when it came to her social awkwardness. I absolutely loved that Hilly the cat showed up when Tasha needed her the most.
The mystery was done just right. I had no idea who it could be. I did appreciate how Detective Javitz changed his tune and opened up a little to Tasha. Oh wow, the ending! I didn’t see that coming. I guess that is what happens when you start to change your opinion of a character.
Thank you to the author for my copy in exchange for my review.
July 18, 2024
"There's No Murder Like Show Murder" by M.S. Greene is a great new cozy mystery that could be a standalone or the start to a new theatre tech themed series. Having a BFA in Costume Production, I particularly enjoyed this story. The main character is a costume shop manager. I have done that role and can commiserate with some of the challenges the character is faced with. Like some major last minute wardrobe changes.
The mystery part had me jumping between suspects up until the last 10% of the book. Rule of thumb, always trust the animal sidekick. Also, if someone is too invested in what you're finding out, keep an eye on them.
The mystery part had me jumping between suspects up until the last 10% of the book. Rule of thumb, always trust the animal sidekick. Also, if someone is too invested in what you're finding out, keep an eye on them.
August 15, 2024
4.2⭐
New series alert and it's a good one. Tasha Weaver's is manager of the costume department of the Eastwood Playhouse. Since her mother's death, it's pretty much become her life too. When a demanding, once-bright Broadway star is shot on the stage, she steps up to investigate... and hopefully save the theater. Good distinct and interesting characters and energetic plot make for an enjoyable read. Looking forward to meeting them again. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
New series alert and it's a good one. Tasha Weaver's is manager of the costume department of the Eastwood Playhouse. Since her mother's death, it's pretty much become her life too. When a demanding, once-bright Broadway star is shot on the stage, she steps up to investigate... and hopefully save the theater. Good distinct and interesting characters and energetic plot make for an enjoyable read. Looking forward to meeting them again. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 12, 2024
a theatre themed cozy mystery??? give me
April 28, 2024
Excellent start to a new series. Main character Tasha Weaver is a smart, detail oriented person whose life seems to center about the Eastbrook Playhouse. Perfectly content to remain out of the spotlight, she is head of the costume shop. Appropriately, the first real action in the story involves a costume flap involving the star of the current production of "Annie Get Your Gun". Having actually acted in that musical, I was definitely drawn to this story. I also spent a great deal of time in my youth in behind-the-scenes roles myself, another plus as I was delighted to see the playhouse play a central role in the story. And, hey, there's even a delightful theater cat, Hilly.
In any case, Tasha, seemingly a peacemaker of sorts, feels some guilt at inadvertently placing Kurt, the egotistical star, in the theater where he is murdered. Nope, not sharing how. You'll just have to read the book. For now, it simply serves to illustrate how important the playhouse and her playhouse family were to Tasha. This is where the story takes off and Tasha emerges as quite the amateur sleuth. The murder may be the death knoll to the theater itself as it is on shaky financial grounds. It's Tasha's "safe-place", where she feels most at home, reasons for which are revealed smoothly within the story. While she's shaken one of the theatrical family might be a murderer, Tasha remains determined to find the killer and save Eastbrook Playhouse. While a bit disconcerting how quickly Tasha segues into asking questions, even in the presence of police, it shows her natural curiosity and attention to detail once again. In the process, we meet her theater family, including "work husband" Bruno, something that made me chuckle at the comment about "We don't talk about Bruno". Wonder how many of you will get that line? Grin.
Bottom line, I liked Tasha and the playhouse setting, not to mention her circle of friends, many of whom are surely likely regulars. There's even some romance bubbling under the surface for extra fun. Of course there is danger. Wouldn't be a cozy mystery without some danger to our inquisitive amateur sleuth, and lots of red herrings and multiple suspects, including some from Tasha's adopted theater family. Uh, oh. To top it off, you'll learn quite a bit about what goes on behind the scenes of such productions, from those on stage to those working out of the spotlight. Let's face it, there isn't a magical Fairy Godmother backstage waving a wand to create the setting, lights, costumes, and assure that the actors know their lines and "marks". Thanks #NetGalley and #CrookedLaneBooks" for the backstage pass to meet Tasha and this new series. It's one I'm looking forward to revisiting.
In any case, Tasha, seemingly a peacemaker of sorts, feels some guilt at inadvertently placing Kurt, the egotistical star, in the theater where he is murdered. Nope, not sharing how. You'll just have to read the book. For now, it simply serves to illustrate how important the playhouse and her playhouse family were to Tasha. This is where the story takes off and Tasha emerges as quite the amateur sleuth. The murder may be the death knoll to the theater itself as it is on shaky financial grounds. It's Tasha's "safe-place", where she feels most at home, reasons for which are revealed smoothly within the story. While she's shaken one of the theatrical family might be a murderer, Tasha remains determined to find the killer and save Eastbrook Playhouse. While a bit disconcerting how quickly Tasha segues into asking questions, even in the presence of police, it shows her natural curiosity and attention to detail once again. In the process, we meet her theater family, including "work husband" Bruno, something that made me chuckle at the comment about "We don't talk about Bruno". Wonder how many of you will get that line? Grin.
Bottom line, I liked Tasha and the playhouse setting, not to mention her circle of friends, many of whom are surely likely regulars. There's even some romance bubbling under the surface for extra fun. Of course there is danger. Wouldn't be a cozy mystery without some danger to our inquisitive amateur sleuth, and lots of red herrings and multiple suspects, including some from Tasha's adopted theater family. Uh, oh. To top it off, you'll learn quite a bit about what goes on behind the scenes of such productions, from those on stage to those working out of the spotlight. Let's face it, there isn't a magical Fairy Godmother backstage waving a wand to create the setting, lights, costumes, and assure that the actors know their lines and "marks". Thanks #NetGalley and #CrookedLaneBooks" for the backstage pass to meet Tasha and this new series. It's one I'm looking forward to revisiting.
July 11, 2024
The show must go on but how can it with a murderer in the theater having already killed the star. I say star loosely because as one of the costume crew states the victim was a star in his mind. That comment has a deeper meaning as it is just one of the negative opinions or feelings expressed about our victim. Therein lies the problem, with a large cast and crew, we have a host of suspects who disliked Kurt, the victim. I even chuckled early on at the victim when he decided to write his own backstory for Annie Get Your Gun. The author did a nice job of making Kurt so frustrating even the audience could see it.
Someone certainly got a gun in this story and ended Kurt which pulled Tasha in to investigate. A costume shop manager for a theater is not your typical detective. However, worried for the future of the playhouse, investigate she does. She gets a little help alone the way from a special someone because this story needs a romantic lead. Tasha very much loves the playhouse, and it makes me wonder if the author has a similar affinity.
We have plenty of red herrings along the way to a conclusion in this cozy. Aside from being a skosh long with detailed descriptions that got a tad dry at times, this is a good debut book. Some of the production details of the theater did not appeal to me but the characters did. Tasha and her friends seem to have stories left to tell and no cozy would be complete without an animal. In this case the animal is a theater cat named Hilly.
Rating a book is never easy but sometimes a book simply does not lend itself easily to one of the 5 ratings choices instead being somewhere in the middle between 2 ratings. I would put this book at between 3.4 and 3.6 and I will be kind and roll up because I think the potential for more good stories exist.
Thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the opportunity to read this ARC.
Someone certainly got a gun in this story and ended Kurt which pulled Tasha in to investigate. A costume shop manager for a theater is not your typical detective. However, worried for the future of the playhouse, investigate she does. She gets a little help alone the way from a special someone because this story needs a romantic lead. Tasha very much loves the playhouse, and it makes me wonder if the author has a similar affinity.
We have plenty of red herrings along the way to a conclusion in this cozy. Aside from being a skosh long with detailed descriptions that got a tad dry at times, this is a good debut book. Some of the production details of the theater did not appeal to me but the characters did. Tasha and her friends seem to have stories left to tell and no cozy would be complete without an animal. In this case the animal is a theater cat named Hilly.
Rating a book is never easy but sometimes a book simply does not lend itself easily to one of the 5 ratings choices instead being somewhere in the middle between 2 ratings. I would put this book at between 3.4 and 3.6 and I will be kind and roll up because I think the potential for more good stories exist.
Thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the opportunity to read this ARC.
August 26, 2024
I want to start by thanking the Author/Publisher for allowing me to review this book before its publication. Although I am grateful for their generosity, the following review is entirely my own.
M.S. Greene's "There's No Murder Like Show Murder (Backstage Mystery)" is a fun debut cozy mystery novel. Let me break down what I liked and where I thought the author could have been a bit stronger.
Overall, I thought the author did a good job establishing the series. There is a quirky cast of characters led by Tasha Weaver, the head of the costume shop at a small regional theater in CT. She's your prototypical protagonist in a cozy mystery: single, intelligent, driven by a sense of justice, and determined to find the murderer. There are also many entertaining side characters that help her along the journey, including the cop father figure and a cat named Hilly. I found the entire story entertaining. It's an easy read, and I would highly recommend it for cozy mystery fans looking for a new series to dive into.
However, there are a few areas where I thought the author could have been stronger. First, in many ways, this feels like a cozy mystery paint-by-numbers, which is pretty common for debut cozy mysteries. I will say I was pleased that the protagonist wasn't the primary suspect trying to prove her innocence, which is a trope that is very common in debut cozies. Second, there were a lot of characters for a first novel, which did make it a bit confusing at times. However, the author did a good job of keeping the primary suspects to a reasonable number.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone. It's a good, clean cozy mystery. There's definitely a lot to love here, even if there are a few areas where it could have been tightened up just a bit.
M.S. Greene's "There's No Murder Like Show Murder (Backstage Mystery)" is a fun debut cozy mystery novel. Let me break down what I liked and where I thought the author could have been a bit stronger.
Overall, I thought the author did a good job establishing the series. There is a quirky cast of characters led by Tasha Weaver, the head of the costume shop at a small regional theater in CT. She's your prototypical protagonist in a cozy mystery: single, intelligent, driven by a sense of justice, and determined to find the murderer. There are also many entertaining side characters that help her along the journey, including the cop father figure and a cat named Hilly. I found the entire story entertaining. It's an easy read, and I would highly recommend it for cozy mystery fans looking for a new series to dive into.
However, there are a few areas where I thought the author could have been stronger. First, in many ways, this feels like a cozy mystery paint-by-numbers, which is pretty common for debut cozy mysteries. I will say I was pleased that the protagonist wasn't the primary suspect trying to prove her innocence, which is a trope that is very common in debut cozies. Second, there were a lot of characters for a first novel, which did make it a bit confusing at times. However, the author did a good job of keeping the primary suspects to a reasonable number.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone. It's a good, clean cozy mystery. There's definitely a lot to love here, even if there are a few areas where it could have been tightened up just a bit.
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