Curtain Call Catastrophe and The Bow Wow Bakery: A Doggy Bakery Cozy Mystery

by Belinda Page

All 'paw-tographs' and photos this way please!
When the glamorous Gilded Gable Theater attempts to reopen in Glenwood Falls, Sophie is thrilled to whip up delicious treats from The Bow Wow Bakery for the fundraising events.
The excitement ramps up when Max auditions and lands a starring role in the show! However, the festivities turn dark when an actress falls victim to foul play . Sophie and Max dive into a world filled with auditions , costume parties, and culinary delights .
As she uncovers jealousy and hidden motives among the cast and crew, she must solve the mystery before the killer strikes again!
Join Sophie and her beau, Sergeant Rey, as they find themselves part of a script that may bring more danger than an encore !

Genres: Mystery, Cozy Mystery

182 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 23, 2025

About the author

Belinda Page is the pen name of a cozy mystery writer who has a particular fondness for dachshunds! Her beloved furry companion, Max, has stolen readers' hearts everywhere with his enchanting escapades.
When she’s not spinning intriguing tales, Belinda works as a dedicated counselor in her community. In her downtime, she enjoys the therapeutic joys of meal prep and gardening—especially nurturing her prized tomato plants. Not to mention, she’s always on a quest to perfect her scrumptious spaghetti sauce, adding a pinch of love to every dish.
Keep up with Belinda's newest book release, bundle sales, and more by following her profile.

Reviews

[Kay Cobbold · Rating 5 out of 5]

Belinda Page’s latest installment in the “Doggy Bakery Cozy Mystery” series, “Curtain Call Catastrophe and the Bow Wow Bakery," is an absolute triumph, and my favourite book in the series so far! Returning to the charming world of Sophie, the ever-lovable Max, and their endearing circle of friends felt like catching up with old pals.

This time, Max takes centre stage as he auditions for a canine role in a local play, pulling Sophie into the orbit of its cast. But when a cast member meets an untimely, and suspicious, end, Sophie’s sleuthing instincts kick into high gear. With her sharp mind and determination, she dives into the investigation, convinced there’s more to the tragedy than meets the eye.

Page masterfully balances familiar faces like Rey, Erin, Hadley, Winks, with a fresh ensemble of vibrant new characters, each brought to life with warmth and authenticity. The plot zips along at a perfect pace, weaving between Sophie’s detective work, her relationship with Rey, and delightful detours into the cozy chaos of the Bow Wow Bakery. As always, the mouthwatering descriptions of doggy treats and human bakes are a highlight, making every scene feel deliciously immersive.

The story strikes a wonderful balance between humour and suspenseful twists, culminating in a confrontation where Sophie faces off against the killer, allowing readers to piece together the cleverly scattered clues. While Sophie shines as the tenacious and big-hearted protagonist, let’s be honest: the real star is Max, whose charisma and charm steal every scene he’s in!

A must-read for cozy mystery fans and dog lovers alike, “Curtain Call Catastrophe and the Bow Wow Bakery” delivers wagging tails, tantalizing treats, and a mystery that will keep you guessing until the very end.

[Jane litherland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well what can I say about this book by Belinda Page ? Well it was great ,every page ,beginning to end ,I was grinning and though I wanted to see if I had guessed right I didn’t want the delightful reading to end . It’s a wonderful Bow Wow Bakery mystery that’s as Woofly as can be. A story that’s like no other under the sun. This sure is an immersive one for me because I love everything theatre I do. Used to tread the boards on the big stage . Pantomime part that snubbed the Dame as I had the audience participation job haha ,for once I was the star! But enough about me ,dearie me I got a bit sidetracked but I’m here I’m back to tell you this. It’s a must read ,it’s bliss! Curtain call like none before. I loved it all. I sure had a ball and you will too . With great writing as per and those loveable characters and their traits even the ones we love to hate are first rate and that is down to a great author’s pen and imagination too.There ain’t a story she cannot write as the storytelling is compelling and a delight.

[Emily Pennington · Rating 5 out of 5]

Murder at the Theater . . .

Sophie Harrington loved the early morning as she prepared for another day at her Bow Wow Bakery that catered to both canine and humans. Today’s special was her famous peanut butter pupcakes alongside her signature blueberry muffins for the humans. When the door opened, a man came in and said, “A chilling thought grips my heart, I fear we have a killer among us!" Sophie was startled and looked all around. What was he talking about? Then she realized he and the woman were reading from scripts! Apparently they were preparing for auditions and she handed a paper to Sophie that read, "The Gilded Gable Theater in Glenwood Falls Announces Its Grand Reopening!" It still needs more work, but the theater group has renovated a large part of the building. Sophie is even willing to donate some bakery items for fundraising for them. And her dachshund Max earns a starring role in the upcoming show.

But when an actress, Cate Surrey, falls to her death in an accident on stage, Sophie isn’t sure whether it really was accidental. The board that normally covers the trapdoor on stage, so no one can fall through, was missing when Cate fell and the trapdoor itself was inexplicably ajar as they found Cate lying on the floor of the trap room below, obviously dead. Will Sophie be able to figure out what happened? And when she later realizes someone else had actually been the killer’s target and another murder might be in progress, will she be able to stop the killer this time? Will Hadley find Lieutenant Rey Beltran so he can get Sophie out of trouble and arrest the killer before he gets it right this time?

[DianaRaven · Rating 4 out of 5]

CURTAIN CALL CATASTROPHE AND THE BOW WOW BAKERY is the seventh installment of A Doggy Bakery Cozy Mystery series written by Belinda Page. I enjoyed this story and look forward to more. There is the right amount of mystery filled with doggy cuteness. Loved it! 

Sophie's The Bow Wow Bakery is filled with actors rehearsing a play before making their purchases. They end up inviting her to the Gilded Gable Theater that has been partially restored and soon to open a play. Before Sophie can blink, Max, her adorable dachshund, is invited to audition for a part on the play. Of course, Max has his part down perfectly. Then, the lead actress suffers an accident (??). With no proof leading to a murder it's too easy for the Sheriff to follow his  philosophy that if there’s no tangible proof of a crime, it didn’t happen. This leaves Sophie, who feels something is off, to convince her boyfriend Rey, a police lieutenant with the Glenwood Falls Police Department, to take a closer look at the accident. 

This fast-paced, page-turning mystery has  numerous suspects and lots of finger-pointing. You might not figure it out until the big reveal.

I liked this story and recommend the entire series to fans of dogs and cozy mysteries.  This book is one to curl up with.  And don't miss Max's numerous curtain calls, what a ham!

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Susan Lutfi · Rating 5 out of 5]

As Sophie is opening the Bow Wow Bakery for the day, she hears a voice saying “A chilling thought grips my heart, I fear we have a killer among us.” Panicking, she sees not a deputy but rather a young man reading from some folded papers! With a sigh of relief, she welcomes them and finds out that they are actors rehearsing for a play and that the Gilded Gable Theater in Glenwood Falls is re-opening its doors. My favorite little dachshund, Max, is back in another adventure! One of the actors mentions that there is a part for a dog in the play and suggests Sophie bring Max to audition. She does this and Max gets the part, of course. Who could resist this adorable little dog! And who else turns up at the auditions? Mr. Nickels, a long-time customer of the Bow Wow Bakery. Sophie learns that he is a famous actor, Lawrence Diamond, who retired to Glenwood Falls a long time ago. At the post-audition party, one of the actors mysteriously falls through a trap door and dies. Was it an accident? Then at the first rehearsal, her understudy is poisoned. A coincidence? Theater people are very superstitious – some believe that bringing a dog on stage is bad luck. Is poor little Max cursed? This is one of my favorite authors and my favorite series. You will fall in love with Max and want to read the who series! I highly recommend this book!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Merry Chapman · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Gilded Gable Theater is reopening in Glenwood Falls after its renovations are complete and the theater company is presently holding auditions for the play they will produce. One of Sophie's customers at the Bow Wow Bakery told Sophie she ought to have her incredible, smart and obedient dog, Max audition. Well Max wowed the director, producer and dog handler and won the part. Sophie was catering the fundraiser too and she, Max and her boyfriend, Sergeant Rey attend and get to meet the other actors. There's a scream and Sergeant Rey and Sophie run to the sound. The actress who has the main part in the play, Cate has fallen through the trap door on the stage to her death below. At first it was called an accident until things didn't add up. So of course, Sophie and Max are on the case and although the Chief doesn't want Sophie to stick her nose in, she decides to investigate and slip some of what she finds to her boyfriend. It turns out there are so many prospective suspects she has to weed out. With so many twists and turns, can she find a murderer before someone else becomes a victim? With so many red-herrings, you are surprised at the ending! I highly recommend not only this book but the entire series. I received an ARC of this book but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.

[Aparna J · Rating 5 out of 5]

Curtain Call Catastrophe and The Bow Wow Bakery: A Doggy Bakery Cozy Mystery by Belinda Page is a fascinating must read. This cozy mystery is too visually delicious to be missed.
Sophie Harrington and her adorable pet Max have special guests visiting their Max's Bow Wow Bakery. Sophie comes to know that they are actors about to perform in a play at Gilded Gable Theater which has been renovated recently. Sophie is excited when Max gets selected for a role in the play but her happiness doesn't last long as an actress is found dead. Amid rising tensions and veiled rivalries behind the curtains, she must untangle a web of secrets before the spotlight falls on another deadly act.
From baking sweet treats for glamorous fundraisers to watching Max step into the spotlight, everything seems picture-perfect—until the curtain lifts on a shocking crime.
With a sparkling blend of small-town warmth, theatrical intrigue, and mouthwatering desserts, this cozy mystery offers a tantalizing escape for readers. Page masterfully weaves together secrets, ambition, and a dash of danger without ever losing the heart of her story. Fans of cozy mysteries with a theatrical twist are in for a treat!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nancy (The Avid Reader) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Curtain Call Catastrophe and The Bow Wow Bakery is a wonderfully sweet and engaging story that captured my attention from the first page to the last. It is well-written, featuring vivid descriptions that make it easy to visualize everything in my mind, as if I were witnessing it all.

Sophie is encouraged by a customer to let Max audition for a role in the new show opening at the Gilded Gable Theater, which is reopening in Glenwood Falls after its renovations are completed.

Max is a well-behaved and talented little pup, adored by everyone for his cuteness. Max and Sophie enjoy the party at the theater after the auditions, when one of the actors, Cate, is discovered after falling to her demise.

Never fear: Sophie and Max, along with her beau Sergeant Rey, are on the case. Their investigation uncovers many individuals who may have motives to harm Cate. Sophie must determine who would want to hurt Cate before another victim emerges.

The suspense and mystery alone are enough to keep the pages turning, but the twists and turns also contribute significantly. I was on the edge of my seat as I tried to figure out who would want to harm Cate and why.

I truly enjoyed reading Curtain Call Catastrophe and The Bow Wow Bakery and can’t wait to read more in the Doggy Bakery Cozy Mystery series.

With that said, I highly recommend grabbing a copy of Curtain Call Catastrophe and The Bow Wow Bakery today and helping Sophie and Max solve another mystery!

[Jeffrey Aitken · Rating 4 out of 5]

This novella is a delightful blend of cozy charm, canine cuteness, and classic mystery.

Set in the picturesque town of Glenwood Falls, the story follows bakery owner Sophie Harrington and her lovable dachshund Max. They become entangled in a local theatre production and a suspicious death beneath the stage.

The plot is fresh and engaging, mixing theatre antics, dog auditions, and amateur sleuthing.

Sophie is a warm, relatable protagonist, and her relationship with Max (and boyfriend Rey) adds emotional depth and humour.

The writing is smooth and evocative, with Page excelling in natural dialogue and detailed world-building that brings the bakery and the Gilded Gable Theatre to life.

The standout joy of the book lies in its quirky characters and heartwarming small-town community.

From flapper-themed fundraisers to backstage drama, every scene feels both comical and grounded.

If there’s a flaw, it’s in the slow start. Early chapters dwell a bit too long on setup before the central mystery kicks in. Tightening the pace early on would enhance the story’s momentum.

Charming, cozy, and full of heart, this is a must-read for fans of pet-centric mysteries.

[Carlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a lovely cozy mystery, one of the Bow Wow Bakery mystery series by Belinda Page. Although it is the first one I've read, it will definitely not be the last. I completely fell in love with Max, the delightful and very smart dachshund companion of Sophie the owner of the Bow Wow Bakery. Sophie has quite a reputation as an amateur sleuth in Glenwood Falls, and with her boyfriend Rey (a real police detective) has solved a number of mysteries.

This one involved a troop of actors who have restored an abandoned theater in town and are preparing to put on a play when one of the actors falls to her death through a stage trap door. After many red herrings and Max's debut in the play, Sophie identifies the culprit and all is well in Glenwood Falls. I will definitely be reading more in this series and am starting the prequel next to find out how Sophie and Max start the Bow Wow Bakery!

I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest review.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very enjoyable book. I love relationships between Sophie, Rey and their fur babies Max and Penny. There are so many twists and turns into whether a crime happened or not and who was responsible for one, two or both of the "crimes".

The best part is when Max gets a part in a play that is very important to the revitalization of the local theater, the Gilded Gable Theater. I really thought Sophie's investigation into what happened at the theatre while getting to know Max's fellow thespian was handled perfectly.

I cannot recommend this book without mentioning the previous books in this series. Getting to know the residents of Glenwood Falls. And the food, for both canine and humans, made me wish there was a Bow Wow Bakery in my town.

I received an ARC of the book from the author. My review is voluntary and honest. In addition, I purchased a copy of this book when it became available.

[Christina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sophie, her loyal dachshund Max, her boyfriend Sergeant Rey, and their close-knit group of friends find themselves wrapped up in another murder mystery—this time centered around a struggling local theater trying to reclaim its former glory. During a high-stakes fundraising event, the production’s starlet falls to her death. But was it really an accident?

With Max cast in a small role in the play, Sophie gets the perfect chance to mingle with the cast and crew, uncover hidden secrets, and follow the trail of clues. The plot is clever and well-constructed, filled with twists and red herrings that keep you guessing until the very end.

Though I only recently discovered this series, I’ve been thoroughly enjoying it. This installment earns a solid 4.5 out of 5 from me—which says a lot, especially for a cozy mystery.

[Marietta · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was another excellant written story about murder and the actors and the crew of people work on a theater production. Rey and Sophie are invited to the fundraiser for the new Gilded Gable Theater aster Max tries out for a part in the theater production. While the funraiser is going on there is a accident or murder that they can not figure out who would want to kill the star of the production. Everyone in the theater think there is a supernatural spirit at work but not everyone thinks that. Well Sophie & Max with all their friend will try and figure out what happened. And they will try and help the theater company try and get some support for their group so that they can stay in Glenwood Falls. I would recommend this series as a very well written and clean mystery. Enjoy this series.

[Wendy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sophie and her dog Max are a well-known fixture in Glenwood Falls. After all, Sophie is the owner of the popular Bow Wow Bakery. They become involved with the local theatre group when Max gets a part in their upcoming production. But before the curtain opens, one of the players meets with foul play. Sophie is determined to find out who done it before someone else meets the same fate.

The author does a great job of weaving together a mystery that keeps the reader engaged. I finished this story in one sitting. There were twists and turns that kept me guessing until the reveal. I really enjoyed this book and recommend it to anyone who enjoys cozy mysteries.

*I received a free ARC from the author and BookFunnel. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Anne Newman · Rating 5 out of 5]

A local group of actors are reopening the long closed theatre in town, refurbishing it as they go along. They need a dog and it is suggested that Max from the Bow-Wow Bakery audition. He does and gets the part. But in the after auditioning party a shrill scream us heard and someone has fallen through the trapdoor on the stage & is found dead. All the safety mats ha$ been removed. So it looks like a murder. At the rehearsals that she has to attend because of Max, Sophie notices a few things. Then another person collapses on stage, poisoned it seems, but the ambulance crew manages to get that person to the hospital in time to save their life. Things fall into place for Sophie & the criminal is uncovered. The play gets performed and the theatre company will stay afloat.

[Alice Hazelbaker · Rating 5 out of 5]

There’s a new acting group in town and they’re planning on putting on a play at the newly renovated Gilded Gables Theater in Glenwood Falls. The play, The Castle of St. Rich, has a part for a dog, and Sophie is encouraged to have Max try out. Of course, he aces it and gets the role!. But when the lead actress falls into Hell, the area beneath the stage, through a vampire trapdoor that should have been secured and the crash mats underneath were removed, it becomes a murder case and Sophie and her boyfriend Detective Rey investigate. This was a fun and exciting book to read, with great characters and a good mystery plot. I received a free copy of this book and write this review voluntarily.

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a fun, entertaining read full of red herrings, real and stage "characters", misdirection's, and the adorable crime-solving dachshund, Max! The Gilded Gable Theater is being renovated and will soon be reopening. Max's owner, Sophie, is convinced to bring Max to auditions as the audiences love to see an animal in the cast.

The story takes off from there and we are soon reading about mouthwatering doggy and human treats available at Sophie's Bow Wow Bakery and theater fundraisers, jealousies among actors, and a suspicious death! Sophie and Max are on the case, as is Sophie's boyfriend/police officer Rey.

[Bernadette Cinkoske · Rating 5 out of 5]

Curtain Call Catastrophe and The Bow Wow Bakery is a delightful, cozy mystery centered around the restoration and reopening of the Gilded Gable Theater. I loved catching up with Sophie, Max, Rey and the recurring characters. Max literally steals the limelight when he is cast in the upcoming play. When a cast member falls to her death, Sophie does not think it is an accident. You will want to join Sophie and Max as they plunge into auditions, rehearsals and cast interactions. I suggest snacks while reading as a lot of delicious treats are consumed in this well plotted book. I did not guess the murderer or the motive which is a big plus. I just sat and devoured this engaging mystery!

[Linda K Goodwin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Curtain Call Catastrophe and The Bow Wow Bakery

We love Sophia and her dog Max. Precious dog- love he learned a new trick...Stick that tongue out!
This is a fun Murder Mystery that is short and sweet.
Sophia has a boy friend Rey whom is also a police man. That can come in handy sometimes. Here she has learned from a friend, that she needs to me more adventurous with her dates! Phew!
But just perchance some actresses and an actor come in to their shop and WOW now Max is an actor...but....oh no...a murder!
This is a cozy fun murder mystery I highly recommend.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Rayleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

iGreat story full of cute animals. Author makes you feel like you are in the story viewing what is going on. Love how she described the dogs & their owners who seems to fit just perfect. Like the idea of renovating old buildings to bring them back to their glory to keep town history alive. There is a lot of mysteries around the play being preformed. Are the rumors of curses true as actors superstitious lots. Or does someone not want the theater to be used again. I was not able to figure out who done it till the mystery fund raising party. And of course the cute dog steals the show. Plan to read more by this author especially if cute animals involved.

[Cat B. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is one of my favorite cozy mystery series. Nothing slips by Sophie and her friends and Max is the most delightful pup along with his best pal sweet Penny, Sophie's boyfriend's tea cup chihuahua. This installment takes place mostly in a newly renovated theatre in town and preparations for opening night. Of course there is a murder and the game is afoot. A fun romp as always written in a simple straight forward manner perfect for light reading.
I received a copy of this book via the author and am voluntarily leaving my opinion of the tale.

[Debdutch · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Curtain Call Catastrophe and The Bow Wow Bakery” by Belinda Page

Sophie and her clever dachshund Max sniff out secrets in a charming theatre-themed mystery. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily sharing my honest opinion.

Packed with red herrings, misdirection, and heart, it’s cozy crime with bite.
The relationship between Sophie and her boyfriend Rey continues.

The pacing is brisk, the clues cleverly placed—Max definitely steals the spotlight!
A delightful blend of sleuthing, baking, and canine charisma in Glenwood Falls.

[Patricia Nicoletti · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great series. Lots of fun with a sprinkle of who done it. A theater wants to reopen and Sophie is going to have Max try out. (Max is her dog). He gets the role. Her basket The Bow Wow Bakery will be making the treats for the fundraiser. Someone falls victim to foul play, Sophie and Max set out to find out what happened, joined by her boyfriend Sgt Rey together they find jealousy and hidden motives. Character building is very good, they grow from book to book. Always fun reading a mystery with a pet involved. I’m really enjoying these books.

[Chere Gruver · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely love both Max and Penny!

This story does exactly what it should do—keep the reader entertained while reading it and allowing them to escape reality. There were times when I laughed out loud and other times when I cried. Also, I really enjoyed the idea of a woman owning a bakery catering to both pets and the people who love them. This is the first book I’ve read by Belinda Page, but I can promise it won’t the be the last! And both Max and Penny are adorable.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[JOAN SALLEY · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quick read that keeps you guessing until the end. As a new theater group starts rehearsals in an old theater in Glen Falls, Sophie's dachshund Max has been chosen to play the part of Winston in the play, and while at rehearsal, a scream is heard and it appears the lead character has fallen through a trap door. Was this accidental or could there have been some tampering with the door. Red herrings abound in this mystery.

I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest and voluntary review.

[J Young · Rating 4 out of 5]

A puptastic stage debut!

Auditions are taking place for a stage production. There is a part for a dog, so Sophie takes Max to audition. At the pre-production party, the leading lady is found dead. It could be a tragic accident, but Sophie suspects foul play.

This was a fun read. Max is so smart and a nice dresser! The dog treats sound amazing. I received a free copy, but my review is honest and voluntary.

[Eliz Marino · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC and this is my voluntary review. A wonderful fast read cozy that has Max and Sophie solving a murder. When Max gets a starring role in the theater and a murder happens it's Sophie, Rey and Max on the hunt for the culprit. This series is wonderful and Max is a great crime sniffing sleuth who almost steals the show. I always read these books in a few hours since they are hard to put down.

[Cherie Robinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sophie is thrilled to provide the delicious treats for the fundraising of the reopening of the Gilded Gable Theatre but when her furry companion Max lands the staring role in the show her excitement mounts. When an actress falls victim to foul play she sets out to solve the crime along with Max and Sgt Rey. They find lots of jealousy and hidden motives among the actors and crew and they race to solve it before there’s another victim. This is a great who-dunnit!
Cherie

[Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful book - a definite page turner - I couldn't put it down!
Sophie is drawn into the theatrical world when Max, her daschund, is cast as a character in the first play put on in the newly refurbished theatre but unfortunately one of the cast members ends up murdered so Sophie has to draw on all her investigative skills along with her boyfriend Rey to help solve the mystery. Definitely recommend it.

[Delphia Von Heeder · Rating 4 out of 5]

Curtain Call Catastrophe and the Bow Wow Bakery by Belinda Page. Sophie and her pup, Max, are such good characters and I enjoy reading about their adventures. Unfortunately murder seems to be what is opening at the Gilded Theater. Sophie and Max are up to the task along with Sophie!s boyfriend, Sergeant Ray. Put on your sleuthing hat and jump into the mystery.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.