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A Valentine To Die For: A Sadie Stewart Cozy Mystery
Love is priceless. Lies are lethal. But a Valentine’s gallery opening is deadly.
Sadie Stewart arrives in Manhattan on a professional high, her artwork featured in an exclusive Valentine’s Day showcase at a chic Chelsea gallery. Between putting the final brushstrokes on her personal collection and savoring a budding romance with investigative journalist Hugh Hartley, Sadie is ready to enjoy a rare picture perfect moment.
That rosy glow fades fast when a powerful art broker collapses outside the gallery, poisoned by a drink meant for someone else. As whispers flutter through the crowd and Cupid’s aim goes wildly off course, Sadie scrambles to keep the truth from being erased.
Between charming gallery owners with polished smiles with secrets to spare, and a volatile artist nursing a public vendetta, Sadie has no shortage of suspects.
But if she can’t uncover the truth in time, this Valentine’s Day won’t just break hearts, it will cost her everything she loves.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ A feel-good cozy mystery that is a must-read. Well-written, with great characters. I could not put the book down until the very end.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ A great Valentines Mystery I was pulled right into the Mystery it's well written with great characters some twists and drama that kept me interested and guessing.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ An interesting plot with familiar characters that was hard to put down. Lots of twists and turns to find the murderer! Can’t wait for the next book!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Superb story and series that I enjoyed reading and highly recommend that you read.
Sadie Stewart arrives in Manhattan on a professional high, her artwork featured in an exclusive Valentine’s Day showcase at a chic Chelsea gallery. Between putting the final brushstrokes on her personal collection and savoring a budding romance with investigative journalist Hugh Hartley, Sadie is ready to enjoy a rare picture perfect moment.
That rosy glow fades fast when a powerful art broker collapses outside the gallery, poisoned by a drink meant for someone else. As whispers flutter through the crowd and Cupid’s aim goes wildly off course, Sadie scrambles to keep the truth from being erased.
Between charming gallery owners with polished smiles with secrets to spare, and a volatile artist nursing a public vendetta, Sadie has no shortage of suspects.
But if she can’t uncover the truth in time, this Valentine’s Day won’t just break hearts, it will cost her everything she loves.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ A feel-good cozy mystery that is a must-read. Well-written, with great characters. I could not put the book down until the very end.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ A great Valentines Mystery I was pulled right into the Mystery it's well written with great characters some twists and drama that kept me interested and guessing.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ An interesting plot with familiar characters that was hard to put down. Lots of twists and turns to find the murderer! Can’t wait for the next book!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Superb story and series that I enjoyed reading and highly recommend that you read.
175 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 15, 2026
9 people are currently reading
3 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
February 20, 2026
Sadie Stewart is a really fun character that you want to root for!! This book was really fun and I enjoyed reading it!!!
February 6, 2026
This is another thrilling entry into the Sadie Stewart series, an art museum owner in Chicago and artist herself. This time, she's traveled to New York to show her own art pieces. I love this series because it always has the most intense climaxes, and, without giving spoilers, this one is no different. I especially loved the epilogue in this one!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Read
January 2, 2026Sadie, Daniel, and Hugh are in the Big Apple for Sadie’s exhibition of her Heart Chambers collection. During an art auction she discovers that her nemesis Aunt Darya is bidding against her. The next thing you know a prominent artist is murdered.
Now Sadie is not only trying to enjoy a Valentine’s Day celebration with Hugh, along with sharing her Heart Chambers work for the first time, she is drawn into unraveling who committed the murder and why. The list of suspects is daunting. Then a mystery buyer offers to purchase her Heart Chambers collection before it’s even been seen.
Sadie finds herself needing to unmask the buyer, to find out why they would purchase it without seeing it. What is Aunt Darya up to? Did she have the artist murdered? Is she the mystery buyer of Sadie’s Heart Chambers collection?
If you enjoy a good cozy mystery with endearing, yet complex characters, you will find yourself engrossed in the story as Sadie works her way through revealing the murderer. If you’ve read other books in this series, you will enjoy this journey with Sadie as you learn more about her, her family, and her relationship with Hugh.
Now Sadie is not only trying to enjoy a Valentine’s Day celebration with Hugh, along with sharing her Heart Chambers work for the first time, she is drawn into unraveling who committed the murder and why. The list of suspects is daunting. Then a mystery buyer offers to purchase her Heart Chambers collection before it’s even been seen.
Sadie finds herself needing to unmask the buyer, to find out why they would purchase it without seeing it. What is Aunt Darya up to? Did she have the artist murdered? Is she the mystery buyer of Sadie’s Heart Chambers collection?
If you enjoy a good cozy mystery with endearing, yet complex characters, you will find yourself engrossed in the story as Sadie works her way through revealing the murderer. If you’ve read other books in this series, you will enjoy this journey with Sadie as you learn more about her, her family, and her relationship with Hugh.
January 15, 2026
This novel delivers a lively and emotional, layered cozy mystery set in the polished, high-stakes world of art galleries and collectors.
The novel follows Sadie Stewart, an artist and gallery owner, whose Valentine’s Day trip to New York spirals into a web of murder, forgery, and family secrets.
Well constructed, the plot weaves suspense with genuine warmth.
Dayton’s pacing keeps readers hooked, balancing intrigue with moments of humour and tenderness.
The characters are distinct and believable.
Sadie is clever and grounded, while supporting figures like Hugh and Daniel add texture and loyalty.
Relationships unfold through dialogue and action rather than exposition, giving the story emotional realism.
Dayton’s writing style is confident, clear, and cinematic, with just enough flourish to paint vivid scenes without slowing the pace.
If there is a flaw, it lies in the occasional exposition that explains what sharp dialogue already reveals.
A slightly leaner middle section would heighten impact.
Perfect for readers who enjoy intelligent cozy mysteries rich in art world intrigue, strong women, and moral depth.
The novel follows Sadie Stewart, an artist and gallery owner, whose Valentine’s Day trip to New York spirals into a web of murder, forgery, and family secrets.
Well constructed, the plot weaves suspense with genuine warmth.
Dayton’s pacing keeps readers hooked, balancing intrigue with moments of humour and tenderness.
The characters are distinct and believable.
Sadie is clever and grounded, while supporting figures like Hugh and Daniel add texture and loyalty.
Relationships unfold through dialogue and action rather than exposition, giving the story emotional realism.
Dayton’s writing style is confident, clear, and cinematic, with just enough flourish to paint vivid scenes without slowing the pace.
If there is a flaw, it lies in the occasional exposition that explains what sharp dialogue already reveals.
A slightly leaner middle section would heighten impact.
Perfect for readers who enjoy intelligent cozy mysteries rich in art world intrigue, strong women, and moral depth.
February 13, 2026
A Valentine To Die For
It was Valentines Day, and Sadie and her handsome reporter/boyfriend had planned a romantic week in the Big Apple, combining a showing of her art. Sounds perfect, right? But isn't it always when the past comes barging in to spoil things just when you plan something special? Sadie's now-deseaced mother had come from a mob-connected family before Sadie's father rescued and married her. They kept Sadie away from all that. Now that she's all grown up with her parents passed, that world wants to come and claim her. The adventures and murder they are drawn into...well must not give any more away! Read the book for yourself! After all, your Valentines Day is just around the corner!
It was Valentines Day, and Sadie and her handsome reporter/boyfriend had planned a romantic week in the Big Apple, combining a showing of her art. Sounds perfect, right? But isn't it always when the past comes barging in to spoil things just when you plan something special? Sadie's now-deseaced mother had come from a mob-connected family before Sadie's father rescued and married her. They kept Sadie away from all that. Now that she's all grown up with her parents passed, that world wants to come and claim her. The adventures and murder they are drawn into...well must not give any more away! Read the book for yourself! After all, your Valentines Day is just around the corner!
Review of advance copy
Intrigue and evil!
The Chelsea gallery exhibit in New York City will showcase Sadie Stewart's paintings. Excitement mixes with fear that her aunt will somehow ruin it. Her initial distrust of Hugh Hartley is morphing into a romance, and a special surprise awaits him on opening night. The opening is marred by the death of an attendee from a poisoned drink meant for someone else. Sadie uncovers a cryptic clue before all evidence disappears. She soon finds herself in a web of secrets and suspects.
This is a twisty mystery, full of drama and plots. Delightful! I received an advance copy of the book, but my review is honest and voluntary.
The Chelsea gallery exhibit in New York City will showcase Sadie Stewart's paintings. Excitement mixes with fear that her aunt will somehow ruin it. Her initial distrust of Hugh Hartley is morphing into a romance, and a special surprise awaits him on opening night. The opening is marred by the death of an attendee from a poisoned drink meant for someone else. Sadie uncovers a cryptic clue before all evidence disappears. She soon finds herself in a web of secrets and suspects.
This is a twisty mystery, full of drama and plots. Delightful! I received an advance copy of the book, but my review is honest and voluntary.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A Valentine to Die For is an Excellent story about Sadie is an Artist and Gallery Owner with her Best Friend Daniel and her very special dog Solomon and her Boyfriend Hugh an Investigative Journalist. They go to an Exhibition of her Paintings. Outside of the venue a person collapses . Sadie , Daniel, Hugh and Solomon start to investigate. There are a few twists and turns throughout the mystery. But can they find the truth?
Superb story and series that I enjoyed reading and highly recommend that you read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Superb story and series that I enjoyed reading and highly recommend that you read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 20, 2026
Valentines past and present
This story is woven of pieces of the past with Sadie’s parents and aunt and the present with Sadie and her gallery show in New York. I really liked the epilogue it gave us a glimpse of how Sadie’s parents broke away from the dangerous Rosebay House and Soraya’s family. The glimpses of the past also I think explain so much about why her aunt is the way her aunt is. I loved Sadie’s showing. I could see it in my mind and it was titled perfectly. Cool being in NYC my hometown for a change as opposed to their usual stomping grounds of the Windy City. Whole lotta development packed into a relatively quick yet thoroughly enjoyable read.
This story is woven of pieces of the past with Sadie’s parents and aunt and the present with Sadie and her gallery show in New York. I really liked the epilogue it gave us a glimpse of how Sadie’s parents broke away from the dangerous Rosebay House and Soraya’s family. The glimpses of the past also I think explain so much about why her aunt is the way her aunt is. I loved Sadie’s showing. I could see it in my mind and it was titled perfectly. Cool being in NYC my hometown for a change as opposed to their usual stomping grounds of the Windy City. Whole lotta development packed into a relatively quick yet thoroughly enjoyable read.
January 22, 2026
This is the eighth book in this very good cozy mystery series; I’ve read and enjoyed almost all of the previous books, but this book would stand alone fine. Sadie, who inherited and now co-manages the Chicago art gallery her father started, becomes involved in a mysterious murder while showing her latest art collection in New York City. She’s visiting there with her boyfriend, Hugh, an investigative journalist, and her partner in the art gallery, Daniel. There is plenty of suspense and danger as the story progresses and I enjoyed solving the case along with them. I was provided an ARC, which I appreciate, but these opinions are my own.
January 22, 2026
Sadie is back, but this time she is an artist putting on a show instead of just looking to sell art in her gallery. She is in NYC for the big exhibition and when she doesn’t sell to an interested buyer before the show, murder makes an entrance. She is once again in the middle of the investigation, and her criminal
Aunt isn’t far from view. Follow Sadie as she tries to figure out what happened and keep from being a casualty herself.
Although the title doesn’t explicitly mention love, only Valentines, I love how that theme is woven through the book. I love Sadie’s new relationship, someone who is a good match for her. The flashbacks to her parent’s love story, and her partner’s sweet marriage, are also endearing. But the show-stopping moment was the reveal of the art installations for the gallery show. The attention to detail, the emotions they evoke, and the love shown through the pieces just pull you in and make you wish you could see the exhibit right alongside the characters. It’s breathtaking, and something I truly enjoyed experiencing through the book since I love art and the emotion it evokes.
You’ve gotta check out this book!
Aunt isn’t far from view. Follow Sadie as she tries to figure out what happened and keep from being a casualty herself.
Although the title doesn’t explicitly mention love, only Valentines, I love how that theme is woven through the book. I love Sadie’s new relationship, someone who is a good match for her. The flashbacks to her parent’s love story, and her partner’s sweet marriage, are also endearing. But the show-stopping moment was the reveal of the art installations for the gallery show. The attention to detail, the emotions they evoke, and the love shown through the pieces just pull you in and make you wish you could see the exhibit right alongside the characters. It’s breathtaking, and something I truly enjoyed experiencing through the book since I love art and the emotion it evokes.
You’ve gotta check out this book!
January 15, 2026
Sadie Stewart is in New York City for an art show on Valentines Day when weird things happen. Some one wants to buy her series of pictures sight unseen for an exorbitant amount of money. Sadie says no .That's when things get even weirder. She thinks her aunt is involved but finds out different until she suspects that Hugh isn't being honest either. Really good story with some twists I wasn't expecting.
I received an arc and this is my review.
I received an arc and this is my review.
February 4, 2026
I really enjoyed reading this book, the latest in the Sadie Stewart Cozy mystery series. The big difference with this book to all the previous ones in the series was that it was set in New York and not Sadie's native Chicago. The story was entertaining with a very interesting story line that kept me gripped to the very end.
I have read all of the books in the series and I will definitely read the next one as soon as it comes out.
I have read all of the books in the series and I will definitely read the next one as soon as it comes out.
January 20, 2026
Another great book in this series that will pull you in from the beginning (all can be read stand-alone). I enjoy the characters and their internal and external challenges. The storyline is always a little more intense, but it keeps surprising you. Wonderful to read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 21, 2026
Sadie is over the moon about her Valentines Day exhibit in New York. That is until a mysterious man wishes to buy the collection sight unseen. Will Sadie give in an allow the sale? Or will she stick to her guns. Lots of intrigue in this one. So many things seemed too good to be true. Loved it. I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book provided by booksprout.
January 12, 2026
A good read. I enjoyed the book. Good plot line and kept me wanting more.
January 21, 2026
Pretty good.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews