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A Helen Dexter Cosy Crime Mystery #5
Music to Die For at the Seaview Hotel
The fifth in the page-turning cosy crime series from Glenda Young, this unputdownable whodunnit is perfect for fans of Julia Chapman's Dales Detective Agency and Richard Osman's The Thursday Murder Club.
Eighties pop band The A64 are reuniting for the gig of a lifetime at Scarborough's Open Air Theatre, and Helen Dexter is overjoyed when they book into her Seaview Hotel.
However, as old tensions rise within the band, it's clear each musician has something to hide. Why is lead singer Starr running away from her past? Why is Pete the drummer secretive about where he's been for the last forty years? And when guitarist Dave breaks his legs in a freak window-cleaning accident, a new guitarist arrives, causing even more discord for all. Then, as the band rehearse for their comeback gig, a dead body is found.
Can Seaview Hotel landlady Helen Dexter and her rescue greyhound Suki hit the right note and solve the crime?
The Seaview Hotel mystery series was shortlisted for Best New Crime Series alongside bestselling series by Richard Osman and Val McDermid in the Dead Good Readers Awards.
Praise for the previous Helen Dexter mysteries
'I loved Glenda's book and her characters - perfect for all fans of dance, mystery and cosy escapism.Absolutely smashing!' ANTON DU BEKE
'Think Richard Osman and Agatha Christie visit Scarborough ... Cosy crime to a tee' PETERBOROUGH TELEGRAPH
Eighties pop band The A64 are reuniting for the gig of a lifetime at Scarborough's Open Air Theatre, and Helen Dexter is overjoyed when they book into her Seaview Hotel.
However, as old tensions rise within the band, it's clear each musician has something to hide. Why is lead singer Starr running away from her past? Why is Pete the drummer secretive about where he's been for the last forty years? And when guitarist Dave breaks his legs in a freak window-cleaning accident, a new guitarist arrives, causing even more discord for all. Then, as the band rehearse for their comeback gig, a dead body is found.
Can Seaview Hotel landlady Helen Dexter and her rescue greyhound Suki hit the right note and solve the crime?
The Seaview Hotel mystery series was shortlisted for Best New Crime Series alongside bestselling series by Richard Osman and Val McDermid in the Dead Good Readers Awards.
Praise for the previous Helen Dexter mysteries
'I loved Glenda's book and her characters - perfect for all fans of dance, mystery and cosy escapism.Absolutely smashing!' ANTON DU BEKE
'Think Richard Osman and Agatha Christie visit Scarborough ... Cosy crime to a tee' PETERBOROUGH TELEGRAPH
346 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 10, 2026
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Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Book 5 in the Helen Dexter cosy crime series doesn’t differ much from the previous instalments. Once again, we return to the Seaview Hotel in the beautiful North Yorkshire town of Scarborough – a town I have adored since I was a child. It holds some very special memories for me and I have enjoyed being able to revisit the town in my imagination.
This time round, 80s pop band, the A64 (a name that strikes fear into the heart of anyone who has been stuck on that particular road), book in to stay at the Seaview as they return to play their comeback gig at the town’s Open Air Theatre after more than 40 years out of the limelight. The usual band politics come into play (I couldn’t help but automatically think of Fleetwood Mac with all the complex relationships in the band) and it isn’t long before one of them is murdered. Although this is the general theme of the books, it’s wearing a bit thin that so many guests who stay at the hotel end up being murdered. Even though the storylines differ, it’s the same plot but with different characters and it’s always easy to see who the murderer will end up being.
I am also going off Helen Dexter, the Seaview’s owner, very quickly. She always seems to interfere despite telling the other characters not to interfere with the guests and always takes it upon herself to dig deeper into their lives rather than leave it to the police. She has started to come across as rude, impatient and petulant at needing the get her own way. Her relationship with her partner, Jimmy, is also very frustrating. She spends most of the book pushing him aside or forgetting about him and I have no idea why he seems to want to stick around. The book ends with a cliffhanger between the two of them that you can see coming for miles – a nice set up to book 6 though.
The book delivers a lot of the seaside charm of Scarborough whilst not papering over the gritty bits. Glenda Young clearly loves Scarborough and excels at creating an authentic and nostalgic scene for anyone who has spent time there and knows it well. You can almost sense the smell of the sea air, sound of the gulls, noise of the arcades etc as the book progresses.
Music to Die For at the Seaview Hotel doesn’t bring anything new to the cosy crime genre, nor is it groundbreaking, but it is a pleasant enough read and provides a comforting escape from reality despite its flaws. If you have enjoyed the previous books in the series then I can’t see any reason why you wouldn’t enjoy this one too.
Book 5 in the Helen Dexter cosy crime series doesn’t differ much from the previous instalments. Once again, we return to the Seaview Hotel in the beautiful North Yorkshire town of Scarborough – a town I have adored since I was a child. It holds some very special memories for me and I have enjoyed being able to revisit the town in my imagination.
This time round, 80s pop band, the A64 (a name that strikes fear into the heart of anyone who has been stuck on that particular road), book in to stay at the Seaview as they return to play their comeback gig at the town’s Open Air Theatre after more than 40 years out of the limelight. The usual band politics come into play (I couldn’t help but automatically think of Fleetwood Mac with all the complex relationships in the band) and it isn’t long before one of them is murdered. Although this is the general theme of the books, it’s wearing a bit thin that so many guests who stay at the hotel end up being murdered. Even though the storylines differ, it’s the same plot but with different characters and it’s always easy to see who the murderer will end up being.
I am also going off Helen Dexter, the Seaview’s owner, very quickly. She always seems to interfere despite telling the other characters not to interfere with the guests and always takes it upon herself to dig deeper into their lives rather than leave it to the police. She has started to come across as rude, impatient and petulant at needing the get her own way. Her relationship with her partner, Jimmy, is also very frustrating. She spends most of the book pushing him aside or forgetting about him and I have no idea why he seems to want to stick around. The book ends with a cliffhanger between the two of them that you can see coming for miles – a nice set up to book 6 though.
The book delivers a lot of the seaside charm of Scarborough whilst not papering over the gritty bits. Glenda Young clearly loves Scarborough and excels at creating an authentic and nostalgic scene for anyone who has spent time there and knows it well. You can almost sense the smell of the sea air, sound of the gulls, noise of the arcades etc as the book progresses.
Music to Die For at the Seaview Hotel doesn’t bring anything new to the cosy crime genre, nor is it groundbreaking, but it is a pleasant enough read and provides a comforting escape from reality despite its flaws. If you have enjoyed the previous books in the series then I can’t see any reason why you wouldn’t enjoy this one too.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Cosy crime set in SCARBOROUGH "..cosy crime at its best..."
The Seaview hotel mystery series was shortlisted for the Best New Crime Series alongside bestselling series by Richard Osman and Val McDermid in the Dead Good Readers Awards.
This is No. 5 in the The Seaview Hotel crime mystery series. Helen Dexter owns the Seaview Hotel and is managing well since her husband passed away. Her team - with their idiosyncrasies - are a credit to her leadership, and they step up to the plate when she needs them.
Regular readers will know that the author is a huge fan of Scarborough (the novel is dedicated to the town, the author's 'happy place'). Helen's hotel is perched above the North Bay and looks across the magnificent vista to the horizon, where there will be dolphins and seals playing in the sea.
The novel opens as Helen and Marie are in the midst of their endeavours to bring an old beach hut - Seaview Blue - into the 21st Century and rid it of its ghastly smell. It is proposed as an extra facility to offer guests, now that competition is rife when it comes to accommodation. and Helen is motivated to tread the fine line between tradition and modernity in her establishment (cue offering Full English Breakfasts!).
Helen shares with Marie that the band, The A64, are due to play in the Open Air Theatre and they will be staying incognito at the hotel and Marie's ex husband is in charge of security. He isn't the ideal choice for plenty of reasons. This is a comeback gig, after a very unfortunate event, and there is much excitement and anticipation, as they haven't performed for 40 odd years. Their iconic song "Meet Me At Eat Me", which is still hummed and sung on a regular basis to this day by many keen acolytes of the band, immortalises the cafe at the Stephen Joseph Theatre.
And then a body turns up, the police officers remark on the regular occurrences of murder when it comes to Helen and her hotel!
This is cosy crime at its best, a nice location, a group of people with querulous interlopers who upset the balance, her cantankerous neighbour running Vista del Mar who sets a high competitive bar, plus - of course - Suki the greyhound. It can be read as a standalone, although the characters have been built in the previous books, so reading them in order might add an extra dimension.
The Seaview hotel mystery series was shortlisted for the Best New Crime Series alongside bestselling series by Richard Osman and Val McDermid in the Dead Good Readers Awards.
This is No. 5 in the The Seaview Hotel crime mystery series. Helen Dexter owns the Seaview Hotel and is managing well since her husband passed away. Her team - with their idiosyncrasies - are a credit to her leadership, and they step up to the plate when she needs them.
Regular readers will know that the author is a huge fan of Scarborough (the novel is dedicated to the town, the author's 'happy place'). Helen's hotel is perched above the North Bay and looks across the magnificent vista to the horizon, where there will be dolphins and seals playing in the sea.
The novel opens as Helen and Marie are in the midst of their endeavours to bring an old beach hut - Seaview Blue - into the 21st Century and rid it of its ghastly smell. It is proposed as an extra facility to offer guests, now that competition is rife when it comes to accommodation. and Helen is motivated to tread the fine line between tradition and modernity in her establishment (cue offering Full English Breakfasts!).
Helen shares with Marie that the band, The A64, are due to play in the Open Air Theatre and they will be staying incognito at the hotel and Marie's ex husband is in charge of security. He isn't the ideal choice for plenty of reasons. This is a comeback gig, after a very unfortunate event, and there is much excitement and anticipation, as they haven't performed for 40 odd years. Their iconic song "Meet Me At Eat Me", which is still hummed and sung on a regular basis to this day by many keen acolytes of the band, immortalises the cafe at the Stephen Joseph Theatre.
And then a body turns up, the police officers remark on the regular occurrences of murder when it comes to Helen and her hotel!
This is cosy crime at its best, a nice location, a group of people with querulous interlopers who upset the balance, her cantankerous neighbour running Vista del Mar who sets a high competitive bar, plus - of course - Suki the greyhound. It can be read as a standalone, although the characters have been built in the previous books, so reading them in order might add an extra dimension.
September 18, 2026
Music to Die For at the Seaview Hotel is the fifth book in Glenda Young’s Helen Dexter Cosy Crime Mystery series, but it was my first visit to the Seaview Hotel. Happily, that did not matter in the slightest. The characters are written with such distinct personalities and relationships that I was quickly able to understand who everyone was, making this perfectly readable as a standalone.
Helen Dexter is a warm and caring protagonist, although I did not always understand her choices. Several times, someone clearly needed to tell her something important, but because she was already in a head spin, she avoided the conversation for days. That is completely alien to me. If someone urgently wanted a word while I was investigating a murder, I would apparently pause the murder and ask how I could help. Perhaps this explains why nobody has trusted me with a cosy crime series.
I also occasionally struggled to interpret the characters’ conversations. Remarks sometimes sounded rude or judgemental to me, only for everyone else to laugh in the following sentence. It may be that readers who have followed the series from the beginning will already understand the group’s humour and affection more instinctively, while I was still standing politely in the hotel foyer wondering whether someone had just been insulted.
Although the book has the appealing community and recurring cast expected from a cosy mystery, it is not especially cosy in tone. There is considerable angst, tension and personal drama throughout, alongside the murder investigation. However, there are also satisfying moments of comeuppance, particularly for the resident nosy bag next door, and several people ultimately receive precisely what they deserve.
There is a form of happily ever after, although it does not necessarily arrive in the way readers might expect. The ending also leaves one important thread dangling rather dramatically, making it clear that Helen’s story is far from finished.
This was a solid and entertaining introduction to the series, with memorable characters, plenty of drama and a setting that lends itself beautifully to mystery. I am not desperately racing to find the next instalment, but I would happily return to the Seaview Hotel and see what trouble checks in next.
Thank you to Headline and NetGalley for providing a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Helen Dexter is a warm and caring protagonist, although I did not always understand her choices. Several times, someone clearly needed to tell her something important, but because she was already in a head spin, she avoided the conversation for days. That is completely alien to me. If someone urgently wanted a word while I was investigating a murder, I would apparently pause the murder and ask how I could help. Perhaps this explains why nobody has trusted me with a cosy crime series.
I also occasionally struggled to interpret the characters’ conversations. Remarks sometimes sounded rude or judgemental to me, only for everyone else to laugh in the following sentence. It may be that readers who have followed the series from the beginning will already understand the group’s humour and affection more instinctively, while I was still standing politely in the hotel foyer wondering whether someone had just been insulted.
Although the book has the appealing community and recurring cast expected from a cosy mystery, it is not especially cosy in tone. There is considerable angst, tension and personal drama throughout, alongside the murder investigation. However, there are also satisfying moments of comeuppance, particularly for the resident nosy bag next door, and several people ultimately receive precisely what they deserve.
There is a form of happily ever after, although it does not necessarily arrive in the way readers might expect. The ending also leaves one important thread dangling rather dramatically, making it clear that Helen’s story is far from finished.
This was a solid and entertaining introduction to the series, with memorable characters, plenty of drama and a setting that lends itself beautifully to mystery. I am not desperately racing to find the next instalment, but I would happily return to the Seaview Hotel and see what trouble checks in next.
Thank you to Headline and NetGalley for providing a copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 27, 2026
This is the next installment by Glenda Young of her series set around the Seaview Hotel in Scarborough, North Yorkshire. It can be read as a stand-alone but if you have read the other books it gives you some background to the characters and the area.
At the beginning we meet Helen Dexter looking at an old beach hut, its a bit old and smelly and has nothing inside but an old red and white deckchair that has definitely seen better days, but its her beach hut and holds a special place in her heart. Helen still has The Seaview Hotel which is her pride and joy, which she shares with her rescue greyhound Suki. Now she has a big secret to keep, a band called the A64 are making a big comeback and she has them staying at her hotel very soon. Her neighbours Hotel is apparently also having someone famous staying, but its owner always wanted to get one over her so she didn't know if to believe her! When the lead guitarist from the A64's has to drop out a new player takes his place and their are soon lots of rumours circulating around the hotel about everything that happened to the group in the past. Helen doesn't know who to believe and when the son of a fan from years ago arrives then this certainly is getting really complicated for Helen. Things get worse though when a body is discovered in Helens beach hut and everyone is under suspicion. Helen likes nothing more than to solve a mystery and this one is definitely one that is a bit too close to home, but she manages to get her teeth into it, but does she solve whonis the murderer? This cosy crime mystery story certainly keeps your attention throughout and if you have ever visited the town you will instantly recognise some of the locations.
I loved the name of the group, (the A64's), as its the main road leading to Scarborough, very appropriate indeed.
This is an absolute must read for fans of cosy crime set in a lovely location in North Yorkshire. I am a big fan of Glenda's books loving both her cosy crime and historical saga books, she's a very talented author. I have given this book five stars as it was a great storyline to loose yourself in once again.
I received an advance review copy (ARC) in exchange for an honest review.
#HeadlineBooks
#MusicToDieForAtTheSeaviewHotel
#Netgalley
#GlendaYoung
At the beginning we meet Helen Dexter looking at an old beach hut, its a bit old and smelly and has nothing inside but an old red and white deckchair that has definitely seen better days, but its her beach hut and holds a special place in her heart. Helen still has The Seaview Hotel which is her pride and joy, which she shares with her rescue greyhound Suki. Now she has a big secret to keep, a band called the A64 are making a big comeback and she has them staying at her hotel very soon. Her neighbours Hotel is apparently also having someone famous staying, but its owner always wanted to get one over her so she didn't know if to believe her! When the lead guitarist from the A64's has to drop out a new player takes his place and their are soon lots of rumours circulating around the hotel about everything that happened to the group in the past. Helen doesn't know who to believe and when the son of a fan from years ago arrives then this certainly is getting really complicated for Helen. Things get worse though when a body is discovered in Helens beach hut and everyone is under suspicion. Helen likes nothing more than to solve a mystery and this one is definitely one that is a bit too close to home, but she manages to get her teeth into it, but does she solve whonis the murderer? This cosy crime mystery story certainly keeps your attention throughout and if you have ever visited the town you will instantly recognise some of the locations.
I loved the name of the group, (the A64's), as its the main road leading to Scarborough, very appropriate indeed.
This is an absolute must read for fans of cosy crime set in a lovely location in North Yorkshire. I am a big fan of Glenda's books loving both her cosy crime and historical saga books, she's a very talented author. I have given this book five stars as it was a great storyline to loose yourself in once again.
I received an advance review copy (ARC) in exchange for an honest review.
#HeadlineBooks
#MusicToDieForAtTheSeaviewHotel
#Netgalley
#GlendaYoung
September 21, 2026
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Glenda Young brings back Helen Dexter for another nail-biting Scarborough-set cosy mystery in Music to Die For.
There’s great excitement in the air when it is announced that iconic eighties pop band The A64 is reuniting for the gig of a lifetime at Scarborough’s Open Air Theatre – and nobody is more thrilled than Helen when she discovers that the band have booked into her Seaview Hotel. Helen cannot believe her luck that she has managed to secure this booking. However, it soon transpires that far from being the comeback of the century, this reunion is going to be fraught with histrionics, tensions, secrets…and even murder!
It quickly becomes apparent that each band member has got something to hide. Why is lead singer Starr so keen to run away from the past? Why is drummer Pete being so secretive about what he’s been doing for the last forty years? As if this reunion isn’t mired in trouble and scandal already, guitarist Dave breaks his leg in a freak window-cleaning accident necessitating the need for a new guitarist who brings even more discord among the group. But just when the band was about to start rehearsing, further chaos ensues when a dead body was discovered!
With the gig now in complete shambles, it’s up to landlady Helen and her trusted rescue greyhound Suki to try to get to the bottom of this mystery. Can they get to the truth and figure out whodunnit? Or will they hit a bum note and end up in the killer’s firing line?
Glenda Young’s cosy mysteries never fail to hit the right spot and she comes up trumps yet again with Music to Die For. A fun, fast-paced and fantastic mystery where the pages will just turn themselves, Music to Die For is a witty, entertaining and enjoyable tale about settling old scores, past secrets and dangerous decisions readers will have a difficult time putting down.
Helen Dexter is, as always, on top form and readers will thoroughly enjoy going along for the ride with her – and Suki!
A terrific mystery that begs to be read in one sitting, Music to Die For is another winner by Glenda Young.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Glenda Young brings back Helen Dexter for another nail-biting Scarborough-set cosy mystery in Music to Die For.
There’s great excitement in the air when it is announced that iconic eighties pop band The A64 is reuniting for the gig of a lifetime at Scarborough’s Open Air Theatre – and nobody is more thrilled than Helen when she discovers that the band have booked into her Seaview Hotel. Helen cannot believe her luck that she has managed to secure this booking. However, it soon transpires that far from being the comeback of the century, this reunion is going to be fraught with histrionics, tensions, secrets…and even murder!
It quickly becomes apparent that each band member has got something to hide. Why is lead singer Starr so keen to run away from the past? Why is drummer Pete being so secretive about what he’s been doing for the last forty years? As if this reunion isn’t mired in trouble and scandal already, guitarist Dave breaks his leg in a freak window-cleaning accident necessitating the need for a new guitarist who brings even more discord among the group. But just when the band was about to start rehearsing, further chaos ensues when a dead body was discovered!
With the gig now in complete shambles, it’s up to landlady Helen and her trusted rescue greyhound Suki to try to get to the bottom of this mystery. Can they get to the truth and figure out whodunnit? Or will they hit a bum note and end up in the killer’s firing line?
Glenda Young’s cosy mysteries never fail to hit the right spot and she comes up trumps yet again with Music to Die For. A fun, fast-paced and fantastic mystery where the pages will just turn themselves, Music to Die For is a witty, entertaining and enjoyable tale about settling old scores, past secrets and dangerous decisions readers will have a difficult time putting down.
Helen Dexter is, as always, on top form and readers will thoroughly enjoy going along for the ride with her – and Suki!
A terrific mystery that begs to be read in one sitting, Music to Die For is another winner by Glenda Young.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Music to Die For at the Seaview Hotel is another delightful instalment in Glenda Young’s series, blending seaside warmth with a sharply plotted whodunnit that keeps you happily turning the pages.
The arrival of Eighties pop band The A64 at Helen Dexter’s beloved Seaview Hotel sets the stage for a story full of tension, secrets, and delicious drama. As the band prepares for their big reunion gig, old rivalries bubble to the surface—Starr’s troubled past, Pete’s mysterious forty‑year disappearance, and the chaos that erupts when a new guitarist steps in after a freak accident. The group’s dynamic is messy, human, and irresistibly fun to watch unfold.
When a body is discovered during rehearsals, the stakes rise, and Helen—alongside her loyal rescue greyhound Suki—steps into sleuthing mode once again. Her calm determination and deep care for her guests make her an endearing protagonist, and the investigation is packed with satisfying twists that feel perfectly paced.
This fifth book in the series is cosy crime at its best: warm, witty, and wonderfully atmospheric. The Scarborough setting adds charm, the band’s backstory brings intrigue, and the mystery itself hits all the right notes. Fans of Julia Chapman and Richard Osman will find plenty to love here.
A lively, heart‑warming whodunnit that proves the Seaview Hotel remains one of the most enjoyable stops in the cosy mystery world.
With thanks to Glenda Young, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
The arrival of Eighties pop band The A64 at Helen Dexter’s beloved Seaview Hotel sets the stage for a story full of tension, secrets, and delicious drama. As the band prepares for their big reunion gig, old rivalries bubble to the surface—Starr’s troubled past, Pete’s mysterious forty‑year disappearance, and the chaos that erupts when a new guitarist steps in after a freak accident. The group’s dynamic is messy, human, and irresistibly fun to watch unfold.
When a body is discovered during rehearsals, the stakes rise, and Helen—alongside her loyal rescue greyhound Suki—steps into sleuthing mode once again. Her calm determination and deep care for her guests make her an endearing protagonist, and the investigation is packed with satisfying twists that feel perfectly paced.
This fifth book in the series is cosy crime at its best: warm, witty, and wonderfully atmospheric. The Scarborough setting adds charm, the band’s backstory brings intrigue, and the mystery itself hits all the right notes. Fans of Julia Chapman and Richard Osman will find plenty to love here.
A lively, heart‑warming whodunnit that proves the Seaview Hotel remains one of the most enjoyable stops in the cosy mystery world.
With thanks to Glenda Young, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Here we are back again in Scarborough with Helen, Suki the greyhound, Jean, Sally, Gav and Jimmy for the 5th outing.
Seaside bed and breakfasts are having a hard time - should Helen convert to apartments, sell or keep the status quo?
All the while she is having to cope with this bunch of guests - a pop group the A64 who she had idolised 40 years ago.. .
In the meantime Jimmy is desperately trying to have a serious conversation with Helen.
Then once again murder hits one of Helens guests - and once again she has to do her utmost to find the culprit. But whodunnit? To say more would be so unfair
So all a little predictable in some ways. Sally is having problems with her newborn twins, Gav has his fingers in more pies than is good for him and Jean produces cake and award winning breakfasts. And it is predictable but somehow Glenda Young produces just enough to interest the reader and make it feel like a new book, new story and new murder.
But oh my word, Helen is so full of indecision and in some ways she is so unpleasant to Jimmy. If she doesn’t want a committed relationship then please tell him. This doesn’t quite fit how she’s been in previous books.
Once again we learn who the next booking will be - and hence where the next book will go - so I wonder if the last line shows where the story will go.
A thoroughly cosy murder take indeed
Seaside bed and breakfasts are having a hard time - should Helen convert to apartments, sell or keep the status quo?
All the while she is having to cope with this bunch of guests - a pop group the A64 who she had idolised 40 years ago.. .
In the meantime Jimmy is desperately trying to have a serious conversation with Helen.
Then once again murder hits one of Helens guests - and once again she has to do her utmost to find the culprit. But whodunnit? To say more would be so unfair
So all a little predictable in some ways. Sally is having problems with her newborn twins, Gav has his fingers in more pies than is good for him and Jean produces cake and award winning breakfasts. And it is predictable but somehow Glenda Young produces just enough to interest the reader and make it feel like a new book, new story and new murder.
But oh my word, Helen is so full of indecision and in some ways she is so unpleasant to Jimmy. If she doesn’t want a committed relationship then please tell him. This doesn’t quite fit how she’s been in previous books.
Once again we learn who the next booking will be - and hence where the next book will go - so I wonder if the last line shows where the story will go.
A thoroughly cosy murder take indeed
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is the perfect cosy crime series. Every book is a great storyline with a mixture of fun, sentiment and humour. The characters are all really engaging and well written - some more likable than others. What makes this series the perfect read for me us the setting. I absolutely adore Scarborough so I am completely immersed into the story from start to finish. Whilst reading this book I found myself googling the cafes and locations Helen visits as I am going there in a few weeks so shall be making a point to visit the places mentioned.
This storyline centres on a comeback gig for the band A64 - such a great name for the band. There's friction and secrets from the moment they arrive at Helen's beautiful hotel The Seaview. When one of the band is murdered Helen starts her own line of investigation to clear this up asap before further news can damage the hotel's reputation.
I particularly loved having Gav more prominent in this book and I would like to read more about Helen's sister in law, Tina as I felt that was a little rushed. The star of the series though is the beautiful Suki, Helen's greyhound which she rescued. Fabulous book and I look forward to the next especially as we were left on a cliffhanger.
This storyline centres on a comeback gig for the band A64 - such a great name for the band. There's friction and secrets from the moment they arrive at Helen's beautiful hotel The Seaview. When one of the band is murdered Helen starts her own line of investigation to clear this up asap before further news can damage the hotel's reputation.
I particularly loved having Gav more prominent in this book and I would like to read more about Helen's sister in law, Tina as I felt that was a little rushed. The star of the series though is the beautiful Suki, Helen's greyhound which she rescued. Fabulous book and I look forward to the next especially as we were left on a cliffhanger.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Eighties pop band The A64 are reuniting for the gig of a lifetime at Scarborough's Open Air Theatre, and Helen Dexter is overjoyed when they book into her Seaview Hotel. However, as old tensions rise within the band, it's clear each musician has something to hide. When guitarist Dave breaks his legs in a freak window-cleaning accident, a new guitarist arrives, causing even more discord for all. Then, as the band rehearse for their comeback gig, a dead body is found in the Seaview’s beach hut.
The fifth book in the series & it’s easily red on its own but I’ve enjoyed getting t know Helen, Jimmy, Jean, Sally & Gav & Marie. Another very enjoyable cosy mystery. I must admit the only band member I liked was Pete so I was hoping he wasn’t the villain. There are secrets, twists, turns & red herrings before the killer is revealed. I felt Helen acted a bit out of character as she had a crisis & found it hard to cope, she even considered selling up. Her treatment of Jimmy also annoyed me, at the end of the last book they were off to Graceland & now she can’t be bothered with him. The book was left on a cliffhanger plus there’s a gardening group booked in
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
The fifth book in the series & it’s easily red on its own but I’ve enjoyed getting t know Helen, Jimmy, Jean, Sally & Gav & Marie. Another very enjoyable cosy mystery. I must admit the only band member I liked was Pete so I was hoping he wasn’t the villain. There are secrets, twists, turns & red herrings before the killer is revealed. I felt Helen acted a bit out of character as she had a crisis & found it hard to cope, she even considered selling up. Her treatment of Jimmy also annoyed me, at the end of the last book they were off to Graceland & now she can’t be bothered with him. The book was left on a cliffhanger plus there’s a gardening group booked in
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Scarborough landlady Helen Dexter is back in a fifth murder mystery. When a reformed 70s band of musicians book out the Seaview for their reunion gig, all is not harmonious, to such an extent that one of the members will inevitably turn up dead.
I really enjoyed this story. Glenda Young has honed her craft as a writer of cosy mystery and this series keep getting better. She sets the right tone between humour and the seriousness of the subject matter, and always gives us a good range of characters, from the funny, the witty, the misguided and the downright wicked!
There are plenty of red herrings in the plot to keep the reader guessing, too.
I love the Scarborough setting, with its air of genteel old-fashioned charm - though there's nothing genteel about the shenanigans that go on there.
In tandem with the plotline, Helen's and Elvis impersonator Jimmy's relationship continues to develop, and the struggle for Helen to keep her hotel business afloat amidst solving murders and proving her own innocence add depth to the story.
Definitely a book to pick up and enjoy - this story really hits the right note.
I really enjoyed this story. Glenda Young has honed her craft as a writer of cosy mystery and this series keep getting better. She sets the right tone between humour and the seriousness of the subject matter, and always gives us a good range of characters, from the funny, the witty, the misguided and the downright wicked!
There are plenty of red herrings in the plot to keep the reader guessing, too.
I love the Scarborough setting, with its air of genteel old-fashioned charm - though there's nothing genteel about the shenanigans that go on there.
In tandem with the plotline, Helen's and Elvis impersonator Jimmy's relationship continues to develop, and the struggle for Helen to keep her hotel business afloat amidst solving murders and proving her own innocence add depth to the story.
Definitely a book to pick up and enjoy - this story really hits the right note.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A Helen Dexter Mystery #5
Eighties pop band The A64 are recruiting for a gig of a lifetime at Scarborough's Open Air Theatre, and Helen Dexter is overjoyed when they book into her Seaview Hotel. However, as old tensions arise within the band, it's clear each musician has something to hide. Why is lead singer Starr running away from her past? Why is Pete the drummer secretive about where he's been for the last forty years? And when guitarist Dave breaks his legs in a freak window-cleaning accident, a new guitarist arrives, causing even more discord for all. The, as the band rehearse for their comeback gig, a dead body is found.
This is a good whodunit. When a body is found during The A64's rehearsal for their comeback gig, Helen Dexter and her rescue greyhound Suki, starts investigating the murder. This cosy crime murder mystery has a steady pace. The characters are well-developed. With plenty of twists and red herrings to keep you guessing, this is another great addition to the series.
Published 10th September 2026
I would like to thank #NetGalley #Headline and the author #GlendaYoung for my ARC of #MusicToDieFor in exchange for an honest review.
Eighties pop band The A64 are recruiting for a gig of a lifetime at Scarborough's Open Air Theatre, and Helen Dexter is overjoyed when they book into her Seaview Hotel. However, as old tensions arise within the band, it's clear each musician has something to hide. Why is lead singer Starr running away from her past? Why is Pete the drummer secretive about where he's been for the last forty years? And when guitarist Dave breaks his legs in a freak window-cleaning accident, a new guitarist arrives, causing even more discord for all. The, as the band rehearse for their comeback gig, a dead body is found.
This is a good whodunit. When a body is found during The A64's rehearsal for their comeback gig, Helen Dexter and her rescue greyhound Suki, starts investigating the murder. This cosy crime murder mystery has a steady pace. The characters are well-developed. With plenty of twists and red herrings to keep you guessing, this is another great addition to the series.
Published 10th September 2026
I would like to thank #NetGalley #Headline and the author #GlendaYoung for my ARC of #MusicToDieFor in exchange for an honest review.
September 12, 2026
And here was I thinking A64 was the road from York to Scarborough
...but apparently, it's also a band. Fair enough, a made up one, but it's the mainstay of this story. Yes, we're back at the Seaview Hotel in Scarborough on the north Yorkshire coast, and Helen's hotel has a faded rock band as guests. So you know there will be a murder, but who, when and why are the question, and Glenda writes a fabulous story, which kept me guessing until the end. I will admit, I didn't enjoy the whodunit part of her last book, as I thought there were too many plot holes in it, but she makes up for it with this book, and spins a fabulous yarn. I was glad to meet all my favorite characters, especially Jean and Jimmy, and obviously Helen. And the members of the rock band were well written, too. This definitely deserves its 5* rating, and I hope Glenda has another in the pipeline.
...but apparently, it's also a band. Fair enough, a made up one, but it's the mainstay of this story. Yes, we're back at the Seaview Hotel in Scarborough on the north Yorkshire coast, and Helen's hotel has a faded rock band as guests. So you know there will be a murder, but who, when and why are the question, and Glenda writes a fabulous story, which kept me guessing until the end. I will admit, I didn't enjoy the whodunit part of her last book, as I thought there were too many plot holes in it, but she makes up for it with this book, and spins a fabulous yarn. I was glad to meet all my favorite characters, especially Jean and Jimmy, and obviously Helen. And the members of the rock band were well written, too. This definitely deserves its 5* rating, and I hope Glenda has another in the pipeline.
September 14, 2026
This is a Delightful seaside cosy crime.
Thank you to NetGalley and Headline for the ARC . My review is voluntary.
The book is the fifth in the series, but the mystery is self-contained, making it easy to enjoy as a standalone. That said, readers might like it so much they’ll be tempted to explore the rest of the series. Music to Die For at the Seaview Hotel feels modern and relatable, with main characters who are everyday people facing everyday problems, making it easy to get invested. The portrayal of an aging pop group adds a charming touch, but the real star is Scarborough itself, with its vivid depiction of a classic British summer beach holiday. A cheerful and entertaining read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Headline for the ARC . My review is voluntary.
The book is the fifth in the series, but the mystery is self-contained, making it easy to enjoy as a standalone. That said, readers might like it so much they’ll be tempted to explore the rest of the series. Music to Die For at the Seaview Hotel feels modern and relatable, with main characters who are everyday people facing everyday problems, making it easy to get invested. The portrayal of an aging pop group adds a charming touch, but the real star is Scarborough itself, with its vivid depiction of a classic British summer beach holiday. A cheerful and entertaining read.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Helen Dexter Book five.
And we are back in sunny Scarborough, when the reunion of the 80s band A64 are doing a gig, there's only one place to stay and that's the Seaview Hotel.
Another crazy cosy crime mystery that I always enjoy.
With characters flowing the story, there's never a dull day.
And Helen and the team are overjoyed to welcome the group.
Music to die for a sharp witty twisty book to fill your pleasure.
Wonderful just wonderful from the author.
And we are back in sunny Scarborough, when the reunion of the 80s band A64 are doing a gig, there's only one place to stay and that's the Seaview Hotel.
Another crazy cosy crime mystery that I always enjoy.
With characters flowing the story, there's never a dull day.
And Helen and the team are overjoyed to welcome the group.
Music to die for a sharp witty twisty book to fill your pleasure.
Wonderful just wonderful from the author.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The fifth visit to the Seaview. I found this one a little slow to start but once the murder happened and the twists and turns began it became an enjoyable read. I like Helen and her dog Suki, and all the regular characters put in an appearance too. I changed my mind about who the killer might be at least twice. And we have a bit of a will they won't they ending which hints at a future book 6. But just how many murders can a small B&B get so caught up in? Credibility is wearing thin.
September 18, 2026
Wowwee
What another amazing book Glenda how I would love to stay there with you what's Helen thinking about keeping Jimmy on tender hooks with that ending I'm sure the seaview is going to be used again we've got to find out what Helen's answer is don't think I'm gonna sleep tonight with that cliff hanger would definitely recommend reading this book five stars plus brilliant series
What another amazing book Glenda how I would love to stay there with you what's Helen thinking about keeping Jimmy on tender hooks with that ending I'm sure the seaview is going to be used again we've got to find out what Helen's answer is don't think I'm gonna sleep tonight with that cliff hanger would definitely recommend reading this book five stars plus brilliant series
September 10, 2026
Thanks to NetGalley and Headline for the advance copy. I love that this book has an eighties feel because of what it entails. I did not know that there were four books before this book in the series so I am going to read them soon. I love how much the book shows what to expect, and there is a mystery that keeps me on the edge of my seat.
September 29, 2026
A cosy crime set in a seaside B&B in Scarborough; Helen Dexter is thrilled to welcome the legendary group The A64 reforming after 40 years. However the murder of one of the band members, and the secrets that are hidden make it a challenging time for everyone, especially Helen, as this is the 5th time one of her guests has been murdered. Thank you Netgalley.
September 18, 2026
Another Fantastic book
Glenda once again gives us a mystery to solve, trying to work out who the guilty party is. With lots of subplots and suspense, it keeps you reading until the end. There is always the what happens next! Next book please.
Glenda once again gives us a mystery to solve, trying to work out who the guilty party is. With lots of subplots and suspense, it keeps you reading until the end. There is always the what happens next! Next book please.
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