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Movie Palace Mysteries #1
Murder at the Movies
A Hitchcock movie screening turns fatal when a recent transplant to New England discovers a dead body on opening night of the movie palace she's just inherited. A thrilling first entry in a cozy mystery series by Turner Classic Movies host Alicia Malone.When Audrey Sullivan moves to Pine Island to take over her family’s theater, the Starlight Movie Palace, following the death of her grandmother, not everyone is thrilled with her arrival. A mysterious note is left at her doorstep telling her to return to L.A. While she’s a little spooked, Audrey is all the more determined to make opening night a success. But when the movie ends and the lights go on, there’s more than popcorn to clean up ...Liam Ross, a wealthy and ruthless real estate developer, is found dead in the theater. The local police insist on shutting down the Starlight until they complete their investigation. With the theater’s future on the line, Audrey takes it upon herself to solve Liam’s murder. But in a town where everyone is a suspect, where does she begin?
304 pages, Paperback
Published October 6, 2026
About the author
Alicia Malone
10 books118 followersAlicia Malone is a film reporter, host, writer and self-confessed movie geek. She first gained notice hosting movie-centric shows and reviewing films in her native Australia, before making the leap to Los Angeles in 2011.
Since then, Alicia has appeared on CNN, the Today show, MSNBC, NPR and many more as a film expert. Currently, she is a host on FilmStruck, a cinephile subscription streaming service run by the Criterion Collection and Turner Classic Movies, and she is the creator and host of the weekly show, Indie Movie Guide on Fandango.
Alicia is passionate about classic films, independent movies and supporting women in film. In 2015, Alicia gave a TEDx talk about the lack of women working in film and why this is important to change. In 2017, she was invited to give a second TEDx talk, where she spoke about the hidden stories of the earliest women working in Hollywood. Alicia has also spoken at conferences around America, and because of this, was named of one the 100 Worthy Women of 2016.
Alicia has traveled the world to cover the BAFTAs, the Oscars, the Cannes Film Festival, Toronto Film Festival, Sundance Film Festival, Telluride Film Festival and SXSW. She is a member of the Broadcast Film Critics Association, and over the years has interviewed hundreds of movie stars and filmmakers.
She also wrote this bio, but knew it would sound way less egotistical if written in third person.
Since then, Alicia has appeared on CNN, the Today show, MSNBC, NPR and many more as a film expert. Currently, she is a host on FilmStruck, a cinephile subscription streaming service run by the Criterion Collection and Turner Classic Movies, and she is the creator and host of the weekly show, Indie Movie Guide on Fandango.
Alicia is passionate about classic films, independent movies and supporting women in film. In 2015, Alicia gave a TEDx talk about the lack of women working in film and why this is important to change. In 2017, she was invited to give a second TEDx talk, where she spoke about the hidden stories of the earliest women working in Hollywood. Alicia has also spoken at conferences around America, and because of this, was named of one the 100 Worthy Women of 2016.
Alicia has traveled the world to cover the BAFTAs, the Oscars, the Cannes Film Festival, Toronto Film Festival, Sundance Film Festival, Telluride Film Festival and SXSW. She is a member of the Broadcast Film Critics Association, and over the years has interviewed hundreds of movie stars and filmmakers.
She also wrote this bio, but knew it would sound way less egotistical if written in third person.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
October 12, 2026
“She said people think movies take you away from real life, but actually…they can help make sense of it.”
This was great fun! I’m a huge fan of old movies, so a murder mystery taking place in an old movie theater was right up my alley. And the author is a host on Turner Classic Movies, so she knows her stuff.
After blowing up her career as a Hollywood publicist, Audrey moves to Pine Island, off the coast of Maine. Her grandmother left her the owner of the Starlight Movie Palace, which has been in her family for decades. Pine Island is a tight-knit community that doesn’t love newcomers, so Audrey’s welcome is not enthusiastic.
She finds a note on her door telling her not to go through with it. She’s a little weirded out by that, but nothing is going to stop her from re-opening the theater. On the first night, she shows the Hitchcock classic Suspicion . And after the movie ends, she finds a dead body in the projection booth.
It turns out the victim was Liam Ross, a real estate developer who made more than his share of enemies. But while the police investigate his murder, the theater has to remain closed, so Audrey decides to do some freelance investigation to see what she can find out. Of course, getting her new neighbors to open up to her is easier said than done.
I loved all the movie trivia Audrey mentions in the book and the way she mentions a film actor or actress as she describes different people. The mystery itself was pretty compelling, and I liked how the plot tied itself up in the end. This is the start of a new series, and the second book comes out in June!
See all of my reviews at itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com.
Follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/getbookedwithlarry/.
This was great fun! I’m a huge fan of old movies, so a murder mystery taking place in an old movie theater was right up my alley. And the author is a host on Turner Classic Movies, so she knows her stuff.
After blowing up her career as a Hollywood publicist, Audrey moves to Pine Island, off the coast of Maine. Her grandmother left her the owner of the Starlight Movie Palace, which has been in her family for decades. Pine Island is a tight-knit community that doesn’t love newcomers, so Audrey’s welcome is not enthusiastic.
She finds a note on her door telling her not to go through with it. She’s a little weirded out by that, but nothing is going to stop her from re-opening the theater. On the first night, she shows the Hitchcock classic Suspicion . And after the movie ends, she finds a dead body in the projection booth.
It turns out the victim was Liam Ross, a real estate developer who made more than his share of enemies. But while the police investigate his murder, the theater has to remain closed, so Audrey decides to do some freelance investigation to see what she can find out. Of course, getting her new neighbors to open up to her is easier said than done.
I loved all the movie trivia Audrey mentions in the book and the way she mentions a film actor or actress as she describes different people. The mystery itself was pretty compelling, and I liked how the plot tied itself up in the end. This is the start of a new series, and the second book comes out in June!
See all of my reviews at itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com.
Follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/getbookedwithlarry/.
Read
August 3, 2026Since Alicia Malone is a host on the Turner Classic Movies channel, it seems fitting that she includes her love of movies in her debut novel, Murder at the Movies. The cover of the paperback version that I reviewed has a great drawing of the front of a classic movie theater. It is modern in feeling but draws on the best of the 1930s golden era of mysteries. Not only are there scattered references to classic movies throughout the story, but Audrey Sullivan, the protagonist, moves to a small Maine island to take over her grandmother’s theater.
Liam Ross, whom no one seems to like, is killed during the grand reopening of the Starlight Movie Palace. Audrey’s hopes of making a profit seem to fade when the police insist the theater remained closed. But, since there were only seven islanders in attendance, how long could it take to solve the murder? Right?
The novel is enjoyable. The pace moves steadily enough. Audrey Sullivan is likeable as is her friend, Mia Marallo, who owns the antique store next door to the movie theater. They become close friends in short order.
However, all is not as it seems. The local policewoman, Nora Davis, acts like a small-town cop trying to be a big-city cop, similar to Barney Fife (played by Don Knotts) in the Andy Griffith Show. In fact, Audrey thinks Nora “looked like Margaret Hamilton as Almira Gulch in The Wizard of Oz, ready to seize some poor, unsuspecting dog.” Mia also has a less than outstanding opinion of Office Davis. “Ignore her. She thinks she’s the reason this island is so safe, but there’s literally zero crime. Mostly, she writes parking tickets for tourists who can’t read the signs.” In other words, the Davis character is stereotypical.
Then there's Oliver Bailey, a detective, who, mysteriously, just happens to be in town. He becomes involved in detecting the crime and seems to be of higher status than Officer Davis. No reason is given for this; presumably Bailey is with the state police, although no mention is made of that. Initially, Detective Bailey asks Audrey to keep her eyes and ears open, to talk with people and ask questions casually. However, further into the story, Audrey and Mia find Emma Ross, wife of the murdered man, unconscious in her own home. When the authorities are called in, Bailey’s “normally cheerful face hardened when he saw them.” When Office Davis introduces Mia to Bailey, she disparagingly says, “This is Mia Marallo…Audrey’s little sidekick.” Bailey’s response is, “Sherlock Holmes and Watson. Why am I not surprised?” Sorry, but you can’t have it both ways. Bailey initially asks her to be involved, even if peripherally. He then can’t be annoyed because Audrey accidentally finds the murdered man’s wife unconscious while trying to help.
Overall, I liked this cozy mystery, originally standoffish islanders and all. Audrey and Mia make a lively, but earnest, addition to the world of mystery-solving duos. I look forward to Mia playing a more decisive role. In this outing, she was present and supportive of Audrey but could have done a tiny bit more in the way of assisting in the detection of Liam Ross’s killer. Another character whom I’d love to see more of is Detective Oliver Bailey. Also, Victor Matthews was a footnote from Audrey’s past life as a publicist in Hollywood’s film industry. What will he be doing in any further additions to the Movie Palace Mystery series? Something nice and juicy, I hope.
I received a free advance uncorrected proof of this book in return for an honest review.
POSTED: 8/10/26
Murder at the Movies: A Movie Palace Mystery
by Alicia Malone
© October 2026
Running Press, an imprint of Hachette Book Group, Inc.
Liam Ross, whom no one seems to like, is killed during the grand reopening of the Starlight Movie Palace. Audrey’s hopes of making a profit seem to fade when the police insist the theater remained closed. But, since there were only seven islanders in attendance, how long could it take to solve the murder? Right?
The novel is enjoyable. The pace moves steadily enough. Audrey Sullivan is likeable as is her friend, Mia Marallo, who owns the antique store next door to the movie theater. They become close friends in short order.
However, all is not as it seems. The local policewoman, Nora Davis, acts like a small-town cop trying to be a big-city cop, similar to Barney Fife (played by Don Knotts) in the Andy Griffith Show. In fact, Audrey thinks Nora “looked like Margaret Hamilton as Almira Gulch in The Wizard of Oz, ready to seize some poor, unsuspecting dog.” Mia also has a less than outstanding opinion of Office Davis. “Ignore her. She thinks she’s the reason this island is so safe, but there’s literally zero crime. Mostly, she writes parking tickets for tourists who can’t read the signs.” In other words, the Davis character is stereotypical.
Then there's Oliver Bailey, a detective, who, mysteriously, just happens to be in town. He becomes involved in detecting the crime and seems to be of higher status than Officer Davis. No reason is given for this; presumably Bailey is with the state police, although no mention is made of that. Initially, Detective Bailey asks Audrey to keep her eyes and ears open, to talk with people and ask questions casually. However, further into the story, Audrey and Mia find Emma Ross, wife of the murdered man, unconscious in her own home. When the authorities are called in, Bailey’s “normally cheerful face hardened when he saw them.” When Office Davis introduces Mia to Bailey, she disparagingly says, “This is Mia Marallo…Audrey’s little sidekick.” Bailey’s response is, “Sherlock Holmes and Watson. Why am I not surprised?” Sorry, but you can’t have it both ways. Bailey initially asks her to be involved, even if peripherally. He then can’t be annoyed because Audrey accidentally finds the murdered man’s wife unconscious while trying to help.
Overall, I liked this cozy mystery, originally standoffish islanders and all. Audrey and Mia make a lively, but earnest, addition to the world of mystery-solving duos. I look forward to Mia playing a more decisive role. In this outing, she was present and supportive of Audrey but could have done a tiny bit more in the way of assisting in the detection of Liam Ross’s killer. Another character whom I’d love to see more of is Detective Oliver Bailey. Also, Victor Matthews was a footnote from Audrey’s past life as a publicist in Hollywood’s film industry. What will he be doing in any further additions to the Movie Palace Mystery series? Something nice and juicy, I hope.
I received a free advance uncorrected proof of this book in return for an honest review.
POSTED: 8/10/26
Murder at the Movies: A Movie Palace Mystery
by Alicia Malone
© October 2026
Running Press, an imprint of Hachette Book Group, Inc.
October 17, 2026
I really enjoyed this autumnal murder mystery filled with fun classic film puns, wonderful film facts, and lovely autumn food and drink!
It is a really enjoyable cosy crime.
It is a really enjoyable cosy crime.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
⭐⭐⭐✨/5
Alicia Malone, Murder at the Movies: A Movie Palace Mystery
I enjoyed Murder at the Movies by Alicia Malone. This was a light and entertaining cozy mystery with a fun movie-themed setting, classic film references, and a small-town atmosphere that made it an easy read.
I really liked the premise of Audrey Sullivan taking over her grandmother’s movie theatre on a small island in Maine, only to discover a dead body and become involved in a murder investigation. The movie palace setting was definitely one of my favorite parts of the book, and I enjoyed the way the love of classic movies was woven throughout the story.
Audrey was a likable protagonist, and I particularly enjoyed her friendship with Mia. Their dynamic added some warmth and humor to the story, although I did find myself wishing Mia had been more involved in actually solving the mystery. The investigation itself was enjoyable, with enough suspects and clues to keep me interested, even if some of the twists felt a little predictable.
There were a few characters whose roles I would have liked to see developed further. Some, including Officer Nora Davis, felt a little stereotypical, and I wasn't always completely sure what to make of Detective Oliver Bailey or how significant his role was meant to be. A little more depth and clarity in these areas would have made the mystery stronger for me.
That said, the pacing was steady, the writing was easy to follow, and the book never felt too heavy. It has that classic cozy mystery combination of murder, quirky characters, small-town secrets, and a charming setting without becoming overly dark.
Overall, Murder at the Movies was a fun and enjoyable start to the Movie Palace Mystery series. It wasn't a perfect mystery for me, but I liked Audrey and the movie-theatre setting enough that I'd definitely be interested in seeing where the series goes next.
3.5⭐️ — A charming, easy-to-read cozy mystery with plenty of movie nostalgia and potential for a fun series.
Thank you to NetGalley and Running Press for providing me with an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
Alicia Malone, Murder at the Movies: A Movie Palace Mystery
I enjoyed Murder at the Movies by Alicia Malone. This was a light and entertaining cozy mystery with a fun movie-themed setting, classic film references, and a small-town atmosphere that made it an easy read.
I really liked the premise of Audrey Sullivan taking over her grandmother’s movie theatre on a small island in Maine, only to discover a dead body and become involved in a murder investigation. The movie palace setting was definitely one of my favorite parts of the book, and I enjoyed the way the love of classic movies was woven throughout the story.
Audrey was a likable protagonist, and I particularly enjoyed her friendship with Mia. Their dynamic added some warmth and humor to the story, although I did find myself wishing Mia had been more involved in actually solving the mystery. The investigation itself was enjoyable, with enough suspects and clues to keep me interested, even if some of the twists felt a little predictable.
There were a few characters whose roles I would have liked to see developed further. Some, including Officer Nora Davis, felt a little stereotypical, and I wasn't always completely sure what to make of Detective Oliver Bailey or how significant his role was meant to be. A little more depth and clarity in these areas would have made the mystery stronger for me.
That said, the pacing was steady, the writing was easy to follow, and the book never felt too heavy. It has that classic cozy mystery combination of murder, quirky characters, small-town secrets, and a charming setting without becoming overly dark.
Overall, Murder at the Movies was a fun and enjoyable start to the Movie Palace Mystery series. It wasn't a perfect mystery for me, but I liked Audrey and the movie-theatre setting enough that I'd definitely be interested in seeing where the series goes next.
3.5⭐️ — A charming, easy-to-read cozy mystery with plenty of movie nostalgia and potential for a fun series.
Thank you to NetGalley and Running Press for providing me with an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
October 16, 2026
5/5 stars: This is Malone's first entry in the Movie Palace Mystery series which is a Cozy Mystery set in Maine. Featuring a former studio publicist, who's inherited her family's movie palace following her grandmother's death, as she finds herself turning sleuth after a wealthy and ruthless real estate developer's found dead in the projection booth on her grand reopening night. With the local police insisting on shutting her down until their investigation's complete putting the theater’s future on the line and feeling personally threatened after a mysterious note's left on her doorstep, she takes it upon herself to solve the murder. But in a town where everyone is a suspect, where does she begin?
With plenty of twists and turns, Malone has masterfully crafted a mystery that deftly balances the suspects, clues and red herrings and will leave you pondering the whodunit until the final reveal. Heartfelt and humorous, Malone's writing and character work are brilliant; the main characters are well-rounded and complex while remaining incredibly likable with a secondary cast that are well crafted.
• Includes tons of classic and modern day film references.
• For animal lovers: MC has a great cat inherited from her grandmother.
Malone touches on some sensitive topics; so take care and CWs. This is a great start to a new series and I can't wait to read more; Highly recommend!
I received this eARC thanks to NetGalley and Running Press | Running Press Adult in exchange for an honest review. Publishing dates are subject to change.
With plenty of twists and turns, Malone has masterfully crafted a mystery that deftly balances the suspects, clues and red herrings and will leave you pondering the whodunit until the final reveal. Heartfelt and humorous, Malone's writing and character work are brilliant; the main characters are well-rounded and complex while remaining incredibly likable with a secondary cast that are well crafted.
• Includes tons of classic and modern day film references.
• For animal lovers: MC has a great cat inherited from her grandmother.
Malone touches on some sensitive topics; so take care and CWs. This is a great start to a new series and I can't wait to read more; Highly recommend!
I received this eARC thanks to NetGalley and Running Press | Running Press Adult in exchange for an honest review. Publishing dates are subject to change.
September 18, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Running Press for an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
If you're looking for a cozy mystery to read this fall, Murder at the Movies would be a great choice!
Audrey Sullivan is exhausted and burnt out from years spent as a Hollywood publicist. When her grandmother passes away, she learns that she has inherited the beloved Starlight Movie Palace. Audrey decides to make the move from California to the small town of Pine Island, Maine to carry on her grandmother's legacy at the historic movie theater. When the sudden death of a prominent figure disrupts the grand reopening of the Starlight, Audrey takes it upon herself to solve the mystery of his murder.
This book is perfect for readers who love mysteries but aren't wanting gruesome details, psychological manipulation, or many of the other elements that often come with this genre. The setting of small town Pine Island reminded me of Gilmore Girls' Stars Hollow, especially with its eclectic mix of characters. Audrey is a likeable main character, and I particularly liked all of her old movie references. Many of her movie quotes I recognized, and the others made me want to go watch all the old movies I've never seen!
My only critique is that I felt like there could have been a little more suspense. When I'm reading a mystery, I want to be constantly trying to figure out what happened, and that wasn't quite the case here. When the mystery was solved in the end, I really wasn't all that surprised. That being said, I still really enjoyed reading this book, and it was just the cozy transport I needed transitioning into fall.
I'll definitely pick up the next book in the series when it releases!
Content Considerations:
-Mild occasional language
-Murder (obviously); not graphic
If you're looking for a cozy mystery to read this fall, Murder at the Movies would be a great choice!
Audrey Sullivan is exhausted and burnt out from years spent as a Hollywood publicist. When her grandmother passes away, she learns that she has inherited the beloved Starlight Movie Palace. Audrey decides to make the move from California to the small town of Pine Island, Maine to carry on her grandmother's legacy at the historic movie theater. When the sudden death of a prominent figure disrupts the grand reopening of the Starlight, Audrey takes it upon herself to solve the mystery of his murder.
This book is perfect for readers who love mysteries but aren't wanting gruesome details, psychological manipulation, or many of the other elements that often come with this genre. The setting of small town Pine Island reminded me of Gilmore Girls' Stars Hollow, especially with its eclectic mix of characters. Audrey is a likeable main character, and I particularly liked all of her old movie references. Many of her movie quotes I recognized, and the others made me want to go watch all the old movies I've never seen!
My only critique is that I felt like there could have been a little more suspense. When I'm reading a mystery, I want to be constantly trying to figure out what happened, and that wasn't quite the case here. When the mystery was solved in the end, I really wasn't all that surprised. That being said, I still really enjoyed reading this book, and it was just the cozy transport I needed transitioning into fall.
I'll definitely pick up the next book in the series when it releases!
Content Considerations:
-Mild occasional language
-Murder (obviously); not graphic
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Murder at the Movies is an utterly enjoyable start to a new cozy mystery series, blending small‑town charm, classic‑film nostalgia, and a heroine you can’t help rooting for. Audrey Sullivan’s return to Pine Island — and to the beloved movie palace she’s inherited — sets the stage for a story filled with warmth, humour, and just the right amount of danger.
Alicia Malone brings a lovely sense of atmosphere to the Starlight Movie Palace. You can practically smell the popcorn and feel the velvet seats, which makes the shock of a body discovered on opening night all the more striking. Audrey’s determination to protect her grandmother’s legacy gives the mystery real heart, and her outsider‑in‑a‑tight‑knit‑town perspective adds a fun, fresh dynamic.
The supporting cast is lively, the pacing brisk, and the film references sprinkled throughout add an extra layer of charm without ever overwhelming the story. It’s the kind of cozy that feels like settling into a favourite seat at the cinema — comforting, engaging, and just twisty enough to keep you guessing.
A delightful debut for a series I’ll happily follow.
With thanks to Alicia Malone, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Alicia Malone brings a lovely sense of atmosphere to the Starlight Movie Palace. You can practically smell the popcorn and feel the velvet seats, which makes the shock of a body discovered on opening night all the more striking. Audrey’s determination to protect her grandmother’s legacy gives the mystery real heart, and her outsider‑in‑a‑tight‑knit‑town perspective adds a fun, fresh dynamic.
The supporting cast is lively, the pacing brisk, and the film references sprinkled throughout add an extra layer of charm without ever overwhelming the story. It’s the kind of cozy that feels like settling into a favourite seat at the cinema — comforting, engaging, and just twisty enough to keep you guessing.
A delightful debut for a series I’ll happily follow.
With thanks to Alicia Malone, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
October 6, 2026
3.5 stars. The book is cozy and nostalgic in all the right ways. The setting of a small-town movie palace has real atmosphere, and it's easy to settle in and enjoy the ride. Malone's love of classic film comes through on every page, which makes sense given her day job as a Turner Classic Movies host.
The mystery itself is where the book shines. I had plenty of suspects in mind as I read, and I still never guessed the real culprit. The reveal genuinely surprised me, and I give Malone full credit for keeping the whodunit alive until the very end.
My one reservation is the sheer volume of movie references. Some are delightful, but others felt shoehorned in and heavy-handed, as if the story paused to make sure the reader noticed the film connection. A lighter touch would have let the theme feel more organic.
Still, this is an enjoyable debut, and I'm curious to see where the series goes. If there's a sequel, I'm rooting for a certain romance to blossom!
**Recommended for:** fans of cozy mysteries, classic film lovers, and anyone who likes a small-town whodunit with a twist.
Thank you NetGalley and Running Press for the ARC.
The mystery itself is where the book shines. I had plenty of suspects in mind as I read, and I still never guessed the real culprit. The reveal genuinely surprised me, and I give Malone full credit for keeping the whodunit alive until the very end.
My one reservation is the sheer volume of movie references. Some are delightful, but others felt shoehorned in and heavy-handed, as if the story paused to make sure the reader noticed the film connection. A lighter touch would have let the theme feel more organic.
Still, this is an enjoyable debut, and I'm curious to see where the series goes. If there's a sequel, I'm rooting for a certain romance to blossom!
**Recommended for:** fans of cozy mysteries, classic film lovers, and anyone who likes a small-town whodunit with a twist.
Thank you NetGalley and Running Press for the ARC.
October 6, 2026
I really enjoyed this book. Audrey Sullivan finds her life totally uprooted when she leaves a high-pressure publicity job for a studio in LA to move to an island in Maine and take over her deceased grandmother's old movie theater on Pine Island. This is a total culture shock, but Audrey does remember pleasant trips as a child to visit her grandmother and her grandmother's trips to LA. She also knows her love and knowledge of movies old and young come from her grandmother. When a much despised resident of the island is found in the locked projection room of her theater on opening night, you know things aren't off to a good start. Who hated him enough to actually kill him? What does this mean for Audrey and the theater as she is trying to make a go of this project? Can she help move this process along without alienating the townspeople? Can Audrey make friends and a home for herself on the island? It is definitely worth your time to find out! Thanks to #Netgally, #RunningPress, and the author for an opportunity to explore! #MurderattheMovies #AMoviePalaceMystery #AliciaMalone #bookreview #bookideas #retiredreader
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Murder at the Movies takes place on a Maine island where Audrey has just moved to take over ownership of the local movie theatre after the death of her grandmother. During the grand reopening, there's a death that ends up being classified as a murder. Audrey, having not grown up on the island, is considered "from away," and the locals are not yet sure if they can trust her or even talk to her. The theatre has been closed due to the murder, and Audrey decides that she has to do everything she can to save the theatre, even investigating the murder herself.
I thought this was a cute cozy mystery. Maine is one of my favorite places (likely due to my love of Murder, She Wrote), so I am always happy to find books that take place there. There's a lot of classic movie history sprinkled throughout, which I enjoyed. It reminded me of the intros to the movies on TMC. The mystery itself was fairly low-stakes, and the book overall was a nice weekend read. Looking forward to future entries into this series!
Thank you, NetGalley and Running Press, for an advance copy of this book.
I thought this was a cute cozy mystery. Maine is one of my favorite places (likely due to my love of Murder, She Wrote), so I am always happy to find books that take place there. There's a lot of classic movie history sprinkled throughout, which I enjoyed. It reminded me of the intros to the movies on TMC. The mystery itself was fairly low-stakes, and the book overall was a nice weekend read. Looking forward to future entries into this series!
Thank you, NetGalley and Running Press, for an advance copy of this book.
October 7, 2026
This cozy murder mystery set at a movie theater was exactly what I needed! As a reader and movie enthusiast, I felt like this book was written for me!
Audrey Sullivan moves to Pine Island to take over the movie theater that used to be run by her grandmother. Unfortunately, on opening night, a body is found dead in the theater (dun dun dun). Audrey must solve the murder for the sake of the theater's future, but doesn't know who she can trust in her new town.
This was such a cozy read with wonderful small town feels. It had a Gilmore Girl/Stars Hollow kind of vibe with a local diner, town festival, and interesting characters. Throw in a murder mystery plot, add a cup of apple cider, a blanket, a pet, and some candles and you've got the perfect cozy couch read for the weekend!
I thoroughly enjoyed this one and can't wait for the next book in the series!
https://www.instagram.com/p/DeLYPOYu3...
Audrey Sullivan moves to Pine Island to take over the movie theater that used to be run by her grandmother. Unfortunately, on opening night, a body is found dead in the theater (dun dun dun). Audrey must solve the murder for the sake of the theater's future, but doesn't know who she can trust in her new town.
This was such a cozy read with wonderful small town feels. It had a Gilmore Girl/Stars Hollow kind of vibe with a local diner, town festival, and interesting characters. Throw in a murder mystery plot, add a cup of apple cider, a blanket, a pet, and some candles and you've got the perfect cozy couch read for the weekend!
I thoroughly enjoyed this one and can't wait for the next book in the series!
https://www.instagram.com/p/DeLYPOYu3...
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I enjoyed reading *Murder at the Movies* by Alicia Malone. It is a fun cozy mystery that brings together classic movie references, a small-town setting, and an interesting murder case. I liked the story of Audrey Sullivan, who takes over her grandmother’s movie theatre on a small island in Maine and soon finds herself involved in a murder investigation. I found the pace steady and the characters likeable, especially Audrey and her friend Mia. However, I felt that Mia could have played a bigger role in solving the mystery. Some characters, such as Officer Nora Davis, felt a little stereotypical, and I would have liked more clarity about Detective Oliver Bailey’s role. Overall, I found the book light, entertaining, and easy to read, and I would be interested in reading more from the Movie Palace Mystery series.
Thank you, NetGalley and Running Press, for an advance copy of this book.
Thank you, NetGalley and Running Press, for an advance copy of this book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Excellent story that references lots of the old movie classic titles. Audrey Sullivan moves to Pine Island after her grandmother passes away and leaves Audrey her entire estate, which includes the Starlight Movie Palace. After Audrey's past life in California it seems a great time to start over. But on the reopening night for the theatre a man is found dead. Audrey knows she must assist the police, even tho the help is not wanted, officially, or she will loose the Starlight. What she doesn't expect is that not one single person in the small town is unhappy the man is dead. Never the less, Audrey will not stop until she uncovers the killer, unless they stop her first...
(Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy)
(Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy)
September 18, 2026
A cozy mystery that if perfect for movie lovers! I'm a huge TCM fan and was over the moon to learn that Alicia Malone has written a book. Having watched Alicia on my TV enough times, I know that she's moved cross country to a small town with an incredible movie theater which made this story feel like Alicia was Audrey (the main character). It was a treat to have movie references sprinkled throughout along with feeling like Luke was also present from Gilmore Girls!
Audrey is an absolute badass and fearless. Although I'm saying this is a cozy mystery, there were a number of moments where I wanted to say "no, don't do that!" because it frightened me!
I'm looking forward to what's next in this series!
Audrey is an absolute badass and fearless. Although I'm saying this is a cozy mystery, there were a number of moments where I wanted to say "no, don't do that!" because it frightened me!
I'm looking forward to what's next in this series!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ That’s 5 Stars for the cover of this book!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ And 5 more stars for the storyline!
Such a well written excellent story about Audrey taking over the legacy of owning the Starlight Movie Palace after her grandmother passes away! Only to come face to face with a murder on opening night. This whodunit mystery will keep you guessing up until the very end!
I loved the nostalgia and mentioning of movies and actor/actresses throughout. I have to say it pulled me in right away because the first movie quote was from my favorite movie of all times!
Thank you to #NetGalley for the ARC copy of this book! #RunningPress #MurderAtTheMovies #AliciaMalone
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ And 5 more stars for the storyline!
Such a well written excellent story about Audrey taking over the legacy of owning the Starlight Movie Palace after her grandmother passes away! Only to come face to face with a murder on opening night. This whodunit mystery will keep you guessing up until the very end!
I loved the nostalgia and mentioning of movies and actor/actresses throughout. I have to say it pulled me in right away because the first movie quote was from my favorite movie of all times!
Thank you to #NetGalley for the ARC copy of this book! #RunningPress #MurderAtTheMovies #AliciaMalone
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I really liked the concept of a mystery set at a theater, revolving around movies. Although most I haven't actually seen, it's still a lot of fun. There was a point where I wasn't getting as into the story as I'd wanted, I think it was partly due to trying to keep a couple of the characters straight and figure out which ones actually mattered to the mystery. There's a good bit of misdirection before the culprit is revealed. I had a little question related to something one of the characters said, but it probably doesn't matter much in what was a nice ending. There's a possible setup to a future plotline. I'm interested in reading more in this series and seeing where it goes.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is the first book in a new series titled A Movie Palace Mystery by one of the hosts of Turner Classic Movies. Audrey Sullivan returns home to Pine Island in New England to run her family's old movie theater. Money is tight and attendance is low when a murder is committed on the premises. I enjoyed the references to old movies and comments on the movie industry. But I cannot remember who the killer is, so either I have short-term memory loss, or the book has a non-memorable plot. Still, I am looking forward to Book 2 of the series. Thanks to NetGalley, Running Press, and Running Press Adult for providing an ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Rating: 3.5
This cozy murder mystery is set in a Stars Hollow like town where nothing bad happens. It's the first night of the reopening of the local movie theater after the death of his previous owner. Audrey Sullivan is looking forward to continuing the legacy of bringing old films to Pine Island like her grandmother did. She wasn't anticipating a dead body being found in the projection booth after the film and that the body would be that of Liam Ross, the town pariah. To help get her theater reopened, she's out to find out who killed Liam.
This was a fun cozy mystery that gave me a very Gilmore Girls vibe in terms of characters and setting. I also liked the constant references to old films, which isn't surprising given the background of the author and tie-in with TCM. Overall it was an interesting mystery that appears to start off a potential series. If that's the case, I'd definitely read more in the series. I think this will be extra enjoyable if you're a fan of older films, like I am. Who doesn't love or remember sitting down to watch a movie on TCM?
Thank you to Running Press and Netgalley for a copy in exchange for review consideration.
This cozy murder mystery is set in a Stars Hollow like town where nothing bad happens. It's the first night of the reopening of the local movie theater after the death of his previous owner. Audrey Sullivan is looking forward to continuing the legacy of bringing old films to Pine Island like her grandmother did. She wasn't anticipating a dead body being found in the projection booth after the film and that the body would be that of Liam Ross, the town pariah. To help get her theater reopened, she's out to find out who killed Liam.
This was a fun cozy mystery that gave me a very Gilmore Girls vibe in terms of characters and setting. I also liked the constant references to old films, which isn't surprising given the background of the author and tie-in with TCM. Overall it was an interesting mystery that appears to start off a potential series. If that's the case, I'd definitely read more in the series. I think this will be extra enjoyable if you're a fan of older films, like I am. Who doesn't love or remember sitting down to watch a movie on TCM?
Thank you to Running Press and Netgalley for a copy in exchange for review consideration.
October 13, 2026
I enjoyed this book. Of course I did! After recently re-watching The Philadelphia Story, when I heard James Stewart cry out, "C. K. Dexter Haven!" I decided that was the perfect name for a cat, and our heroine inherits a cat with that very name! The only thing I love more than cozy mysteries is old movies, and this book combines them.
As a cozy mystery, it's good but not great. There were moments that left me going, "Yeah, but ..." and "Hey, why ..." But Alicia created a specific time and place and I couldn't guess the killer, and that's what I look for in a cozy mystery. I know there's another one in the works. I know I'll be back to the Movie Palace for that one, too.
As a cozy mystery, it's good but not great. There were moments that left me going, "Yeah, but ..." and "Hey, why ..." But Alicia created a specific time and place and I couldn't guess the killer, and that's what I look for in a cozy mystery. I know there's another one in the works. I know I'll be back to the Movie Palace for that one, too.
October 17, 2026
You Alicia are off to a fantastic start......I LOVED YOUR FIRST FICTION NOVEL
I am an Eagle Scout/ Veitnam/Desert Shield Desert Storm Veteran who has served in Vietnam, Germany and the United States. Because of Polio as a child I was an avid reader.......H.G. Wells, Mark Twain; etc. I have also read a lot of detective stories from Conan Doyle to Hammet. Just finished reading your book .........."COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN!!!!" I loved it!!! Cannot wait to see what you turn out next. "Five Thumbs Up!!!!
I am an Eagle Scout/ Veitnam/Desert Shield Desert Storm Veteran who has served in Vietnam, Germany and the United States. Because of Polio as a child I was an avid reader.......H.G. Wells, Mark Twain; etc. I have also read a lot of detective stories from Conan Doyle to Hammet. Just finished reading your book .........."COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN!!!!" I loved it!!! Cannot wait to see what you turn out next. "Five Thumbs Up!!!!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Such a fun read! This felt like Gilmore Girls meets Agatha Christie. When Audrey moved back to her grandmother’s home to take over her long-running movie theater, a patron is found dead and Audrey starts to investigate uncovering town secrets as well as making new friends.
I loved the movie references, though I clearly need to brush up on classic movies. The characters were fun and really developed more as the story went on.
Thanks to #NetGalley and #RunningPress for the ARC
I loved the movie references, though I clearly need to brush up on classic movies. The characters were fun and really developed more as the story went on.
Thanks to #NetGalley and #RunningPress for the ARC
October 15, 2026
Listened to this audio book (thanks for issuing it in this format!). Great fun for movie afficionados. Intriguing characters, inviting setting and a plot that leaves us wondering at the end - who is the mysterious man eyeing Audrey's theater?! Some minor details left unsolved: why wasn't Sophia involved in supplying murderer with weapon, and is the theater really showing a new movie every night?
October 20, 2026
Alicia Malone has great taste in movies as anyone who watches her on TCM knows. Her love of movies really comes through in this book and I enjoyed the mix of references to movies of different genres and time periods. As a book, it was just ok. The writing was a little cliché at times and the mystery wasn't that interesting. This is going to be a series and I'd probably still read another one for the movie references.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I had hoped to really enjoy this book but I didn’t. I am a big fan of old movies, but the constant reference to old movies, actors, directors was distracting.
I know the author is a host on TCM, but I feel that she was just showing off her knowledge in this book. It took my attention away from the story. I received a copy of this book from NetGalley.
I know the author is a host on TCM, but I feel that she was just showing off her knowledge in this book. It took my attention away from the story. I received a copy of this book from NetGalley.
October 14, 2026
The fun part of this book was Alicia Malone's movie references. But that just couldn't overcome how Hallmark Channel this cozy is. Perhaps a more mature narrator would have helped as this narrator had the gravitas of a college student pledging a sorority. The words that kept flashing in my mind were "treacly" and "twee." I made it to chapter 12 and the gave up.
October 19, 2026
Cozy mysteries aren’t usually my jam, but I wanted to read this one because it was written by my favorite TCM host, Alicia Malone. It’s light & fluffy but I loved all the references to classic movies that Malone scatters throughout. And how can I not enjoy a book with a cat named C.K. Dexter Haven??😊
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I had an advance copy from Netgalley.
Loved this cozy mystery especially with all of the classic movie references. The mystery was well crafted with several characters to suspect. Cozy mystery fans will enjoy this!
Loved this cozy mystery especially with all of the classic movie references. The mystery was well crafted with several characters to suspect. Cozy mystery fans will enjoy this!
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October 3, 2026I’m not giving this a star rating because I just don’t think I’m the target audience for this but I can see how someone who really enjoys cozies would be really interested in this book! It wasn’t bad at all, just not gripping for me and that’s okay ✨
Review of advance copy
Full of nostalgic references from the golden age of cinema all the way up to modern favorites, classic movie buffs will love the cozy Murder at the Movies.
June 15, 2026
What a fun read.. Audrey’s Aunt died and left her a movie theater.. however the first night there is a murder. So much nostalgia in reverence to old movies.. loved it!
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