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Murder, Mystery, and Curtain Calls: A Small Town Cozy Murder Mystery
When the town’s most hated diva drops dead, everyone who ever spent five minutes with her is a suspect.
After poison is found in her drink, the production comes to a halt.
When struggling bookstore owner and amateur sleuth Hazel Winslow is offered good money to go undercover in the production and sniff out the killer, she can’t afford to say no.
Fortunately, she has her gossipy best friend Tilly and four-legged fluffball investigator, Watson, to help her.
Unfortunately, murder victim Alice Beaumont collected enemies like ovations.
Nancy, prop master so often humiliated and bullied by Alice, says karma’s finally arrived.
Then there’s Grace, Alice’s jealous understudy, who’s suddenly basking in applause, attention, and the starring role she always wanted
The deeper Hazel digs, the clearer it becomes that Alice’s murder wasn’t random—it was personal.
Now secrets are unraveling, danger is closing in, and the killer is determined to keep their identity a secret… even if it means killing again.
After poison is found in her drink, the production comes to a halt.
When struggling bookstore owner and amateur sleuth Hazel Winslow is offered good money to go undercover in the production and sniff out the killer, she can’t afford to say no.
Fortunately, she has her gossipy best friend Tilly and four-legged fluffball investigator, Watson, to help her.
Unfortunately, murder victim Alice Beaumont collected enemies like ovations.
Nancy, prop master so often humiliated and bullied by Alice, says karma’s finally arrived.
Then there’s Grace, Alice’s jealous understudy, who’s suddenly basking in applause, attention, and the starring role she always wanted
The deeper Hazel digs, the clearer it becomes that Alice’s murder wasn’t random—it was personal.
Now secrets are unraveling, danger is closing in, and the killer is determined to keep their identity a secret… even if it means killing again.
201 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 26, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
May 27, 2026
Lights, camera, action, go read this immediately! 🌟
Another super fun cozy read where the author delivers a brilliant, fast-paced, clever whodunit full of theater drama, eccentric characters, and a fantastic plot that keeps you hooked. With plenty of stage production drama, a juicy list of suspects, and a perfectly fuzzy dog detective, this is an easy five star read.
The absolute best part, though? Watson. The bond he shares with Hazel is so heartwarming, and watching him accidentally help solve the mystery through his hilarious, fluffy missteps is pure joy. He's a chaotic little sleuth whose happy accidents, backstage bumbles, and sheer luck constantly point Hazel in the direction of the next clue. A perfect, five star standing ovation.
Another super fun cozy read where the author delivers a brilliant, fast-paced, clever whodunit full of theater drama, eccentric characters, and a fantastic plot that keeps you hooked. With plenty of stage production drama, a juicy list of suspects, and a perfectly fuzzy dog detective, this is an easy five star read.
The absolute best part, though? Watson. The bond he shares with Hazel is so heartwarming, and watching him accidentally help solve the mystery through his hilarious, fluffy missteps is pure joy. He's a chaotic little sleuth whose happy accidents, backstage bumbles, and sheer luck constantly point Hazel in the direction of the next clue. A perfect, five star standing ovation.
May 27, 2026
A Diva, a Doodle, and a Mystery That Finally Hits Its Stride
In Murder, Mystery, and Curtain Calls, A.P. Wells delivers the strongest Hazel Winslow mystery yet. By book three, the author has clearly settled into Hazel’s world, and it shows — the pacing is smoother, the clues are better placed, and the humor lands exactly where it should.
This time the victim is Alice Beaumont, a diva so universally disliked that the suspect list could double as the cast list. Hazel is already juggling bills, bookstore renovations, and Watson’s doodle‑powered chaos when she’s offered money to go undercover in the production. It’s the last thing she needs, but also exactly the kind of trouble she can’t resist.
What I enjoyed most was how the mystery unfolded. The clues felt more layered, and I genuinely found myself guessing instead of confidently pointing at the culprit halfway through. The backstage drama added a fun theatrical flair, and the “impossible” security camera moment gave the story a nice jolt of intrigue without stepping outside cozy territory.
There are also moments of pure charm. The clown scene had me laughing — I have friends who react the exact same way, so it felt wonderfully familiar. The bookstore finally opening was a satisfying milestone, and the water mishap was so relatable I could easily picture myself doing the same thing.
Hazel continues to be a grounded, likable heroine, and Watson remains a scene‑stealing ball of mischief. The supporting cast, especially Tilly, adds just the right amount of gossip, warmth, and chaos.
Overall, this is a fun, engaging cozy with humor, heart, and a mystery that keeps you turning pages. The series is growing stronger with each book, and this installment proves it.
In Murder, Mystery, and Curtain Calls, A.P. Wells delivers the strongest Hazel Winslow mystery yet. By book three, the author has clearly settled into Hazel’s world, and it shows — the pacing is smoother, the clues are better placed, and the humor lands exactly where it should.
This time the victim is Alice Beaumont, a diva so universally disliked that the suspect list could double as the cast list. Hazel is already juggling bills, bookstore renovations, and Watson’s doodle‑powered chaos when she’s offered money to go undercover in the production. It’s the last thing she needs, but also exactly the kind of trouble she can’t resist.
What I enjoyed most was how the mystery unfolded. The clues felt more layered, and I genuinely found myself guessing instead of confidently pointing at the culprit halfway through. The backstage drama added a fun theatrical flair, and the “impossible” security camera moment gave the story a nice jolt of intrigue without stepping outside cozy territory.
There are also moments of pure charm. The clown scene had me laughing — I have friends who react the exact same way, so it felt wonderfully familiar. The bookstore finally opening was a satisfying milestone, and the water mishap was so relatable I could easily picture myself doing the same thing.
Hazel continues to be a grounded, likable heroine, and Watson remains a scene‑stealing ball of mischief. The supporting cast, especially Tilly, adds just the right amount of gossip, warmth, and chaos.
Overall, this is a fun, engaging cozy with humor, heart, and a mystery that keeps you turning pages. The series is growing stronger with each book, and this installment proves it.
May 29, 2026
Murder, Mystery, and Curtain Calls by A.P. Wells is such a fun read. I can't get enough of Hazel, Winston, and Tilly. I so look forward to new books in the series.
Money and a mystery box end up getting Hazel a part in a play. She's hired as an undercover sleuth to find the troublemaking culprit. Instead, she gets to solve a murder of a well disliked diva actress with a long list of enemies. Thank goodness for Tilly and Winston who are there to help.
This series just keeps getting better and better. I can relate to all the main characters and they are written as down to earth everyday people. Winston will continue to be my favorite though! There are laugh out loud moments and the story flows well. I didn't guess the culprit as easily in this book but cozies aren't meant to be a hard mystery to solve.
If you are looking for a great series with characters who may remind you of someone you know, look no further! Pick up a copy today!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Money and a mystery box end up getting Hazel a part in a play. She's hired as an undercover sleuth to find the troublemaking culprit. Instead, she gets to solve a murder of a well disliked diva actress with a long list of enemies. Thank goodness for Tilly and Winston who are there to help.
This series just keeps getting better and better. I can relate to all the main characters and they are written as down to earth everyday people. Winston will continue to be my favorite though! There are laugh out loud moments and the story flows well. I didn't guess the culprit as easily in this book but cozies aren't meant to be a hard mystery to solve.
If you are looking for a great series with characters who may remind you of someone you know, look no further! Pick up a copy today!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 30, 2026
This is a fun quick reading story that just makes you feel good by the end of it. Hazel is opening her bookstore and redoing her house and things are just not working out the way she imaged. Her house is not working out the way she thought with old pipes and leaks. She finds a box by her door with a request to meet and $500 and finally she decides to look into it. She is going undercover at the theatre and also getting a handyman out of it. Watson, her puppy, trips her while she is trying to shelve her books and manages to make her fall but knock a whole shelf down. Of course, it happens when a nice looking man is around to really make her look stupid. It's her handyman. Things are looking up she thinks cause he's cute, but trouble at the theatre overwhelms her. The leading lady is murdered and she is busy looking for answers. Tilly, her best friend, is helping but not exactly how she had in mind. It's a fun story that makes you laugh out loud.
I received an arc and this is my review.
I received an arc and this is my review.
May 28, 2026
First of all I love the cover of the book it makes me smile seeing cute fluffy Watson. Second of all while reading this book I found myself giggling in spots which I have to say I love those type of books where they aren’t so serious all the time. I really enjoyed this cozy mystery with all the diverse characters and enjoyed the authors writing style as well. A diva was killed while they are getting ready for rehearsals for a play and she has more enemies than friends. So the suspect list is very long but Hazel is determined to figure it out with the help from her friend Tilly and of course fluffy Watson while trying to run a bookstore and get some much needed renovations done as well. I definitely didn’t guess who was responsible which is great because then it’s not so predictable. Just thoroughly enjoyed this story and look forward to reading more from this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 28, 2026
Murder, Mystery, and Curtain Calls is another fun adventure with Hazel, Watson, and Tilly! This series continues to be such an enjoyable cozy mystery read. Hazel and Tilly still feel very relatable, which makes it easy to get invested in both the mystery and their everyday lives. I especially love Tilly as a friend and sidekick — she’s supportive & funny.
The dialogue had me smiling more than once. The humor feels natural and keeps the story light even when the mystery picks up. The pacing was solid, the investigation was entertaining, and spending time with these characters again felt like catching up with old friends.
If you enjoy cozy mysteries with likable characters, friendship, and plenty of humor, the Hazel Winslow Series is worth getting into.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The dialogue had me smiling more than once. The humor feels natural and keeps the story light even when the mystery picks up. The pacing was solid, the investigation was entertaining, and spending time with these characters again felt like catching up with old friends.
If you enjoy cozy mysteries with likable characters, friendship, and plenty of humor, the Hazel Winslow Series is worth getting into.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 21, 2026
Quick but satisfying Mystery
#3 in the Hazel Winslow mystery series featuring Watson the fluffy white puppy is another charming story.
Hazel has a serious plumbing issue & dwindling cash reserves. Tilly talks her into opening the box with $500 Hazel found at her gate in last book. Inside are a note, an explanation, and a ridiculous alligator/dragon/lizard with wings + white fur on the chest! She is to wear it & show up in 30 minutes for an "audition" of some sort.
We meet Eunice who was a mega star, accent on past tense. Hazel accepts the job, which comes with a handsome handyman. Chaos, clue seeking, and aid from said handyman ensue. Of course, Winston is nose to the floor/dirt lending his mom a paw.
Super easy to read, like popcorn for the reader's mind!
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
#3 in the Hazel Winslow mystery series featuring Watson the fluffy white puppy is another charming story.
Hazel has a serious plumbing issue & dwindling cash reserves. Tilly talks her into opening the box with $500 Hazel found at her gate in last book. Inside are a note, an explanation, and a ridiculous alligator/dragon/lizard with wings + white fur on the chest! She is to wear it & show up in 30 minutes for an "audition" of some sort.
We meet Eunice who was a mega star, accent on past tense. Hazel accepts the job, which comes with a handsome handyman. Chaos, clue seeking, and aid from said handyman ensue. Of course, Winston is nose to the floor/dirt lending his mom a paw.
Super easy to read, like popcorn for the reader's mind!
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
May 26, 2026
Murder mystery and curtain calls
This book is the next in the series featuring Hazel and her dog Watson, along with her best friend Tilly. It can be read as a stand alone book or as part of the series.
The story begins when Hazel receives a mysterious box and she has no idea who sent it or why. Fearing that she is being drawn into another mystery, she is reluctant to open it but realising that she needs money to keep repairing her inherited home she finally does open it…..
We follow the story as it weaves its way through a local theatre production and new characters are introduced. A little romance, plenty of mystery and a murder.
Well written, lovely characters and a cozy mystery. I really liked the book and am intrigued to see what happens in the next books
May 27, 2026
Murder, Mystery, and Curtain Calls is a Superb story and series about Hazel Winslow Bookstore Owner and Amateur Sleuth, her clever dog sleuthing Watson and her friend Tilly. Hazel is renovating her house and bookstore that she inherited. She is short on money and is asked to investigate problems in a production. Jim is working on her house as part of her fee. Unfortunately an Actress dies. Hazel continues to look into the mystery with help from Watson, Tilly and Jim. But what will they uncover and can they discover the truth?
I enjoyed reading this story very much and I highly recommend that you read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I enjoyed reading this story very much and I highly recommend that you read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 29, 2026
It’s always a great time with Hazel and Watson! I love this series, and this book was a wonderful addition to the earlier novels.
I especially enjoyed the change in setting, which pushed Hazel and Watson outside of their usual comfort zone while still capturing the independent and inquisitive spirit that defines this investigative pair. Their dynamic remains one of the highlights of the series.
As usual, the mystery was intriguing, the characters felt realistic and entertaining, and the resolution was very satisfying. Overall, another engaging and enjoyable installment in a consistently strong series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I especially enjoyed the change in setting, which pushed Hazel and Watson outside of their usual comfort zone while still capturing the independent and inquisitive spirit that defines this investigative pair. Their dynamic remains one of the highlights of the series.
As usual, the mystery was intriguing, the characters felt realistic and entertaining, and the resolution was very satisfying. Overall, another engaging and enjoyable installment in a consistently strong series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 29, 2026
Book 3 of A Hazel Winslow Cozy Murder Mystery. Can be read as a standalone but for maximum enjoyment read the books in series order.
'Now secrets are unraveling, danger is closing in, and the killer is determined to keep their identity a secret… even if it means killing again.
And that was before that security camera recorded something… impossible.'
The characters were very appealing and complex and complicated and compelling and mysterious. Plot was intriguing and exciting and well paced. World building was solidly drawn and impressive. Another great addition to the series. Enjoyed immensely and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
'Now secrets are unraveling, danger is closing in, and the killer is determined to keep their identity a secret… even if it means killing again.
And that was before that security camera recorded something… impossible.'
The characters were very appealing and complex and complicated and compelling and mysterious. Plot was intriguing and exciting and well paced. World building was solidly drawn and impressive. Another great addition to the series. Enjoyed immensely and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 10, 2026
Every time I read one of AP Wells books in this series, I know that I am in for an entertaining read. Watson is such a funny, clue finding, murder solving, and fluffy pup. Hazel and Tilly are likeable characters and their friendship is like the one I have with my BFF. When these three get together to solve a crime, the reader is in for a treat. Their witty banter and knack for finding clues is admirable. The suspect in this book is one that no one could have ever imagine. In the end, I had a huh moment and then I giggled because of who the suspect truly turned out to be. The way AP describes the scenes and the people in her books, helps the reader visualize the scene. It is captivating, funny, witty, and always has a happy ending in part because of Watson the cute puppy.
August 25, 2026
Drama, Drama, Drama…and Laughs A-Plenty
I absolutely loved this cozy mystery. I had some laugh out loud moments. I will definitely be continuing this series.
This is my first book by A.P. Wells, but it won’t be my last. This is actually third in a series but works as a standalone as well - I wasn’t lost. Hazel is a very likable character, her bestie Tilly seems like Hazel’s friendly conscience, but it’s Watson and his interactions with Hazel that steal the show. These were my laugh out loud moments. Oh, and I really enjoyed the nod to Norma Desmond in this installment!
I highly recommend this book and series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I absolutely loved this cozy mystery. I had some laugh out loud moments. I will definitely be continuing this series.
This is my first book by A.P. Wells, but it won’t be my last. This is actually third in a series but works as a standalone as well - I wasn’t lost. Hazel is a very likable character, her bestie Tilly seems like Hazel’s friendly conscience, but it’s Watson and his interactions with Hazel that steal the show. These were my laugh out loud moments. Oh, and I really enjoyed the nod to Norma Desmond in this installment!
I highly recommend this book and series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
May 26, 2026
Oh this was such a fun little read.
A.P. Wells has created a wonderfully memorable cast along with plenty of smart, unexpected twists, making this a cozy and thoroughly entertaining read. The story keeps the suspense strong while still holding onto the warmth and charm that make the series so appealing.
Watson is so adorable and I do love a good animal sidekick.
Even though this is book 3 in a series (and I have not read the others), it is easy to pick up and read and understand what is happening with all the characters.
A.P. Wells has created a wonderfully memorable cast along with plenty of smart, unexpected twists, making this a cozy and thoroughly entertaining read. The story keeps the suspense strong while still holding onto the warmth and charm that make the series so appealing.
Watson is so adorable and I do love a good animal sidekick.
Even though this is book 3 in a series (and I have not read the others), it is easy to pick up and read and understand what is happening with all the characters.
June 3, 2026
I’ve really enjoyed the prequel & 3 books in this series with Hazel Winslow, her pal Tilly & Watson, the adorably fluffy & helpful K9 detective. It’s nice to laugh out loud while reading a cozy mystery. In this story, Eunice hired Hazel to go undercover at the movie she’s producing to find who is causing accidents. When the star of the show is murdered, Hazel decides to solve the whodunnit & find out why they’re doing it. I didn’t see it coming & laughed when I read who the killer was. I received this funny cozy mystery as an ARC from Book Sprout & am leaving an honest review.
May 27, 2026
This series is getting better and better. I love the banter and inner dialogue which feels so relatable.
Hazel gets sucked into another mystery, this time on stage. The self-doubt and humor is great to read and had me chuckling on a regular basis.
The mystery is solved with the help of her friend Tilly and of course cute little Watson.
Favorite quote from this book: “Did I even get you a frisbee?”
I will certainly read more books in this series as they come out!
Hazel gets sucked into another mystery, this time on stage. The self-doubt and humor is great to read and had me chuckling on a regular basis.
The mystery is solved with the help of her friend Tilly and of course cute little Watson.
Favorite quote from this book: “Did I even get you a frisbee?”
I will certainly read more books in this series as they come out!
May 29, 2026
The town's most hated diva drops dead from a poisoned drink. That means most of the town is a suspect! When Hazel is offered money to go undercover with the production company, she can't afford to say No. With the help of her best friend Tilly and her dog Watson, the search is on! And, of course, there's plenty of suspects to sort through! Can she find the killer before they kill again? A fun read with some very adorable characters, especially Watson!
June 11, 2026
Loved this book!
I won't speak of the plot but this book was a joy to read. There were times when I gave belly laughs. I love a writer that can give a bit of humor. And, I love the way Hazel talks in her head. We do that, we just don't talk about it. Hazel's character is my favorite series and I hope there will be many more.
I won't speak of the plot but this book was a joy to read. There were times when I gave belly laughs. I love a writer that can give a bit of humor. And, I love the way Hazel talks in her head. We do that, we just don't talk about it. Hazel's character is my favorite series and I hope there will be many more.
May 26, 2026
Good Quick Read
People trying to put on a play are finding people getting murdered but with much sleuthing and clues, the culprit is discovered. Who is it? I’ll never tell. You must read to find out.
People trying to put on a play are finding people getting murdered but with much sleuthing and clues, the culprit is discovered. Who is it? I’ll never tell. You must read to find out.
May 30, 2026
Pas It a ghost or a real person? This is the question involved in the mystery. After poison is found in her drink, the production comes to a halt. This is the mystery Hazel pas to solve.
I recieved a complimentary copy of this book from the author.This in no way affects my opinion of this book.
I recieved a complimentary copy of this book from the author.This in no way affects my opinion of this book.
May 26, 2026
A cute and fun story. Lots of funny parts and the mystery was grueling but still kept you on your toes. Look forward to the next book.
May 28, 2026
Another sassy murder mystery with Hazel, Tilly and of course that fluffy adorable puppy Watson. I enjoyed this book very much and can’t wait for the next adventure.
June 13, 2026
It was good but It kinda felt like it was copying book 2 towards the end, that might have been js me tho. But over all I loved this series sm ❤❤
June 20, 2026
Theatre,bookstore,murder and a puppy, what more could you ask for in a cozy murder mystery!
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews