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Spellbound Hound #6
Born to be Styled
Toby is a pooch in need of a short back and sides.Unfortunately, the scheduled appointment at Toby's local poodle parlour proves particularly perilous for the poor proprietor.Her poor poodle is left pining.But when you have a spellbound hound on the case, it turns out murder can be stylish after all!
228 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 29, 2024
24 people are currently reading
13 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
November 10, 2025
I think this is my favourite book in the series so far and not just because they are investigating a murder this time around. Okay it wasn't a murder investigation as such with lots of suspects, as that wouldn't have worked with a dog as your lead investigator. Instead the story unfolds as Toby follows up on clues and questions some very unusual witnesses. The whole plot idea just grabbed imagination. It was so easy to picture the trouble (and mess) that he found himself caught up in, which lead to a few chuckles. The case was nicely wrapped up with smiles and chuckles all around. I loved the characters, especially the new rat friends. Yes I Know it probably sounds weird reading this review but it works and is an entertaining listen for any mystery and animal lover.
Toby needs a bath and his owner takes him to a grooming salon, where he is introduced to a show dog. After the meeting Toby is determined to prove he is just as good as the uppity poodle and talks Clarissa into entering him a family friendly event. It's only after the event that trouble strikes, they discover a dead body in the salon. The owners sister has been killed and her poodle stolen. Toby find himself offering not only a bed to the poodle while the police investigate the murder but also his services to find the missing poodle. With no clues to follow the two dogs find themselves looking for witnesses and discover the shops rat population. Will the rat 'Family' provide Toby and his new friend a clue to the dog nappers? And maybe they can find the killer and solve the murder at the same time.
I like the narrator. He makes the story so entertaining and I just love the voices he provides, although I could have done with out the dog singing but to be fair I think it was meant to be bad.
I was given this free review copy audio book at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
Toby needs a bath and his owner takes him to a grooming salon, where he is introduced to a show dog. After the meeting Toby is determined to prove he is just as good as the uppity poodle and talks Clarissa into entering him a family friendly event. It's only after the event that trouble strikes, they discover a dead body in the salon. The owners sister has been killed and her poodle stolen. Toby find himself offering not only a bed to the poodle while the police investigate the murder but also his services to find the missing poodle. With no clues to follow the two dogs find themselves looking for witnesses and discover the shops rat population. Will the rat 'Family' provide Toby and his new friend a clue to the dog nappers? And maybe they can find the killer and solve the murder at the same time.
I like the narrator. He makes the story so entertaining and I just love the voices he provides, although I could have done with out the dog singing but to be fair I think it was meant to be bad.
I was given this free review copy audio book at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
February 8, 2024
Toby, a schnauzer-collie-whippet-terrier-thingie spellbound wizard, gets caught up in the world of show dogs in his latest mystery. After having a roll in something fragrant, his hooman, Clarissa, signs him up for a spa day at Sweet Pea’s Parlour for Pampered Pooches. There he meets Peony Shaw and her award winning poodle, Pickford’s Afterglow, or Pickle for short. Despite finding Pickle to be somewhat arrogant, Toby is intrigued by the idea of being a show dog. He convinces Clarissa to enter him into a family friendly show to try his luck. After winning a few rosettes, he and Clarissa go by the spa where Toby detects death. It seems that Pickle’s sister, Afterglow’s Incandescence, Candy is missing. Toby agrees to help Pickle find Candy. Little does he know that he’ll have to deal with the rat mafia to get answers. Rats, Sal & Pom, get Toby to rescue them from the mafia in exchange for extra help finding the dognappers. With Clarissa too busy with work, Toby & Pickle take off on a wild adventure. When Toby learns more dogs are in danger he must convince Clarissa to get Detective Ed involved. But how can she do that without revealing Toby’s unique abilities?
A laugh out loud page turning adventure with a lovable hound. I’m hoping that Pickle will make future appearances in Toby’s adventures since they’ve bonded while rescuing Candy. Sal, the rat, is a fun addition as well. Detective not quite dead to me Ed and Clarissa formalize their relationship. Could he eventually be clued in to Toby’s secret? Even though this is book 6 in the series, prior knowledge is not necessary to enjoy it. But once you do, you’ll be sure to fall in love with Toby and want to read the rest.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A laugh out loud page turning adventure with a lovable hound. I’m hoping that Pickle will make future appearances in Toby’s adventures since they’ve bonded while rescuing Candy. Sal, the rat, is a fun addition as well. Detective not quite dead to me Ed and Clarissa formalize their relationship. Could he eventually be clued in to Toby’s secret? Even though this is book 6 in the series, prior knowledge is not necessary to enjoy it. But once you do, you’ll be sure to fall in love with Toby and want to read the rest.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 5, 2024
Toby, a schnauzer-collie-whippet-terrier-thingie, is magical. He got spelled by his old owner and now seeks more and more knowledge. Clarissa is his previous master's granddaughter and took over his care. Sometimes a little too much care. Right now he's being taken somewhere to get bathed. There he meets Pickle, the owner's dog and also a show dog. She tells him about being a show dog and he gets interested enough that he somehow manages to get his hooman to enter him in a few dog showings. He actually wins two rosettes..a pink and a red..third and first. On the way they come to the shop where he was taken to be bathed...he smells death. When Clarissa goes in she finds a woman's body and thinks it's Pea, the owner. Only when she goes outside to wait for the police she sees Pea coming over with her dog. That's when she realizes the body is Pea's sister and her dog, Pickle's sister, is missing. Clarissa and Toby take custody for a little while for Pea since her brother can't have animals at his apartment. While at Toby's they listen and send out for info on the murder and missing dog. But nothing is known at this time. Then he thinks about witnesses...Pickle tells him there are rats there. So now it's time to question the rats. Will the two get info they need? Will Clarissa help Toby put two and two together to come up with a murderer? Will Pickle get over being so ippity to Toby?
A cute and loveable story about dogs and people.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A cute and loveable story about dogs and people.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 3, 2025
"Born to be Styled" is a fantastic addition to the Spellbound Hound Magic and Mystery series. Jeannie Wycherley has a gift for weaving together suspense, humor, and heartwarming moments, and this story is no exception. The plot involving dognapped show dogs and a murder is intriguing without ever feeling too dark, making it a perfect cozy mystery with a magical twist.
Toby is an absolute delight as the lead investigator. His courage and resourcefulness shine through, and his interactions with new friends add depth and charm to the narrative. The balance between mystery and magic is spot-on, creating a world that feels vibrant and inviting.
David Winter’s narration elevates the entire experience. His expressive delivery and ability to capture Toby’s personality make this audiobook a joy to listen to. Each character is distinct, and the pacing keeps you engaged from start to finish.
If you love cozy mysteries with a sprinkle of magic and a lovable canine hero, this audiobook will not disappoint. It’s clever, entertaining, and leaves you eagerly anticipating the next adventure.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and I have voluntarily left this review.
Toby is an absolute delight as the lead investigator. His courage and resourcefulness shine through, and his interactions with new friends add depth and charm to the narrative. The balance between mystery and magic is spot-on, creating a world that feels vibrant and inviting.
David Winter’s narration elevates the entire experience. His expressive delivery and ability to capture Toby’s personality make this audiobook a joy to listen to. Each character is distinct, and the pacing keeps you engaged from start to finish.
If you love cozy mysteries with a sprinkle of magic and a lovable canine hero, this audiobook will not disappoint. It’s clever, entertaining, and leaves you eagerly anticipating the next adventure.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and I have voluntarily left this review.
February 19, 2024
This engaging tale is filled with numerous twists, unexpected alliances, and a healthy dose of humor that keeps readers on their toes. With each page turn, readers are treated to a rollicking adventure accompanied by the endearing presence of Pickle, a lovable hound who adds an extra layer of charm to the story. I found myself hoping that Pickle would continue to play a role in Toby's future adventures, especially after witnessing their heartwarming bond during the rescue of Candy.
The addition of Sal, the rat, injects even more fun into the narrative, while the evolving relationship between Detective Ed and Clarissa adds an intriguing subplot. I couldn't help but wonder if Detective Ed might eventually uncover Toby's secret as their relationship deepens. Despite this being the sixth installment in the series, newcomers will find no difficulty diving straight into the action. However, once you've experienced Toby's world, you'll undoubtedly be eager to explore the rest of the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The addition of Sal, the rat, injects even more fun into the narrative, while the evolving relationship between Detective Ed and Clarissa adds an intriguing subplot. I couldn't help but wonder if Detective Ed might eventually uncover Toby's secret as their relationship deepens. Despite this being the sixth installment in the series, newcomers will find no difficulty diving straight into the action. However, once you've experienced Toby's world, you'll undoubtedly be eager to explore the rest of the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 7, 2024
Grooming Can Be Hazardous ! . . .
Toby needed some “emergency grooming” when he got into something that smelled pretty nasty. After a grooming session, he looked and smelled awesome, so Clarissa entered him in a dog show for fun. But on the walk home, they passed the grooming parlor and Toby scented a dead body. The door was open and they found a dead body crumpled on the floor. The woman was Peony’s sister, Hyacinth, and had been using the shop to groom her dog, Candy, for an upcoming show. Now Hyacinth was dead and her show dog was missing! Toby and the gang dive into the mystery. Will they find the missing show dog? Will they discover who murdered Hyacinth? Grab your copy and be ready for the laughter and craziness as you enjoy the “dogged” pursuit to find justice!
Toby needed some “emergency grooming” when he got into something that smelled pretty nasty. After a grooming session, he looked and smelled awesome, so Clarissa entered him in a dog show for fun. But on the walk home, they passed the grooming parlor and Toby scented a dead body. The door was open and they found a dead body crumpled on the floor. The woman was Peony’s sister, Hyacinth, and had been using the shop to groom her dog, Candy, for an upcoming show. Now Hyacinth was dead and her show dog was missing! Toby and the gang dive into the mystery. Will they find the missing show dog? Will they discover who murdered Hyacinth? Grab your copy and be ready for the laughter and craziness as you enjoy the “dogged” pursuit to find justice!
February 14, 2024
This is such a fun series! Toby and his "hooman", Clarissa, stumble upon a dead body and they soon find themselves involved in trying to solve her murder. Add in the fact that the dead woman's dog, Candy, has gone missing, and you also have a dognapping.
Toby and his new canine friend, Pickles (who happens to be Candy's sister), form an uneasy alliance with the Mayflower Lane Mafia to try to find Candy. Did I mention that this Mafia is made up of rats and run by Don Gorylion?
Full of great dialogue between the animals, a bit of magic from our wizardly Toby, and a few adventures, this is a great book if you enjoy a cozy mystery with animals and magic.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Toby and his new canine friend, Pickles (who happens to be Candy's sister), form an uneasy alliance with the Mayflower Lane Mafia to try to find Candy. Did I mention that this Mafia is made up of rats and run by Don Gorylion?
Full of great dialogue between the animals, a bit of magic from our wizardly Toby, and a few adventures, this is a great book if you enjoy a cozy mystery with animals and magic.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 24, 2025
Toby has turned into quite the detective. He has gained a good success rate. With each case, he encounters a new cast of quirky characters. There is Pickle and the Rat Mafia comprised of Sal and Pom, and others. I am all for Detective Ed joining the group.
David Winter is an amazing narrator. He has been a constant voice for this series. He has a huge cast of characters to voice, but he is up to the task. I have grown to love David's voice. In fact, if there was to ever be a change, I would probably riot as there cannot be anyone else but David Winter voicing these audiobooks.
As with the other books, there are plenty of laughs to be had with this book. Toby is elite in my eyes along with his hooman, Clarissa.
David Winter is an amazing narrator. He has been a constant voice for this series. He has a huge cast of characters to voice, but he is up to the task. I have grown to love David's voice. In fact, if there was to ever be a change, I would probably riot as there cannot be anyone else but David Winter voicing these audiobooks.
As with the other books, there are plenty of laughs to be had with this book. Toby is elite in my eyes along with his hooman, Clarissa.
January 23, 2026
Audiobook review: The narration is good, easy to understand with lots of different voices for the numerous characters.
Story review:
This is such a fun mystery series staring loveable Toby, the spellbound hound. His character is written very well, original, not too much magic, and true to his word when it comes to helping solve mysteries. I am amused with all of Toby's friends. The author keeps introducing new ones in each book keeping the series fresh. The subplot with his human Clarissa and her romantic adventures are also enjoyable. I am rooting for her and Ed. I recommend this lighthearted humorous paranormal mystery book and the whole series.
I received a free audible copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Story review:
This is such a fun mystery series staring loveable Toby, the spellbound hound. His character is written very well, original, not too much magic, and true to his word when it comes to helping solve mysteries. I am amused with all of Toby's friends. The author keeps introducing new ones in each book keeping the series fresh. The subplot with his human Clarissa and her romantic adventures are also enjoyable. I am rooting for her and Ed. I recommend this lighthearted humorous paranormal mystery book and the whole series.
I received a free audible copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
November 9, 2025
Audiobook: I enjoyed this story as much as the others in the series. I was charmed by the quixotic notion of featuring a dog as a sleuth, and I have liked all the stories so far. I liked the new characters, but I was glad that they were fictional. I thought the slow burn romantic subplot between Clarissa and Ed added a realistic element to the tale. I appreciated the flashes of humor. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series. I thought David Winter's narration enhanced my enjoyment of the story. I was given a copy of the audiobook. I volunteered, without financial gain, to post this review which reflected my honest opinions regarding this audiobook.
February 19, 2024
Toby is a cross between a schnauzer,Collie,Whippet,Terrier and whatever else , has ahem special abilities , his hooman ( human) Clarissa needs to be convince to get Detective Ed involved without somehow finding out about them, when Toby springs upon the smell of death and a dog napping ring when he discovers Pickle’s ( it’s a long story) sister goes missing . Brilliantly quirky, great characters , humour and well written . It’s oddly immersive with simple narratives and well thought out storytelling.
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.
February 12, 2024
Toby the spell bound hound has several more adventures find him
a visit to a new grooming salon brings him new friends, some dubious connections, and wicked and befuddling foes
Detective Ed might just be pulled into seeing some magic in action, but will he acknowledge or react to it - or just not
things get topsy turvy for Clarissa and Toby in their latest adventures and sleuthing
fun and exciting reading, with some melancholy bits
a visit to a new grooming salon brings him new friends, some dubious connections, and wicked and befuddling foes
Detective Ed might just be pulled into seeing some magic in action, but will he acknowledge or react to it - or just not
things get topsy turvy for Clarissa and Toby in their latest adventures and sleuthing
fun and exciting reading, with some melancholy bits
February 28, 2024
Born to Be Styled: A Paranormal Cozy Animal Mystery is book #6 in the Spellbound Hound Magic and Mystery series by Jeannie Wycherley.
This is such a fun series. I adore Toby. The mystery was quite entertaining thanks to the companions he had. Clarissa has her hands full with Toby! This book made smile the whole time. Something happened at the end that has me anxiously waiting for the next book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is such a fun series. I adore Toby. The mystery was quite entertaining thanks to the companions he had. Clarissa has her hands full with Toby! This book made smile the whole time. Something happened at the end that has me anxiously waiting for the next book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 7, 2024
Pea's sister has been murdered, and her dog dognapped - will Toby and Pickles be able to help bring the killers to justice and find Candy without much help form the humans? Great story line, awesome characters - easy and fun to read, loved it!.
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.
February 7, 2024
What a fun mystery! I love that Toby gets new friends and they all help him solve the dog napping AND murder! I wonder if he will see Pickle again. I wonder if Clarissa will enlighten Ed about her abilities as well as Toby’s. She probably should if they are going to continue dating. I love this series!
April 8, 2024
These just get better!
I don’t know how, but this series just keeps getting better with each book! Just when I thought the last one was my favorite, this one smacked me in the face! I loved Toby’s adventures. I was kept on the edge of my seat through the whole thing. Couldn’t put the book down.
I don’t know how, but this series just keeps getting better with each book! Just when I thought the last one was my favorite, this one smacked me in the face! I loved Toby’s adventures. I was kept on the edge of my seat through the whole thing. Couldn’t put the book down.
November 16, 2025
When Clarissa takes Toby to the local groomer when someone is found dead. The wizard dog and his hooman are on another adventure to save a dognapped poodle and find a murder. I love this series and it gets better with every book. The characters are well written, funny and quirky. The narration is outstanding!
December 6, 2025
A fun paranormal cozy with Toby the Spellbound Hound solving the case of the missing poodle. Not just any poodle. A show poodle that is worth quite a bit of money. He pairs up with the poodle's sister, a sassy canine. He also befriends an unlikely ally making this an enjoyable listen over the holiday season.
February 4, 2024
Fabulous
I enjoy reading about Toby and his adventures,so much so that I've finished reading it in an evening. I'm a ocat person normally but Toby with his animal friends and hoomans make for non stop reading.
I enjoy reading about Toby and his adventures,so much so that I've finished reading it in an evening. I'm a ocat person normally but Toby with his animal friends and hoomans make for non stop reading.
February 15, 2024
Allow an afternoon for this delightful family-friendly cozy mystery set in East Devon, England where wizard dog Toby takes on The Mysterious Case of the Missing Poodle.
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.
November 12, 2025
What is supposed to be a great day at the dog spa, turns into a murder mystery. Toby is an adorable character who brings humor and interesting adventures to make a great story. I look forward to more in the story.
December 17, 2025
Who would of thought Clarissa taking Toby for his first trip to a pet parlor would lead to dog show and murder. Toby is bake and he making new friends and enemies. This a fun adventure with a magic dog and his long suffering owner.
The narration is perfect.
The narration is perfect.
March 7, 2024
Short and fun
Short but fun book . great characters. Ill definitely be waiting for the next in this series. Such a good author
Short but fun book . great characters. Ill definitely be waiting for the next in this series. Such a good author
June 25, 2024
Good story.
Murder, dognappings and a unique Mafia keep Toby busy. The plot is good and well-paced. Lots of humor. This is a good series.
Murder, dognappings and a unique Mafia keep Toby busy. The plot is good and well-paced. Lots of humor. This is a good series.
June 27, 2024
This series is just such fun
Toby Reminds me of my Mother's Schnauzer. The stories are light & fun, they are just a joy to read.
Toby Reminds me of my Mother's Schnauzer. The stories are light & fun, they are just a joy to read.
April 8, 2025
Better & Better!!
This was such a FUN read!! I literally laughed out loud a lot while reading Toby's exploits in this episode! Such a great story!!
This was such a FUN read!! I literally laughed out loud a lot while reading Toby's exploits in this episode! Such a great story!!
February 8, 2024
Born To Be Styled - a review by Rosemary Kenny.
A Spellbound Hound Mystery, Born To Be Styled by the Queen of Mystery and Magic Jeannie Wycherley, tells how Toby the eponymous hound and his 'hooman' Clarissa make a shocking discovery at a local poodle parlour.
As if that weren't bad enough, Toby and his new pedigree friend Pickle then get Clarissa and her policeman boyfriend Ed, embroiled in solving nefarious goings-on in the world of dog shows. Who's behind the criminal enterprise?
Who are Sal and Pom?
To see what shenanigans are uncovered ahead of an HEA, get Born To Be Styled by Jeannie Wycherley as soon as you can...it's a witchy tale that's sure to keep you guessing...and howling - with laughter - at times!
A Spellbound Hound Mystery, Born To Be Styled by the Queen of Mystery and Magic Jeannie Wycherley, tells how Toby the eponymous hound and his 'hooman' Clarissa make a shocking discovery at a local poodle parlour.
As if that weren't bad enough, Toby and his new pedigree friend Pickle then get Clarissa and her policeman boyfriend Ed, embroiled in solving nefarious goings-on in the world of dog shows. Who's behind the criminal enterprise?
Who are Sal and Pom?
To see what shenanigans are uncovered ahead of an HEA, get Born To Be Styled by Jeannie Wycherley as soon as you can...it's a witchy tale that's sure to keep you guessing...and howling - with laughter - at times!
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews