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A Poppy McAllister Mystery #4
Theater Nights Are Murder
The last thing gluten-free baker Polly McAllister needs in her life is more drama—or more murder . . .
Poppy thought her toughest challenge this winter would be sticking to her Paleo diet and filling all her orders for her gluten-free goodies, but now she has to choose between two suitors. She’s not the only one with boyfriend drama. Aunt Ginny’s long-ago high-school beau, Royce Hanson, a retired Broadway actor, has returned to Cape May, New Jersey, to star in a Senior Center staging of Mamma Mia. Leaving Aunt Ginny to wonder: What's his motivation?
Slated to open February 13th, the problem-plagued production seems to be cursed—with stolen props, sabotage, and even a death threat. But when a cast member plunges to his death from a catwalk, it soon becomes clear a murderer is waiting in the wings. Now Polly, Aunt Ginny, and a supporting cast must take center stage to catch the killer—before it's curtains for someone else . . .
Includes Seven Recipes from Poppy’s Kitchen!
“Fans of Chopped will have fun juggling the complicated set of suspects and following a romantic triangle that has yet to be resolved.”
—Kirkus Reviews on Restaurant Weeks Are Murder
Poppy thought her toughest challenge this winter would be sticking to her Paleo diet and filling all her orders for her gluten-free goodies, but now she has to choose between two suitors. She’s not the only one with boyfriend drama. Aunt Ginny’s long-ago high-school beau, Royce Hanson, a retired Broadway actor, has returned to Cape May, New Jersey, to star in a Senior Center staging of Mamma Mia. Leaving Aunt Ginny to wonder: What's his motivation?
Slated to open February 13th, the problem-plagued production seems to be cursed—with stolen props, sabotage, and even a death threat. But when a cast member plunges to his death from a catwalk, it soon becomes clear a murderer is waiting in the wings. Now Polly, Aunt Ginny, and a supporting cast must take center stage to catch the killer—before it's curtains for someone else . . .
Includes Seven Recipes from Poppy’s Kitchen!
“Fans of Chopped will have fun juggling the complicated set of suspects and following a romantic triangle that has yet to be resolved.”
—Kirkus Reviews on Restaurant Weeks Are Murder
390 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published December 31, 2019
139 people are currently reading
608 people want to read
About the author
Libby Klein
11 books636 followersLibby Klein graduated Lower Cape May Regional High School sometime in the '80s. Her classes revolved mostly around the culinary sciences and theater, with the occasional nap in Chemistry. A few years ago, she was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease that forced her to remove gluten from her kitchen and adopt a Paleo Diet. Now her life revolves around coffee and bacon. When she’s not feeling sorry for herself that she can’t eat bread, she writes from her Northern Virginia office while trying to keep her cat Figaro off her keyboard. Most of her hobbies revolve around eating, and travel, and eating while travelling.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 178 reviews
November 28, 2019
Poppy McAllister has her hands full with running her B&B, baking for two restaurants and choosing between her two love interests. But she's not the only one with boyfriend drama. Her aunt Ginny's high school boyfriend has retired from Broadway and is returning home to play the male lead in the senior center's theater production of Mamma Mia. Everyone is really excited about the play. But when bizarre accidents start happening, and a man falls to his death, it becomes clear that someone is willing to do whatever it takes to get the play shut down. Poppy and the biddies decide to get to the bottom of things before the killer strikes again.
Theatre Nights Are Murder is a humorous and entertaining cozy mystery that kept me laughing out loud throughout the entire book. It has a quirky, well-rounded cast of characters and mouthwatering descriptions of food. Poppy was such a lovable and realistic character. It was very easy to root for her and relate to her weight loss struggles. The murder mystery kept me guessing and I didn't know who the killer was until the reveal. There's also a fun second mystery with Poppy trying to figure out who is responsible for leaving fake and negative reviews about the B&B. Overall, I really liked this book and will be reading more by Libby Klein.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Theatre Nights Are Murder is a humorous and entertaining cozy mystery that kept me laughing out loud throughout the entire book. It has a quirky, well-rounded cast of characters and mouthwatering descriptions of food. Poppy was such a lovable and realistic character. It was very easy to root for her and relate to her weight loss struggles. The murder mystery kept me guessing and I didn't know who the killer was until the reveal. There's also a fun second mystery with Poppy trying to figure out who is responsible for leaving fake and negative reviews about the B&B. Overall, I really liked this book and will be reading more by Libby Klein.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 2, 2020
Theater Nights Are Murder by Libby Klein is the fourth installment in the cozy A Poppy McAllister Mystery series. Each book of this series has a new mystery to be solved by the main character so they can be read and understood as a standalone if choosing to do so. Of course as with any continuing series there is some character development that would be missed if not reading from the beginning.
In this series readers were introduced to Poppy McAllister who is a forty something widow who moved back to her hometown of Cape May after the death of her husband. Poppy returned to be near her elderly Aunt Ginny and has made a living for herself baking gluten-free goodies to sell and running the bed and breakfast they opened after converting Aunt Ginny’s home.
Now in Theater Nights Are Murder Poppy is still juggling the interest of her two suitors when a man from Aunt Ginny’s past comes back to town. Royce Hanson was Aunt Ginny’s high school sweetheart and the one that got away when he left town to become an actor. Now with his return and taking a part in the local theater Aunt Ginny and her friend also get involved in the play but with accident after accident the play seems to be cursed.
I have followed the A Poppy McAllister Mystery series from the beginning and the first two books of the series are at the top of my absolute favorite cozies list. The characters and story are absolutely hysterical and full of that wonderful quirkiness that I love. However, I’ve lowered my rating for books 3 and 4 simply due to the love triangle going on in the story and I hope that it is resolved soon as the back and forth between suitors takes away from the enjoyment of the series in my opinion. I’ll still definitely return for the laughs and fun mysteries though as Poppy and her aunt Ginny are still favorites of mine.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
In this series readers were introduced to Poppy McAllister who is a forty something widow who moved back to her hometown of Cape May after the death of her husband. Poppy returned to be near her elderly Aunt Ginny and has made a living for herself baking gluten-free goodies to sell and running the bed and breakfast they opened after converting Aunt Ginny’s home.
Now in Theater Nights Are Murder Poppy is still juggling the interest of her two suitors when a man from Aunt Ginny’s past comes back to town. Royce Hanson was Aunt Ginny’s high school sweetheart and the one that got away when he left town to become an actor. Now with his return and taking a part in the local theater Aunt Ginny and her friend also get involved in the play but with accident after accident the play seems to be cursed.
I have followed the A Poppy McAllister Mystery series from the beginning and the first two books of the series are at the top of my absolute favorite cozies list. The characters and story are absolutely hysterical and full of that wonderful quirkiness that I love. However, I’ve lowered my rating for books 3 and 4 simply due to the love triangle going on in the story and I hope that it is resolved soon as the back and forth between suitors takes away from the enjoyment of the series in my opinion. I’ll still definitely return for the laughs and fun mysteries though as Poppy and her aunt Ginny are still favorites of mine.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
December 31, 2019
Oh, Libby, Libby, Libby. Your books pull me in with the promise of great mysteries to solve (and they always are), but keep me laughing so hard my sides hurt! With lines like . . . It wasn’t my proudest moment, being shaken down by four old ladies . . . THEATER NIGHTS ARE MURDER is no different, and my tissue box stayed close at hand for all the tears of laughter!
Author Libby Klein has been a breath of fresh air since her first book, CLASS REUNIONS ARE MURDER. I knew she was going to be a booming voice in the cozy mystery genre, and she has not let me down.
The way this tale took off from the first page I knew I was in for an amazing read. THEATER NIGHTS ARE MURDER, book four in the Poppy McAllister Mysteries, is more than just a cozy mystery. This book is a character driven, impossible to put down, page turning, action filled, laugh inducing, first class mystery and all around brilliantly written story from cover to cover.
Fans of this series are going to be thrilled with this latest installment. Those new to the series are going to kick themselves for not having started it sooner.
By far one of my favorite books of 2019, THEATER NIGHTS ARE MURDER is my number one recommendation to start off your 2020 reading list. (Release Dec 31, 2020)
Author Libby Klein has been a breath of fresh air since her first book, CLASS REUNIONS ARE MURDER. I knew she was going to be a booming voice in the cozy mystery genre, and she has not let me down.
The way this tale took off from the first page I knew I was in for an amazing read. THEATER NIGHTS ARE MURDER, book four in the Poppy McAllister Mysteries, is more than just a cozy mystery. This book is a character driven, impossible to put down, page turning, action filled, laugh inducing, first class mystery and all around brilliantly written story from cover to cover.
Fans of this series are going to be thrilled with this latest installment. Those new to the series are going to kick themselves for not having started it sooner.
By far one of my favorite books of 2019, THEATER NIGHTS ARE MURDER is my number one recommendation to start off your 2020 reading list. (Release Dec 31, 2020)
December 13, 2019
Aunt Ginny thinks this is my most fun book yet. She's never wrong.
December 21, 2019
Poppy McAllister is normally baking gluten-free goodies in Cape May, NJ and juggling the romantic attention of two suitors, Tim and Gia. As book four begins, she volunteers at the theater production of “Mamma Mia” which is casting at the Senior Center. Royce Ricardo, an old flame of Aunt Ginny’s is the lead male actor. Aunt Ginny and her flippant and savvy tribe of older lady friends try out for various parts during auditions. Wha-la! The humor begins!
When another actress, Blanche aka Moira, sweeps the lead actress role from Aunt Ginny, she and her old biddy friends are up to mischief using their senior sleuthing skills when sabotage and threats happen on set; then an actor dies falling from the catwalk.
Speaking of cats, Figaro is Poppy’s purrsnickety Persian and his purrsonality is a hoot! He thinks he rules the quaint Butterfly Wings Bed & Breakfast Inn that Poppy and Aunt Ginny own. The Inn is being targeted by a troll who keeps leaving obnoxious fake reviews on travel sites and Poppy is hot on their trail.
The female characters in this story are spunky, saucy, and strong-willed. They’re determined to get to the bottom of the on-set mysteries while the show goes on and before someone else is hurt.
Action keeps the plot moving swiftly, plus the dialogue and events are frequently hilarious! I laughed out loud many, many times! 😀
Eventually, between the police, Poppy, and the senior sleuths task force, the suspects get narrowed down and explanations for certain occurrences are exposed. There are also a couple of subplots in the storyline that are wrapped up at the end, along with the killer reveal. To me, it’s very clear which suitor Poppy chooses! The author gifts readers with some delicious gluten-free recipes after the story.
If you haven’t met Poppy McAllister, now is the time! I think it’s best to start with the first book and read in order so you’ll know the characters. I love this comical cozy mystery series!
Thank you to the Author for providing a galley ARC for an honest review.
When another actress, Blanche aka Moira, sweeps the lead actress role from Aunt Ginny, she and her old biddy friends are up to mischief using their senior sleuthing skills when sabotage and threats happen on set; then an actor dies falling from the catwalk.
Speaking of cats, Figaro is Poppy’s purrsnickety Persian and his purrsonality is a hoot! He thinks he rules the quaint Butterfly Wings Bed & Breakfast Inn that Poppy and Aunt Ginny own. The Inn is being targeted by a troll who keeps leaving obnoxious fake reviews on travel sites and Poppy is hot on their trail.
The female characters in this story are spunky, saucy, and strong-willed. They’re determined to get to the bottom of the on-set mysteries while the show goes on and before someone else is hurt.
Action keeps the plot moving swiftly, plus the dialogue and events are frequently hilarious! I laughed out loud many, many times! 😀
Eventually, between the police, Poppy, and the senior sleuths task force, the suspects get narrowed down and explanations for certain occurrences are exposed. There are also a couple of subplots in the storyline that are wrapped up at the end, along with the killer reveal. To me, it’s very clear which suitor Poppy chooses! The author gifts readers with some delicious gluten-free recipes after the story.
If you haven’t met Poppy McAllister, now is the time! I think it’s best to start with the first book and read in order so you’ll know the characters. I love this comical cozy mystery series!
Thank you to the Author for providing a galley ARC for an honest review.
January 11, 2020
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Libby Klein has penned another terrific mystery filled with laugh-out-loud humor that makes this book impossible to put down.
“Aunt Ginny was somewhere in her eighties, but somehow the feisty redhead got into more trouble than a five-year-old on a sugar binge.”
Yes, Poppy has her hands full again this time. The Senior Center is doing its version of Mamma Mia and all of “the biddies” including Aunt Ginny are involved. The director has persuaded Ginny’s high school flame, now a retired Broadway actor, to play a leading role. Why a successful man would lower himself to a local musical is unknown but everyone is excited to take part or see the show.
Opening night has been set for Friday, February 13 and it does seem the production is truly cursed. Props have gone missing, scenery panels have been vandalized and a death threat has been issued. The director tries to keep the play on course but when a cast member dies suspiciously – did he fall or was he pushed from the catwalk? the players get justifiably nervous. With a “the show must go on” attitude Poppy, Ginny and their friends push ahead while at the same time trying to reel in the killer before another murder brings down the house.
I fell hard for Poppy and Ginny reading the first book in this series, Class Reunions Are Murder, and every subsequent book just cements my feelings. Poppy is getting stronger and stronger. She is trying to get the B & B up and running amidst someone fraudulently posting bad reviews, doing some gluten-free baking on the side to bring in some cash, dealing with feelings for two men, (my mind is already made up) all while trying to keep Ginny and “the biddies” out of trouble and trying to do the job she was roped into for the play. The last thing she needed was a dead body! But she takes it all on.
The supporting cast is also stellar. All Aunt Ginny’s friends, Tim and Gia, Amber and even one very pretty Persian named Figaro. They are all very fleshed out and realistic. Their dialogues are true and sometimes pretty funny. The personalities of the new characters introduced in this story evolve as the drama unfolds. Blanche aka Moira also grew up in Cape May and she has a history with Ginny. I loved the passive way Ginny stuck it to Moira on a daily basis. There are two very quirky/creepy characters too. While not my faves, they sure did add to the story.
The murder mystery was very well plotted and all the subplots flowed well within it. The victim was someone beloved by many and his death was hard to take, His death was misunderstood at first which was a little maddening for everyone involved. As the story unfolds the suspect list expands and the motive gets murky. Several red herrings really twist things up. Having more than one mystery to solve is always fun. I loved all the secrets uncovered and the big reveals.
The Mamma Mia theme was a delight. The Abba music was playing in my head at every rehearsal. Senior citizens playing the parts was a hoot!!
Ooh, you can dance, you can jive
Having the time of your life
Ooh, see that girl, watch that scene
Digging the dancing queen…
We are also treated to seven of Poppy’s recipes at the end of the book!
Theater Nights are Murder is a Perfect Escape. I have loved this entire series! Be prepared to have your funny bone seriously tickled and enjoy. I sure did!
Libby Klein has penned another terrific mystery filled with laugh-out-loud humor that makes this book impossible to put down.
“Aunt Ginny was somewhere in her eighties, but somehow the feisty redhead got into more trouble than a five-year-old on a sugar binge.”
Yes, Poppy has her hands full again this time. The Senior Center is doing its version of Mamma Mia and all of “the biddies” including Aunt Ginny are involved. The director has persuaded Ginny’s high school flame, now a retired Broadway actor, to play a leading role. Why a successful man would lower himself to a local musical is unknown but everyone is excited to take part or see the show.
Opening night has been set for Friday, February 13 and it does seem the production is truly cursed. Props have gone missing, scenery panels have been vandalized and a death threat has been issued. The director tries to keep the play on course but when a cast member dies suspiciously – did he fall or was he pushed from the catwalk? the players get justifiably nervous. With a “the show must go on” attitude Poppy, Ginny and their friends push ahead while at the same time trying to reel in the killer before another murder brings down the house.
I fell hard for Poppy and Ginny reading the first book in this series, Class Reunions Are Murder, and every subsequent book just cements my feelings. Poppy is getting stronger and stronger. She is trying to get the B & B up and running amidst someone fraudulently posting bad reviews, doing some gluten-free baking on the side to bring in some cash, dealing with feelings for two men, (my mind is already made up) all while trying to keep Ginny and “the biddies” out of trouble and trying to do the job she was roped into for the play. The last thing she needed was a dead body! But she takes it all on.
The supporting cast is also stellar. All Aunt Ginny’s friends, Tim and Gia, Amber and even one very pretty Persian named Figaro. They are all very fleshed out and realistic. Their dialogues are true and sometimes pretty funny. The personalities of the new characters introduced in this story evolve as the drama unfolds. Blanche aka Moira also grew up in Cape May and she has a history with Ginny. I loved the passive way Ginny stuck it to Moira on a daily basis. There are two very quirky/creepy characters too. While not my faves, they sure did add to the story.
The murder mystery was very well plotted and all the subplots flowed well within it. The victim was someone beloved by many and his death was hard to take, His death was misunderstood at first which was a little maddening for everyone involved. As the story unfolds the suspect list expands and the motive gets murky. Several red herrings really twist things up. Having more than one mystery to solve is always fun. I loved all the secrets uncovered and the big reveals.
The Mamma Mia theme was a delight. The Abba music was playing in my head at every rehearsal. Senior citizens playing the parts was a hoot!!
Ooh, you can dance, you can jive
Having the time of your life
Ooh, see that girl, watch that scene
Digging the dancing queen…
We are also treated to seven of Poppy’s recipes at the end of the book!
Theater Nights are Murder is a Perfect Escape. I have loved this entire series! Be prepared to have your funny bone seriously tickled and enjoy. I sure did!
January 2, 2020
I love this series more every time I read the newest book and I always think that book is the funniest one so far...only because imho it is! I was laughing out loud at Aunt Ginny and her "biddies'" antics during the senior center's production of Mamma Mia. From going all out spy complete with two-way radios to conning some bikers in a pool game, these ladies while absolutely hilarious were determined to find out how their friend really died during the theater production. And for that I say, "You go, girls!"
Even though I didn't care much for the character of Fiona, I have to admit I got a kick out of her always talking about her precious son Iggy's many master's degrees. It was sort of a running joke through the book (like how Georgina had come up with a bunch of wrong names for Smitty in the previous book). I think Aunt Ginny will always be my favorite character, but we got to know the biddies a lot better in this book and I completely enjoyed that. Even Smitty made a visit. Poppy's friend Sawyer had a sideline mystery going on, and there was another side mystery that completely threw me when I found out who was behind it. I'd never have guessed.
Officer Amber seemed to be mellowing just a little bit. She didn't seem nearly as mean as she was in the first book even though I doubt she'll ever get over getting a little satisfaction out of trying to make Poppy squirm. Poppy gave it right back though--her character has grown a lot since the first book too. As always, I'm anxious for the next in this series!
I voluntarily read and reviewed a paperback ARC of this book provided by the publisher, and my opinions are my own.
Even though I didn't care much for the character of Fiona, I have to admit I got a kick out of her always talking about her precious son Iggy's many master's degrees. It was sort of a running joke through the book (like how Georgina had come up with a bunch of wrong names for Smitty in the previous book). I think Aunt Ginny will always be my favorite character, but we got to know the biddies a lot better in this book and I completely enjoyed that. Even Smitty made a visit. Poppy's friend Sawyer had a sideline mystery going on, and there was another side mystery that completely threw me when I found out who was behind it. I'd never have guessed.
Officer Amber seemed to be mellowing just a little bit. She didn't seem nearly as mean as she was in the first book even though I doubt she'll ever get over getting a little satisfaction out of trying to make Poppy squirm. Poppy gave it right back though--her character has grown a lot since the first book too. As always, I'm anxious for the next in this series!
I voluntarily read and reviewed a paperback ARC of this book provided by the publisher, and my opinions are my own.
November 29, 2019
I have been a fan of this series since the first book and have enjoyed them all. This one was a bit off for me. I love the characters. They are well written and diverse. There is tons of humor and great dialogue. The relationship between Poppy and Aunt Ginny is full of warmth, humor, and love. Where this book fell apart for me is with the mystery and the love triangle. I am not a fan of the love triangle in any books and the longer this one draws out the less interested I find myself becoming in the outcome. I think the author needs to wrap up that storyline in the beginning of the next book. I also thought there were too many things going on in this book in terms of mysteries that needed to be solved. I felt like my focus was fractured and I was having a hard time keeping track of all of the storylines and mini-mysteries.
I really enjoy this series and feel like this was a one-off in terms of a miss for me. I'll return for the next book in the series and depending on whether or not the author solves the love triangle will determine if I continue with the series.
I voluntarily read a digital ARC provided to me by the publisher through Netgalley.
I really enjoy this series and feel like this was a one-off in terms of a miss for me. I'll return for the next book in the series and depending on whether or not the author solves the love triangle will determine if I continue with the series.
I voluntarily read a digital ARC provided to me by the publisher through Netgalley.
October 16, 2020
This is the fourth book in this series and I loved it!
Poppy is a realistic, contemporary woman, who I really enjoy reading about.
This mystery was so well written and the characters were so intriguing, that I could not put it down!
All in all, this book was a delight to read and a great continuation to this series.
I highly recommend this book and look forward to reading the next in the series.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
Poppy is a realistic, contemporary woman, who I really enjoy reading about.
This mystery was so well written and the characters were so intriguing, that I could not put it down!
All in all, this book was a delight to read and a great continuation to this series.
I highly recommend this book and look forward to reading the next in the series.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
October 30, 2019
Another home run by Libby Klein! I absolutely love this series! So funny and entertaining. Fantastic read!
December 31, 2019
Sometimes after you finish reading a book, you have to close the book and just sit back and savor what you read.....with books in the Poppy McAllister Mystery series by Libby Klein you have to sit back, close your mouth, check your breathing, rub your eyes, scratch your head and completely recollect yourself before you think about doing anything else !! And Theater Nights Are Murder, the fourth book in this series is no different except she may have you questioning some things ...... like "What is she thinking ? (meaning the author) or "What the heck is she going to do ? (meaning the main character, Poppy)
I hope, hope, hope, that you are a fan of this series because there is so much to fall in love with !! (If you aren't a fan yet, hurry up and catch up....) First you have the main character Poppy who moves back to her hometown to help her Aunt Ginny but she does so much more. She reconnects with her high school boyfriend and she meets a hot Italian love interest who owns a coffeehouse. Her best friend owns a bookstore and her aunt and her crew of friends are always up to no good !!
And with Theater Nights Are Murder everyone is involved with a play being put on at the Senior Center and brings back two hometown actors, one Aunt Ginny's old boyfriend and the other is the woman that stole him away !!! Things are heating up at the Senior Center when someone ends up dead and puts the rest of them on high alert. Poppy has her hands full trying to get the Bed and Breakfast in top shape as well as baking for Gia's coffeehouse and Tim's restaurant and now she has to keep on Aunt Ginny and friends to make sure no one else gets hurt or worse.......and did I mention that Valentine's Day is coming up and Poppy has to figure out her feelings for Tim and Gia ??
You cannot help but LOVE this series and Theater Nights Are Murder will have you falling in LOVE with everything between the pages and when you think you might know what Klein is thinking....think again !!! She definitely knows how to keep the reader on their toes and longing for the next book in this series.....
I hope, hope, hope, that you are a fan of this series because there is so much to fall in love with !! (If you aren't a fan yet, hurry up and catch up....) First you have the main character Poppy who moves back to her hometown to help her Aunt Ginny but she does so much more. She reconnects with her high school boyfriend and she meets a hot Italian love interest who owns a coffeehouse. Her best friend owns a bookstore and her aunt and her crew of friends are always up to no good !!
And with Theater Nights Are Murder everyone is involved with a play being put on at the Senior Center and brings back two hometown actors, one Aunt Ginny's old boyfriend and the other is the woman that stole him away !!! Things are heating up at the Senior Center when someone ends up dead and puts the rest of them on high alert. Poppy has her hands full trying to get the Bed and Breakfast in top shape as well as baking for Gia's coffeehouse and Tim's restaurant and now she has to keep on Aunt Ginny and friends to make sure no one else gets hurt or worse.......and did I mention that Valentine's Day is coming up and Poppy has to figure out her feelings for Tim and Gia ??
You cannot help but LOVE this series and Theater Nights Are Murder will have you falling in LOVE with everything between the pages and when you think you might know what Klein is thinking....think again !!! She definitely knows how to keep the reader on their toes and longing for the next book in this series.....
March 25, 2022
Libby Klein has become one of my favorite authors. And this book is my favorite of this series! One laugh-out-loud moment after another. Some had me laughing so hard there were tears in my eyes. The biddies adventure in this one was just over the top funny! What I admire about the author's storytelling is her ability to mix some tender moments in with the humorous ones. I hope there are many more books in this series to come!
January 13, 2020
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the chance to read this book!
It's always a tough ask, jumping into book 4 in a series that you haven't really read much of. Good cozies will welcome you with open arms, and mostly that's what I found here. I was a little lost between all the male characters and what connections they had to the two main sleuths, especially the older gentlemen. I definitely did NOT see that twist coming, so that was something. Normally I have an inkling, but this one was odd, and I appreciate that.
I'd definitely need to see more about each of poppy's suitors, but at the moment I'm firmly in team Gia. Tim just doesn't seem to appreciate her, and he's too work focused. Hopefully I can see the outcome to that romance situation!
A fun cozy, with some interesting ideas an occurances. Four stars.
It's always a tough ask, jumping into book 4 in a series that you haven't really read much of. Good cozies will welcome you with open arms, and mostly that's what I found here. I was a little lost between all the male characters and what connections they had to the two main sleuths, especially the older gentlemen. I definitely did NOT see that twist coming, so that was something. Normally I have an inkling, but this one was odd, and I appreciate that.
I'd definitely need to see more about each of poppy's suitors, but at the moment I'm firmly in team Gia. Tim just doesn't seem to appreciate her, and he's too work focused. Hopefully I can see the outcome to that romance situation!
A fun cozy, with some interesting ideas an occurances. Four stars.
November 13, 2019
I received a free copy of THEATER NIGHTS ARE MURDER (Poppy McAllister Mystery Book 4) by Libby Klein in exchange for an honest review. Poppy McAllister has more going on in her life than she can handle. Poppy’s making desserts for a restaurant, a coffee shop, and for her bed and breakfast patrons. On top of that, Poppy’s managing her new Paleo diet, exercising each morning, working as free crew for the senior center’s production of Mamma Mia, and trying to mitigate the biddies’ ongoing crime spree. Additionally, Poppy’s trying to make up her mind between two suitors; she’s swearing off the smoochy stuff until she can decide, but her resolve keeps faltering. To heap even more stress on an already frazzled Poppy, there’s a mystery car parked in the neighborhood, a troll is attacking Poppy’s businesses, frequent accidents plague the play, and there’s been a mysterious death on set. The troublesome biddies spur Poppy into trying to solve the various problems while helping themselves to Poppy’s goodies.
I like this book and enjoy the series. I recommend this novel to fans of Libby Klein, the Poppy McAllister Mysteries, and cozy mysteries featuring bakeries, coffee shops, restaurants, bed and breakfasts, dietary restrictions, elders run wild, and theater productions.
#TheaterNightsAreMurder #NetGalley
I like this book and enjoy the series. I recommend this novel to fans of Libby Klein, the Poppy McAllister Mysteries, and cozy mysteries featuring bakeries, coffee shops, restaurants, bed and breakfasts, dietary restrictions, elders run wild, and theater productions.
#TheaterNightsAreMurder #NetGalley
November 9, 2019
Love this series. Poppy owns a bed and breakfast with her aunt. Also is baking for 2 restaurants. In the meantime her aunt Ginny and her friends try out for the senior center play when an old flame from the past comes back to town. While there are tryouts someone is killed. Poppy and the biddies sent out to find the killer before they kill again. Poppy is also juggling with 2 men who want to be her 1 and only true love
December 31, 2019
I think Libby Klein’s murder plotting skills get stronger and stronger with each installment of the Poppy McAllister Mystery series.
The murder to solve this time around is who killed Duke, a retired cop, active senior centre member and a friend of Aunt Ginny’s. There are several suspects and when possible victim identities get muddled up, the pool of suspects grows even larger. The motives are juicy, the opportunities are circumstantial and the means is intriguing. The clues and red herrings intermix to keep things interesting. All in all, it makes for excellent cozy mystery reading that will keep you guessing and turning the pages.
There are other storylines too and twists and turns abound. There are the plot-lines about lost loves, new loves, secret babies, insidious Yelp reviews and an old town mystery...
Oh, and the baking! The pink champagne cupcakes and raspberry linzer cookies had me salivating and my tummy craving. Some recipes are included at the end!
In terms of the characters, sadly the love triangle continues. I really thought this would be the last of it. The story even starts off leaning heavily towards Gia, as does most of the book, but once again, Tim makes one last grand gesture. I’m definitely team Gia by this point, and really hope that by the end of Book 5 we get some closure on this.
That said, I absolutely adored the snappiness and chemistry of the dialogue between Gia and Poppy when they discussed past loves staying in the past. I could just about feel the tension coming off the page.
Then there are the sleuthing oldies. Aunt Ginny and her gang are hilarious, especially if you’re not the one who has to go running after them and try to keep them out of trouble. With age and experience I suppose come a certain freedom to act more uninhibited...? Either way these gals brighten up the tale, and the pages where they appear do provide LOL moments.
Overall, I fully enjoyed reading Theatre Nights Are Murder and look forward to continuing the series.
The murder to solve this time around is who killed Duke, a retired cop, active senior centre member and a friend of Aunt Ginny’s. There are several suspects and when possible victim identities get muddled up, the pool of suspects grows even larger. The motives are juicy, the opportunities are circumstantial and the means is intriguing. The clues and red herrings intermix to keep things interesting. All in all, it makes for excellent cozy mystery reading that will keep you guessing and turning the pages.
There are other storylines too and twists and turns abound. There are the plot-lines about lost loves, new loves, secret babies, insidious Yelp reviews and an old town mystery...
Oh, and the baking! The pink champagne cupcakes and raspberry linzer cookies had me salivating and my tummy craving. Some recipes are included at the end!
In terms of the characters, sadly the love triangle continues. I really thought this would be the last of it. The story even starts off leaning heavily towards Gia, as does most of the book, but once again, Tim makes one last grand gesture. I’m definitely team Gia by this point, and really hope that by the end of Book 5 we get some closure on this.
That said, I absolutely adored the snappiness and chemistry of the dialogue between Gia and Poppy when they discussed past loves staying in the past. I could just about feel the tension coming off the page.
Then there are the sleuthing oldies. Aunt Ginny and her gang are hilarious, especially if you’re not the one who has to go running after them and try to keep them out of trouble. With age and experience I suppose come a certain freedom to act more uninhibited...? Either way these gals brighten up the tale, and the pages where they appear do provide LOL moments.
Overall, I fully enjoyed reading Theatre Nights Are Murder and look forward to continuing the series.
December 25, 2019
This is a fantastic series so I was super excited when Libby asked me to review her book before the release date of 12/31/19. And I'll just let you know (if you haven't read my other reviews in this series) that I am Team Gia.
So much to say about this book - it made me laugh, it kept me guessing regarding the crime, and it had me rooting for Poppy to make a decision regarding who she wants to date between Tim and Gia. (see my note above....GIA!!!)
What I always enjoy about this series - the relationship between Poppy and her Aunt. It is wacky, yet caring, all at the same time. Poppy never expected to be running a B&B but it was the only way to save the family home. Then there are her aunt's friends - the Biddies as they are called in the book. They remind me of the Jewish old lady stereotype that you see in movies and such, they are all in your business, offering advice you may not want, and sometimes just being a nuisance. But at other times they can save your bacon...or your life!
I chuckled at the theater production that is the main focus of this story and where the murder occurs. Imagine a bunch of senior citizens performing Mamma Mia (cue ABBA music). Since I have seen the movie I could picture these people singing and dancing and it is a comical performance. While I won't give away too much, let's just say opening night didn't quite go according to the script.
Besides the usual murder, there are several other sub-plots occurring at the same time. There is the case of who is leaving bad reviews for anything that Poppy touches (her B&B, Gia's coffeeshop, Tim's restaurant). The answer should be obvious but I have to admit I didn't think about this character. You will also meet some guests of the B&B and there is something not quite right. It is a very minor plot but it adds to the dimension of the story. Aunt Ginny reconnects with her first love from high school, an adopted child looking for his birth parents, and Poppy trying to extract herself from a potential relationship with Iggy, the pianist for the musical. All of these bring the story together and provide depth for several characters.
I haven't even touched on the food mentioned throughout the book. Poppy may not have formal training but she is a skilled baker and the recipes leave my mouth watering. I may be ok having gluten, but these recipes intrigue me and I want to try a few of them out. I'm glad the recipes are provided at the end.
There is a love triangle and I am hoping that the next book will have Poppy choosing one of the men interested in her. Both men in this book have demonstrated their feelings for her and she has some clarity at the end regarding their feelings for her. So, Poppy, it's time to choose!
I do want to share this one line that really made me laugh and you won't understand it unless you read the book and then you might have the same reaction as me:
"He said to tell you now you're even for touching his Skywalker. I don't even want to know what that means."
Overall we give this book 5 paws and can't wait to figure out what is in store for the gang.
So much to say about this book - it made me laugh, it kept me guessing regarding the crime, and it had me rooting for Poppy to make a decision regarding who she wants to date between Tim and Gia. (see my note above....GIA!!!)
What I always enjoy about this series - the relationship between Poppy and her Aunt. It is wacky, yet caring, all at the same time. Poppy never expected to be running a B&B but it was the only way to save the family home. Then there are her aunt's friends - the Biddies as they are called in the book. They remind me of the Jewish old lady stereotype that you see in movies and such, they are all in your business, offering advice you may not want, and sometimes just being a nuisance. But at other times they can save your bacon...or your life!
I chuckled at the theater production that is the main focus of this story and where the murder occurs. Imagine a bunch of senior citizens performing Mamma Mia (cue ABBA music). Since I have seen the movie I could picture these people singing and dancing and it is a comical performance. While I won't give away too much, let's just say opening night didn't quite go according to the script.
Besides the usual murder, there are several other sub-plots occurring at the same time. There is the case of who is leaving bad reviews for anything that Poppy touches (her B&B, Gia's coffeeshop, Tim's restaurant). The answer should be obvious but I have to admit I didn't think about this character. You will also meet some guests of the B&B and there is something not quite right. It is a very minor plot but it adds to the dimension of the story. Aunt Ginny reconnects with her first love from high school, an adopted child looking for his birth parents, and Poppy trying to extract herself from a potential relationship with Iggy, the pianist for the musical. All of these bring the story together and provide depth for several characters.
I haven't even touched on the food mentioned throughout the book. Poppy may not have formal training but she is a skilled baker and the recipes leave my mouth watering. I may be ok having gluten, but these recipes intrigue me and I want to try a few of them out. I'm glad the recipes are provided at the end.
There is a love triangle and I am hoping that the next book will have Poppy choosing one of the men interested in her. Both men in this book have demonstrated their feelings for her and she has some clarity at the end regarding their feelings for her. So, Poppy, it's time to choose!
I do want to share this one line that really made me laugh and you won't understand it unless you read the book and then you might have the same reaction as me:
"He said to tell you now you're even for touching his Skywalker. I don't even want to know what that means."
Overall we give this book 5 paws and can't wait to figure out what is in store for the gang.
August 28, 2021
I am working my way through Libby Klein's Poppy McAllister series and enjoying these cozy mysteries. In this story, the senior's center in Cape May is putting on a production of Mama Mia. Aunt Ibby's high school sweetheart, retired actor Royce Hanson, has returned home to star in the production. Opening night is scheduled for February 13th and many are worried about the superstition of opening on the 13th. It seems the production may be jinxed as props are stolen, sets are sabotaged, and there is even a death threat. The final straw is when a cast member plunges to his death from a catwalk. Instead of shutting down, Poppy, Aunt Ibby and the rest of the cast decide they need to proceed and solve the crimes on their own before someone else if hurt or killed.
I love the characters in this series. Poppy is a forty something widow who moved back to her hometown of Cape May to be near her older Aunt Ginny and has made a living for herself baking gluten-free goodies to sell and running the bed and breakfast they opened after converting Aunt Ginny’s home. Aunt Ibby is a hoot. She and her friends are hilarious and look forward to their antics in each story. Royce Hanson was Aunt Ginny’s high school sweetheart and the one that got away, so his return has raised some eyebrows. The murder mystery kept me guessing and I didn't know who the killer was until the reveal. There were some red herrings and a few suspects as well as a couple of twists. Poppy is always busy, so it was no surprise that there's also a secondary mystery with Poppy trying to figure out who is responsible for leaving fake and negative reviews about the B&B. My one complaint is that Poppy is still involved in a love triangle, which is one thing that really bothers me. I am hoping it ends soon as I am definitely getting tired of it. Overall, Theatre Nights Are Murder is a humorous and entertaining cozy mystery that kept me laughing out loud throughout the book.
I love the characters in this series. Poppy is a forty something widow who moved back to her hometown of Cape May to be near her older Aunt Ginny and has made a living for herself baking gluten-free goodies to sell and running the bed and breakfast they opened after converting Aunt Ginny’s home. Aunt Ibby is a hoot. She and her friends are hilarious and look forward to their antics in each story. Royce Hanson was Aunt Ginny’s high school sweetheart and the one that got away, so his return has raised some eyebrows. The murder mystery kept me guessing and I didn't know who the killer was until the reveal. There were some red herrings and a few suspects as well as a couple of twists. Poppy is always busy, so it was no surprise that there's also a secondary mystery with Poppy trying to figure out who is responsible for leaving fake and negative reviews about the B&B. My one complaint is that Poppy is still involved in a love triangle, which is one thing that really bothers me. I am hoping it ends soon as I am definitely getting tired of it. Overall, Theatre Nights Are Murder is a humorous and entertaining cozy mystery that kept me laughing out loud throughout the book.
December 14, 2019
Theater Nights are Murder is the fourth installment in the Poppy McAllister Mystery series featuring Poppy and her Aunt Ginny, co-owners of the Butterfly Wings Bed and Breakfast located in Cape May, NJ. Poppy has been busy getting the B&B up and running and cooking desserts for her ex boyfriend Tim's restaurant and for the Italian Barista, Gia.
The local Senior center is going to be putting on a production of Mamma Mia and Aunt Ginny and her friends "the biddies" are all looking forward to being a part of the play. The problem is that Aunt Ginny's high school boyfriend turned Broadway actor Royce Hansen has come back to town and will be in the leading role. Unfortunately, the woman who broke up Ginny and Royce in high school, Moira Finkelbaum aka Blanche Carrigan, is also back living in town and she's determined to keep Royce and Ginny apart.
Strange things start happening on set and when one of the actors is found dead beneath the catwalk
the police think it's suicide, but Poppy, Ginny and the ladies think it was murder. Plenty of suspects including Royce's agent and the two goons who've taken up residence in the front row keep the ladies busy investigating.
While I have really enjoyed this series so far, the main characters and their zany adventures, I absolutely despise the love triangle in any series. Unfortunately in this addition to the series the author seems to focus more on the triangle than on the murder and that was pretty disappointing. I seriously hope that the author wraps up Poppy's romance soon or I will probably have to abandon Poppy, Aunt Ginny, Figaro and the biddies.
I received an advanced copy of Theater Nights are Murder from NetGalley via Kensington Publishing. While not required to write a review I am happy to offer my honest opinion.
The local Senior center is going to be putting on a production of Mamma Mia and Aunt Ginny and her friends "the biddies" are all looking forward to being a part of the play. The problem is that Aunt Ginny's high school boyfriend turned Broadway actor Royce Hansen has come back to town and will be in the leading role. Unfortunately, the woman who broke up Ginny and Royce in high school, Moira Finkelbaum aka Blanche Carrigan, is also back living in town and she's determined to keep Royce and Ginny apart.
Strange things start happening on set and when one of the actors is found dead beneath the catwalk
the police think it's suicide, but Poppy, Ginny and the ladies think it was murder. Plenty of suspects including Royce's agent and the two goons who've taken up residence in the front row keep the ladies busy investigating.
While I have really enjoyed this series so far, the main characters and their zany adventures, I absolutely despise the love triangle in any series. Unfortunately in this addition to the series the author seems to focus more on the triangle than on the murder and that was pretty disappointing. I seriously hope that the author wraps up Poppy's romance soon or I will probably have to abandon Poppy, Aunt Ginny, Figaro and the biddies.
I received an advanced copy of Theater Nights are Murder from NetGalley via Kensington Publishing. While not required to write a review I am happy to offer my honest opinion.
January 2, 2020
This was my first foray into the Poppy McAllister series, but it won't be my last. Even though I was new to the characters, I love Cape May and it really helped me visualize the setting. I quickly got to know the characters and didn't miss a beat when it came to their dynamics. The "biddies" had me cracking up continuously as the story went along. Their spy-like maneuvers were entertaining and I loved how they assumed they would need to investigate. Poppy was a delight to read about, even though she was pretty hard on herself. There was a lot going on in her life and of course a love triangle that she was stuck in the middle of (woe is her). I'm not a huge fan of love triangles, but since this is the first book that I've read of this one it didn't bother me much (though I of course already have a favorite contender).
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The plot was dramatic and over the top, but with the Biddies and other seniors involved it was humorous too. The murder didn't happen until well into the book, but it was fun enough that I didn't quite notice and there were other sketchy things going on. I had some ideas about who the murderer was, but can say that I was very wrong. I loved some of the twists near the end and how people weren't who they seemed. Poor Poppy getting involved with a murder again even though she tried to stay out of it. I also really enjoyed the small aspect of the B&B and the ensuing drama there.
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I am looking forward to continuing this series to see what else the "biddies" and Poppy get up to in this lovely setting. Thank you to the publishers for a copy of this book, I am happy to give my honest thoughts.
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The plot was dramatic and over the top, but with the Biddies and other seniors involved it was humorous too. The murder didn't happen until well into the book, but it was fun enough that I didn't quite notice and there were other sketchy things going on. I had some ideas about who the murderer was, but can say that I was very wrong. I loved some of the twists near the end and how people weren't who they seemed. Poor Poppy getting involved with a murder again even though she tried to stay out of it. I also really enjoyed the small aspect of the B&B and the ensuing drama there.
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I am looking forward to continuing this series to see what else the "biddies" and Poppy get up to in this lovely setting. Thank you to the publishers for a copy of this book, I am happy to give my honest thoughts.
January 6, 2020
Not just Theater Nights are Murder, all the rigmarole around choosing among two boyfriends is murdering my interest in this series. And that’s despite being gluten-free myself for years. Maybe Poppy should investigate polyamory relationships so she can stick with both guys. You don’t see that in cozy mysteries!
Seriously, I enjoyed the dynamic between Aunt Ginny, the old biddies, and Poppy. They make a good, possibly borderline dysfunctional but hilarious, team. I also enjoyed Figaro the cat’s antics.
There are seven gluten-free recipes included at the end of Theater Nights are Murder. If you are gluten-free, this is one of the few times that you are better off than your bread-eating companions and can try out recipes from the book. The mystery was good and the humor was on point. However, it is the characters that will make you return to the series. Now if only Poppy could make up her mind. What a problem to have! 3.5 stars rounded up to 4 stars!
Thanks to Kensington Books and NetGalley for a copy in exchange for my honest review.
Seriously, I enjoyed the dynamic between Aunt Ginny, the old biddies, and Poppy. They make a good, possibly borderline dysfunctional but hilarious, team. I also enjoyed Figaro the cat’s antics.
There are seven gluten-free recipes included at the end of Theater Nights are Murder. If you are gluten-free, this is one of the few times that you are better off than your bread-eating companions and can try out recipes from the book. The mystery was good and the humor was on point. However, it is the characters that will make you return to the series. Now if only Poppy could make up her mind. What a problem to have! 3.5 stars rounded up to 4 stars!
Thanks to Kensington Books and NetGalley for a copy in exchange for my honest review.
January 8, 2020
What a fun book! Once again Libby Klein had me laughing so hard I snorted many times !!!
I enjoy Poppy, Aunt Ginny and the Biddies....
Triangle Loves (Don't want to give it away), throw in Murders at the Senior Center revolving a play a d so much more.......Fantastic Recioes included!!!!!!
I enjoy Poppy, Aunt Ginny and the Biddies....
Triangle Loves (Don't want to give it away), throw in Murders at the Senior Center revolving a play a d so much more.......Fantastic Recioes included!!!!!!
September 15, 2024
Hilarious!
December 25, 2019
4.5 Stars
This is the fourth book in the Poppy McAllister Mystery series by Libby Klein.
Poppy McAllister has a problem. She is in love with two men! And she can’t decide which to pursue. So, she relents and joins the crew of the new Mamma Mia musical happening in their local theater. A veteran actor returns to town to appear in the starring role. Poppy’s Aunt Ginny is perfect for the role of Donna but gets kicked back to costumes due to some theater politics. When the retired police officer who wanted them put on his self-written play dies, everyone realizes that all these accidents just might not be accidents at all.
This book really keeps your attention the entire way through. Everyone seems to have double motivations to have done the deed. Since I participated in a lot of theater in high school, this gave me all the warm feelings and transported me back to those fun theater days. Just when you think the murder is about to be solved, something else happens to further complicate things. It all seems so straightforward in the beginning and by the end what we are left with is a complicated mess. (A mess for the characters, that is.) So many lies and secrets are uncovered they could start their own soap opera without any problem.
Great book! I plan to read more by this author very soon!
If you love a good cozy mystery that gives you all the feels, definitely pick this one up. You won’t be disappointed.
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
This is the fourth book in the Poppy McAllister Mystery series by Libby Klein.
Poppy McAllister has a problem. She is in love with two men! And she can’t decide which to pursue. So, she relents and joins the crew of the new Mamma Mia musical happening in their local theater. A veteran actor returns to town to appear in the starring role. Poppy’s Aunt Ginny is perfect for the role of Donna but gets kicked back to costumes due to some theater politics. When the retired police officer who wanted them put on his self-written play dies, everyone realizes that all these accidents just might not be accidents at all.
This book really keeps your attention the entire way through. Everyone seems to have double motivations to have done the deed. Since I participated in a lot of theater in high school, this gave me all the warm feelings and transported me back to those fun theater days. Just when you think the murder is about to be solved, something else happens to further complicate things. It all seems so straightforward in the beginning and by the end what we are left with is a complicated mess. (A mess for the characters, that is.) So many lies and secrets are uncovered they could start their own soap opera without any problem.
Great book! I plan to read more by this author very soon!
If you love a good cozy mystery that gives you all the feels, definitely pick this one up. You won’t be disappointed.
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
December 27, 2019
When the Cape May New Jersey Senior Center, decides to stage the play Mamma Mia - mystery, chaos, humor, romance, snacking and murder are part of the production! It's up to Poppy and her gang, the "biddies", to find out who wants to shut down the play and some of the actors - permanently. Poppy also has to find out who is trying to ruin the reputation of B&B that she and Aunt Ginny have just started while juggling two suitors, a cranky but lovable cat, her Aunt Ginny and Ginny's former beau who has reappeared, several baking jobs and getting back to her healthy life regime! Whew, she's got her work cut out for her!
The mystery kept me guessing, Figaro, the "biddies" and Poppy kept me laughing and the romantic storyline for both Poppy and Aunt Ginny centered around difficult choices. Having the mystery set around a play presented a fun and deadly backdrop for the story. I love the "biddies" and they could have their own series (hint, hint). I enjoyed the "look" into the ladies younger lives and how choices made back "in the day" influenced choices of the present day. The mystery is written in the wonderfully witty and fast-paced writing style of Libby Klein.
If you want a cozy mystery that keeps you guessing, filled with friendship, humor, romance, a smart feline and delicious food (and recipes!) this series is the one for you!
Waiting impatiently for the next book!
I was given an ARC by the author for a fair and honest review of this book.
The mystery kept me guessing, Figaro, the "biddies" and Poppy kept me laughing and the romantic storyline for both Poppy and Aunt Ginny centered around difficult choices. Having the mystery set around a play presented a fun and deadly backdrop for the story. I love the "biddies" and they could have their own series (hint, hint). I enjoyed the "look" into the ladies younger lives and how choices made back "in the day" influenced choices of the present day. The mystery is written in the wonderfully witty and fast-paced writing style of Libby Klein.
If you want a cozy mystery that keeps you guessing, filled with friendship, humor, romance, a smart feline and delicious food (and recipes!) this series is the one for you!
Waiting impatiently for the next book!
I was given an ARC by the author for a fair and honest review of this book.
November 3, 2019
Poppy McAllister has her hands full, she’s baking for two different restaurants, working the lights for the senior center’s first ever theater production, and running her family’s newly launched B&B…all while trying to stick to her Paleo diet and decide which of the two men in her life truly has her heart. That’s a lot of a mere mortal to take on, but Poppy is no mere mortal, she’s a Jersey girl!
When Aunt Ginny’s high school sweetheart returns home after retiring from a long Broadway career and is cast as the male lead in the production of Mama Mia, things get interesting. Not only has he returned home, but the woman who came between Royce and Ginny all those years ago, gets cast in the female lead, though Ginny is far better. Then the fun really begins as accidents and mishaps begin to plague the production. But it’s when another senior in the cast is found dead on the stage that Poppy and the biddies begin to start poking around. So many secrets and suspects keep the ladies busy, but will they be able to protect the cast and find the murderer before tragedy strikes again?
What a fun series! Being a Jersey gal myself, I adore Poppy’s attitude and snarkiness. Add in some gluten free recipes that sound delish even if you aren’t going gluten free, and you have not only a book that is hard to put down and recipes that are going to keep you busy baking after the book is finished. Each book stands alone just fine if you haven’t read the previous ones…though you’ll quickly add them to your list of books to read!
When Aunt Ginny’s high school sweetheart returns home after retiring from a long Broadway career and is cast as the male lead in the production of Mama Mia, things get interesting. Not only has he returned home, but the woman who came between Royce and Ginny all those years ago, gets cast in the female lead, though Ginny is far better. Then the fun really begins as accidents and mishaps begin to plague the production. But it’s when another senior in the cast is found dead on the stage that Poppy and the biddies begin to start poking around. So many secrets and suspects keep the ladies busy, but will they be able to protect the cast and find the murderer before tragedy strikes again?
What a fun series! Being a Jersey gal myself, I adore Poppy’s attitude and snarkiness. Add in some gluten free recipes that sound delish even if you aren’t going gluten free, and you have not only a book that is hard to put down and recipes that are going to keep you busy baking after the book is finished. Each book stands alone just fine if you haven’t read the previous ones…though you’ll quickly add them to your list of books to read!
November 6, 2019
Poppy is back and she's better than ever in Theater Nights are Murder.
Aunt Ginny and the biddies are excited to be putting on a play at the senior center, and when Aunt Ginny's old flame makes a comeback, it seems like high school again.
Unfortunately not everyone is happy with Royce's return, and when strange accidents start happening, and someone falls victim to a tragic accident, everyone becomes paranoid.
I absolutely loved this book, it was full of humor, twists and turns, and of course, filled with plenty of mayhem.
This is a definite must read.
Aunt Ginny and the biddies are excited to be putting on a play at the senior center, and when Aunt Ginny's old flame makes a comeback, it seems like high school again.
Unfortunately not everyone is happy with Royce's return, and when strange accidents start happening, and someone falls victim to a tragic accident, everyone becomes paranoid.
I absolutely loved this book, it was full of humor, twists and turns, and of course, filled with plenty of mayhem.
This is a definite must read.
January 6, 2025
"Theater Nights Are Murder (A Poppy McAllister Mystery #4)" by Libby Klein is a lot of theater production mystery with a bit of Valentine's Day. I particularly enjoyed this one because it reminded me of why I do theater when I do. Especially with all the antics the senior crew of this series gets up to. I keep saying it, if you want a good cozy mystery with lots of laughs, this is the series for that.
The senior theater group is putting on a production of Mama Mia! over Valentine's Day weekend. Poppy gets roped into helping with the lights. Lots of little accidents start happening around the theater and one of the leading men ends up falling from one of the catwalks. Were they the intended victim or was someone else? Was it suicide?
My only complaint in this one is, why is there still a love triangle between Poppy, Gia and Tim? Yes, Tim can be sweet. Only when it suits him though. Gia is constantly supporting her and making her a priority. Then again, Poppy is still pretty in herself loathing phase. If I hadn't read a book further in the series already, I would be really annoyed with her.
The senior theater group is putting on a production of Mama Mia! over Valentine's Day weekend. Poppy gets roped into helping with the lights. Lots of little accidents start happening around the theater and one of the leading men ends up falling from one of the catwalks. Were they the intended victim or was someone else? Was it suicide?
My only complaint in this one is, why is there still a love triangle between Poppy, Gia and Tim? Yes, Tim can be sweet. Only when it suits him though. Gia is constantly supporting her and making her a priority. Then again, Poppy is still pretty in herself loathing phase. If I hadn't read a book further in the series already, I would be really annoyed with her.
January 2, 2020
Synopsis:
The last thing gluten-free baker Poppy McAllister needs in her life is more drama--or more murder . . .
Poppy thought her toughest challenge this winter would be sticking to her Paleo diet and filling all her orders for her gluten-free goodies, but now she has to choose between two suitors. She's not the only one with boyfriend drama. Aunt Ginny's long-ago high-school beau, Royce Hanson, a retired Broadway actor, has returned to Cape May, New Jersey, to star in a Senior Center staging of Mamma Mia. Leaving Aunt Ginny to wonder: What's his motivation?
Slated to open February 13th, the problem-plagued production seems to be cursed--with stolen props, sabotage, and even a death threat. But when a cast member plunges to his death from a catwalk, it soon becomes clear a murderer is waiting in the wings. Now Poppy, Aunt Ginny, and a supporting cast must take center stage to catch the killer--before it's curtains for someone else . . .
Includes Seven Recipes from Poppy's Kitchen!
"Fans of Chopped will have fun juggling the complicated set of suspects and following a romantic triangle that has yet to be resolved."
--Kirkus Reviews on Restaurant Weeks Are Murder (Goodreads)
Review:
I really enjoy the characters, they are funny, quirky and caring. I really enjoy the relationship between Poppy and Aunt Ginny, you can tell how much they love each other. And the biddies add a lot to the story and brought a lot of humor. And I love Figaro, Poppy’s cat, and all of the antics that he pulls. I have to say that I am not a fan of this love triangle and I really hope Poppy makes up her mind in the next book. That is only my opinion and other readers may not agree with me.
The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and that added so much to the story. Through much of the book I felt like I was right there listening in on conversations and watching all of the action at the theater. There were a few mysteries to solve, which I really enjoyed.
I enjoy this series a lot and I would highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys a well written cozy mystery. With plenty of laughs and delightful characters, what’s not to love?
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Kensington Books, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.
The last thing gluten-free baker Poppy McAllister needs in her life is more drama--or more murder . . .
Poppy thought her toughest challenge this winter would be sticking to her Paleo diet and filling all her orders for her gluten-free goodies, but now she has to choose between two suitors. She's not the only one with boyfriend drama. Aunt Ginny's long-ago high-school beau, Royce Hanson, a retired Broadway actor, has returned to Cape May, New Jersey, to star in a Senior Center staging of Mamma Mia. Leaving Aunt Ginny to wonder: What's his motivation?
Slated to open February 13th, the problem-plagued production seems to be cursed--with stolen props, sabotage, and even a death threat. But when a cast member plunges to his death from a catwalk, it soon becomes clear a murderer is waiting in the wings. Now Poppy, Aunt Ginny, and a supporting cast must take center stage to catch the killer--before it's curtains for someone else . . .
Includes Seven Recipes from Poppy's Kitchen!
"Fans of Chopped will have fun juggling the complicated set of suspects and following a romantic triangle that has yet to be resolved."
--Kirkus Reviews on Restaurant Weeks Are Murder (Goodreads)
Review:
I really enjoy the characters, they are funny, quirky and caring. I really enjoy the relationship between Poppy and Aunt Ginny, you can tell how much they love each other. And the biddies add a lot to the story and brought a lot of humor. And I love Figaro, Poppy’s cat, and all of the antics that he pulls. I have to say that I am not a fan of this love triangle and I really hope Poppy makes up her mind in the next book. That is only my opinion and other readers may not agree with me.
The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and that added so much to the story. Through much of the book I felt like I was right there listening in on conversations and watching all of the action at the theater. There were a few mysteries to solve, which I really enjoyed.
I enjoy this series a lot and I would highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys a well written cozy mystery. With plenty of laughs and delightful characters, what’s not to love?
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Kensington Books, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.
January 1, 2020
"Theater Nights Are Murder" the 4th instalment in the "Poppy McAllister Mystery" series by Libby Klein. I know I am in for a treat when I pick up a book by Libby Klein her humor always keeps me snickering throughout the entire story especially when the biddies get up to all sorts of antics.
The last thing gluten-free baker Poppy McAllister needs in her life is more drama—or more murder ...
Poppy thought her toughest challenge this winter would be sticking to her Paleo diet and filling all her orders for her gluten-free goodies, but now she has to choose between two suitors. She’s not the only one with boyfriend drama. Aunt Ginny’s long-ago high-school beau, Royce Hanson, a retired Broadway actor, has returned to Cape May, New Jersey, to star in a Senior Center staging of Mamma Mia. Leaving Aunt Ginny to wonder: What's his motivation?
Slated to open February 13th, the problem-plagued production seems to be cursed—with stolen props, sabotage, and even a death threat. But when a cast member plunges to his death from a catwalk, it soon becomes clear a murderer is waiting in the wings. Now Poppy, Aunt Ginny, and a supporting cast must take center stage to catch the killer—before it's curtains for someone else . . .
Includes Seven Recipes from Poppy’s Kitchen!
The characters are quirky, well rounded and seem real as I could relate to each of them. I love Poppy's relationship with her Aunt Ginny, and the "Biddies" but lol I would not want to be the one to keep them from getting into mischief! Plus we cant forget about her mischievous cat, Figuro!
I found the mystery was well written and paced with lots of twists and turns. It kept me guessing to the end. I look forward to the next installment and finding out which man, Tim or Gia, Poppy will finally give her heart too.
I recommend this book to all my cozy lover friends.
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from Kensington Books and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The last thing gluten-free baker Poppy McAllister needs in her life is more drama—or more murder ...
Poppy thought her toughest challenge this winter would be sticking to her Paleo diet and filling all her orders for her gluten-free goodies, but now she has to choose between two suitors. She’s not the only one with boyfriend drama. Aunt Ginny’s long-ago high-school beau, Royce Hanson, a retired Broadway actor, has returned to Cape May, New Jersey, to star in a Senior Center staging of Mamma Mia. Leaving Aunt Ginny to wonder: What's his motivation?
Slated to open February 13th, the problem-plagued production seems to be cursed—with stolen props, sabotage, and even a death threat. But when a cast member plunges to his death from a catwalk, it soon becomes clear a murderer is waiting in the wings. Now Poppy, Aunt Ginny, and a supporting cast must take center stage to catch the killer—before it's curtains for someone else . . .
Includes Seven Recipes from Poppy’s Kitchen!
The characters are quirky, well rounded and seem real as I could relate to each of them. I love Poppy's relationship with her Aunt Ginny, and the "Biddies" but lol I would not want to be the one to keep them from getting into mischief! Plus we cant forget about her mischievous cat, Figuro!
I found the mystery was well written and paced with lots of twists and turns. It kept me guessing to the end. I look forward to the next installment and finding out which man, Tim or Gia, Poppy will finally give her heart too.
I recommend this book to all my cozy lover friends.
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from Kensington Books and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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