The Playhouse Mysteries

Step inside the Elizabethan playhouse where mysteries abound. Who is performing murders on stage? Why would someone kidnap a young apprentice actor? Would the players rebel against the Queen? In the heart of the 17th-century playhouse district, Sara Watson is no stranger to blood and mayhem as the proprietor of Willow Wood Apothecary. But when the killing begins, Sara joins forces with Constable Hawkins, determined to unravel the chilling series of gruesome murders. Their pursuit of justice leads to the destruction of the killer, and gains unexpected allies in a young actor, his loyal canine companion, and a retired fighting bear. The mysteries have only just begun. As the crime fighters navigate a treacherous web of deception and danger, the threat of an insidious conspiracy looms large. The shadowy hand of royal spymasters hovers over the world of players and playhouses, ready to snuff out their lives and livelihoods. The clock is ticking, and Sara, Constable Hawkins, and their eclectic team must outsmart their powerful adversaries to protect not only their lives but also the vibrant world of the stage. Will they emerge victorious, or will the curtains fall on their daring quest for justice? The Playhouse Mysteries blends together historical figures and events to present the spirited lives and times of the Elizabethan playhouses, their actors, audience, friends, and family. But Southwark is also a dark, often deadly place, filled with secrets and intrigue where friends and enemies shift as quickly as the Thames.

The scene is set for murder... and Kitty Underhay's partner has been cast as the killer. Late Summer, 1933. After a quarrel with too-plucky-for-her-own-good amateur sleuth Kitty Underhay, dashing ex-army captain Matthew Bryant is nursing his wounds, and a tumbler of brandy, when there's a heavy knock at the door and he finds himself arrested for murder. The body of aspiring actress Pearl Bright has been found, strangled with one of Matt's own bootlaces, and the evidence seems to be stacked against him. The local constabulary might have locked Matt up, but before they can throw away the key, Kitty hears the news and hies to his aid, determined to prove his innocence. And when her investigations lead her to the home of retired theatre impresario Stanley Davenport, and the local amateur dramatics society, Kitty uncovers a web of deceit that stretches far beyond the stage make-up. But Kitty's digging is bringing her to the attention of the killer. Without her partner in crime-fighting, can Kitty expose them and clear Matt's name? Or will it be curtains for them both? A gripping Golden Age cozy murder mystery, perfect for fans of Agatha Christie, T E Kinsey and Lee Strauss. Readers love the Miss Underhay mysteries: 'This murder mystery is perfect... This story has it all. An absolute page-turner with characters to care about.' Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars 'Excellent cosy mystery! The story was gripping... I loved the character development with the little hint of romance and cannot wait for the next book.' Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars 'Another adventure for Kitty Underhay!... A page-turner that will keep you guessing.' Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars 'A wonderful book, I loved it.' Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars 'Excellent read! I really enjoyed both Kitty and Matt and found that the combination of them working together was wonderful!' Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars 'Loved this book! Great storyline, an interesting and believable main character and a great location... I can't wait for more adventures of Kitty in the near future!' Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars 'I felt right at home the moment I started reading. Helena Dixon is one of those writers who writes so well that I immediately feel comfortable and relaxed, and the story just flows... They are complex, believable characters who seem very real... In conclusion, it was a joy.' Goodreads reviewer 'It was an excellent novel, with a strong cast of characters. I enjoyed the storyline very much and would definitely recommend this book.' Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars 'The characters are relatable, the storyline is exciting, and the author kept me guessing about the ending.' Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars

She was admired by women and desired by men, until jealousy and past secrets took center stage. Help Cleo and her friends solve the murder of one of London's leading actresses. When a hotel guest's mistress is found dead in the stalls of the Piccadilly Playhouse, a verdict of suicide is given. Convinced his lover didn't kill herself, Lord Rumford wants the truth uncovered. Against his better judgement, he hires Cleo Fox to find the murderer. Cleo needs to solve this case if she wants to make a living from being a private detective. But she quickly learns that the truth is buried beneath years of secrets; secrets that powerful people want desperately to keep. With the help of her friends from the Mayfair Hotel, Cleo exposes the bitter rivalry and jealousy of London's West End. But can she find the killer before the final curtain closes on the Playhouse?

The Mystery in the Playhouse Synopsis Daniel is staying at his uncles farm for the summer. He discovers an old playhouse on the farm and is intrigued by it. His uncle has told him to stay out of the playhouse. Daniel is drawn to the playhouse. Every day he watches for any activity in and around the playhouse and eventually goes into it. That's when the mystery begins. That's when he has to make sure his uncle doesn't see him in the playhouse or on the porch of the playhouse. Daniel thinks there is a ghost in the playhouse. With the help of his uncle, Daniel solves the mystery.

She was admired by women and desired by men, until jealousy and past secrets took center stage. Help Cleo and her friends solve the murder of one of London’s leading actresses. When a hotel guest’s mistress is found dead in the stalls of the Piccadilly Playhouse, a verdict of suicide is given. Convinced his lover didn’t kill herself, Lord Rumford wants the truth uncovered. Against his better judgement, he hires Cleo Fox to find the murderer. Cleo needs to solve this case if she wants to make a living from being a private detective. But she quickly learns that the truth is buried beneath years of secrets; secrets that powerful people want desperately to keep. With the help of her friends from the Mayfair Hotel, Cleo exposes the bitter rivalry and jealousy of London’s West End. But can she find the killer before the final curtain closes on the Playhouse?

Suspicious accidents and other strange occurrences threaten opening night at the town's playhouse, and readers are encouraged to solve the mystery with twins Jen and Zeke.

Officer Marcus Moscowicz is a small town policeman with dreams of making it to detective. One fateful night, shots ring out at the surprise birthday party of Great American Novelist Arthur Whitney and the writer is killed…fatally. With the nearest detective an hour away, Marcus jumps at the chance to prove his sleuthing skills—with the help of his silent partner, Lou. But whodunit? Did Dahlia Whitney, Arthur's scene-stealing wife, give him a big finish? Is Barrette Lewis, the prima ballerina, the prime suspect? Did Dr. Griff, the overly-friendly psychiatrist, make a frenemy? Marcus has only a short amount of time to find the killer and make his name before the real detective arrives… and the ice cream melts!

The Paper Playhouse includes a series of how-to art projects that transform cardboard boxes, paper, and found books into imaginative toys, structures, and games for kids!