An advert is placed in the local newspaper stating there will be a death in act three of today’s matinee. Bertie is called in to investigate by friend and fellow playwright Alice. Although no murder takes place, a star of the show is later found dead in a dressing room. Bertie starts to investigate with the help of policeman Hugh.

The Review

A good traditional crime novel with everything you’d expect from a well written plot. As soon as I read about the murder is announced theme, I thought this was going to be very Christie-esque, and I was not disappointed. Each chapter was full of style and purpose, leading us through a whole cast of suspects. I was totally there in the moment with our sleuths guessing along as to whodunnit. It could have been easy to guess the murderer, but the writing led you off in different directions and information was well timed. Excellent dialogue and great rapport between characters. 4.5 stars as I would have liked a few more character and time period details, but these are very minor points. Overall a skillful classic crime novel, encore!

i loved this!! it’s such a brilliant continuation of the story and i love the range of characters! i
love the theatre setting!

A riff on Dame Agatha's <I>A Murder is Announced</I>, this quozy story of Bertie Carroll coming to the aid of frenemy Alice, with his...well, his policeman Hugh there to do...rather less than in the first book; and then narrowly miss out on taking a starring role in the murder as a suspect so that comes out okay.

The reason that sounds incoherent is that I felt more at sea this time than last. How is it Hugh, clearly being set up as Bertie's Gentleman Caller, recedes more into the background? I wasn't expecting grand passion, it may be set in the theatre world but it's 1930s London so discretion was all. However Hugh and Bertie weren't as bantering-mates-with-subtext this time. That was disappointing. I suspect we'll get more of the bantering, and maybe even that mooted swim from the first book, in the next one.

I was pretty clear on who killed Alice but really didn't know why until the polyphonic ending unfolded. This was more than enough to satisfy my series-mytery reader brain. The first book's adeptness at scene-setting that transported me, this time, to 1930s London (instead of the first book's Brighton) is very much in evidence again. The author is a theatre professional. It's clear he's also willing to do careful research into the past. It is always a pleasure to read the words of someone who presents the world being evoked with such panache and confidence.

Aside from missing more Hugh-time for Bertie and me, I felt the mystery was satisfying my series-story craving enough to get a solid four stars. I probably wouldn't have been as generous if I'd read this book first, so read Death on the Pier (my review linked above) before this. But don't miss out. Bertie and Hugh will wile away a few hours while you're focused on the made-up problems of fictional people.

Having read the first instalment in this series, I was excited to read the next and it didn't disappoint. I like the main character and his friends and the settings are interesting. Altogether it is just a nice easy to read murder mystery, not exactly cosy crime, but certainly like a comforting read on a cold day!

I really enjoyed this book. I was excited to read it from the description, and it didn't disappoint. This was my first in this series, and I didn't feel like I was missing anything by coming in cold, but I will definitely be reading the preceding books and be on the look out for more.

I haven't had the chance to read Jamie West's first book yet but I'll certainly be coming back for more Bertie Carroll investigations soon.

'Murder at the Matinee' is a wonderfully atmospheric cosy crime with hardly any violence in it, even the dead body is tastefully despatched! For someone like me who shies away from anything too graphic, this was a perfectly pitched level, enough detail to understand the story and try and work out whodunnit, but with very few gruesome details of the crime itself. I loved the detailed 1930s setting, the sounds and smells of the Gaiety theatre and the bustle of Romano's restaurants jumped off the page; after I finished reading, I went down a very satisfying rabbit hole googling 1930s London theatres!

But back to the story: celebrated playwright Bertie Carroll is visiting his friend and rival Alice, as her play wows the audiences in the Gaiety theatre. The stars of the play are married couple Katherine and Anthony Debenham; at the penultimate performance of the play, an anonymous letter is sent to the crew and posted in the newspapers saying there will be a murder in the third act of the show. There's no murder - but after the show, Anthony's lifeless body is found slumped in the dressing room. With all the backstage to-ing and fro-ing, there are a host of suspects to consider. Bertie and Alice start looking into it, only to be joined by Bertie's old school friend Hugh. There are tender looks and lingering stares between the two of them, but policeman Hugh knows that he can't do anything illegal, even if his heart is telling him otherwise.

Loved it -and already looking forward to where Jamie West will take Bertie and Hugh next!

3.7 Stars
One Liner: Cozy indeed! Read it if you like theaters

1934, London West End
Bertie Carroll has no choice but to go when his friendly rival and playwright, Alice, gives him a frantic call. Someone had placed an advert that a murder would take place in the third act of her play. Though Bertie has no idea how or what he should do, he goes to offer moral support to Alice.
However, a murder indeed occurs, and Alice is determined Bertie should solve it (with her help, of course)! With Inspector Hugh Chapman assigned to the case, Bertie has to navigate the clues as well as his feelings for his friend.
The story comes in the third-person POV of Bertie (mostly), Hugh, and Alice.

My Thoughts:
As someone who quite enjoyed the first book, I was excited to read this one. The author’s experience with theater shines even in this book. The detailing of the Gaiety theatre- the seats, the backend, etc., is so good! Also, don’t miss the author’s note at the end.
While this works as a standalone, reading the first book will be better. That’s because unlike other LGBT+ works, this one is subtle and hush-hush (better than book one, though). It was the same in book one. Though the friction between the lead characters is a bit more apparent, it doesn’t openly highlight anything.
Bertie is easy to like, which makes this an easy and entertaining read. Alice is a force to reckon with (for the MC and readers, lol). She does bring a lot of lighthearted moments and chuckles, though. Her characterization is steady, and I would be delighted to meet her again in future books.
Once again, the theater industry, actors, and relevant issues are the primary focus. The 1930s setting adds a lovely charm as well as provides details about how the backgrounds (for plays) were made, the local living conditions (based on income), transportation, etc. Quite a lot of history is packed into it without distracting from the plot.
The mystery as such is easy to guess. While it should have been a whodunit, it is more of a howdunit and whydunit for me since I guessed the killer early. The repetition of certain details made it even more obvious (toning it down a little should help the plot).
Bertie’s secretary, the efficient Miss. Gertie (Gertrude) Williams, has a small role in the last quarter. It’s fun meeting her again. Always give me characters that thrive on order and color-coded lists.
The reveal is not a monologue but comes from more than one character and involves others asking questions and such. This works well as it keeps the reader more invested in the proceedings.

To summarize, Murder at the Matinee is a light and cozy read set in the world of theater from the 1930s. It reads a lot like a classic mystery with the visible influence of Christie’s works.
We are told there will be more books in the series, so I’m hoping the next one will not be a long wait.
Thank you, NetGalley and Brabinger Publishing, for eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.

1934 Playwright Alice Crawford invited Bertie Carroll to the last matinee performance of her play because an advertisement stated there would be a murder in the third act. After the end of the play a body is discovered and DCI Hugh Chapman investigates. Alice and Bertie decide also to ask questions.
An entertaining and well-written historical mystery with its likeable main character.
An ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

In Murder at the Matinee, the second instalment of the Bertie Carroll Mysteries series, we once again find ourselves immersed in the vibrant and intriguing world of 1930s London theatreland. Gay playwright Bertie Carroll is thrust into the centre of a murder investigation when a mysterious newspaper advertisement ominously announces that a murder will occur during a show’s third act.

Rival playwright Alice reaches out to Bertie for his amateur detective skills. Together with Inspector Hugh Chapman, who returns from Death on the Pier, they combine Bertie’s intimate knowledge of the theatre with Chapman’s investigative expertise to unravel the mystery.

Jamie West masterfully crafts a historical mystery that is both engaging and richly detailed, showcasing his extensive knowledge of backstage workings from his day job in theatre. The characters are well-rounded and likeable, making it easy for readers to become invested in their journey. I particularly enjoyed the introduction of Alice, who added a fresh dynamic to the narrative.

While this book can be enjoyed as a standalone, I highly recommend reading the first instalment to fully appreciate the character development and backstory.

Much like in Death on the Pier, the chemistry between Bertie and Hugh is clear. However, given that Hugh is a detective and homosexuality was illegal in the UK during the 1930s, their connection is subtly suggested, reflecting the societal constraints and secrecy of the era.

With its Agatha Christie-esque twists, turns, and red herrings, Murder at the Matinee is a captivating whodunnit that will keep readers guessing until the very end. West has once again delivered a compelling narrative that celebrates the allure of the theatrical world.

Murder at the Matinee by Jamie West


🎭Historical mystery, LGBTQ+
📚Book 2 of Bertie Carroll mystery series


I’ve been patiently waiting for this book to come out since I read the first book in this series. I love historical mysteries and this book is no exception. I enjoyed reading about the theatre setting in the 1930s. I always enjoy the old method of investigation, no modern technology and more talks and footwork. The story was so gripping that I couldn’t put it down. I slightly felt Bertie and Hugh solved the murder out of nowhere, but it was still an enjoyable read. 

If you like Agatha Christie books, you will enjoy this book for sure! 


I also enjoyed reading the subtle romantic (or bromance) feeling between Bertie and Hugh. In this book, it explained more why Hugh has to act the way he is and how Bertie feels. Their relationship added more depth to the story and I’m investing in them. 


This is such a quick and cosy read. I can’t wait to read the next book already.

Set in the late 1930s in London’s vibrant West End theatre land. Bertie, a playwright, receives a call out of the blue from Alice Crawford, another celebrated playwright, whose play “Time to kill” is just coming to the end of a successful 12 week run. An announcement has been placed in the paper warning the audience that there will be a “terrifying and very real murder” in the third act of the final matinee performance.

Bertie is drawn into this intriguing and rather ominous situation with Alice citing his success the previous year in Brighton as making him ideal to help her out. Bertie takes his seat in the auditorium for the performance, wondering if again he was going to witness a murder on stage and hoping that history was not going to repeat itself. The performance continues with a growing sense of anticipation and suspense. There then follows an unexpected sequence of events.

This is a well researched book with excellent attention to detail around the theatrical world of this period and the inner workings of a theatre. The characters are well developed and I particularly liked the dynamics between Bertie and Alice and also between Bertie and Chief Inspector Hugh Chapman. There is a good balance of intrigue, suspense and humour in this quick paced story. A highly recommended read and I’m looking forward to more of Bertie’ adventures. Five stars without a doubt.

Having enjoyed the first murder solved by Bertie Carroll, I was looking forward to a return to the 1930s theatre world and this didn't disappoint. I did guess who the murderer was early on but some of the finer details to the plan were cleverly plotted right until the end. Thoroughly enjoyed this cosy crime!

**Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read an advanced e-copy of this book. All opinions are my own **

As a lover of matinees at the theatre and a fan of Agatha Christie it was likely that this book would appeal to me and I confirm that it lived up to expectations. Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the chance to ARC this book.

Bertie Carroll is an illustrious 1930s gay playwright, and amateur detective, whose murder mysteries have bought him fame and wide acclaim.

Bertie returns to London’s West End and vibrant theatre world.

A phone call from rival playwright and friend, Alice Crawford, asking him to come and help thwart a murder!
The murder was boldly advertised in the newspaper, saying it would happen in the third act of the Matinee.
Only there is no murder in the third act!

What follows is a classic whodunnit.

I really enjoyed this book and couldn’t put it down.
Very reminiscent of Poirot and Miss Marple and I could easily see these books being adapted for tv or streaming.

I will be recommending this book to all my friends and family.

Thank you to NetGalley and Brabinger Publishing for this eARC

This is book 2 in the Bertie Carroll mysteries books by Jamie West.

I haven't read the first one, but clearly they can be read as a standalone as I didn't feel that I had missed massive chunks of Bertie's life. And, there was just slight nods to the previous books storyline.

Murder At The Matinee is set in 1930s London in the middle of the west end. The whole story is reminiscent of the good ole whodunit murder mysteries. There's a whole cast of suspicious characters to point the finger of blame at. Then we have the detective and the playwright solving the case, slowly but surely deducing the evidence. And, getting lots of "aha" moments.

Cosy crime at it's finest. Jamie West sets the scenes well. Jamie works in the west end and he brings his experience and expertise flooding onto the pages. Bringing the story to life. He uses all our senses to immerse us into the story.

The Theatrical world, at least in Fiction, is populated by people who are theatrical, i.e. prone to be dramatic, or at least exaggerated in their normal life. When a small ad in a trade paper states that someone will really be murdered during an upcoming matinee performance of a murder-mystery at The Gaiety theatre, many people assume it is just a publicity stunt designed to boost sales. The playwright, Alice Crawford, and the theatre management know that this is not the case and reassure the cast that there will be no risk. However, Alice is concerned that it is not just a practical joke, and calls in Bertie Caroll, a rival writer but one who has a reputation as a sleuth having solved a murder a few months earlier. Bertie acknowledges that it is odd, but doesn’t seem particularly worried, and this view appears to be vindicated when the matinee ends without problems.
Alice, Bertie, and most of the cast repair to Romano’s Restaurant for a meal before the evening performance, only to be interrupted by Detective Inspector Hugh Chapman who arrives to inform them that the leading man, Anthony Debenham, has been murdered. His wife, Katherine, was leading lady in the show but any suspicions the police might have of her are swiftly assuaged because she is here in Romano’s in the company of reporter Margo Murray, having met at the theatre. So they alibi each other, as do Bertie and Alice, and in fact the rest of the cast and assorted theatre workers seem to cross alibi each other. Hugh, an old friend of Bertie’s with whom he had solved the previous murder, thus has a lot of potential suspects none of whom were in the theatre at the crucial time. The pair team up once more and start to unravel the puzzle.
This is the second book featuring Bertie and Hugh, but it works as a standalone because there is no real carry over except for the nature of their friendship, which is ambiguous. The story is set in 1934, at which time homosexuality was illegal (Male only, Female homosexuality was never a crime). The tentative bromance of the previous book is more obviously something else here, but while Bertie can at least go to ‘bohemian’ clubs Hugh cannot display any overt signs since it is actually his job to arrest people for ‘gross indecency’. The style of the book is reminiscent of golden age detective stories and clearly falls into the Cosy Crime category. I spotted the solution very early on, so I didn’t get very involved in the story. Readers who like to work out the ending of such books will find it underwhelming, but it will be a nice light read for many others.
I would like to thank NetGalley, the publishers and the author for providing me with a draft proof copy for the purpose of this review.

Having read and enjoyed Death on the Pier by this author I was really looking forward to reading Murder at the Matinee and it did not disappoint. I love reading books with a theatrical setting and Jamie West certainly knows his subject well.
Set in the Golden Age of the 1930’s, we are reintroduced to Bertie Carroll, amateur detective and playwright who first appeared in Death on the Pier. This time the crime concerns the murder of the leading actor in his friend Alice’s play. Bertie joins with his friend Hugh, a Scotland Yard detective to solve the mystery.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, as a huge Agatha Christie fan I was impressed with just how readable this was. The characters were entertaining and there was a suitable amount of twists and turns to keep me interested until the end. I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.

Book 2 in the Bertie Carroll series, Murder at the Matinee is set in 1934 at the historic Gaiety Theatre in London's West End. Bertie has been contacted by fellow playwright Alice Crawford who had seen a disturbing advert in the local newspaper referring to a crime that was going to be committed during the closing matinee performance of her play Time To Kill. Bertie is only too happy to help and is soon well into the investigation with his old friend DCI Hugh Chapman.

This was a quick and easy to read cosy mystery that would certainly appeal to fans of theatre as the authors expertise in this area shines through.

Digital ARC was provided by Netgalley and Brabinger Publishing

The book offers a charming premise with its unique pairing of characters—a detective and a playwright—who delve into the intricacies of the case with a mix of deduction and drama. The historical backdrop adds an engaging layer to the narrative, though at times, I found the setting a bit confusing and difficult to place.

The queer characters adds depth and diversity to the story. However, the book felt heavy on the investigative (+personal drama) details and left me feeling somewhat indifferent. The writing is alright though didn’t fully captivate me. The story has potentia and if you enjoy detailed sleuthing and historical settings, this might be worth a read.

I liked the book more than I expected.

Story and plot wise it was good but the writing style was what caught my attention more. It is quite flowy and smooth and I loved how easily I could turn the pages.

I wish I would have read Book 1 first, to gain more insight into Bertie but the book can still be read as a standalone.

My only complaint is that Bertie doesn't seem to have much character, so I am hoping to see some character growth in the next book (yes, I will definitely continue the series).

I received an advance copy of the book and I am leaving this review voluntarily.