The Man Who Couldn’t Miss: A Stewart Hoag Mystery (Stewart Hoag Mysteries, 10)

Dive into a world of witty banter, captivating mysteries, and charming characters with "The Man Who Couldn't Miss: A Stewart Hoag Mystery (Stewart Hoag Mysteries, 10)" by the Edgar Award-winning author, David Handler. This delightful hardcover edition, published by William Morrow in 2018, marks the tenth installment in the beloved Stewart Hoag series, and it's a must-read for fans of cozy mysteries with a touch of the supernatural and a whole lot of humor. Our protagonist, Stewart "Hoagy" Hoag, the Hollywood ghostwriter with a knack for finding trouble, is finally enjoying a well-deserved second act. After navigating the tumultuous world of celebrity memoirs, Hoagy is back in his creative groove, diligently working on his next novel. He's found refuge on a picturesque Connecticut farm, courtesy of his ex-wife, the glamorous and Oscar-winning actress, Merilee Nash. With his loyal, albeit cowardly, basset hound, Lulu, by his side, Hoagy even dares to dream of rekindling his romance with Merilee. Life seems idyllic, peaceful, and wonderfully fulfilling... until, of course, complications arise. Merilee is currently embroiled in a high-stakes project: directing a gala benefit production of Nol Coward's "Private Lives" to save the historic Sherbourne Playhouse. This legendary theatre holds a special place in her heart, as it served as the launching pad for the careers of acting giants like Katherine Hepburn, Marlon Brando, and Merilee herself. The pressure is on to deliver a spectacular performance that will secure the playhouse's future and solidify Merilee's reputation. Adding to the stress, the cast features three of Merilee's equally famous Oscar-winning classmates from the Yale School of Drama. But these aren't just any classmates; they share a complex history, intertwined secrets, and a connection to a mysterious figure named R.J. Romero, whose sudden disappearance sets alarm bells ringing. When the police inquire about Hoagy's knowledge of R.J. Romero, a dark secret from Merilee's past resurfaces, casting a shadow over the entire production. Tensions escalate as the cast members, each with their own motives and hidden agendas, rehearse for the play. The glamour of the stage masks a web of jealousy, rivalry, and long-held grudges. And then, tragedy strikes. One of the cast members is found murdered, plunging the playhouse into chaos and suspicion. With the stakes higher than ever, Hoagy must step out of his writing chair and into the role of amateur sleuth. He teams up with his four-legged companion, Lulu, whose keen sense of smell proves invaluable in uncovering clues. As Hoagy delves deeper into the investigation, he unearths a tangled network of secrets, lies, and betrayals that connect the victims, the suspects, and the Sherbourne Playhouse itself. He discovers that the past is never truly buried, and that some secrets are deadly enough to kill for. "The Man Who Couldn't Miss" is a captivating blend of humor, suspense, and classic whodunit elements. David Handler's witty prose and engaging characters will keep you guessing until the very end. Readers praise Handler's clever plotting, sharp dialogue, and the delightful dynamic between Hoagy and Lulu. The book is a perfect escape for those who enjoy a lighthearted mystery with a touch of old Hollywood glamour and a dash of theatrical flair. This 256-page novel is more than just a murder mystery; it's a celebration of friendship, loyalty, and the enduring power of second chances. Get ready to be charmed by Hoagy's quirky personality, entertained by Lulu's antics, and engrossed in a compelling story that will leave you eagerly anticipating the next Stewart Hoag adventure. This book is a testament to Handler's skill in crafting compelling mysteries with characters you'll genuinely care about, making it a highly recommended addition to any mystery lover's bookshelf.