Looking for new TV shows like Only Murders in the Building? I present: The Best Hallmark Cozy Mystery Movies to Watch! Hallmark cozy mystery movies are perfect for family viewing and a great fit for lovers of lighthearted shows about amateur detectives. This post contains all you need to know about Hallmark Mystery Movies in 2024. What are the best Hallmark cozy mystery movies to watch? What are the BIG changes in 2024?
Written and edited by Jen Ryland. Last updated on:
![Photo of a bowl of popcorn and a remote control on a wooden table with the words Best Hallmark Mystery Movies](https://www.jenryland.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Best-Hallmark-Mystery-Movies-1280x640.jpg)
The Best Hallmark Cozy Mystery Movies To Watch: reviews of ALL the Hallmark Cozy Mystery Movies
Jen’s Top Picks for Hallmark Mystery Movies
Click to see the NEW movies for 2024
True Justice: Family Ties
Crime Time: Freefall
Crimes of Fashion: Killer Couch
Curious Caterer: Foiled Plans
Hannah Swenson: One Bad Apple
Click to see JEN’s PICKS for best romantic chemistry
The Gourmet Detective
Morning Show Mysteries
My Favorite New Hallmark Mystery Movies of 2023
Nikki & Nora ~ Cut, Color, Murder ~ Aurora Teagarden: Something New
Most Intriguing Mysteries
The Chronicle Mysteries. I love the podcast element!
Before we get started, be sure to download my Master List of ALL Hallmark Mystery Movies (updated in 2024) which will help you organize your viewing! Just click the button below!
Cozy Mystery FAQs answered by Jen!
Which Hallmark Mystery Movies Are Based on Books?
A LOT of the older series are based on popular cozy mystery series: Aurora Teagarden, The Curious Caterer, Emma Fielding Mysteries, Family History Mysteries, Fixer Upper Mysteries, Flower Shop Mysteries, Murder at the Breakers, The Gourmet Detective, Hailey Dean, the Jane Mysteries, The Martha’s Vineyard Mysteries, The Morning Show Mysteries and Murder She Baked.
Are Hallmark Movies a movie or a series?
- Most Hallmark Mysteries are movie-length (about 90 minutes).
- Each is a standalone mystery with a resolution.
- Each series releases one to three new installments per year.
Who is the main character in a Hallmark Mystery Movie?
The character is a wedding amateur detective typically played by an American actor or one of your your favorite Hallmark Christmas movie stars.
Who are the supporting characters in a Hallmark Mystery Movie?
There is often an intergenerational aspect to a cozy mystery movie, with a parent of the main character included in the story. You will often find an overprotective parent, played by (if you’re my age) someone you remember on TV from the 80s.
Where do Hallmark Mystery Movies Take Place and Where Are they Filmed?
Most Hallmark cozy mystery movies take place in small town America, but almost all are filmed in Canada. British Columbia seems like the most popular choice, standing in for Washington State and even Chicago.
Why all the recent changes to Hallmark Mystery Movies?
Hallmark movies have long been criticized for their lack of diversity.
In 2020, Bill Abbott, Hallmark Media’s CEO, left the company after an advertising controversy. Zola commercials featuring a same-sex wedding ceremony were pulled by Hallmark, while ads with heterosexual couples were not. Hallmark faced pressures and boycott threats from conservative groups and LGBTQ groups over the issue.
Wonya Lucas was hired as the new CEO of Hallmark Media. Abbott started a competing network, Great American Media. Many Hallmark stars went with him, including Candace Cameron Bure, Jen Lilley, and Danica McKellar.
Lori Loughlin seems also to have moved to GAC (Great American Channel), though Loughlin had her own personal controversy in 2019 which resulted in her shows being pulled by Hallmark for a few years.
There was a 2023 change in writing/production on the Hannah Swensen series that seems to be related to the controversy.
Where Can You Find the Best Hallmark Cozy Mystery Movies to Watch?
CABLE TV: If you already pay for cable TV, head straight to the Hallmark Channel. You can probably find an episode or two of each show on demand. Or set your cable box DVR to record a show you want to watch, because the Hallmark Channel regularly runs marathons.
CABLE TV APP: this is my best tip and works the best for me. I have my cable provider’s app installed on an iPad and can get most Hallmark movies that way.
AMAZON PRIME: If you are an Amazon Prime member, you can get a week trial subscription to the Hallmark Movie channel. After one week, you pay $5.99 for ALL the Hallmark movies you can watch.
HULU: If you use Hulu, they have some Hallmark movies. I’m not sure if it’s access to the full channel, though. If you know, please tell me in comments!
PEACOCK TV: has a Hallmark hub that has some movies.
YOUTUBE TV: offers some Hallmark movies.
Where to Watch Hallmark Movies and Mysteries For Cheap or Free?
Pluto TV: has a very small offering of older Hallmark movies, but it is free!
You also might find Hallmark cozy mystery DVDs to borrow in your local library OR for sale in your local thrift shop. Or I love SwapaDVD.com, which lets you trade DVDs you’ve already watched for ones you want to watch.
These Hallmark Mystery Movies Are Reviewed Below
Aurora Teagarden: Something New – new in 2023 and a Jen Pick!
Cases of Mystery Lane– new in 2023!
The Chronicle Mysteries – a Jen Pick!
The Curious Caterer – new episode in 2024
Cut Color Murder – really good on the mystery front; a Jen Pick!
The Dancing Detective
Family History Mysteries – new in 2023!
Francesca Quinn PI
The Garage Sale Mysteries – back and I’ll be reviewing it soon!
The Gourmet Detective – great chemistry between the two leads!
The Jane Mysteries – new in 2023!
The Martha’s Vineyard Mysteries
The Morning Show Mysteries – a lot of fun and a Jen Pick!
Murder She Baked (Hannah Swensen)- a new episode in 2024
Nikki & Nora: Sister Sleuths – Jen Pick for Parent Trap vibes!
My Reviews of The Best Hallmark Cozy Mystery Movies to Watch
Which Hallmark cozy mystery series or shows are the best to watch? I’m here to help.
If you want a quick recommendation, my favorite new shows were listed above.
Below I’ll tell you what I think the strengths and weaknesses of each show are to help you decide which show to try!
Review: Hallmark’s Aurora Teagarden Mysteries (2015-2022)
![](https://www.jenryland.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Aurora-Teagarden-Mysteries.jpeg)
Starring: Candace Cameron Bure (Full House) and Mariu Henner (Taxi)
Books That the Aurora Teagarden Mysteries are Based on: The Aurora Teagarden Mysteries by Charlaine Harris
Writers: Teena Booth, Charlaine Harri, Jim Head, and Michael Vickerman)
Aurora Teagarden Mysteries Movies in Order:
- A Bone to Pick (2015)
- Real Murders (2015)
- Three Bedrooms, One Corpse (2016)
- The Julius House (2016)
- Dead Over Heels (2017)
- A Bundle of Trouble (2017)
- Last Scene Alive (2018)
- Reap What You Sew (2018)
- The Disappearing Game (2018)
- A Game of Cat and Mouse (2019)
- An Inheritance to Die For (2019)
- A Very Foul Play (2019)
- Heist and Seek (2020)
- Reunited and It Feels So Deadly (2020)
- How to Con a Con (2021)
- Til Death Do Us Part (2021)
- Honeymoon, Honeymurder (2021)
- Haunted by Murder (2022)
Will There Be More Episodes of Aurora Teagarden?
Unlikely, because Candace Cameron Bure left Hallmark when she signed a deal with GAC, a new and competing network. But check out my listing on the new Young Aurora Teagarden series below, premiering in 2023!
Summary of Hallmark’s Aurora Teagarden Mysteries
Premise of The Aurora Teagarden Mysteries: Aurora is a librarian in a small town who runs the Real Murders Club, a group that reviews and dissects cold cases. The ensemble cast includes her mother Aida, her best friend Sally (a newspaper reporter), her ex-boyfriend Arthur (a cop) and a series of love interests.
![Aurora Teagarden in the library](https://www.jenryland.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/th-3763878658.jpeg)
Setting of The Aurora Teagarden Mysteries: The small Washington town of Lawrenceton, but filmed in Vancouver.
Strengths: I really like the cast in this show. Marilu Henner plays Aurora’s always worried mom, and Lexa Doig (from Virgin River) plays her best friend.
There are also a lot of minor recurring characters who add a lot of humor and give the show a convincing small town feel.
Weaknesses: After a while, Aurora’s confidence turns into a know-it-all attitude that can be a little annoying. One of the most recent episodes actually features her being completely wrong about a case, which was refreshing.
Characters can disappear, like Aurora’s love interest Martin and Aida’s love interest John. Aurora has had a rotating series of hair color (brown, blonde, strawberry blond, auburn) and a bunch of love interests (not judging, but you get attached to one guy or hairstyle and they are GONE.)
Then in early episodes, Aurora was flirty with a man of the cloth, Scott Aubrey, and had dark blond hair with highlights.
Next, Aurora got pretty serious with Martin, but he ghosted her and her dark blond hair.
Finally, Aurora met and married the metrosexual college professor Nick Miller. Maybe he likes the new dark auburn hair. I agree!
![](https://www.jenryland.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Aurora-and-Nick.jpeg)
VERDICT: I loved these at first but they got tedious.
Review of Hallmark’s Young Aurora Teagarden: Something New
![](https://www.jenryland.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Aurora-Teagarden-Something-new.jpeg)
Stars: Skyler Samuels (The Nine Lives of Chloe King) Crystal Balint, Marilu Henner
Based on: The Aurora Teagarden Mysteries by Charlaine Harris and written by Charlaine Harris
Writers: Teena Booth and Charlaine Harris
Hallmark: Young Aurora Teagarden Episodes
Something New (2023)
Summary of Aurora Teagarden: Something New
![](https://www.jenryland.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Young-Aurora-Teagarden.jpeg)
Premise: After college, Aurora Teagarden heads back to her hometown of Lawrenceton to pursue her graduate degree. To support herself, Aurora works as a teacher’s assistant in a crime fiction class, waitresses at the local diner, and researches true crime with her friend Sally. W,ehen Sally’s fiancé doesn’t show up for their wedding rehearsal, everyone fears the worst when a body is discovered. But Sally’s fiancé is not the victim, he’s the main suspect.
Setting: Lawrenceton, Washington
Strengths: Writers are important! This is the same writing team as the original and I think they nailed it. This “new” series takes place in 2008 as Aurora has just graduated from college. She’s flirting with Arthur, a new police officer. Marilu Henner is ageless (and as overprotective as ever!) Skyler Samuels is fantastic as Aurora. I’m not sure I buy that this Sally is the same Sally, but young Arthur is also fantastic.
Here’s the original cast:
![Arthur, Aurora Teagarden, and Sally from the original series Aurora Teagarden.](https://www.jenryland.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Original-cast-of-Aurora-Teagarden-Arthur-Aurora-and-Sally.jpg)
And here are the young versions of the three:
![A photo of the cast of Aurora Teagarden: Something New.](https://www.jenryland.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/th-1523552497.jpg)
Weaknesses: none! I think they nailed this concept and the mystery was good!
Verdict: I loved this very smart update of the original show.
Cases of Mystery Lane (2023)
![Poster for Cases of Mystery Lane. Photos of the two main characters in a poster style.](https://www.jenryland.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Cases-of-Mystery-Lane-poster.jpg)
Starring: Aimee Garcia (Dexter, Christmas With You) and Paul Campbell
Based on: original scripts
Writers: Joel Dovey and Margaux Froley
Hallmark Cases of Mystery Lane Episodes:
Cases of Mystery Lane (2023)
Summary of Hallmark’s Cases of Mystery Lane
Premise of Cases of Mystery Lane: Birdie Lane is a lawyer who works for her mother. Birdie’s husband Alden is “still finding himself,” something which has put a strain on the couple’s marriage. When Birdie’s colleague suddenly turns up dead, the two team up to crack the case. Can this join endeavor strengthen their marriage?
![](https://www.jenryland.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Cases-of-Mystery-Lane-cast.jpeg)
Setting of Cases of Mystery Lane: Chicago (I think!)
Strengths: I love the idea of a husband and wife team and this twosome is keeping a ton of secrets from each other. I’m a fan of Aimee Garcia!
Weaknesses: the two actors didn’t have great chemistry. They really did seem disconnected, but maybe that was acting! I liked them separately (Alden’s writing class was really funny) but not together.
VERDICT: This one wasn’t my favorite. The plot was similar to Nikki & Nora and I liked that better! But it’s possible that future episodes will improve, so stay tuned!
Review: Hallmark Chronicle Mysteries (2019-2021)
![](https://www.jenryland.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/iu-2-1.jpeg)
Star: Alison Sweeney (Days of Our Lives)
Based on: original scripts
Writers: Melissa Salmons and Kraig Wenman
Hallmark Chronicle Mysteries Movies in Order:
- Recovered (2019)
- The Wrong Man (2019)
- Vines That Bind (2019)
- The Deep End (2019)
- Helped to Death (2021)
Will there be more Chronicle Mystery episodes?
Sadly, it doesn’t seem like it! Maybe this podcast premise was not a good fit for the core Hallmark audience?
Summary of Hallmark’s Chronicle Mysteries
Premise of The Chronicle Mysteries: Alex McPherson, a podcast host, comes home to her small hometown to solve various mysteries with aid from the staff of the Harrington Chronicle.
Setting of The Chronicle Mysteries: Harringon, Pennsylvania, but filmed in Vancouver.
Strengths: I love that Alex’s podcast is incorporated into the show. I’m a DOOL fan from way back and I think Alison Sweeney is the perfect fit for a cozy. Kristian Alfonso (Hope on DOOL) even stars in one of the movies!
![](https://www.jenryland.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Chronicle-Mysteries-Murder-board.jpeg)
I love that this series has a cast that works together with Alex to solve mysteries: Drew, a single dad and the editor of the paper; Eileen, a lifestyle journalist; Chuck (who also plays Bubba Rankart in the Aurora Teagarden Mysteries); and Kendall, Drew’s teen daughter.
Weaknesses: Not much.
Verdict: A favorite – I really liked this one!
If you love podcasts, check out my new list of books with Podcast elements!
Crime Time: Freefall (2024)
![Movie poster for Crime Time: Freefall a Hallmark Mystery Movie. Photo shows a Black woman in a zebra blouse and jeans walking a red carpet with a white men wearing a police badge](https://www.jenryland.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Crime-Time-Freefall-Hallmark-Movie-poster.jpeg)
This show sounds really fun. I’m excited to try it and will add my review when I do.
The premise is that a former actress on a crime drama related to a small town and starts solving murders alongside an (of course) distractingly attractive police officer.
Crimes of Fashion: Killer Clutch
![Crimes of Fashion: Killer Clutch on Hallmark. Photo shows a brunette woman in red dress and lipstick posing with a dark haired man in a suit](https://www.jenryland.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Crimes-of-Fashion-Kill-erClutchon-Hallmark.jpeg)
Mon dieu! A psychologist is hired to solve a murder at a Parisian fashion show, alongside an attractive French detective. Of course I’m trying this. Stay tuned for my review!
Review: Hallmark Crossword Mysteries (2019-2021)
![](https://www.jenryland.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/iu-1.jpeg)
Star: Lacey Chabert (Mean Girls) and Brennan Elliott
Based on: Original scripts, and New York Times crossword puzzle editor Will Shortz is a consultant.
Writers: Gregg Rossen, Brian Sawyer, Cecily Rhett
Hallmark Crossword Mysteries Movies in Order:
- Crossword Mysteries: A Puzzle To Die For (2019)
- Crossword Mysteries: Proposing Murder (2019)
- Crossword Mysteries: Abracadaver (2020)
- Crossword Mysteries: Terminal Descent (2021)
- Crossword Mysteries: Riddle Me Dead (2021)
Summary of the Hallmark Crossword Mysteries
Premise of the Crossword Mysteries: Crossword puzzle editor Tess Harper is repeatedly drawn into mysteries, most of whom seem to be assigned to Detective Logan O’Connor. Logan’s father and Tess’s aunt are also recurring characters.
Setting of the Crossword Mysteries: New York City, but filmed in Toronto.
Strengths: I was really skeptical about how interesting a mystery about crossword puzzles could be. I’ve also had mixed feelings about Lacey Chabert and Brennan Elliott in other Hallmark movies.
But I am happy to admit I was wrong! I think Lacey is a great fit for the slightly reserved, cerebral Tess and the charming, jokey Brennan is a good foil for her.
Weaknesses: This show is supposed to take place in New York City, and while it does use some establishing New York shots, as a New Yorker I’m here to tell you that the fake locations aren’t super convincing.
![](https://www.jenryland.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Crossword-Mysteries.jpeg)
Also, the fact that New York City only seems to have one detective who seems to be assigned to every murder in the city is pretty suspicious.
Verdict: much better than I expected!
Review: Hallmark’s The Curious Caterer
![](https://www.jenryland.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Curious-Caterer-Dying-for-Chocolate.jpeg)
Starring: Andrew Walker and Nikki Deloach
Based on: The Goldy Culinary novels by Diane Mott Davidson
Writers: Diane Mott Davidson, Erinne Dobson, John Christian Plummer (who has also written for Francesca Quinn, Mystery 101, and the Martha’s Vineyard Mysteries)
What was changed from the book? Goldy seems a lot less … salty in the show. Goldy’s last name was changed to Berry. Her son in the book became a daughter. And I think her best friend is no longer a fellow ex wife of Goldy’s husband.
Hallmark’s Curious Caterer Episodes in Order:
![A photo of a man and a woman in the kitchen. She is wearing a chef's jacket.](https://www.jenryland.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Curious-Caterer-kitchen.jpeg)
- Dying for Chocolate (2022)
- Grilling Season (2023)
- Fatal Vows (2023)
- Foiled Plans (April 2024)
Summary of Hallmark’s The Curious Caterer
Premise of the Curious Caterer on Hallmark: Goldy Berry, spunky divorced mom of daughter Olive, is trying to get her new catering business off the ground. When her close friend, the school psychologist at her daughter’s school, turns up dead, Goldy is heartbroken but also can’t stay out of the case.
Setting of the Curious Caterer on Hallmark: the books are set in a small Colorado town, and the show was filmed in Vancouver. The movie was set in a mountain town called Elk Park.
Strengths: the ensemble cast is good and I particularly like Andrew Walker as former big city detective Tom Schultz. Nikki Deloach looks a lot like Giada di Laurentis. Just saying!
Weaknesses: I’m not sure how this small town has so much catering or will have so many murders going forward, but in a cozy you have to overlook pesky details like these!
Verdict: The jury is still out on this one for me. At this point I prefer The Gourmet Detective.
Review: Hallmark’s Cut Color Murder (2022)
![Photo of a man and a woman looking suspicious and framed by a giant pair of silver scissors.](https://www.jenryland.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Cut-Color-Murder-poster.jpeg)
Starring: Julie Gonzalo and Ryan Mc Partlin
Writers: Jason Filardi and Walt Becker
Summary of Hallmark’s Cut, Color Murder
![](https://www.jenryland.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Cut-Color-Murder-pageant.jpeg)
Premise of Hallmark’s Cut, Color, Murder: Ali Reed is a former small town beauty queen and the widow of a police officer slain in the line of duty. She now runs a salon.
Setting of Hallmark’s Cut, Color, Murder: Golden Peak, Idaho (filmed in British Columbia.)
Strengths: I was dubious about this one but other fans encouraged me to try it. It’s a great ensemble cast. Ali’s close relationship with the chief of police makes her help with the investigation seem plausible. There is great chemistry between Ali and Kyle Crawford, new to the police force.
This reminded me a little of Miss Congeniality with Sandra Bullock!
Weaknesses: This ends on a cliffhanger which is …. is that even allowed on Hallmark? Apparently that happened on Murder 101 and then the show was cancelled after one of the stars left the network. Is there a cliffhanger curse?
Verdict: Wow, this was SO much better than I expected. More episodes, please!
Review: Hallmark’s The Dancing Detective (2023)
![A photo of a man and a woman dancing in front of beautiful scenery. Ate photo is inside a cut out frame of their silhouettes is](https://www.jenryland.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/The-Dancing-Detective.jpeg)
Starring: Lacey Chabert (Mean Girls, plus Hallmark Crossword Mysteries) and Will Kemp. Chabert and Kemp previously starred together in Love, Romance and Chocolate and The Christmas Waltz.
Writer: Aubrey Day
Episodes of Hallmark’s The Dancing Detective:
Deadly Tango (2023)
![A man in a suit and woman in a red dress strike a dramatic tango pose.](https://www.jenryland.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/The-Dancing-Detective-Deadly-Tango.jpeg)
Premise of Hallmark’s Dancing Detective: A high-profile CEO is murdered on the eve of his company’s corporate event in Malta – a high stakes ballroom competition between senior executives – Detective Bailey is sent undercover as one of the contestants.
Setting: this was actually filmed in Malta, so I’m excited to watch it!
Review to come! I haven’t found a place to watch this one. Have you seen it? Tell me what you though tin the comments!
Review: Hallmark Darrow & Darrow Mysteries (2017-2019)
![](https://www.jenryland.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Darrow-and-Darrow-Mysteries.jpeg)
Starring: Kimberly Williams-Paisley, Tom Cavanaugh (Ed) and Wendie Malick (Just Shoot Me!)
Writer: Phoef Sutton
Hallmark’s Darrow & Darrow Mysteries Episodes In Order:
- Darrow & Darrow (2017)
- In the Key of Murder (2018)
- Body of Evidence (2018)
- A Darrow Mystery (2019)
Will There Be More Episodes of Darrow & Darrow?
No, It seems to be cancelled.
![](https://www.jenryland.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Darrow-and-Darrow-Claire-and-Joanna.jpeg)
Premise: Idealistic lawyer Claire Darrow champions her clients’ interests while professionally tangling with ADA Miles Strasburg, raising her teen daughter, and dealing with her mother Joanna.
Setting:
Strengths: The cast. I always enjoy Kimberly Williams-Paisley in Hallmark movies! Wendie Malick is a legend and great as Claire’s meddling mother from New York and I’m a fan of Tom Cavanaugh.
Weaknesses: Nothing against lawyers, but to me this premise felt a little dry at times for a Hallmark cozy, with a lot of time spent in offices and courtrooms rather than on Main Street. Since Joanna is a lawyer too, I sort of wish they’d made Claire a reporter, which would have let her interact with the others while getting her out of the office. I don’t feel like KWP seems to enjoy playing a lawyer as much as other roles.
Verdict (haha): NO thanks.
Review: Hallmark Emma Fielding Mysteries (2017-2019)
![](https://www.jenryland.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Emma-Fielding-Mysteries.jpeg)
Star: Courtney Thorne-Smith (Melrose Place)
Books That The Emma Fielding Mysteries are Based on: The Emma Fielding Mysteries by Dana Cameron
Writers: Dana Cameron, Phoef Sutton, Suzette Coture
Hallmark Emma Fielding Mysteries Movies in Order:
- Site Unseen (2017)
- Past Malice (2018)
- More Bitter Than Death (2019)
Will There Be More Episodes of the Emma Fielding Mysteries?
No, it seems to be cancelled
Premise of the Emma Fielding Mysteries: Archeologist Emma Fielding solves murders using her scientific knowledge and her FBI sidekick Jim Connor.
Setting:
Strengths of the Emma Fielding Mysteries:: Emma is gorgeous and apparently smart and an archeologist should know a lot about bones.
Weaknesses: Emma is also really, really boring – sorry!
I loved Courtney in Melrose Place, but in this series she came off as way too unemotional and low-energy for me, and the plot of the episode I watched was really convoluted and not worth the effort to figure out. I was just not a fan of this series at all.
Verdict: just didn’t come together for me.
Review: Hallmark Family History Mysteries (2023)
![Photo of Janel Parrish of Family History Mysteries](https://www.jenryland.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Hallmark-Family-History-Mysteries-Buried-Past.png)
Starring: Janel Parrish (Pretty Little Liars) and Niall Matter (Nick Martin from Aurora Teagarden)
Based on: the Family History Mystery series by Brynn Bonner
Writers: Amber Benson and Brynn Bonner
Is Hallmark’s The Family History Mysteries a series?
So far, there is only one episode: Buried Past (2023)
Premise: Genealogist Sophie McClaren, an adoptee herself, is an expert at bringing families together. When her close friend Jonathan urgently needs to find a bone marrow donor, the case becomes personal. She needs to find Jonathan’s missing father before it’s too late.
Setting: Buffalo, NY
Strengths: Janel Parrish and Niall Matter are both experienced actors with good chemistry. It was weird to see Aurora Teagarden’s boyfriend (husband?) with another guy. I like his character Jackson in this series better than I liked Nick.
Weaknesses: The first movie in the series isn’t a murder mystery, so don’t go in expecting that. At first I was disappointed, but I adjusted.
Verdict: I’m willing to try another installment!
Review: Hallmark The Fixer Upper Mysteries (2017)
![](https://www.jenryland.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Fixer-Upper-Mysteries.jpeg)
Starring: Jewel (90s singer) and Colin Ferguson (the Maytag guy and a Hallmark regular)
Books That the Fixer Upper Mysteries Are Based on: Fixer Upper Mysteries by Kate Carlisle
Writers: Teena Booth, Kate Carlisle, Peter Hume
Hallmark Fixer Upper Mysteries Movies in Order:
- Framed for Murder (2017)
- Concrete Evidence (2017)
- Deadly Dead (2017)
Will There Be More Episodes of the Fixer Upper Mysteries?
No, it seems to be cancelled
Premise of the Fixer-Upper Mysteries: General contractor Shannon Hammer (see, the puns are real!) is an expert at renovating Victorian homes in a charming Northern California seaside community.
Setting of the Fixer Upper Mysteries: Lighthouse Cove, California, but filmed in Vancouver.
Strengths: I love the premise of this one. I’m a huge HGTV fan and history buff and was super excited to see what Tess would find in Victorian mansions.
Weaknesses: While I think Jewel is a super-talented singer/songwriter, she’s really wooden (sorry, bad construction pun!) in this show. Her characters lack of facial expression and missing sense of humor made this one really hard to watch.
Verdict: Like watching paint dry. Jewel, I still love your music!
Review: Hallmark’s The Flower Shop Mysteries (2016)
![Brooke Shields Stars in the Flower Shop Mysteries](https://www.jenryland.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Flower-Shop-Mysteries.jpeg)
Stars: Brooke Shields (Suddenly Susan, Lipstick Jungle) and Brennan Elliott
Books that the Fixer Upper Mysteries Are Based on: Flower Shop Mysteries by Kate Collins
Writers: Kate Collins, Neal Dobrofsky, Tippi Dobrofsky, Gary Goldstein
Hallmark Flower Shop Mysteries Movies in Order:
- Mum’s the Word (2016)
- Snipped in the Bud (2016)
- Dearly Depotted (2016)
Will There Be More Episodes of the Flower Shop Mysteries?
No, it seems to be cancelled
Premise of The Flower Shop Mysteries: Retired lawyer and recent widow Abby Knight has just opened Bloomers, a flower shop in a small Illinois town. She’s the daughter of a retired cop and has a flirty friendship with the owner of the bar next door to her shop.
Setting of The Flower Shop Mysteries: New Chapel, Illinois, but filmed in Ontario.
Strengths: In contrast to Courtney or Jewel, Brooke seems to be having the time of her life. She might even be a tiny bit too goofy, but I found her kind of endearing. I loved her relationship with her college-aged daughter.
Weaknesses: Her chemistry with Marco, the bar owner and love interest, isn’t really there for me. And Abby’s best friend and shop employee Nikki teases her about having a crush on Marco like they’re both in sixth grade.
Verdict: Love Brooke but I wish the romance weren’t so bad. But for more Brooke, check out my thoughts on A Castle For Christmas here.
Gilded Newport: Murder at the Breakers (2024)
If you love historical mysteries and Gilded Age stories (check out my HUGE list of Gilded Age books here), then Murder at The Breakers might be for you.
I prefer to read (rather than watch) historical mysteries, but I checked this one out and it had decently high production values.
I wish it had been filmed in Newport, but instead it was filmed in Canada. No mystery there!
Review: Hallmark’s Gourmet Detective (2015-2020)
![Best Hallmark Cozy Mystery Movies To Watch: The Gourmet Detective stars Brooke Burke and Dylan Neal](https://www.jenryland.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/The-Gourmet-Detective.jpeg)
Stars: Brooke Burns and Dylan Neal (Bold and the Beautiful, Dawson’s Creek)
Books That the Gourmet Detective are Based on: books by Peter King
Writers: Peter King, Dylan Neal and Becky Southwell
Hallmark Gourmet Detective Movies in Order:
- The Gourmet Detective (2015)
- A Healthy Place to Die (2016)
- Death al Dente (2016)
- Eat Drink and Be Buried (2017)
- Roux the Day (2020)
Will There Be More Episodes of the Gourmet Detective?
It’s been three years, so I am dubious!
Premise of The Gourmet Detective: a gourmet chef and food blogger teams up with a San Francisco homicide detective to solve crimes
Setting of The Gourmet Detective: San Francisco, but filmed in British Columbia.
Strengths: the chemistry between Henry Ross and Detective Maggie Price is good. He’s a laidback foodie, while she’s a tightly-wound, career-driven single mom who eats on the go.
Weaknesses: I feel like the premise is limited. How many food-related murders in San Francisco are there for these two to solve?
Verdict: fun and I am hoping that the Curious Caterer isn’t the replacement for this.
Review: The Hailey Dean Mysteries (2016-2019)
![The Hailey Dean Mysteries: Kellie Martin stars and poses with her arms folded](https://www.jenryland.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Hailey-Dean-Mysteries.jpeg)
Star: Kellie Martin (Life Goes On, ER)
Books that The Hailey Dean Mysteries are Based on: The Hailey Dean Mysteries by Nancy Grace
Writers: Nancy Grace, Jonathan Greene, Michelle Ricci
Hallmark’s The Hailey Dean Mysteries Movies in Order
- Murder, With Love (2016)
- Deadly Estate (2017)
- Dating Is Murder (2017)
- 2 + 2 = Murder (2018)
- Marriage Made for Murder (2018)
- Will to Kill (2018)
- Death On Duty (2019)
- Prescription for Murder (2019)
- Killer Sentence (2019)
Will there be more Hailey Dean Mystery Movies?
No, the show seems to be cancelled
Premise of the Hailey Dean Movies: Former District Attorney Hailey Dean now works as a therapist but has plenty of connections in law enforcement to help her solve crimes.
Setting of the Hailey Dean Movies: Atlanta, but filmed in Vancouver.
Strengths: I love Kellie Martin and think she does a great job in this role. It’s hard to make Canada look like Atlanta, but the show manages fairly well.
Weaknesses: Mixed feelings on this one. Since Hailey was a former DA, her meddling makes more sense. But she isn’t really an amateur detective, either. Nancy Grace’s cameo appearances were a little cringy.
Verdict: No. Case closed.
Review: Hallmark’s The Jane Mysteries
![A photo of a woman in a red dress standing at a microphone.](https://www.jenryland.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Jane-Mysteries-Inheritance-Lost.jpeg)
Stars: Jodie Sweetin (Full House), Stephen Huszar
Based on: The Jane da Silva mystery novels by K.K. Beck
Writer: Neale Kimmel
Hallmark’s The Jane Mysteries Episodes in Order:
Inheritance Lost (2023)
Summary of Hallmark’s The Jane Mysteries
Premise of Jane Mysteries: Singer Jane DaSilva inherits her family foundation which among runs a ono-profit detective agency. While investigating her first case, she discovers a multilevel marketing company that exploited her client’s mother.
Strengths: If that is actually Jodi Sweetin singing, she’s a great singer!
Weaknesses: The premise of this one was just super convoluted. Jane’s parents died, so she ran away to Paris. Then she gets brought back by some strange inheritance of a pro bono investigation firm. Jodie looked confused the whole time as to what was happening and so was I.
Verdict: I might try one more installment if there is one, but the writers need to get this premise together!
Review: The Martha’s Vineyard Mysteries (2020-2021)
![Best Hallmark Cozy Mystery Movies To Watch: The Martha's Vineyard Mysteries stars Jesse Metcalf](https://www.jenryland.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Marthas-Vineyard-Mysteries.jpeg)
Star: Jesse Metcalf (Desperate Housewives)
Books That the Martha’s Vineyard Mysteries Are Based on: The Martha’s Vineyard Mysteries by Philip R. Craig
Writers: Philip R. Craig
Hallmark Martha’s Vineyard Mysteries Movies in Order:
- A Beautiful Place to Die (2020)
- Riddled with Deceit (2020)
- Ships in the Night (2021)
- Poisoned in Paradise (2021)
Will There Be More Martha’s Vineyard Mysteries?
In a 2022 interview, Jesse Metcalf wasn’t sure. Harlequin said “maybe” back in 2021.
Premise of the Martha’s Vineyard Mysteries: former detective Jeff Jackson is enjoying his retirement until a friend hires him to be a one-time security guard at a hotel event. He soon finds himself in the middle of a murder.
Setting of the Martha’s Vineyard Mysteries: Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts, but filmed in Vancouver.
Strengths: This one sounded promising: mysteries set in the charming island off the coast of Massachusetts.
Weaknesses: I didn’t feel like this was a cozy. The main character was a detective and the love interest was also in law enforcement, so it felt more like a watered-down police show. For me, it didn’t have the classic hallmarks (ha!) of a cozy mystery. I’m just not sold on this being Hallmark material.
The setting was SO obviously not Martha’s Vineyard and I’ve only been there a couple times. Again, most cozies are set in fictional towns. I think that would have been a better choice than a real place, but would have been a big departure from the source material.
Verdict: not cozy.
Note: I DO love police shows, particularly British and European crime shows and police procedurals, so if you like grittier stuff, check out my list of my Favorite Scandinavian Noir Shows to Watch!
Review: Hallmark’s The Matchmaker Mysteries (2019-2020)
![The Matchmaker Mysteries: Danica Keller consults with a client](https://www.jenryland.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/images.jpg)
Starring: Danica McKellar (Wonder Years), Victor Webster, Bruce Boxleitner
Based on: Original scripts. Supposedly inspired by Patti Stanger, the Millionaire Matchmaker, who serves as a consultant on the show.
Writers: Marcy Holland, Steven Mazur, Dave Thomas.
Hallmark The Matchmaker Mysteries Movies in Order:
- A Killer Engagement (2019)
- A Fatal Romance (2020)
Will There Be More Episodes of the Matchmaker Mysteries?
Danica McKellar was one of the Hallmark stars who left for the GMC channel, so it seems unlikely.
Premise: Angie Dove is a matchmaker who stars on a TV show about matchmaking. The show takes place in Philadelphia, which stumped me until I thought: City of Brotherly Love? Cozies do love their puns.
Strengths: I have not always loved Danica McKeller in other Hallmark movies, but I think this is a great role for her, allowing her to be both warm and analytical. I loved her relationship with officer Nick Cooper, and with her former police officer father.
Weaknesses: I was actually a fan of Millionaire Matchmaker back in the day. But for me, having the matchmaking element in every episode got kind of tedious and made the plot options limited. But that might just be me.
VERDICT: I am breaking up with this series.
Review: Hallmark Morning Show Mysteries (2018-2021)
![Best Hallmark Cozy Mystery Movies To Watch: The Morning Show Mysteries stars Holly Robinson Pete and Rick Fox](https://www.jenryland.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Morning-Show-Mysteries.jpeg)
Star: Holly Robinson Peete (21 Jump Street); Rick Fox played the love interest but was replaced in 2021
Books The Morning Show Mysteries are Based on: The Morning Show Murders by Al Roker and Dick Lochte
Writers: Dick Lochte, Al Roker, Shelly Evans and Amber Benson (yes, from Buffy the Vampire Slayer!)
Hallmark Morning Show Mysteries Movies in Order:
- Mortal Mishaps (2018)
- Murder on the Menu (2018)
- A Murder in Mind (2019)
- Countdown to Murder (2019)
- Death by Design (2019)
- Murder Ever After (2021)
Will There Be More Morning Show Mysteries?
For now, it does not like seem like it.
Premise of The Morning Show Mysteries : Billie (I think her name was spelled Billy in the books) Blessings, restauranteur and cooking expert on a popular morning show, solves mysteries in Seattle. Her old flame, police officer Ian Jackson, tries to stop her meddling in his cases and her beloved Aunt Cassie tries to keep her safe.
Setting of The Morning Show Mysteries : Seattle, but filmed in Vancouver
Strengths: I highly recommend this series! I love the fact that Billie and Ian have a romantic past. The mysteries are well-plotted. The show uses the restaurant as a setting plus the set of the show, where there’s an egotistical anchorman who could have been based on you-know-who….
Weaknesses: None. Okay maybe one: the Seattle setting seems a little weird to me, especially since I think the books take place in Manhattan. Nothing against Seattle!
Verdict: loved it and hoping for more installments!
Review: Hallmark’s Murder She Baked (2015-2023)
New Episodes of Murder She Baked (now called Hannah Swenson Mysteries) for 2023!
Why does Murder she Baked have new branding and a new name in 2023?
According to this interview with Allison Sweeney, the show has a new production team. (In this Variety article it’s mentioned that at least one of the former producers is now producing a Lori Loughlin movie for the GMC network. Interesting.,)
![Best Hallmark Cozy Mystery Movies To Watch: In Murder She Baked: Hannah pulls cherry pies out of the oven](https://www.jenryland.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Murder-She-Baked.jpeg)
Stars: Alison Sweeney (Days of Our Lives) and Cameron Mathison (All My Children)
Books that The Murder She Baked Mysteries are Based on: The Murder She Baked Novels by Joanne Fluke.
Writers for Murder She Baked: Joanne Fluke, Nancey Silvers, Donald Martin
Writers for the Hannah Swenson version: Marcy Holland (she also writes for Picture Perfect, and Nikki and Nora) and Joanne Fluke
Hallmark Murder She Baked Movies in Order:
- Murder She Baked: A Chocolate Chip Cookie Mystery (2015)
- Murder She Baked: A Plum Pudding Mystery (2015)
- Murder She Baked: A Peach Cobbler Mystery (2016)
- Murder She Baked: A Deadly Recipe (2016)
- Murder She Baked: Just Desserts (2017)
- Murder She Baked: Sweet Revenge (2021)
- Hannah Swenson: Carrot Cake Murder (2023)
- Hannah Swensen: A Zest for Death (2023)
- Hannah Swenson: One Bad Apple (2024)
Premise of Murder She Baked: Hannah Swensen, the owner of The Cookie Jar, a bakery in small-town Minnesota, solves murders alongside Detective Mike Kingston.
Setting of Murder She Baked: Eden Lake, Minnesota, but filmed in British Columbia.
Strengths: I love Alison Sweeney and love the bakery setting. Who wouldn’t want to sit around and watch people bake pies and cookies?
Weaknesses: For me, the first few episodes started out a little blah, but I feel they’ve improved a lot. The relationship between Hannah and Mike is a bit tortured, and there’s even a bit of a love triangle that develops. But I love Alison Sweeney in any Hallmark movie or series.
Verdict: a little overly sweet for me. I prefer The Chronicle Mysteries.
Review of Nikki & Nora: Sister Sleuths (2023)
![Poster for Nikki & Nora Sister Sleuths. Close up photos of Two young women looking intently into the distance.](https://www.jenryland.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Nikki-and-Nora-Hallmark-Channel.jpeg)
Stars: Hunter King (A Royal Corgi Christmas) and Rhiannon Fish.
Based on: original scripts
Writers: Diane Dixon and Marcy Holland (Picture Perfect Mysteries, Hannah Swenson, Matchmaker Mysteries)
![](https://www.jenryland.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Nikki-and-Nora-Hallmark-Movie.jpeg)
Premise of Hallmark’s Nikki & Nora: Sister Sleuths: Estranged fraternal twin sisters Nikki and Nora are drawn back together when a mysterious benefactor bequeaths them a detective agency. Then when lawyer Nora’s work mentor turns up dead, the sisters pair up to crack the case.
Setting of Nikki and Nora: Sister Sleuths: It’s supposed to be set in Chicago, but … seriously? It looks nothing like it. Filmed in Vancouver.
Strengths: I LOVE a good sister story, and if the sisters are twins, even better. I thought the odd couple pairing of these two was really great. Nikki is the free spirited actress who excels at charming witnesses and taking on fake identities. Type A lawyer Nora is great at analysis.
Verdict : Really enjoyed this one and hope it gets more episodes!
Review of Hallmark’s Picture Perfect Mysteries (2019)
![Best Hallmark Cozy Mystery Movies To Watch: Picture Perfect Mysteries](https://www.jenryland.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Hallmark-Picture-Perfect-Mysteries-scaled-1.jpg)
Stars: Alexa PenaVega (Spy Kids) and her husband, Carlos PenaVega
Writers: Marcy Holland and Walter Klenhard
Hallmark Picture Perfect Mysteries Movies in Order:
- Newlywed and Dead (2019)
- Dead Over Diamonds (2020)
- Exit, Stage Death (2020).
Status: Cancelled
Summary of Hallmark’s Picture Perfect Mysteries:
Premise of Picture Perfect: Professional photographer Allie Adams solves mysteries in Willow Haven alongside Detective Sam Acosta.
Strengths: It’s cute to have a husband and wife team starring in the show.
Weaknesses: This one was a little blah to me. I remember Alexa from Spy Kids and was hoping to feel the same sense of fun. But this series just felt too serious. Cozy mysteries really do need a little bit of quirk and humor.
Verdict: I’m swiping left on this one.
True Justice: Family Ties
![Movie poster for True Justice: Family ties. The photo shows a row off people: a Black woman in a blue suit, a dark haired white man in a gray suit, a blond woman, a Black woman, and a Black man. A golden gavel is superimposed in front of them.](https://www.jenryland.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/True-Justice-Family-Ties-on-Hallmark.jpg)
I love legal thrillers (both book and movie) so I am thrilled (haha) about the new legal-themed Hallmark Mystery movies. In True Justice: Family Ties, a law student’s brother is accused of murder and of course she has to help him out by finding the real killer.
From the picture I am getting ALL the Legally Blond vibes!
Review coming soon!
![Photo of a woman holding a remote control with the text The Best Hallmark Cozy Mystery Movies and Series](https://www.jenryland.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/BEST-COZY-MYSTERY-MOVIES-AND-SERIES-1.png)
Check out my post on the Best and Worst Christmas Movies on Hallmark, Netflix and Amazon Prime!
Don’t forget to download your Hallmark Mystery Movie Checklist!
download onHave you watched any of these? Tell me in comments!
Phew! You’ve certainly been watching a lot of these! I work at a hotel in Canada and we’ve hosted a few Hallmark movie sets over the years. It’s because we have a historic hotel so it looks perfect for the setting. Mind you, most of the Hallmark movies are Christmas themed.
Great work, Jen!
OMG please send photos next time or just let me know and I’ll fly there!
I haven’t seen or read any cozy mysteries! I don’t know why I’m surprised that Hallmark shows cozy mysteries!
Yep, it’s 100% on brand and they’re really fun. I know this will be controversial but BETTER than the Christmas movies.