The Importance of Being Murdered: A cozy mystery from bestseller Debbie Young for 2026

ONE VILLAGE. TEN SUSPECTS. ONE DEADLY PERFORMANCE.

The curtain is about to rise on the Bunbury Players' latest production, Oscar Wilde's classic comedy, The Importance of Being Earnest.

But moments before the show starts, the leading man, retired star of stage and screen Bertram Manchester, is found dead in his dressing room.

As rumours spread throughout the Cotswold village community, Detective Constable Windermere seizes her chance to catch a killer and secure the promotion she craves.

The trouble is, every member of the cast has something to hide.

Will her front-row seat to murder enable DC Windermere to uncover the truth ... or will she be the next person taking their last bow?

Readers are loving The Importance of Being Murdered:

'I really enjoyed this witty, fun cosy mystery with a fantastic cast of characters. Each one felt distinct, well-developed, and easy to picture, which made the whole story come to life beautifully.' Reader review

'Highly recommended! Readers, find some quiet alone time to settle in with this one because you won't stop reading until you've turned the final page.' Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'A fun cozy mystery with the colorful cast and a quirky twist I didn’t see coming... if this would become a series I would be its biggest fan.' Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Praise for Debbie Young:

'A cracking example of cozy crime!' Bestselling author Katie Fforde

'A warm page turner that puts the cosy into cosy mystery!' Bestselling author T.A. Williams

'Warm and cosy' Bestselling author Michelle Salter

‘A wonderfully crafted cosy murder. Agatha Raisin fans will love this!’ Goodreads Reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘I would have given this a 6 if I could have!’ Goodreads Reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘This is a really good read; well written, humorous, with endearing characters and intriguing plot!’ Goodreads Reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘My first Debbie Young Book, but it certainly won’t be the last.’ Goodreads Reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘This book was so much fun. I feel that I know each character and the village.’ Goodreads Reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐