Hallmark Mysteries & More

What do you get when you mix a thrilling mystery series with a killer cocktail? Our latest episode, of course! We're excited to have our co-host Sydney back, and this week, we're diving deep into the Aurora Teagarden Mystery series, comparing the original with the new Hallmark Mysteries adaptation. Join us as we discuss our reactions to the first episode of the new prequel and share the recipe for our special concoction in honor of Aurora's return - the Killer Thesis.

We also take a look at the books that inspired the movie, the character of Aurora, and the social consciousness at the time the books were written. Plus, we chat about the fashion and style choices in the series, including Aurora's colorful wardrobe and the reactions from certain Facebook groups to Skyler's look. You won't want to miss our take on the promotional images and on-screen outfits that make Aurora Teagarden come to life!

To top it off, we compare the technical aspects of the movie like cinematography and lighting, while also discussing the twist at the end and our thoughts on the actors. We discuss how this new Aurora Tewagarden had a Mystery 101 vibe, where it can be an enjoyable mystery and not always need to have a shocking whodunit element. So, grab a drink, sit back, and enjoy another fun-filled episode with us!

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This podcast was created by fans for fans and is NOT affiliated with or sponsored by Hallmark or the Hallmark Channel.

Ever wondered what it's like to take on an iconic role in a Hallmark movie? Join us as we chat with Skyler Samuels, the star of the upcoming Aurora Teagarden movie, Something New. You'll hear about how Skyler's 80-year-old grandmother has been begging her to do a Hallmark movie for years and how she's finally making her mark as the beloved character.

We also dive into Skyler's thoughts on the crime and mystery genres, her nostalgia for the Jonas Brothers, and the 'golden era' of boy bands. In addition, she shares her unique approach to making Aurora her own, the importance of giving the new movie a chance, and the fun and lighthearted atmosphere on set. Prepare to be intrigued and entertained by this lively conversation with Skyler Samuels.

As we wrap up our episode, we explore the incredible cinematography of the movie, the importance of community engagement, and the upcoming projects for Skyler and the Aurora Teagarden franchise. Don't miss out on this engaging episode filled with insights, laughter, and a sneak peek into the world of Aurora Teagarden!

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This podcast was created by fans for fans and is NOT affiliated with or sponsored by Hallmark or the Hallmark Channel.

What happens when you bring together two Hallmark Mystery enthusiasts?  You get an exciting conversation filled with laughter, movie critiques, and a deep dive into the world of Hallmark Mysteries! In this episode, I'm joined by special guest Andrea Classen (@Hallmarkchannelmovies on Instagram), who fills in for Sydney during her honeymoon. We have a blast discussing our thoughts on various films, including Reviewing The Dancing Detective and getting sidetracked with talks of Garage Sale Mysteries, Aurora Tea Garden, and other mysteries.

Our lively chat takes a more in-depth look at the Hallmark Mystery movie "The Dancing Detective: A Deadly Tango." We can't help but laugh at the hilarious chase scene and ponder the possibility of a new series that hops from location to location. Although we express our concerns about the lack of a strong supporting cast, we clash over the steamy dream scene between Lacey and her Jeremy pillow!

As we wrap up our conversation, Andrea and I share our personal preferences when it comes to Hallmark Mysteries, discussing everything from Mystery 101 to the Ruby Herring Mysteries series, we discuss the acting, funny moments, and chemistry between the two leads. We also examine the movie's fashion choices and plot critiques, while sharing our recommendations and analysis of other Hallmark mystery movies. Join us for this fun and insightful episode with Andrea Klossin!

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This podcast was created by fans for fans and is NOT affiliated with or sponsored by Hallmark or the Hallmark Channel.

Ever struggled to find your groove on the dance floor? This week, we chat with the talented and charming Will Kemp, star of the upcoming show Dancing Detective. Will shares his journey from his early days as a dancer to creating his own show, and offers some invaluable advice for boosting your confidence on the dance floor.

But that's not all! Will takes us behind the scenes of Dancing Detective, discussing his experience of working on Hallmark movies and his excitement to shoot the show in Malta. He also talks about his character, Sebastian Moore, and the show's homage to classic detective TV shows, as well as the pleasure of working with Lacey Chabert, the lead of the show.

Finally, Will reveals the challenges of playing an American character in last holiday's Jolly Good Christmas and how he subverted people's expectations in the trailer. Plus, a memorable story about driving a temperamental car on the streets of Malta. Tune in for an engaging and fun-filled conversation with the fantastic Will Kemp!

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This podcast was created by fans for fans and is NOT affiliated with or sponsored by Hallmark or the Hallmark Channel.

Eric had the pleasure of chatting with the incredibly talented Madison Smith about his acting journey, his love for hockey, and the sunny Vancouver weather. We bonded over our shared Canadian roots, and he even whipped up a signature cocktail for him called the Psycho Killer. Madison also revealed his favorite football team, The Seattle  Seahawks, while Eric professed his devotion to the Detroit Red Wings.

We delved into the world of costumes and wardrobe as Madison shared insights into his character Robbie's look in the movie Nicky & Nora and his work on the Hallmark series. From tactical vibes to casual styles, we explored how costume designers helped shape the characters Madison portrayed. We also touched on fan reactions to his acting, upcoming projects, and of course, the much anticipated Hallmark Mystery prequel, Aurora Teagarden Mysteries: A New Begining!

But our conversation wasn't just about acting and costumes - we also talked about our favorite ice cream flavors, the importance of Hawaiian pizza, and Hollywood crushes. We shared stories about golfers Taylor Cole and Brooke Burns, reminisced about the Backstreet Boys, and even discussed the perfect walk-up song for Madison's character, Robbie. Don't miss this entertaining and insightful conversation with Madison Smith that covers everything from acting, costumes, and fan reactions to food, sports, and beyond!

Signature Cocktail: Psycho Killer

Comes from the famous mixologist Jillian Vose of New York City’s famed Irish bar, The Dead Rabbit. This is probably not a cocktail most people will be able to make with the booze they have on hand, but it is a delicious complex cocktail that is worth a trip to the liquor store.  

Ingredients:

• 2 ounces Irish whiskey (The Dead Rabbitt uses Redbreast 12-year-old)
• 3/4 ounce cocoa nib-infused Campari*
• 1/2 ounce Marie Brizard white creme de cacao
• 1/2 ounce Banana Liqueur  Giffard Banane du Brésil
• 2 dashes absinthe

Directions:

• Add the Irish whiskey, cocoa nib–infused Campari, white creme de cacao, banana liqueur and absinthe into a mixing glass with ice. 
• Stir until well-chilled.
• Strain into a Nick & Nora glass.

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This podcast was created by fans for fans and is NOT affiliated with or sponsored by Hallmark or the Hallmark Channel.

Sydney and Eric usually see things pretty similarly, but Carrot Cake Murder: A Hannah Swensen Mystery proved they don't always see eye to eye. Like many fans of the series, our hosts' opinions were split over the latest installment of the sleuthing baker, Hannah Swensen.

Signature Movie Cocktail – Carrot Cake Cocktail

Ingredients: 

Cocktail

• 2 oz Vanilla Vodka (We like Ciroc French Vanilla Vodka)
• 1.5 oz Kahlua (or your favorite coffee liqueur)
• .75 az Baileys
• .75 oz Butterscitch Schnapps
• Dash of Cinnamon
• Carrot ribbon for garnish

 Rim

• 1 oz cream cheese
• 1 Tbs powdered sugar
• 1 Tbs chopped pecans

Directions:

Mix cream cheese and powdered sugar with a fork until fully incorporated

Twist the rim of a martini glass in the cream cheese mixture to cover the rim of the glass

Dip into the chopped pecans to cover

Pour all the cocktail ingredients into the glass (feel free to chill by using a shaker with ice if you want your drink cold)

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This podcast was created by fans for fans and is NOT affiliated with or sponsored by Hallmark or the Hallmark Channel.

Sydney and Eric tackle Hallmark's latest mystery, The Jane Mysteries: Inheritance Lost. There were some high notes and some low notes. Plus there were some deep 1960's, 70's and 80's pop culture references. In addition to the movie, we discuss 6th grade dances, pronunciations, and the Spirit Hermes.

Plus of course, we share our signature cocktail:

The Bohemian Rhapsody (a cocktail made for two)

Ingredients:

• 3 oz Coconut rum (Malibu is a great choice)
• 1 oz Pineapple juice
• 1 oz Triple sec
• 1 oz Freshly squeezed lime juice 
• ½ oz Fruit-forward red wine like a Malbec. But any red will do.  

Directions:

• Add all ingredients except wine 
• in shaker with lots of ice. 
• Shake, shake, shake. You want to let the ice dilute some of the tartness and shake in addition to chilling the concoction.
• Strain into two martini glasses.
• Pour wine SLOWLY over a spoon to let it rest on top of the drink

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This podcast was created by fans for fans and is NOT affiliated with or sponsored by Hallmark or the Hallmark Channel.

While Sydney was out enjoying her birthday, Eric had a lovely conversation with Paris Jefferson, who plays Aunt Sadie in the new Hallmark Mystery - The Jane Mysteries: Inheritance Lost.  In addition to Paris, this new mystery features Jodie Sweetin and Stephen Huszar. 

Paris shares some delightful tales of her illustrious international acting career as well as some fun behind-the-scenes stories from The Jane Mysteries. 

Our signature cocktail for this episode is the:

Paris in a Tea Cup

Ingredients:

• 6oz Cold Earl Grey tea
• 1oz Gin
• 1oz Vanilla Syrup
• 1oz Lavender Syrup
• 1oz Milk
• Ice
• Lavender sprigs for garnish

Directions: 

• Brew a cup of Earl Grey tea and put in the fridge. 
• Add all ingredients listed above to a cocktail shaker with ice. 
• Shake well. Strain into glass with ice. 
• Garnish with a couple of sprigs of lavender. 

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This podcast was created by fans for fans and is NOT affiliated with or sponsored by Hallmark or the Hallmark Channel.

Our cohosts decide to do a special Paris-themed bonus episode in preparation for Sydney's honeymoon in Paris. Eric reviews his favorite Paris Hallmark movie, "Her Pen Pal," starring Mallory Jansen and Joshua Sasse, while Sydney discusses "Paris, Wine, and Romance," featuring Jen Lilly and Dan Jeannotte.

In addition, they each share tales of their adventures in the City of the Lights and some travel tips for anyone planning a trip there.

Our signature cocktail for this adventure is the:
 
Raspberry Beret

• Ingredients
  • 1 Ounce Grey Goose Vodka
  • I Ounce Chambord
  • 2 Ounces of Pineapple Juice
  • Raspberries to Garnish
• Directions
  • Pour all ingredients into cocktail shaker with ice.
  • Shake for at least 30 seconds, longer if your arms can handle it. You want it to get frothy.
  • Slowly strain into a martini glass. Be patent so the foam will come out last.
  • Let rest for about 30 seconds so foam can form.

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Or visit our website.

This podcast was created by fans for fans and is NOT affiliated with or sponsored by Hallmark or the Hallmark Channel.

In this episode, Sydney and Eric go behind the scenes with Costume Designer Nicole McCormick. Nicole has been responsible for developing the look of some of our favorite sleuthers.

She was the customer designer for Picture Perfect Mysteries, Nikki and Nora: Sister Sleuths, and most recently, The Cases of Mystery Lane.

Nicole explains how characters go from a mood board all the way through, making sure they have the right bras and cozy coats in production.

The signature cocktail for our conversation with Nicole is:

 The Dress Maker
Ingredients:

• 1.5 ounces Deep Eddy Ruby Red Vodka
• 1 ounce Elderflower Liquor
• .75 ounces Simple Syrup
• 1.5 ounces Grapefruit Juice
• Squirts of lime juice
• Handful of Basil leafs

Directions:

• Add the basil to a cocktail shaker
• Pour in vodka and elderflower
• Muddle
• Add the rest of the ingredients and some ice
• Shake vigorously for 30 seconds. Don't cheat you want those flavors combined
• Sugar the rim of a martini glass
• Pour through a strainer to catch any shreds of basil
• Top with a basil leaf

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Or visit our website.

This podcast was created by fans for fans and is NOT affiliated with or sponsored by Hallmark or the Hallmark Channel.

Why was Amy engaged to another man? How could Mystery 101 end with so many questions unanswered?

John Christian Plummer answers those questions and many more as he shares the story behind never-to-be-produced Episode 8 of Mystery 101 exclusively with Hallmark Mysteries and More.

We discussed what the fates of Travis and Amy would have been, answered the questions behind the cliffhanger ending of Deadly History, and outlined the mystery of the episode. 

In addition, we discussed how many of the teachings of SGI Buddhism, such as nothing ever ends, acceptance, and resiliency, can help fans of Mystery 101 deal with the grief they are feeling over the cancellation of the series.

CLICK HERE to learn more about SGI Buddhism or watch this excellent video overview narrated by John's son, Charlie. 

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This podcast was created by fans for fans and is NOT affiliated with or sponsored by Hallmark or the Hallmark Channel.

Shocking byt also expected news came Sunday through a comment on Instagram that Mystery 101 was indeed over. This was later confirmed by Kristoffer Polaha in an Instagram Story. 

Sydney and Eric share their initial reactions in this bonus episode. There is some grief, some confusion, and ultimately some optimism. 

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Or visit our website.

This podcast was created by fans for fans and is NOT affiliated with or sponsored by Hallmark or the Hallmark Channel.

Sydney and Eric went into a time machine and were transported back to 2014 to give a review of Wedding Planner Mysteries starring Eric Durance and Andrew Walker. This was definitely a cozy mystery, not meant to be taken too seriously but a whole lot of fun. 

Signature Movie Cocktail – Cheers to not being Guilty: Champagne Jell-O Shots!

Ingredients: 

• Ice Cube Mold (silicone recommended)
• 1 to ½ cups of champagne
• 1 to 2 tbsp. lemon juice
• ¼ cup sugar
• ¼ cup vodka
• Three envelopes of gelatin
• ¼ cup vodka (Tito's is perfect for this one)
• Non-stick cooking spray
• Sanding Sugar

Directions:

• Combine 1 ½ cups of champagne with lemon juice and sugar in a small saucepan Sprinkle gelatin over the top, and stir on low heat until completely dissolved. (about 2 to 4 minutes)
• Remove from heat, and stir in vodka. Spray silicon molds with non-stick spray 
• Pour mixture into the mold and let it chill in fridge for 3 hours
• Once the mixture has solidified in the molds completely, pop out and arrange on serving tray 
• Cover and leave in fridge overnight  
• Just before serving, dust with sanding sugar to add sparkle and texture. 
• Cheers!

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This podcast was created by fans for fans and is NOT affiliated with or sponsored by Hallmark or the Hallmark Channel.

Sydney and Eric have a special guest in the house, Dara the host of the Dear Hallmark podcast. In her podcast, she discusses all things rom-com, including movies on Hallmark, GAF, and UpTV. In addition to her love of rom-com, Dara enjoys the cozy mysteries of Hallmark, with Picture Perfect Mysteries being her favorite. 

Picture Perfect Mysteries stars real-life couple Alex Penvega as a local photographer, Allie Adams, and Carlos Penvega as Detective Sam Acosta. This series of three mysteries have a lot of style and some really good whodunits.

Our signature cocktail is the jazz-themed delicious Dark Room Delight.

Ingredients:

• .5 oz lime Juice
• .5 oz Simple syrup
• 1 oz Gin
• 3 oz champagne

How to Make it:

1. Mix all the ingredients except the Champagne into a shaker and fill with ice.
2. Shake well and strain into a Champagne flute.
3. Top with the Champagne and garnish with a lemon twist.

So mix up a Dark Room Delight, throw on Newlywed and Dead and enjoy!

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Or visit our website.

This podcast was created by fans for fans and is NOT affiliated with or sponsored by Hallmark or the Hallmark Channel.

Sydney Rowland and Eric Rutin had the opportunity to spend time with John Christian Plummer, the writer of the incredibly popular and controversial Hallmark mystery, Mystery 101. 

Plummer gives insight into the questions that all Mystery 101 fans have been dying to have answered. Specifically, he answers, what is going on with episode 8? You may not like the answer, but at least you will leave the podcast with a better idea of when you can expect to see the conclusion of Mystery 101!

He also discusses another hit of his, The Curious Caterer. 

In addition, he provides some breaking news about a new mystery he is writing, plus a project he is creating with Kristoffer Polaha. 

You will not want to miss this episode!

Follow us on social media:
Instagram: @hallmarkmysteriesandmore
Youtube

Or visit our website.

This podcast was created by fans for fans and is NOT affiliated with or sponsored by Hallmark or the Hallmark Channel.

Our sleuther hosts, Sydney Rowland and Eric Rutin, had the opportunity to sit down with Margaux Froley and Joel Dovev, the married writing team behind the smash hit, The Cases of Mystery Lane.  

This delightful conversation where Margaux and Joel discuss everything from what it was like being first-time writers for Hallmark to having a very unHallmarky plot involving a secret gay relationship with an open marriage. 

Joel shares some crazy real-life stories that provide inspiration for creating the character of Alden, and Margauz lets us in on a sinister game she plays with friends. 

You won't want to miss this one. So grab a beer and jalapeno poppers and have a listen. 

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This podcast was created by fans for fans and is NOT affiliated with or sponsored by Hallmark or the Hallmark Channel.

Sydney and Eric break down the latest Hallmark mystery, The Cases of Mystery Lane. This fun mystery stars Hallmark fan favorite, Paul Campbell as Alden Case along with Hallmark newcomer, Aimee Garcia. 

Follow us on social media:
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Or visit our website.

This podcast was created by fans for fans and is NOT affiliated with or sponsored by Hallmark or the Hallmark Channel.

We had the fantastic opportunity to chat with Brennan Elliott, one of Hallmark Channel's most popular actors. Brennan shared wildly entertaining stories about working on Crossword Mysteries and Flower Shop Mysteries, as well as providing candid insight into the future of Crossword Mysteries.

Of course, he also recalls what it was like working alongside the Queen of Hallmark, Lacey Chabert, and international icon Brooke Shields.

If you are a Brennan Elliott fan, you won't want to miss this episode. And if you aren't, you will be by the end of it!

Our signature cocktail for Brennan Elliot inspired by the Crossword Mysteries is the Guzzled and Puzzled:

Ingredients:

• 2 ounces of Red Wine
• 1 1/2 ounces Laird’s straight bottled in bond apple brandy
• 1/4 ounce grade B maple syrup
• 1/4 ounce lemon juice
• Apple Slice for Garnish

-Thyme

Directions:

Mix all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice. 

Shake! 

Add to cocktail glass with Ice and garnish with a thin apple slice and Thyme.

Follow us on social media:
Instagram: @hallmarkmysteriesandmore
Youtube

Or visit our website.

This podcast was created by fans for fans and is NOT affiliated with or sponsored by Hallmark or the Hallmark Channel.

We take an in-depth look at all 5 episodes of The Crossword Mysteries starring the Queen of Hallmark, Lacey Chabert, and the wildly popular Brennan Elliott. We break down the stories, the characters, the romance, and of course, the mysteries.

If you haven't seen this series yet, we made sure we didn't reveal who the killer was.

Our Signature Cocktail for The Crossword Mysteries is the Guzzled & Puzzled.
This cocktail is earthy yet refined. Just Like Logan O'Conner.

Ingredients:

-2 ounces red wine (a red blend would be perfect)

-1 1/2 ounces Laird’s straight bottled in bond apple brandy

-1/4 ounce grade B maple syrup

-1/4 ounce lemon juice

-Apple slice for garnish

-Fresh thyme

Directions:
Mix all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake! 

Add to cocktail glass with Ice and garnish with a thin apple slice and fresh thyme.

Follow us on social media:
Instagram: @hallmarkmysteriesandmore
Youtube

Or visit our website.

This podcast was created by fans for fans and is NOT affiliated with or sponsored by Hallmark or the Hallmark Channel.

Last week had so much breaking news that we just had to do a bonus episode. First, there was the announcement that Alison Sweeney and Cameron Mathieson were returning in their roles in Carrot Cake: A Hannah Swensen Mystery.  

Next Hallmark Movies and Mysteries announced an exciting new mystery, The Dancing Detective starring the Queen of Hallmark along with the rascally handsome, Will Kemp. 

Lastly, we did a quick preview of the upcoming The Cases of Mystery Lane with Paul Campbell and Aimee Garcia. 

Follow us on social media:
Instagram: @hallmarkmysteriesandmore
Youtube

Or visit our website.

This podcast was created by fans for fans and is NOT affiliated with or sponsored by Hallmark or the Hallmark Channel.