Step into the sparkling, suspense-filled world of Stewart Hoag & Lulu, where a suave ghostwriter and his basset hound sidekick unravel celebrity secrets and solve murders with wit and charm! Penned by David Handler, this cozy mystery series blends humor, showbiz glamour, and clever whodunits, captivating readers who crave a light yet thrilling escape.
Follow Stewart 'Hoagy' Hoag, a once-celebrated novelist turned celebrity ghostwriter, as he navigates Hollywood’s glitzy underbelly and beyond, with his loyal, cat-food-obsessed basset hound Lulu by his side. From laugh-out-loud banter to intricate plots, this series is a gem for cozy mystery fans.
How Stewart Hoag & Lulu Began
David Handler, a former journalist and TV writer, launched the Stewart Hoag & Lulu series in 1988 with The Man Who Died Laughing. Drawing from his Los Angeles roots and New York media experience, Handler crafted a hero whose sharp prose and sharper humor reflect his own storytelling flair. Inspired by classic detective tales and his love for comedic mysteries, Handler paired Hoagy with Lulu to create a dynamic duo that feels both fresh and timeless.
The series emerged during the late 1980s cozy mystery boom, offering a playful twist on the genre with its showbiz settings and celebrity scandals. Handler’s knack for blending satire with suspense earned the series critical acclaim, including an Edgar Award for The Man Who Would Be F. Scott Fitzgerald.
The Heart of Stewart Hoag & Lulu
The series kicks off with The Man Who Died Laughing (1988), where Hoagy is hired to ghostwrite for washed-up comedian Sonny Day. When Sonny’s found dead, Hoagy and Lulu dig into Hollywood’s dark side to clear his name. In The Man Who Lived by Night (1989), the duo heads to England to pen a rock star’s memoir, only to uncover a deadly conspiracy tied to a decade-old murder.
The Man Who Would Be F. Scott Fitzgerald (1990) sees Hoagy ghostwriting for a literary prodigy, unraveling a web of plagiarism and betrayal. Later, The Girl with Kaleidoscope Eyes (2017) revives the series with Hoagy chasing a Hollywood starlet’s secrets. Themes of fame, redemption, and loyalty shine through, set against vibrant backdrops from Manhattan to Connecticut. Handler’s breezy style, peppered with Hoagy’s quips and Lulu’s quirky antics, keeps the mysteries engaging and the tone delightfully light.
The series stands out for its satirical take on celebrity culture, poking fun at egos and scandals while delivering intricate plots. Lulu, with her keen nose and love for anchovies, adds heart, making her as much a star as Hoagy. The cozy mystery format—low on gore, high on charm—makes these books perfect for readers seeking clever, feel-good suspense.
Why Stewart Hoag & Lulu Resonates
The Stewart Hoag & Lulu series has carved a niche in the cozy mystery world, blending nostalgia with timeless appeal. Its revival in 2017 after a 20-year hiatus thrilled fans, proving Hoagy and Lulu’s enduring charm. The series’ mix of humor, heart, and Hollywood intrigue has inspired comparisons to Carl Hiaasen and Janet Evanovich, earning praise from authors like Harlan Coben.
With 16 books and counting, the series continues to delight readers who love witty protagonists and clever canine companions. Its awards, including the Edgar and American Mystery Awards, highlight its influence, while Handler’s sharp social commentary keeps it relevant. For cozy mystery fans, Hoagy and Lulu offer a refreshing escape into a world where brains, banter, and a basset hound save the day.
- First Book: The Man Who Died Laughing (1988)
- Total Books: 16 (as of 2025)
- Awards: Edgar Award, American Mystery Award for The Man Who Would Be F. Scott Fitzgerald
- Latest Book: The Man Who Swore He’d Never Go Home Again (2025)
Grab The Man Who Died Laughing and dive into Stewart Hoag & Lulu’s dazzling world of mystery and mischief!