Ellery Adams

Cozy mystery solving undertaken by unlikely detectives in a small North Carolina town, Miracle Springs. The detectives are four women carrying secrets they have not trusted anyone else to share with until they are drawn together into solving a murder of a visitor to their town. Each chapter began with a literary quote, which was a nice touch for a story in which a former train depot turned unique bookstore and its “bibliotherapist” owner, Nora Pennington, occupy the center.

Not sure I'm into the "cozy mystery" thing. Lots of descriptions that didn't add anything to the story and were a little distracting. And every single character had some sort of traumatic backstory. Even the hot paramedic's dog had some sort of trauma. I don't know if it was explained or if I was just skimming by then. I finished the book, so it was good enough, but I don't think I'll read the sequel.

Jane Steward and her fiancé Edwin are traveling to Oyster Bay, NC to visit their friend Olivia Limoges. The activities are not picture perfect (Edwin ends up in the hospital) while Jane and Olivia work on solving the mystery of a body on the beach with a key to Storyton Hall nearby.

Unfortunately I believe this is the last visit with these characters from Storyton Hall. I was glad to see closure for many of them as well as their ability to solve the mystery. They will be missed.

Storyton Hall hosts fans of romantic fiction as well as some popular authors. One of the authors dies. Suspects and motives abound, but publishers and fans are surprised to learn something about their beloved author. This book was not as strong as the first. I found a few moments comedic--such as the times Jane's caretaker training becomes useful. After two retreats and two deaths at Storyton Hall, I wonder if anyone would want to attend a retreat there again.