The 3rd book in the Secret, Book and Scone Society series. This one is I believe my favorite so far. This series just keeps getting better and better. Spring has arrived in Miracle Springs and the rain has been non-stop which has been great for Nora’s business Miracle Books but she needs to replenish her inventory of shelf enhancers these are little knickknacks and other little items she puts on her bookshelves to sell along with the books. She decides that she is going to take her bike and ride out to the flea market to pick some items up. There she meets Cherokee Danny and his wife Marie and she picks up a pottery bowl for her boyfriend, however on her way home she tries to stay of the wet roads but has a bike accident in the woods. All her items are damaged including the pottery bowl. She decides to go the next day in the hope that Danny will be there and can repair the bowl. He is not there and on the way home as the river is almost ready to overflow she sees a body floating in the river. It is Danny. She is devastated. The Sheriff says the preliminary findings are accidental but Nora is not so sure. The Sheriff will do what he can but with no evidence. Nora and her friends do a care package for Marie and she finds out she is pregnant. Nora was enthralled by the love she witnessed between Danny and his wife that she feels compelled to dig deeper. At the store the day Nora fell she meets Sheldon Vega as he comes into her store. He is an older gentlemen who looks like Colonel Sanders but Nora likes him immediately and jokingly offers him a job and surprisingly he accepts and begins a new friendship and great character addition to this series. Sheldon has a heart of gold and fits in well with all the ladies. Sheldon is staying at the Inn of Mist and Roses which is under renovation but they have taken in a few strays who could not find lodging anywhere else. The Inn is being run by Patty and Lou (Louise) who are friends and Lou is related to the original owner Rose Lattimer. During the renovations they finds a diary of Rose’s locked in a box in a secret hiding spot in the fireplace. Nora agrees to find a way to unlock the box and wants to learn more of Rose’s story. There are side mysteries of vandalism at June’s house (racial term painted on her house), a brick thrown thru Nora’s shop window (Sheldon’s display is a winner after that) and a dead bird at Hester’s. Also the Red Bird symbol at place Danny’s truck was found and where a hiker is also found keeps bringing Nora back to the Cherokee symbol on the rock carvings near the river. Just can’t say enough good things about this book. It will keep you at the edge of your seat and warm your heart at the friendship of Nora, June, Hester and Estella. I highly recommend this book.

Oh, this series just gets better and better! I can’t wait for the next one.
There are not many book series for which I anxiously await each book but this is certainly one of them.

Ellery has created a “magical” place with “magical” residents. Every character different and every character just wonderful.

I want to vacation there and visit all the shops and eat at The Pink Lady and drink tea in the Miracle Books book store and just enjoy this delightful town and hear about all their adventures.

I don't know what it is about this series. Normally, a book centered around the bonding of four women and their deep relationships with each other as well as their various family members and community members would really not hold much interest for me. I guess the fact that the main character is a passionate bookshop owner and that the series is a murder mystery series are the things that make it a perfect fit for me. When I read one of these books, I always feel like "This is the way the world should work. This is the way friends should support each other. And not just friends, but entire communities."

So, putting all that aside, this is just an intriguing murder mystery 2. Adams does a fine job with plotting, and I look forward to every one of these books. It's a 4.5 for me.

Review copy from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

I love this series! I started this book and spent a wonderful afternoon in the mountains of North Carolina with Nora, June, Estella and Hester along with some new characters. Sheldon, a man visiting town, volunteers to help Nora in Miracle Books one afternoon and is a great addition; as well as Lou and Patty, the new owners of the Inn of Mist and Roses. This story had a current story line and also a secret from the past that comes to light throughout the story. It was interesting to see how the two would tie together. I am a big fan of this author and this series and I hope that there will be many more books.

I received a complimentary copy of this ebook from Kensington Books through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Book of Candlelight is the third entry in this mystery series by Ellery Adams.  I have enjoyed all three books.  In this one, readers again spend time with the four main female characters, each of whom has a significant secret in their past.  They have bonded together to provide support to each other and to their community.  Chief among the protagonists is Nora who owns a bookstore.  She is a bibliotherapist and readers enjoy the added bonus of learning some of her book picks.


Series do not stay stagnant, so new characters are introduced.  I hope that some will reappear in the next entry.  The arrival of Sheldon adds a bit of magic to life at Nora's bookstore and in the community.  There are also the new owners of an inn. 

There are two murders in the novel, one of a local Cherokee potter and the other of a young man who was seeking adventure and experience in the North Carolina region where the books are set. The mystery itself has connections with the past and is well developed.  However, the main delight of this series is the characters and their world.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title in exchange for an honest review.

I have book hangover.

This is, hands down, my favorite "new" series. I knew from the first book that this was going to be a special series and that feeling grew with book 2, but this book has cemented just how amazing and special this series truly is. While classified a cozy mystery, this for me, is what I call a "borderline cozy" or a more "adult" cozy - it delves into adult themes, adult issues, secrets [and the damage they can and do cause] and more. The books do not shy away from anything and at times, what is going on around the 4 women in these books is almost as, if not more than, important than the murders itself. And these books do what few books have done for me as of late - it makes me want to have a circle of friends like Nora has. What these women have in this book is what many of us dream of - women who love and support and care for us [and vice versa] with no questions [or very few] asked and with so much caring and tenderness. Even a snarky old introvert such as myself craves this. I don't need a huge circle [which is good because I am down to 1 and should she ever take a hike I will be lost], but to have several good, caring people? That is the dream. And that is also what makes these books so appealing - the idea that people ARE caring, WILL work together, DO love each other in spite of the spots, warts and bad tempers. These books give us hope.

I like the respect that these women have for each other, for those they know, and for the local police. They truly don't try to solve mysteries - stuff just happens. And Nora is quick to pass the info on to the police chief [and who doesn't hope that they get together? Don't get me wrong, I like Jed. Think he's a great guy. But he is not for Nora. At all. ] and she does try to walk away.

I like Sheldon. A lot. I was a bit discomfited at how quickly Nora trusted him and brought him into the circle [and still am to be honest. I like Sheldon a lot and think he is a great character, but it was just so uncharacteristic of Nora, that that part felt so off-centering. I am just not 100% sure about that part], but I do like the addition of him and I L O V E that the author is delving into someone who has a chronic pain issue and how that makes it nearly impossible to work a job that doesn't have some leeway. I love how Sheldon is very real about his illness and how cranky he is when he is "down" [and that all felt so very familiar]. It went on to reinforce just how real these books feel - much more than most cozies. To quote my Mom; "It is nice to have a cozy that isn't just so silly". And that is it exactly.

This was a good [and very sad] mystery. I had the "who" figured out before the end, but not the total "why" and so the reveal was very good. And sad. Geesh. The history of this country continues to haunt us and we MUST learn from our past. That is absolutely shown there.

I certainly hope that there are more of these books - I just love the time I spend with these women.

Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

A Secret, Bone, and Scone Society Novel #3


Nora Pennington is beginning to wonder if this rain is ever going to end. Owner of Miracle Books, Nora isn't complaining about the business packing the towns inns and her bookstore but it would be nice to have a dry day here and there. 

Along with the new shoppers, she makes a new friend. Sheldon is like a fairy godmother who swoops in and makes everything interesting and as long as he is stranded at the inn, Nora intends to make full use of his talents!

And rain or not she needs some things for the shop so it's off to the flea market. Nora finds local artisan, Danny, and falls in love with one of his bowls she believes her sweetie would love.

When the next day finds rain and floods and a body, Nora smells a mystery! When she believes she has found a clue in of all places The Inn of Mist and Roses. What does Danny have to do with the legend of the inn?

And now there is a second body and Nora knows it's time to call on the Secret, Bone and Scone Society to help find out who did what and why!
Another hit for Ellery!




NetGalley/ January 28th, 2020 by Kensington

I always enjoy Adam's characters. Her flawed heroines and supporting cast, are characters you want to know more about; they are neither syrupy sweet or dark and unlikable. The newest installment of this series does not disappoint with the character development or plot. The town of Miracle Springs, is the perfect setting introduce new characters as the series progresses. Nora, and her friends become involved in another suspicious death and try to figure out if other sinister events in the town are also connected. The book keeps an even pace that doesn't sacrifice the plot for character development or vice versa. I'm glad the series is still going strong!

contemporary, women-s-fiction, support-system, suspense, friendship, small-business, small-town

Devastating rains and flooding impact the lives of the four women who have survived their own personal trials and tribulations and now help others in uncanny ways. There is a new member of their group, and he is as reticent to share his problems as are the others. Things seem difficult enough, but then there is the first body. Misadventure or worse? Very interesting sleuthing and results!
I requested and received a free ebook copy from Kensington Books via NetGalley.

Everyone should have a group of frIends like the women in the Secret, Book and Scone Society. Nora and friends are always there to help each other and try to be a positive note in others who are down. This time they are involved in a local artist’s death and trying to help is pregnant wife find her way.
Goodreads

This is the *best* book so far in this series! While I love the original characters of the Secret, Book, & Scone Society, I find the addition of Sheldon (think KFC's Colonel) to add an interesting element. Ellery's characters are so real, with their real-life problems. Day after day of rain makes this story even more real to me, living in an area where it can rain for days on end. The genealogical / history element and how it all converges at the end is really intriguing to me. I'm forgetting more than I remember to write here - but I must say, this book had me captivated, one that I couldn't wait to read every night. I cannot WAIT for the next book to see how the new characters all play out. I think you will love this book as much as I did!

The Secret, Book, and Scone Society series continues to improve with each entry. Nora's bookstore, Miracle Books, continues to delight (I would love to shop there), and there was an introduction of a wonderful new character that I hope to see more of in the series. Nora's friendships with the other members of the society continued to develop, and is given a new challenge towards the end that they all grow from. I absolutely thought that I had the story pinned down, and Ellery Adams gave an it an interesting twist (though I think there was one far too obvious clue planted). The touch of melancholy that has drifted over this series is still present, and I appreciate it as it sets it apart from the rest of the cozies. Looking forward to more!

A great addition to the series. Well written, great characters and a spectacular setting. Mystery fans will love this book. I received an arc from the publisher and Netgalley and this is my unbiased review.

The Book of Candlelight is another excellent addition to the Secret, Book, & Scone Society series. Ellery Adams does a phenomenal job at bringing each and every character to life and it's always fun to be on the case with them. While there are moments that make me feel this book is a bit darker than other cozies, it's hard not to be completely engrossed in the story. I certainly recommend it to cozy readers everywhere.

The Book of Candlelight is a delight! It is the third book in the Secret, Book and Scone Society series by Ellery Adams and the series just keeps getting better. I loved losing myself in this little North Carolina town and following the characters who are starting to feel like old friends. I look forward to book four so I can see what's happening with everyone.
This is a cozy mystery, with a nice bookish twist. Each chapter begins with a literary quote. Nora owns a bookstore and has the gift of bibliotherapy. It is interesting to see which books she selects for people based on their emotional needs. I've added a few titles to my own list after seeing some of her suggestions.
The plot is fairly predictable, but the characters are lovely and not silly like you might find in a cozy mystery. This is a quick read and was perfect for me after reading a more intense book. I want to thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for this ARC.

I love this series and this newest book didn't disappoint. This book has a strong group of women and a setting I enjoy. The story is well written and I loved the addition of Sheldon. The mystery was clever and I can't wait for the next book in the series.

A good read, and I really like the characters. I like the addition of Sheldon. The town is interesting and the mystery kept me guessing. I like how everyone works together to solve the mystery. Although, the sheriff does get irritated with Nora for putting herself and others in danger. Which is a perfectly reasonable reaction.

Thank you to the publisher, the author and NetGalley for my eARC in exchange for an honest review. - I really enjoy this author.

The Book of Candlelight
(Secret, Book, & Scone Society #3)
by Ellery Adams 

Hardcover, 224 pages
Expected publication: January 28th 2020 by Kensington



Goodreads synopsis:
In the new Secret, Book, and Scone Society novel from New York Times bestselling author Ellery Adams, the rain in Miracle Springs, North Carolina, has been relentless—and a flood of trouble is about to be unleashed . . .

As the owner of Miracle Books, Nora Pennington figures all the wet weather this spring is at least good for business. The local inns are packed with stranded travelers, and among them Nora finds both new customers and a new friend, the sixty-something Sheldon, who starts helping out at the store.

Since a little rain never hurt anyone, Nora rides her bike over to the flea market one sodden day and buys a bowl from Danny, a Cherokee potter. It’ll make a great present for Nora’s EMT boyfriend, but the next day, a little rain turns into a lot of rain, and the Miracle River overflows it banks. Amid the wreckage of a collapsed footbridge, a body lies within the churning water.

Nora and the sheriff both doubt the ruling of accidental drowning, and Nora decides it’s time for the Secret, Book, and Scone Society to spring into action. When another body turns up, it becomes clearer that Danny’s death can’t be blamed on a natural disaster. A crucial clue may lie within the stone walls of the Inn of Mist and Roses: a diary, over a century old and spattered with candle wax, that leads Nora and her friends through a maze of intrigue—and onto the trail of a murderer . . .

***

4.5 Stars

This is the third book in the Secret, Book & Scone Society by Ellery Adams.

At first, this didn’t even seem like a murder. The body of a local artisan was found after a huge flood and relentless storm of days earlier. As they begin talking to everyone trying to figure out the circumstances it seems less and less like an accident and more like murder.

The entire whodunit is surrounded by a found diary from the Inn of Mist and Roses. The story of Rose becomes a critical stepping stone into finding out why Danny was killed and what the motive might be. I felt like a lot of this was just coincidental. Nora would stumble upon things that were important and then chapters later would understand its significance. I liked being able to see the clues unfold. A lot of books sort of try to do a bit of a magical trick and make you not notice one thing while noticing something else that isn’t truly important. I like to be part of the figuring out process and not just have it all revealed to me at the end. Here I got to try and figure things out on my own and test my theories.

I thought the entire concept was great and the fact that they uncovered this unusual plot almost accidentally made it even better. As she investigates, Nora’s and her boyfriend’s relationship is tested which puts even more angst into the storyline. I loved the addition of Sheldon to the staff. He is just a hoot and a half. a keeper for sure.

Overall it was a great read and I plan to read the previous two books in 2020.

If you love a good cozy mystery, definitely check this one out. You won’t be disappointed.

I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.

Another winner from Ellery Adams, the third in the Secret, Book, & and Scone series. Nora Pennington runs Miracle Books and always finds the right book to help her customers and friends. But the rain, a constant rain finds her store benefits the bottom line for her bookstore, but leaves her worn out and the shelves at Miracle Books sadly depleted. While investigating the death of a potter she met at a flea market, new folks and new problems add to the confusion. You will leave this book wanting more as the joys of friendship and trust are integral to the plot, and the many books cited will balloon your TBR. I'm already waiting for the next book, I hated for it to be over. Highly recommended!

This is the third book in the Secret, Book, & Scone Society series by Ellery Adams. The series features four friends, Nora, the owner of a bookstore who specializes in “bibliotherapy” which involves her finding boos that will offer some comfort and possible guidance to an individual who is struggling. She isn’t a trained specialist, and her work involves more intuition than trained psychological ideas. Nora also is the primary character of the book, with strong contributions by the other members of the Society; Hester, an extraordinary baker who can bake “comfort scones that can help a person find healing for a variety of aches, June, who knits comfort socks which she infuses with scents designed to help heal specific problems, and Estella, owner of the local beauty parlor who is dedicated to helping women look and feel their best. The society came into being when these four women realized they each had a secret in their past. They shared their secrets and became a support group for each other. In addition, they started dropping off anonymous comfort gifts to people who were hurting in some way.
In this book, Nora encounters a talented potter, Cherokee Danny, who is later murdered. Because of the pottery she purchased and the relationship she witnessed between the potter and his wife, Nora feels a strong pull to learn more about who killed him and why. Her investigation encompasses two new acquaintances, best friends who have purchased the local Inn and are restoring it into a B&B. As her investigation continues, she discovers the theme of a red bird running through places and things she encounters. The red bird, or cardinal, she learns is of particular significance to Danny’s family and then she finds the same bird painted on a wall in the B&B, connecting it to Danny, although she doesn’t know how.
A side mystery is the appearance of a man in a dirty white t-shirt who Nora sees standing in the rain. June has also seen him, in the rain, and both of them think he wishes them harm. While they report him to the sheriff’s office, nothing can be done as he hasn’t broken any laws. Still, Nora and June believe he is dangerous to them.
Throughout the book, there are references that give a sense of “otherworldly” to the book. Nora has a missing finger which “tingles” when something is dangerous. There is a smell of roses often as they encounter objects and information relating to the original owner of the B&B, “Rose”. These references are enough to give a slight atmosphere of supernatural, but not so much as to be invasive or cause the reader to have to suspend their reality in reading the story.
While the mystery is well plotted and there is a twist at the end, I knew early on identity of the guilty. Still, it was enjoyable to read to the end of the book to confirm my belief and learn how the final reveal would be accomplished.
There are strong themes of family and the importance of family throughout the book, and this adds substance as well as interest to the story. Personal relationships that were begun in earlier books expand, although if this is our first read in the series there is enough information to follow along without feeling lost. The mystery is complete within this novel and does not require a reader to have the previous books in the series to follow the story, however reading the series in order is recommended as it provides the reader to increase their acquaintance with the recurring characters. For readers who enjoy series, this is one I would recommend.
My thanks to Kensington Books and NetGalley for providing me with an Advanced Digital Reader copy in exchange for an unbiased review.