A fitting ending to Molly's story. Filled with the same humor, charm, and quirky cast of characters as the previous two installments, Prose's third Molly story left me with the same warm feelings as the first two.

Thank you to Random House Ballantine and NetGalley for the free ebook.

THE MAID'S SECRET by Nita Prose (The Maid and The Mystery Guest) is a LibraryReads Hall of Fame selection for April and received a starred review from Publishers Weekly. Unfortunately, I was disappointed in this series offering. It was not centered on Molly, but instead told the story of Flora, her grandmother, who was involved in a youthful romance many years ago. Yes, there were ties to wealth, both in the past and involving a stressful theft in the present, but the mystery, while surprising, was not especially engaging. And most of the events (how many people own a Fabergé egg?) were hard to imagine as having any connection to reality. I missed Molly's gentle goodness, her reliance on her grandmother's wisdom, and the drama within the hotel walls. Looking forward to a return to form in the next in this series.

Thank you Ballantine Books and NetGalley for an E-ARC of The Maid’s Secret by Nita Prose in exchange for an honest review.

It was like walking back into your regular bookstore when I came back into Molly’s world. I was curious as to what Nita Prose would deliver in the third installment of Molly the Maid. I will admit my expectations were low due to the consistent theme I thought she’d continue to deliver. Instead, this was no murder mystery, but a heartfelt and intriguing art heist.

The pace and writing are completely different from the first two books, and that doesn’t make this one any less interesting. Alternatively, the book offered two perspectives showcasing my personal takeaway theme that there is no better time than the present. I surprised myself to find that I missed reading Molly’s puns and quirkiness, which only elevates the story’s humor.

I wondered whether we were going to be introduced to a small number of new characters, but Nita Prose gave us over a dozen new characters. I was explaining this book to my mother and she’s now referred to it as the egg series and you just have to read it to find out.

I would be satisfied if this is the end of the Molly the Maid series, but would be ready to book another installment because I know the author would give us a great new narrative with the same fun-loving character, Molly.

Somehow, I missed that this was part of a series. I do feel this would have read better for me had I gone through any prior books of the series.

Molly Gray, and her fiancé Juan Manuel both work at the fabulous Regency Grand Hotel. She as the head main and events manager, and he as a chef. A show similar to that of Antiques Roadshow comes to film at the hotel, and hotel staff are invited to bring any treasures in for appraisal ahead of the filming. Molly brings her "very dead" Gran's treasures she holds dear - more for sentimental value than anything.

That's when she has the shock of a life - one of the trinkets is appraised as something incredibly rare, and even more valuable. Only to have said trinket vanish mysteriously in front of a huge audience while going up for auction!

I loved the writer's style, though the story felt a bit confusing to me. We learn about Molly's family tree and the historical events framing her life today - but the transitions seemed rather clunky, and I felt as though this story fought for the spotlight between a love story and a mystery. All said, I'd give the author and series another chance.

Thanks to NetGalley, Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine/Ballantine Books and Nita Prose for the eARC.
Pub Date Apr 08 2025
#TheMaidsSecret #NetGalley

A fitting conclusion to the Molly Maid series. A narrative that comes full circle with charm and depth. It not only ties up loose ends but enriches the story by highlighting Molly’s grandmother (who might be the “maid” referenced in the title) and the origins of their quiet life. Readers witness how Molly Gray first absorbed her grandmother’s wisdom. An education rich with aphorisms, metaphors, and foundational stories that shaped her view of the world.

The development of characters throughout the series stands out as one of its defining traits. Growth is present in every corner, but it takes many forms: some characters fight against it with every fiber, while others embrace it slowly and gradually, finding their way. Molly herself remains an intriguing puzzle. While debates about whether she is on the spectrum persist, her direct, literal worldview is not a limitation, it’s her strength and the lens through which readers connect with her. It’s what makes Molly who she is: frustrating at moments, but so endearing and unique that we can’t help but root for her.

However, there’s one lingering disappointment in Juan Manuel, her fiancé. His portrayal lacks depth, and rather than presenting him as a true equal to Molly, he feels oversimplified. Juan is a missed opportunity to showcase a partnership full of potential and teamwork. This portrayal feels out of step with the otherwise nuanced narrative arc.

As the series ends, I won’t necessarily miss Molly. Her story has reached its natural conclusion. This isn’t a loss but an acknowledgment that her journey has been told. It feels right, like a curtain falling on a play that has given us all it could. Prose crafts a farewell to Molly that honors her quirks, challenges, and triumphs, leaving readers with a quiet satisfaction and a sense of closure.

The Maid’s Secret is the final book in the Molly the Maid series by Nita Prose. Instead of revolving around a murder at the Regency Hotel, this book focuses on a stolen Fabergé egg, while answering questions about Molly’s beloved Gran’s past. Each chapter alternates between the missing art mystery and diary entries from Gran to Molly. I absolutely adored this series and am sad for it to end, but it also wrapped things up perfectly.

9/10

For a series that has typically been on the light hearted side this had me feeling all the emotions in the best ways possible. Molly shares the "main character" spotlight with her Gran's diary entries and the story comes together smoothly between the two, even if we do already know some of what is to come that Molly may not yet. The mystery here is a few layers deep and while some are quick to be revealed others keep you enticed. Between that and the constant humor (that may or may not be to everybody's taste but I enjoyed) this book was an entertaining read from start to finish.

I love Nita Prose so much!! I hope the Maid books never end. Nita’s writing is absolutely amazing and never disappoints. Whenever I’m reading one of Nita’s books, it is like the whole world exists around me and I never want to leave.

Thank you @prhaudio @ballantinebooks for a copy of this book.

Such bittersweet to be back with Molly and her found family at Grand Regency Hotel as this is the finale to the series. We have Molly and Juan, engaged and planning their wedding and life is good. The hotel is hosting a popular antique show and Molly decides to bring an egg her grandmother owned to have it evaluated and surprisingly is worth millions.

The egg turns up missing and now Molly and her friends are trying to find out who stole it. The story is told in Molly's current POV and Molly's grandmother and how she came to have this egg through her journals.

I loved getting to know more about grandma and how she was still so much part of the story.

The story was well told and the mystery of the egg added another level of depth to the story. I loved that Lauren Ambrose narrated all 3 books and her voice for Molly is perfection.

Visiting beloved Molly and the gang feels like catching up with old friends over drinks (or tea in Molly's case) in front of a warm, cozy fire. Reading The Maid's Secret evokes that feeling throughout Nita Prose's newest novel. What separates this book slightly from the others is that it alternates chapters between Gran's childhood and the present. Readers and Molly are given much more background on Gran, her parents and the wealth she was born into along with the expectations and tragedies that led to Gran and Molly's circumstances. When Molly brings the treasured egg to an auction at the hotel for a reality TV show her life changes-the egg is determined to be a true Faberge and worth millions. This brings instant, viral fame and attention-and trouble. The egg is stolen before the sale is finalized and Molly and her friends are in danger and Gran's diary is the ultimate key to the mystery. This novel is great gift for fans and if this is the last of the Molly Maid series it's a fitting tribute-4.5 stars.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for my honest feedback.

4 out of 5 stars for the fourth installment of the Molly the Maid series. This is a must read and I am so glad we got more of Molly's stories.

Molly the Maid is in another situation... and this one is different than the others! A certain item from the past novels (no spoilers here) makes a reappearance in a large way. This series gets better and better, especially with all the history in this one. I loved hearing Gran's story and how it tied into the final moments of the story.

I 10/10 recommend this series and this particular novel to anyone that loves a strong female lead. Molly the Maid is unique and so lovable. She is strong, dependable and always looking to assist the ones she loves.

Nita Prose does it again with this one and my hope is that we just keep getting Molly stories. This was one of my favorite reads in 2025.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advance reader's copy of this book. Unfortunately at this time I will be unable to give it my full attention, so I will provide a starred rating and return when I can give it a proper review.

The Maid's Secret was one of my most anticipated reads of the year, and while I enjoyed it, the mystery didn’t quite grab me the way others in the series have. I still loved spending time with these characters, but the central whodunit felt a little easier to crack this time. I guessed the culprit pretty early, which took some of the fun out of it.

The dual timeline was an interesting choice, but I think the Gran’s storyline, while captivating, ended up pulling focus from the present-day narrative. It was so strong that the current events felt dim in comparison. I wanted to spend my entire time reading about Gran's younger days and the drama involved.

There’s also a small subplot, and I do mean small, that felt unnecessary and didn’t tie into the rest of the story. It stood out in a way that made me wonder why it was included. It didn’t add much, and I think the book would’ve been stronger without it. However, I don't want to spoil what it is.

That said, if this is the final book in the series, I think it wrapped things up well. It may not have been my favorite installment, but it was a satisfying send-off for a cast I've grown attached to.

Thank you to Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine | Ballantine Books for a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.

Nita Prose does it again with her enchanting and clever mystery, The Maid’s Secret! Molly Gray returns as her delightful and endearing self, but this time, the stakes are even higher. With a dazzling combination of a high-profile art heist, forgotten family secrets, and a touch of romance, this book delivers a truly captivating experience.

From the glitz of a TV show taping to the emotional unraveling of Gran’s diary, Prose masterfully weaves past and present into a seamless narrative. Molly’s rags-to-riches story is packed with unexpected twists, and her journey of self-discovery is as heartwarming as it is thrilling. Add in Molly’s unique perspective and quirky charm, and you’re in for a delightful ride.

A perfect blend of humor, intrigue, and emotional depth, The Maid’s Secret will have you hooked from the first page to the last. If you loved The Maid, this sequel is an absolute must-read! Which part of Molly’s story will stick with you the most? Let’s talk about it!

I had been really looking forward to The Maid’s Secret, but while I did enjoy it, the mystery didn’t hit as hard as I expected. It was pretty easy to figure out, and I guessed the culprit earlier than I'd like. I liked the dual timeline, though—it was a cool addition. I think this is a good book to end the series on.

Thank you NetGalley, Nita Prose, and Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine for the arc of The Maid’s Secret.

This sequel to The Maid follows the story of Molly the Maid and simultaneously gives the backstory of Gran. When Molly finds out one of her treasures is actually a one of a kind art piece worth millions on live TV, she is plunged into celebrity status she never wanted as well as a heist and mystery threat.

I thought this further story about Molly and gran was very well done, keeping true to her character and adding on to her story. It kept me guessing and wrapped up nicely at the end. 4⭐️

I read The Maid's Secret in just one day because I’ve completely fallen in love with this series. Molly the Maid is such a breath of fresh air, her character is so unique, genuine, and easy to root for. I will always drop everything to read one of her stories. Nita Prose has created a world and a character that feels both comforting and exciting, and I already can't wait for the next book!

Molly the Maid is back! This is such a cute little cozy mystery series. I think I'd have to say out of all four books, this one takes the cake! I loved getting to know more of Molly's background through Gran's story. The mystery of the missing faberge egg was surprising, but super fun when it came to the whole sting operation to catch the thief.

The Maid’s Secret was a fun and heartfelt addition to the series, but I have to admit—it’s my least favorite installment so far. That said, I still loved stepping back into Molly Gray’s world. Her quirks, her kind heart, and the familiar cast of characters continue to be a highlight for me. There’s a warmth to this series that always feels like a comfort read, and Molly’s steady growth remains endearing.

The premise this time—an unexpected treasure, a chaotic media storm, and a daring art heist—had a lot of promise, and the twist involving Gran’s past added some sweet emotional layers. I really enjoyed learning more about her history, and it was a nice touch to tie that storyline into the central mystery.

I’m giving this one 3.5 out of 5 stars—not my favorite, but still worth the read for fans who’ve come to care about these characters as much as I have. I’m definitely still in for whatever comes next.

Thank you NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Molly is back! I love her so much and in this installment she is getting married to her dreamy fiance, Juan Manuel. We are treated to Gran and Mr. Preston's deep-cut backstory, an antiquities heist, Molly's meteoric social media rise and fall, and what may-or-may-not be the end of Molly's story. I hope not! We finally see some evolution with the horrible Cheryl (urgh! at last!) and Mr. Snow and the rest of the hotel staff are back and better than ever. Molly's mother, Maggie, makes a brief appearance. You will have to decide for yourself if this appearance is rewarding.

If you love Molly, you will love this book. I also loved getting to know Gran's story. Read it! You won't be disappointed.