mrs_mander_reads
Written on Jan 8, 2019
In this intriguing new series from New York Times bestselling author Ellery Adams, a quirky club in small-town North Carolina holds the keys to health, happiness, friendship—and even solving a murder—all to be found within the pages of the right book . . .
Strangers flock to Miracle Springs hoping the natural hot springs, five-star cuisine, and renowned spa can cure their ills. If none of that works, they often find their way to Miracle Books, where, over a fresh-baked “comfort” scone, they exchange their stories with owner Nora Pennington in return for a carefully chosen book. That’s Nora’s special talent—prescribing the perfect novel to ease a person’s deepest pain. So when a visiting businessman reaches out for guidance, Nora knows exactly how to help. But before he can keep their appointment, he’s found dead on the train tracks . . .
Stunned, Nora forms the Secret, Book, and Scone Society, a group of damaged souls yearning to earn redemption by helping others. To join, members must divulge their darkest secret—the terrible truth that brought each of them to Miracle Springs in the first place. Now, determined to uncover the truth behind the businessman’s demise, the women meet in Nora’s cozy bookstore. And as they untangle a web of corruption, they also discover their own courage, purpose, and a sisterhood that will carry them through every challenge—proving it’s never too late to turn the page and start over . . .
“Anyone who loves novels that revolve around books will savor this tasty treat.”
—Library Journal, Starred Review
- ISBN10 1496712382
- ISBN13 9781496712387
- Publish Date 31 July 2018 (first published 31 October 2017)
- Publish Status Active
- Publish Country US
- Publisher Kensington
- Imprint Kensington Cozies
- Format Paperback (US Trade)
- Pages 320
- Language English
- URL https://penguinrandomhouse.com/books/isbn/9781496712387
Reviews
Terri M. LeBlanc
Written on Nov 26, 2018
The mystery side of this novel leaves a bit to be desired. While there was plenty of tension and enough thrill to keep my reading, the reveal of who-dun-it left much to be desired.
Eve1972
Written on Oct 27, 2017
I enjoyed this one quite a bit. It was a bit more serious or darker than most cozy mysteries that I usually read. I think I wouldn't even classify this as a "cozy" mystery but more a just regular type mystery with a slightly cozy touch. In any case, I will say that one of my favorite things about this book was all the book and author mentions and the quotes. It was a bibliophile's dream and made for an excellent reading experience. Not to mention all the yummy sounding scones. I was a bit disappointed that the author didn't include any recipes. I think that would have been a nice bonus and would have made the book that much better.
I found it to be well written and paced. The plot was engaging and kept me turning the pages. The mystery kept me guessing until the end. I loved the interactions between the four women. I enjoyed learning their secrets and seeing their friendship grow. I loved the small town setting. The Gingerbread House and the personal scones. The bookstore and Nora's bibliotherapy. The caboose cottage. The book had a bit of a magical realism feel to it that I loved.
My only issue I did have with this one was I just didn't connect with Nora. I am not sure why because Nora is the central character, but I just found her lacking in emotions or personality. She came off a bit flat and if I am honest, a bit cold and standoffish. And perhaps that is precisely how she was meant to be written, but as I said, it left me feeling detached from her character. On top of that when we finally get to her secret at the end it had the unfortunate effect of disconnecting me further when I had just started to warm up to her. I think it wouldn't have bothered me as much if it hadn't included other people. But of course, these are characters not meant to be perfect. All four have flaws and are living with the repercussions of their actions so although her secret bothered me it may not bother others as much.
Overall though like I said above I did enjoy this one quite a bit and I look forward to heading back to Miracle Springs, North Carolina and seeing what these ladies will be getting up to next. There also seems to be some potential romances in the air, and I hope the author plans on building on those storylines as well. This gets a solid two thumbs up from yours truly.
Mystereity Reviews
Written on Sep 28, 2017
I loved the setting; a magical resort town with bewitching scones that tempt you with good memories, a bookshop where you find just the right book you need, and a relaxing spa that soothes away your tensions and stress. Who wouldn't love that? All of the main characters have a secret they've kept for years, a painful moment of their lives they don't dare reveal. Nora wears her secret on the outside; having been seriously burned in a car accident, her scars hint at a story she'd rather not reveal. The others have their own secret pain and when they band together to solve the death of a stranger in town who clearly had secrets of his own, The Secret, Book, and Scone Society is born. Together, the 4 women untangle the web of lies surrounding the stranger's death and in the process, begin the healing process themselves.