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4.1 AVERAGE
4.1 AVERAGE
mysterious
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
Murder in the Book Lover’s Loft by Ellery Adams is a delight to read. We journey back to Storyton Hall in Virginia where Jane Steward is getting ready to go on a vacation with her betrothed, Edwin. I would love to visit Storyton Hall. It is a resort for bibliophiles and writers (for anyone who loves and appreciates books). I thought Murder in the Book Lover’s Loft was well-written with a great cast of characters. I have enjoyed getting to know Jane, Edwin, the twins, Aunt Octavia, Uncle Aloysius, the staff at Storyton Hall, and the Cover Girls. I like that the author tied this story in with her A Books by the Bay Mysteries which features Olivia Limoges and her canine companion, Captain Haviland (a black standard poodle). Jane and Edwin travel to Oyster Bay, North Carolina for a vacation and end up embroiled in a mystery. It is a well-plotted mystery. There are several suspects because the victim who is author Justin St. James was not a nice man. I had a good time following Jane as she questioned people and searched for clues. The costumed All Hallows’ Ball was a great place to catch a killer. The Fins and the Cover Girls as well Sheriff Evans (loved his costume) and his deputies were there to keep an eye out for suspicious activity. I loved the ball with everyone in costume. It made for an entertaining and lively reveal. I like how all the various elements tied together. The last chapter will delight fans of the series. I finished Murder in the Book Lover’s Loft with a smile on my face. I was sad that Jane felt the need to dispose of the treasures in the secret room (she has been doing this in the last couple of books). I can understand being afraid of people breaking in to get their hands on the special items hidden at Storyton Hall, but I do not if I could have let go of such unique items. I enjoyed the humor sprinkled throughout the story. I like that the author included Olivia Limoges and gave us a conclusion to her story. The woman certainly deserves to have a happy ending. Murder in the Book Lover’s Loft is the ninth A Book Retreat Mystery. It can be read as a standalone. However, I have enjoyed following Jane Steward on her journey since the beginning. It has allowed me to get to know her as well as the other characters and the secret of Storyton Hall. Murder in the Book Lover’s Loft has friendships, family, books, murder, furbabies, food, romance, and fun. I sincerely hope that this is not the last book in A Book Retreat Mysteries because I will miss my yearly visits to Storyton Hall. Murder in the Book Lover’s Loft is an entertaining tale with an odd death, a beach retreat, murdered author, playful puppies, fishy suspects, bookish costumes, and a startling reveal.
If you love books and cozy mysteries, then Murder in the Book Lover’s Loft by Ellery Adams may be the book and series that will delight you. Jane Steward is ready for a vacation with her betrothed Edwin Ascott. Jane manages the family resort, Storyton Hall, and Edwin owns a restaurant. While living in the western part of Virginia, they are vacationing in Oyster Bay, Nort Carolina. While their vacation cottage has floor-to-ceiling bookcases and a view of the ocean, their stay isn’t the relaxing vacation they needed. Edwin has a medical emergency and Jane finds a dead body. Naturally, they feel they need to investigate the death.
The characterization in this book is excellent. Jane loves books and organizing. She takes a pragmatic approach to the investigation. Despite some setbacks, she remained sanguine about their ultimate success in solving the mystery. Edwin balances Jane, works hard, and enjoys books as well. Add in the staff at Storyton Hall, multiple authors, book club members, vacation resort staff, and police in two locations and readers will enjoy a wide range of characters with different backgrounds and dynamics.
The plot is twisty, the story is well-written, the settings were easy to visualize, and the characters were memorable. I was easily pulled into the inner world of the characters. I also enjoyed the occasional humor that was sprinkled throughout the book. The ending wraps everything up well. This novel shines a light on friendship, family, romance, found family, books, death, and much more.
Overall, this entertaining story immediately grabbed my attention and kept me engaged throughout the book. This series is best read in order. I hope there will be more novels in this series. Those who enjoy amateur sleuths and cozy mysteries will likely enjoy this novel.
Kensington Books – Kensington Cozies and Ellery Adams provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via Net Galley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for July 25 2023.
---------------------------------------
My 4.36 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
Merged review:
If you love books and cozy mysteries, then Murder in the Book Lover’s Loft by Ellery Adams may be the book and series that will delight you. Jane Steward is ready for a vacation with her betrothed Edwin Ascott. Jane manages the family resort, Storyton Hall, and Edwin owns a restaurant. While living in the western part of Virginia, they are vacationing in Oyster Bay, Nort Carolina. While their vacation cottage has floor-to-ceiling bookcases and a view of the ocean, their stay isn’t the relaxing vacation they needed. Edwin has a medical emergency and Jane finds a dead body. Naturally, they feel they need to investigate the death.
The characterization in this book is excellent. Jane loves books and organizing. She takes a pragmatic approach to the investigation. Despite some setbacks, she remained sanguine about their ultimate success in solving the mystery. Edwin balances Jane, works hard, and enjoys books as well. Add in the staff at Storyton Hall, multiple authors, book club members, vacation resort staff, and police in two locations and readers will enjoy a wide range of characters with different backgrounds and dynamics.
The plot is twisty, the story is well-written, the settings were easy to visualize, and the characters were memorable. I was easily pulled into the inner world of the characters. I also enjoyed the occasional humor that was sprinkled throughout the book. The ending wraps everything up well. This novel shines a light on friendship, family, romance, found family, books, death, and much more.
Overall, this entertaining story immediately grabbed my attention and kept me engaged throughout the book. This series is best read in order. I hope there will be more novels in this series. Those who enjoy amateur sleuths and cozy mysteries will likely enjoy this novel.
Kensington Books – Kensington Cozies and Ellery Adams provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via Net Galley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for July 25 2023.
---------------------------------------
My 4.36 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
The characterization in this book is excellent. Jane loves books and organizing. She takes a pragmatic approach to the investigation. Despite some setbacks, she remained sanguine about their ultimate success in solving the mystery. Edwin balances Jane, works hard, and enjoys books as well. Add in the staff at Storyton Hall, multiple authors, book club members, vacation resort staff, and police in two locations and readers will enjoy a wide range of characters with different backgrounds and dynamics.
The plot is twisty, the story is well-written, the settings were easy to visualize, and the characters were memorable. I was easily pulled into the inner world of the characters. I also enjoyed the occasional humor that was sprinkled throughout the book. The ending wraps everything up well. This novel shines a light on friendship, family, romance, found family, books, death, and much more.
Overall, this entertaining story immediately grabbed my attention and kept me engaged throughout the book. This series is best read in order. I hope there will be more novels in this series. Those who enjoy amateur sleuths and cozy mysteries will likely enjoy this novel.
Kensington Books – Kensington Cozies and Ellery Adams provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via Net Galley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for July 25 2023.
---------------------------------------
My 4.36 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
Merged review:
If you love books and cozy mysteries, then Murder in the Book Lover’s Loft by Ellery Adams may be the book and series that will delight you. Jane Steward is ready for a vacation with her betrothed Edwin Ascott. Jane manages the family resort, Storyton Hall, and Edwin owns a restaurant. While living in the western part of Virginia, they are vacationing in Oyster Bay, Nort Carolina. While their vacation cottage has floor-to-ceiling bookcases and a view of the ocean, their stay isn’t the relaxing vacation they needed. Edwin has a medical emergency and Jane finds a dead body. Naturally, they feel they need to investigate the death.
The characterization in this book is excellent. Jane loves books and organizing. She takes a pragmatic approach to the investigation. Despite some setbacks, she remained sanguine about their ultimate success in solving the mystery. Edwin balances Jane, works hard, and enjoys books as well. Add in the staff at Storyton Hall, multiple authors, book club members, vacation resort staff, and police in two locations and readers will enjoy a wide range of characters with different backgrounds and dynamics.
The plot is twisty, the story is well-written, the settings were easy to visualize, and the characters were memorable. I was easily pulled into the inner world of the characters. I also enjoyed the occasional humor that was sprinkled throughout the book. The ending wraps everything up well. This novel shines a light on friendship, family, romance, found family, books, death, and much more.
Overall, this entertaining story immediately grabbed my attention and kept me engaged throughout the book. This series is best read in order. I hope there will be more novels in this series. Those who enjoy amateur sleuths and cozy mysteries will likely enjoy this novel.
Kensington Books – Kensington Cozies and Ellery Adams provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via Net Galley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for July 25 2023.
---------------------------------------
My 4.36 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
Book nine in the Book Retreat Series is just as good as the first! Ellery Adams has never lost a step with her series and for that, this book lover is eternally grateful! These cozies have found a place in my heart and a place on my bookshelves forever!
In this novel, Jane and Edwin finally have a chance for a romantic getaway. But death done followed them to the beach and this dead body is accompanied by something connecting them to Jane’s dear Storyton Hall.
Thank you to the author, publisher and @NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
In this novel, Jane and Edwin finally have a chance for a romantic getaway. But death done followed them to the beach and this dead body is accompanied by something connecting them to Jane’s dear Storyton Hall.
Thank you to the author, publisher and @NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Book nine in the Book Retreat Series is just as good as the first! Ellery Adams has never lost a step with her series and for that, this book lover is eternally grateful! These cozies have found a place in my heart and a place on my bookshelves forever!
In this novel, Jane and Edwin finally have a chance for a romantic getaway. But death done followed them to the beach and this dead body is accompanied by something connecting them to Jane’s dear Storyton Hall.
Thank you to the author, publisher and @NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
In this novel, Jane and Edwin finally have a chance for a romantic getaway. But death done followed them to the beach and this dead body is accompanied by something connecting them to Jane’s dear Storyton Hall.
Thank you to the author, publisher and @NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
adventurous
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
mysterious
reflective
relaxing
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
adventurous
mysterious
reflective
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
dark
mysterious
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
I’m usually super excited to read a new book in this series, and I look forward to them every time a new one is released. I always love to savor them.
This one, however?
This one was missing the voice, the vibe that made this series so special. I loved reading about Storyton. It always had a bit of magic in it.
I’m not sure if it was the different location, or the obvious wrap-up of this particular series, or if someone else entirely wrote this book. Everyone felt different. There was absolutely zero charm to this book. It felt like any generic cozy mystery on the market. I all but rushed through it just to be done with it, not because I was incredibly eager to find out whodunnit (even THAT felt rushed and anticlimactical).
I guess in that respect, I’m glad that the series is over, because I sure wouldn’t be spending money on any further installments.
This one, however?
This one was missing the voice, the vibe that made this series so special. I loved reading about Storyton. It always had a bit of magic in it.
I’m not sure if it was the different location, or the obvious wrap-up of this particular series, or if someone else entirely wrote this book. Everyone felt different. There was absolutely zero charm to this book. It felt like any generic cozy mystery on the market. I all but rushed through it just to be done with it, not because I was incredibly eager to find out whodunnit (even THAT felt rushed and anticlimactical).
I guess in that respect, I’m glad that the series is over, because I sure wouldn’t be spending money on any further installments.
Murder in the Book Lover’s Loft is the ninth cozy mystery in the Book Retreat Mysteries series. When Jane, owner of Storyton Hall, the perfect getaway for book lovers, take a break of her own with her fiancé, Edwin, they head to North Carolina for some rest and relaxation. Or so they think. As always with Jane, trouble seems to follow her everywhere and rest isn’t in the cards. Jane stumbles upon another dead body and in order to save Storyton, she works to uncover the full story before time runs out.
I have read every book in this series and this one was one of my favorites. I always love the Storyton Hall setting and really wish I could visit it, but it was nice to get away from Storyton for a little while and see Jane in a different environment. This series is full of great characters and mysteries that unravel the secrets of Storyton Hall that are intriguing. I always love visiting Jane and I really loved her in this book. The whole book was great and the mystery had me guessing the whole time, but the last chapter was my favorite. I hope to visit Storyton Hall again soon and see what else is in store for Jane and company.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of the book!
Merged review:
Murder in the Book Lover’s Loft is the ninth cozy mystery in the Book Retreat Mysteries series. When Jane, owner of Storyton Hall, the perfect getaway for book lovers, take a break of her own with her fiancé, Edwin, they head to North Carolina for some rest and relaxation. Or so they think. As always with Jane, trouble seems to follow her everywhere and rest isn’t in the cards. Jane stumbles upon another dead body and in order to save Storyton, she works to uncover the full story before time runs out.
I have read every book in this series and this one was one of my favorites. I always love the Storyton Hall setting and really wish I could visit it, but it was nice to get away from Storyton for a little while and see Jane in a different environment. This series is full of great characters and mysteries that unravel the secrets of Storyton Hall that are intriguing. I always love visiting Jane and I really loved her in this book. The whole book was great and the mystery had me guessing the whole time, but the last chapter was my favorite. I hope to visit Storyton Hall again soon and see what else is in store for Jane and company.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of the book!
I have read every book in this series and this one was one of my favorites. I always love the Storyton Hall setting and really wish I could visit it, but it was nice to get away from Storyton for a little while and see Jane in a different environment. This series is full of great characters and mysteries that unravel the secrets of Storyton Hall that are intriguing. I always love visiting Jane and I really loved her in this book. The whole book was great and the mystery had me guessing the whole time, but the last chapter was my favorite. I hope to visit Storyton Hall again soon and see what else is in store for Jane and company.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of the book!
Merged review:
Murder in the Book Lover’s Loft is the ninth cozy mystery in the Book Retreat Mysteries series. When Jane, owner of Storyton Hall, the perfect getaway for book lovers, take a break of her own with her fiancé, Edwin, they head to North Carolina for some rest and relaxation. Or so they think. As always with Jane, trouble seems to follow her everywhere and rest isn’t in the cards. Jane stumbles upon another dead body and in order to save Storyton, she works to uncover the full story before time runs out.
I have read every book in this series and this one was one of my favorites. I always love the Storyton Hall setting and really wish I could visit it, but it was nice to get away from Storyton for a little while and see Jane in a different environment. This series is full of great characters and mysteries that unravel the secrets of Storyton Hall that are intriguing. I always love visiting Jane and I really loved her in this book. The whole book was great and the mystery had me guessing the whole time, but the last chapter was my favorite. I hope to visit Storyton Hall again soon and see what else is in store for Jane and company.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of the book!