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Books by the Bay Mysteries #5
Poisoned Prose
When Olivia Limoges and other Oyster Bay patrons of the arts sponsor a retreat for famous storytellers, one of them is going to have a very unhappy ending…
Olivia thought gathering some of the most renowned storytellers in one place would be a nice, simple way for herself and the Bayside Book Writers to appreciate their talents. But things take a dark turn when the most famous storyteller in the nation—the captivating performer Violetta Devereaux—announces onstage that she will meet her end in Oyster Bay.
When Violetta is discovered murdered after the show, everyone involved with the retreat becomes a suspect. There are rumors that Violetta, who grew up in extreme poverty in the Appalachian Mountains, possessed an invaluable treasure. Now Chief Rawlings and the Bayside Book Writers must work at a frenzied pace to solve the crime before someone closes the book on them .
Olivia thought gathering some of the most renowned storytellers in one place would be a nice, simple way for herself and the Bayside Book Writers to appreciate their talents. But things take a dark turn when the most famous storyteller in the nation—the captivating performer Violetta Devereaux—announces onstage that she will meet her end in Oyster Bay.
When Violetta is discovered murdered after the show, everyone involved with the retreat becomes a suspect. There are rumors that Violetta, who grew up in extreme poverty in the Appalachian Mountains, possessed an invaluable treasure. Now Chief Rawlings and the Bayside Book Writers must work at a frenzied pace to solve the crime before someone closes the book on them .
306 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 2013
173 people are currently reading
1684 people want to read
About the author
Ellery Adams
67 books5,284 followersUSA Today and New York Times bestseller author Ellery Adams has written over forty novels and can’t imagine spending a day away from the keyboard. Ms. Adams, a Native New Yorker, has had a lifelong love affair with stories, food, and rescue animals. She likes to spend her free time rearranging the bookshelves in her home in central North Carolina.
Ellery's Series Include: Secret, Book, & Scone Society (Kensington) Book Retreat Mysteries (Kensington) Books By the Bay Mysteries (Berkley Prime Crime), Charmed Pie Shoppe Mysteries ((Berkley Prime Crime), Molly Appleby Antiques & Collectibles Mysteries (Beyond the Page), and Hope Street Mysteries (Beyond the Page).
Ellery also writes genre-blending fiction focusing on women and their inner monsters. Her first release in this exciting new direction is Invasive Species, which hits the shelves 4/14/206.
For book club guides, bibliotherapy lists, and recipes, please visit www.elleryadamsbooks.com
Ellery's Series Include: Secret, Book, & Scone Society (Kensington) Book Retreat Mysteries (Kensington) Books By the Bay Mysteries (Berkley Prime Crime), Charmed Pie Shoppe Mysteries ((Berkley Prime Crime), Molly Appleby Antiques & Collectibles Mysteries (Beyond the Page), and Hope Street Mysteries (Beyond the Page).
Ellery also writes genre-blending fiction focusing on women and their inner monsters. Her first release in this exciting new direction is Invasive Species, which hits the shelves 4/14/206.
For book club guides, bibliotherapy lists, and recipes, please visit www.elleryadamsbooks.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 241 reviews
August 3, 2018
Oyster Bay, NC is hosting a storyteller's retreat. The best storytellers from around the country are coming, with the headliner being Violetta Devereaux. Violetta is by far the most famous guest, renowned for her talent at captivating entire rooms of listeners with her stories. The Bayside Book Writers Group is a bit surprised at how secretive and closed off the performer seems to be. Violetta doesn't give interviews. She doesn't stay after performances or mingle with fans. Olivia Limoges is surprised when Violetta agrees to see her. The storyteller answers a few of Olivia's questions, but seems resigned to meeting some strange fate in Oyster Bay. She calls the coastal NC town her Gethsemane. Her strange future vision comes true when she is found strangled just minutes later. Who killed Violetta? And why?
This mystery is complex and a bit dark, but very enjoyable. Secrets never stay hidden. Some main characters in this series have secrets that come out in this book....but none compare to the secrets hidden by their famous storyteller. It makes for a fast-paced, suspenseful and creative story!
My one issue with this series is that it tends to get a bit overly emotional for me. I'm not one for romance novels. I like mysteries....and this series just tends to wing off into romance land, or women's fiction type melodramatic scenes, a bit too much for my taste. But -- I am invested in the characters and I love the creative plots. I do occasionally have to roll my eyes when Olivia goes into some soliloquy about how much she loves her boyfriend....I just have this snarky little voice in my head that goes "OK OK....you love the guy...get back to the mystery!'' :) Just being honest. I do like the fact that the books don't abruptly come to an end when the mystery is solved. There is always a chapter or two of wrap up and character development. I could just use a bit less lovey-dovey sappiness. But....for those who enjoy romance novels and cozies, this would be the perfect mix!
Just a bit of a head's up -- there is sex and some adult themes in this series. No cursing and no graphic stuff, but it does get a bit adult here and there. I wouldn't hand this book to anyone under 13 without reading it first to be sure it passes your personal appropriate guidelines.
Poisoned Prose is the 5th book in this series of 8. Three more to go! :)
This mystery is complex and a bit dark, but very enjoyable. Secrets never stay hidden. Some main characters in this series have secrets that come out in this book....but none compare to the secrets hidden by their famous storyteller. It makes for a fast-paced, suspenseful and creative story!
My one issue with this series is that it tends to get a bit overly emotional for me. I'm not one for romance novels. I like mysteries....and this series just tends to wing off into romance land, or women's fiction type melodramatic scenes, a bit too much for my taste. But -- I am invested in the characters and I love the creative plots. I do occasionally have to roll my eyes when Olivia goes into some soliloquy about how much she loves her boyfriend....I just have this snarky little voice in my head that goes "OK OK....you love the guy...get back to the mystery!'' :) Just being honest. I do like the fact that the books don't abruptly come to an end when the mystery is solved. There is always a chapter or two of wrap up and character development. I could just use a bit less lovey-dovey sappiness. But....for those who enjoy romance novels and cozies, this would be the perfect mix!
Just a bit of a head's up -- there is sex and some adult themes in this series. No cursing and no graphic stuff, but it does get a bit adult here and there. I wouldn't hand this book to anyone under 13 without reading it first to be sure it passes your personal appropriate guidelines.
Poisoned Prose is the 5th book in this series of 8. Three more to go! :)
July 26, 2016
Wow is how I'd describe the series so far. I wasn't expecting much when starting book 1.
Just thought it would be another mystery with a literary and a group of friends gathering in a club on helping writing their novel type read.
But alas, this author has proven with each book the character development, the continuity and just the all around thought out mystery that makes you think you know who might have done it.
Then maybe being surprised near the end. But then at the same time you're like, I knew it!
So this time around you got a storyteller's event at the library and of course the Bayside Writer's club just can't seem to have a night without something happening that leads to a murder investigation.
This makes it like the third book in the series I've given 5 stars. the rest were a 4 but for the last three I've read, those 5 stars are worth it.
And I don't give 5 stars to books that often. It all depends on the book, sequel, etc. Love this series that I felt that rating was right.
And the characters do go through a lot with each book. The character development keeps better and better and I want to give the author hug and awesome points for that. Oh and for getting me out of my reading slump.
So of course the feels was all over the place in this one, especially near the end. I was like wait, what? But they, and that and oh don't do this to me book.
Still, a really good series that I recommend. Whether you're thinking of reading a series in the cozy genre or just looking for a mystery read.
Looking forward to reading more about the Bayside Writer's Club and their next murder mystery.
Just thought it would be another mystery with a literary and a group of friends gathering in a club on helping writing their novel type read.
But alas, this author has proven with each book the character development, the continuity and just the all around thought out mystery that makes you think you know who might have done it.
Then maybe being surprised near the end. But then at the same time you're like, I knew it!
So this time around you got a storyteller's event at the library and of course the Bayside Writer's club just can't seem to have a night without something happening that leads to a murder investigation.
This makes it like the third book in the series I've given 5 stars. the rest were a 4 but for the last three I've read, those 5 stars are worth it.
And I don't give 5 stars to books that often. It all depends on the book, sequel, etc. Love this series that I felt that rating was right.
And the characters do go through a lot with each book. The character development keeps better and better and I want to give the author hug and awesome points for that. Oh and for getting me out of my reading slump.
So of course the feels was all over the place in this one, especially near the end. I was like wait, what? But they, and that and oh don't do this to me book.
Still, a really good series that I recommend. Whether you're thinking of reading a series in the cozy genre or just looking for a mystery read.
Looking forward to reading more about the Bayside Writer's Club and their next murder mystery.
September 20, 2013
Poisoned Prose is the fifth book in the Books By The Bay series.
Poisoned Prose just might be the best and most exciting book of the series, IMHO.
This book centers around storytellers and Adams does an excellent job of spinning her own tale. Flynn, Olivia's past lover, is planning a storytellers retreat in Oyster Bay and has asked Olivia if she would provide some financial backing. As everyone is gathered at the local library, the foremost storyteller in the country, Violetta, announces to the crowd that the "ghost" will come and get her before she leaves Oyster Bay. Olivia is waiting for Violetta after the storytelling, but when she goes to look for her, she finds the storyteller dead. Violetta had talked of a treasure, but no one knows what it might be or where it is.
This tragedy hits even closer to home for Olivia, as her friend Dixie, waitress at Grumpy's, cousin, Lowell, who worked for Violetta has gone missing. Lowell has a record for thefts and immediately becomes a
suspect.
So, it is time to gather the Bayside Book Writers together and begin looking for the killer. Harris, with his expertise with computers starts searching the internet for who Violetta family is and where they came from. Laurel with her background as a reporter, gathers more information about Violetta's career. Millay, with her experience as a bartender will talk to the other storyteller and hopefully gather valuable information. While Olivia tries to keep Dixie settled and at the same time try to locate the missing Lowell. Of course, Rawlings, the chief of police is busy doing his own interviews.
Looking forward to the next book in the series to see how Olivia and Rawlings are progressing with their relationship and what effect the leaving of one member of the Book Writers group will have on the rest of them.
Another superb book from Ellery Adams.
Poisoned Prose just might be the best and most exciting book of the series, IMHO.
This book centers around storytellers and Adams does an excellent job of spinning her own tale. Flynn, Olivia's past lover, is planning a storytellers retreat in Oyster Bay and has asked Olivia if she would provide some financial backing. As everyone is gathered at the local library, the foremost storyteller in the country, Violetta, announces to the crowd that the "ghost" will come and get her before she leaves Oyster Bay. Olivia is waiting for Violetta after the storytelling, but when she goes to look for her, she finds the storyteller dead. Violetta had talked of a treasure, but no one knows what it might be or where it is.
This tragedy hits even closer to home for Olivia, as her friend Dixie, waitress at Grumpy's, cousin, Lowell, who worked for Violetta has gone missing. Lowell has a record for thefts and immediately becomes a
suspect.
So, it is time to gather the Bayside Book Writers together and begin looking for the killer. Harris, with his expertise with computers starts searching the internet for who Violetta family is and where they came from. Laurel with her background as a reporter, gathers more information about Violetta's career. Millay, with her experience as a bartender will talk to the other storyteller and hopefully gather valuable information. While Olivia tries to keep Dixie settled and at the same time try to locate the missing Lowell. Of course, Rawlings, the chief of police is busy doing his own interviews.
Looking forward to the next book in the series to see how Olivia and Rawlings are progressing with their relationship and what effect the leaving of one member of the Book Writers group will have on the rest of them.
Another superb book from Ellery Adams.
November 20, 2013
This series gets better with each book. I cheer each time Olivia Limoges takes on an insensitive character who acts with abandon regardless of the harm, real or potential, to others. It's real to me because that's what I feel like doing - and sometimes actually do. While these are a minor part of the story, they take what could be a caricature character and turn her into a real person who has her own demons and her own code of conduct.
The mystery is a good one and it creates tension for the main characters on a very personal level. Everything does not turn out hunky dory for every character, even those we have grown to love. That's why I read the series. Adams has created characters and situations that I can relate to. I cheer them on when they are right and I empathize for them when they are wrong or hurt.
The mystery is a good one and it creates tension for the main characters on a very personal level. Everything does not turn out hunky dory for every character, even those we have grown to love. That's why I read the series. Adams has created characters and situations that I can relate to. I cheer them on when they are right and I empathize for them when they are wrong or hurt.
October 27, 2024
I don't know why I keep reading these. I despise the entitled main character and her use of money to get her way. Sigh.
August 3, 2021
Questa serie mi è subito piaciuta, ma dopo aver letto del suo finale (ahimè, non so resistere agli spoiler) non sono riuscita ad andare avanti. Poi ho visto da un'anticipazione in un'altra serie che Olivia, la protagonista, farà una comparsa là e mi sono decisa a rileggere qualcosa. Mi è sembrato di tornare fra vecchi amici, ma il finale, davvero bello e tanto atteso, di questo libro mi ha messo tristezza sapendo cosa succederà. Credo che prima o poi leggerò anche i libri successivi, visto che li ho comprati, ma non credo che avrò lo stomaco per leggere l'ultimo.
April 2, 2019
Multiple interesting twists for the characters in this installment of the Books by the Bay Mystery series make for an intriguing storyline. The mystery is intriguing, but the turmoil and changes in the characters personal lives enhance the entertainment greatly. I can't wait to get started on the next book.
October 3, 2013
LOVED LOVED LOVED THIS READ!!!!!!!!
October 17, 2013
There are some really terrible cozy mystery writers out there and there are some really great cozy mystery writers. I'm happy to say that Ellery Adams falls into the latter category. Her writing is superb, her characters top notch and her plot lines tight.
Olivia Limoges has really grown on me - when I read the 1st book in the series I was like OK snob city. Now I realize how much softer she is and how much she's grown. I love Haviland too! What a great, well behaved dog. I wish I could say the same for my 2. They are awesome but definitely not well behaved!!
The last book in the series I felt, had too much writing from the Bayside Book writers - too much of their novels included and I didn't love that. I didn't love the other stories and wouldn't choose to read stories with their themes. I am glad that this edition didn't include any excerpts from the books.
I did like this new edition to the series and I love hearing what all of the Bayside Book Writers have been up to. I myself would never sit through a storyteller session and I definitely wouldn't sit through one with stories about Appalachia because it really does not interest me in the slightest. The concept of having the storytellers come to Oyster Bay was neat though.
To sum it up, what I liked was the continued character development, especially for Olivia and the Chief and the awesome setting with a great canine companion. Also, the mystery was well-written and the plot line was very tight and there were NO LOOSE ends. Everything made sense and came together nicely. What I didn't like was the stories of Appalachia. I will definitely continue to read this series!
Olivia Limoges has really grown on me - when I read the 1st book in the series I was like OK snob city. Now I realize how much softer she is and how much she's grown. I love Haviland too! What a great, well behaved dog. I wish I could say the same for my 2. They are awesome but definitely not well behaved!!
The last book in the series I felt, had too much writing from the Bayside Book writers - too much of their novels included and I didn't love that. I didn't love the other stories and wouldn't choose to read stories with their themes. I am glad that this edition didn't include any excerpts from the books.
I did like this new edition to the series and I love hearing what all of the Bayside Book Writers have been up to. I myself would never sit through a storyteller session and I definitely wouldn't sit through one with stories about Appalachia because it really does not interest me in the slightest. The concept of having the storytellers come to Oyster Bay was neat though.
To sum it up, what I liked was the continued character development, especially for Olivia and the Chief and the awesome setting with a great canine companion. Also, the mystery was well-written and the plot line was very tight and there were NO LOOSE ends. Everything made sense and came together nicely. What I didn't like was the stories of Appalachia. I will definitely continue to read this series!
April 7, 2020
Poisoned Prose by Ellery Adams was just not up to the standard of the last few books in the Bay Mystery series. I don't understand how Olivia needs to be so rude to the guy she's supposed to be in a relationship with. It wasn't necessary for the story line.
She says she doesn't need protecting, yet knows a guy (who is a suspect) is looking to talk to her, goes to her car alone... doesn't check the back seat to see if anyone is there... doesn't question going to a light house with him and sorry to the dog, but i'd be protecting me first. Then she climbs all the way up to the top with this guy?
No. first thing if she knew what she was doing was not to do any of these things.
Where was her 1/2 "brother"? she talks to him once during this entire story and then again at the end - never goes back to maybe ask him to watch her dog, she'd rather ask the crazy guy's ex-girlfriend? - or hey, here's an idea, have her brother come with her. It's always safer in numbers.
The flow of this book was so choppy and was disappointing since the plot would have been a great one. At the end i just didn't care if the diamonds were found, who had them & if Olivia survived. Sigh
She says she doesn't need protecting, yet knows a guy (who is a suspect) is looking to talk to her, goes to her car alone... doesn't check the back seat to see if anyone is there... doesn't question going to a light house with him and sorry to the dog, but i'd be protecting me first. Then she climbs all the way up to the top with this guy?
No. first thing if she knew what she was doing was not to do any of these things.
Where was her 1/2 "brother"? she talks to him once during this entire story and then again at the end - never goes back to maybe ask him to watch her dog, she'd rather ask the crazy guy's ex-girlfriend? - or hey, here's an idea, have her brother come with her. It's always safer in numbers.
The flow of this book was so choppy and was disappointing since the plot would have been a great one. At the end i just didn't care if the diamonds were found, who had them & if Olivia survived. Sigh
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 11, 2014
Oyster Bay is hosting a retreat event for a group of people who are know for their storytelling skills. Olivia and the Bayside Writers are on the case when one of more well known women in the group, Violetta, is found dead. Violetta has a way of captivating an audience and she draws the crowd into her stories. There are mysteries surrounding Violetta, she doesn't do interviews and always has muted lighting surrounding her during her tales. After her death it is discovered that besides the mystery treasure that she alludes to in her stories, there is another family secret she has kept until her death.
I love this series. The characters are so easy great and keep growing and developing in each story. In this one Olivia has to decide where her relationship with Rawlings is going, and Millay and Harris reach a milestone in their relationship.
Hope here will be several more to come.
I love this series. The characters are so easy great and keep growing and developing in each story. In this one Olivia has to decide where her relationship with Rawlings is going, and Millay and Harris reach a milestone in their relationship.
Hope here will be several more to come.
November 2, 2019
2 Stars. Goodreads defines two stars to mean "It was OK." That's about right for this mystery novel. A retreat for southern story tellers is happening in Oyster Bay, North Carolina with readings at various locales. Olivia Limoges and the Bayside Book Writers including Police Chief Sawyer Rawlings are looking forward to it. The most famous of all, Violetta Devereaux, will be appearing at the library. When Violetta predicts, and then succumbs to her own murder, her background comes under scrutiny, and it's full of questions. Has she left a valuable cache somewhere? Did a professor die trying to find it? Does her assistant Lowell know more than he lets on? Difficult to get into; would reading #1 in the series first have helped? A list of characters and their roles, a la Agatha Christie's style on occasion, would have been useful. Or was it a little too much relationship and a little too little investigation? (January 2018)
October 6, 2013
Ellery Adams brings her great style to this latest book. It is number 5 in the Books by the Bay series. And if you are not reading this series- you should be. Olivia Limoges along with her friends and Captain Haviland - the great poodle go to an event featuring storytelling. A famous and mysterious women is among the storytelling. And from there the mystery begins. We see the return of all the regulars. We meet a cousin of Dixie's and see the loss of a regular character.
Great twists and turns and an ending that has me anxious for book number 6.
Great twists and turns and an ending that has me anxious for book number 6.
February 7, 2015
This is my first book in this series and I really liked it. I've heard from others that the main character in this series was unlikeable early on, so I'm glad I jumped in here! I really enjoy Ms. Adams' Enchanted Pie Shoppe series and this was as good as those, and MUCH better than her new series about a book retreat. Good characters here and an excellent story. Will read more! RECOMMEND!
October 15, 2013
You constantly amaze me Ellery; I think each story is the best and then you put out another and that one becomes the best. Wish I could give you triple the stars.
November 2, 2013
I had tears in my eyes! I love this series. She has yet to disappoint.
July 2, 2017
I love this series; it is smart and funny and very twisted. The people here are very real and at the end of each book, I really wish I lived in this small town and was friends with the characters. And maybe because of that, when things happen that end up being very personal to these characters, it makes it tougher to read. Such was the case with this book and I find myself very melancholy now because of it. I cannot go into detail because I despise spoilers and would never leave one in ANY of my reviews [unless I have to and then I use the HIDE buttons and make it very clear that there will be spoilers ahead]. This one you just have to read for yourself. And if you love a good cozy, then I would highly suggest this one; it is a 100% awesome series.
August 7, 2017
Good read with enjoyable characters and words that just flow across the page!
I enjoy getting into Olivia's life more and more. I was a little sad about the deaths in this one. Not that I especially liked the characters, but I felt like they had promising futures so I was sad to see that end. It seems like the next will have a complicated theme in it which sounds intriguing. Onto the next one!
I enjoy getting into Olivia's life more and more. I was a little sad about the deaths in this one. Not that I especially liked the characters, but I felt like they had promising futures so I was sad to see that end. It seems like the next will have a complicated theme in it which sounds intriguing. Onto the next one!
September 30, 2020
Another winning book in the Books by the Bay Mystery series! Once again, I have to stress that it is important to begin reading this series with Book #1, A Killer Plot. You will get to know and love the members of the Bayside Book Writers and the other local residents of Oyster Bay. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series!
February 9, 2022
Keeps getting better
This series continues to grow on me and with each book Olivia becomes a more likable MC. I enjoyed the story and the mystery kept me guessing. #readforkimberly
This series continues to grow on me and with each book Olivia becomes a more likable MC. I enjoyed the story and the mystery kept me guessing. #readforkimberly
October 14, 2013
Good news for the Bayside Book Writers, Millay has finished her book and has found a literary agent who wants to represent her! She is the first of them to take that step, and of course that has to be celebrated. But something is wrong, as she did not share the good news with her boyfriend Harris first. And Olivia just knows that Millay has fallen out of love with him, and doesn’t know how to break up with Harris. After all, he took a bullet for her, he is a local hero. But Harris knows of course that something is wrong between them, even though he is still very much in love with Millay, he knows it is just not enough. So perhaps he should take that job offer and move to Texas for half a year. Some distance between them might be just the thing they both need.
Olivia herself is in a slump with her own book, it has grown boring, and she does not know how to save her heroine. So when Laurel comes up with a solution, to listen to one of the most famous story tellers in the country, who can certainly give them all some new inspiration, she agrees to her ex-boyfriend’s proposition to help fund the retreat he is organizing with the library.
Olivia’s friend Dixie is also excited that the storytellers are coming to Oyster Bay. She has a cousin, who has been in and out of prison, and now he has a job working for Violetta Devereaux, and he seems to be walking the straight and narrow. Her husband Grumpy is really not happy with the fact that Lowell is staying with them, but Dixie is firm about it: he is family.
Violetta was going to be real famous according to Lowell’s mother, as a professor was going to write a book about her and Appalachian folktales. But he died a few months ago. An accident according to the authorities, but Lowell was there, and what he saw scared the tar out of him. He saw the professor being pushed down the cliffs by a ghost.
Then the night of Violetta´s performance is there, and Olivia and the other Bay Side Writers have front row seats. And with just a few words, Violetta completely captivates the audience with her old Appalachian folk tales, and some of her own. But she also predicts that she will die here, and that prediction comes true. To the horror of Olivia, who finds her, and for Laurell who wanted an interview with her. With so many strangers in town, who hated her enough to kill her? Was it one of the other story tellers, or someone she knew when she lived her hard life in the mountains? Someone Olivia knows perhaps?
Chief Rawlings has nothing really to go on, and he actually asks Olivia and the other writers for help. Millay has an excellent position as a bartender to overhear the storytellers, and Harris will be able to dig up more information about Violetta and her past. And Olivia and Havilland will do whatever Olivia can think of.
This series is one of my favourite cozy mysteries. Ellery Adams has such a way with words, I feel myself an eyewitness in the story. I like the fact that the main character, Olivia Limoges, is in her early forties, and has no intention of getting married and have children of her own. She is perfectly content to spoil her half brother’s children. She values her independence, and is having a good relationship with Chief Rawlings, the local police chief. But he is pushing for more …
I also love how Olivia does not hesitate to take action against people driving recklessly or littering or such things. This is not the first time in the series that she does that. She really sees Oyster Bay as her town, hers to protect and help. Like the son of the Captain who provides her restaurants with fish and shellfish.
First, I love to witness the growth in character and personal life for all the main players in this series, but especially Olivia. And second, the mystery is always that surprising, I would not figure it out. Violetta is not the only death in this book though and I wonder how this will continue as Ellery leaves us with some important changes in Olivia´s life.
9,5 stars.
Olivia herself is in a slump with her own book, it has grown boring, and she does not know how to save her heroine. So when Laurel comes up with a solution, to listen to one of the most famous story tellers in the country, who can certainly give them all some new inspiration, she agrees to her ex-boyfriend’s proposition to help fund the retreat he is organizing with the library.
Olivia’s friend Dixie is also excited that the storytellers are coming to Oyster Bay. She has a cousin, who has been in and out of prison, and now he has a job working for Violetta Devereaux, and he seems to be walking the straight and narrow. Her husband Grumpy is really not happy with the fact that Lowell is staying with them, but Dixie is firm about it: he is family.
Violetta was going to be real famous according to Lowell’s mother, as a professor was going to write a book about her and Appalachian folktales. But he died a few months ago. An accident according to the authorities, but Lowell was there, and what he saw scared the tar out of him. He saw the professor being pushed down the cliffs by a ghost.
Then the night of Violetta´s performance is there, and Olivia and the other Bay Side Writers have front row seats. And with just a few words, Violetta completely captivates the audience with her old Appalachian folk tales, and some of her own. But she also predicts that she will die here, and that prediction comes true. To the horror of Olivia, who finds her, and for Laurell who wanted an interview with her. With so many strangers in town, who hated her enough to kill her? Was it one of the other story tellers, or someone she knew when she lived her hard life in the mountains? Someone Olivia knows perhaps?
Chief Rawlings has nothing really to go on, and he actually asks Olivia and the other writers for help. Millay has an excellent position as a bartender to overhear the storytellers, and Harris will be able to dig up more information about Violetta and her past. And Olivia and Havilland will do whatever Olivia can think of.
This series is one of my favourite cozy mysteries. Ellery Adams has such a way with words, I feel myself an eyewitness in the story. I like the fact that the main character, Olivia Limoges, is in her early forties, and has no intention of getting married and have children of her own. She is perfectly content to spoil her half brother’s children. She values her independence, and is having a good relationship with Chief Rawlings, the local police chief. But he is pushing for more …
I also love how Olivia does not hesitate to take action against people driving recklessly or littering or such things. This is not the first time in the series that she does that. She really sees Oyster Bay as her town, hers to protect and help. Like the son of the Captain who provides her restaurants with fish and shellfish.
First, I love to witness the growth in character and personal life for all the main players in this series, but especially Olivia. And second, the mystery is always that surprising, I would not figure it out. Violetta is not the only death in this book though and I wonder how this will continue as Ellery leaves us with some important changes in Olivia´s life.
9,5 stars.
© 2013 Reviews by Aurian
October 31, 2013
Ellery Adams continues her Books By the Bay series, with Poisoned Prose, the fifth installment. Adams centers her stories around a group of writers, detailing their struggles and successes as they try to sell their work. Readers who love a good mystery will certainly find it here, as a storytelling retreat provides the backdrop for murder. Adams shows the ups and downs of the writing process as well as the those of the small town of Oyster Bay. With a charming setting and characters that readers enjoy coming back to again and again, this is perhaps the best book in the series to date!
This is just one of the series' that you need to read altogether to get the full affect. Each book can be read as a stand alone, but I think readers really miss out on a lot of the back stories and nuances that make this series so good when they read them out of sequence. The Bayside Writers group is a set of characters that have shared a great deal of history throughout the previous books in the series. They have been through thick and thin as well as murder and in the latest installment, Poisoned Prose, a lot of life altering decisions are being made, some good, some bad. But none of that has as much significance without taking this series as a whole.
Poisoned Prose centers around a storytelling retreat which brings several of the countries greatest storytellers together in Oyster Bay. I loved this whole idea. Since my girls were in grade school, all of the students have taken part in the local storytelling festival and it has become a wonderful tradition here in our community. It's something we look forward to every year and I got that nostalgic feeling when reading about the retreat in this book. I liked the fact that Violetta was such a remarkable character. An Appalachian storyteller who is passing down the stories told by her father and grandfather. I would loved for her to somehow survive, so we could have learned more about her, but Adams knows what she's doing. The story was realistic and very interesting.
The mystery of the missing treasure and the story of Violetta's life made for a very intriguing mystery. The suspects were not all, who I thought they would be and I liked the fact that the victim had ties to residents of Oyster Bay as well. It provided connection and a reason for Olivia and the Bayside writers to be so involved in the case. I liked how each member of the writers group contributed their own part in the investigation. It goes to show that this series is not just focused on Olivia as a main character, each writer has a part and that's what makes this such a good series. The motive was pretty plain after a while and I had it narrowed down between two suspects, but couldn't pick until the killer was revealed. A great mystery in this one, I think it's the best of the series so far.
I liked the fact that Adams was easily able to balance the book between the mystery aspects and the relationships between the members of the writing group and the rest of the inhabitants of the town. There are so many things going on in the personal lives of these characters. I liked the fact that Olivia is finally open to the idea that perhaps she isn't meant to live her life alone. I liked the development of the relationship between her and Rawlings and I think that means a new direction for the series, as well as, other defining moments with other characters. There were a few times when tears about got me with this one. But sometimes things have to change in order to keep a series current and refreshing.
Overall this was an excellent book. From the mystery to the personal stories, it has depth and is very believable. Adams was able to solve the crime, and keep readers invested. I loved all of the tips of the writing trade that are always imparted in these books and I think I'm going to have to start a critique group of my own. Adams makes writing seem like what it is... hard but worth it. I think that's the best part of the series.
This is just one of the series' that you need to read altogether to get the full affect. Each book can be read as a stand alone, but I think readers really miss out on a lot of the back stories and nuances that make this series so good when they read them out of sequence. The Bayside Writers group is a set of characters that have shared a great deal of history throughout the previous books in the series. They have been through thick and thin as well as murder and in the latest installment, Poisoned Prose, a lot of life altering decisions are being made, some good, some bad. But none of that has as much significance without taking this series as a whole.
Poisoned Prose centers around a storytelling retreat which brings several of the countries greatest storytellers together in Oyster Bay. I loved this whole idea. Since my girls were in grade school, all of the students have taken part in the local storytelling festival and it has become a wonderful tradition here in our community. It's something we look forward to every year and I got that nostalgic feeling when reading about the retreat in this book. I liked the fact that Violetta was such a remarkable character. An Appalachian storyteller who is passing down the stories told by her father and grandfather. I would loved for her to somehow survive, so we could have learned more about her, but Adams knows what she's doing. The story was realistic and very interesting.
The mystery of the missing treasure and the story of Violetta's life made for a very intriguing mystery. The suspects were not all, who I thought they would be and I liked the fact that the victim had ties to residents of Oyster Bay as well. It provided connection and a reason for Olivia and the Bayside writers to be so involved in the case. I liked how each member of the writers group contributed their own part in the investigation. It goes to show that this series is not just focused on Olivia as a main character, each writer has a part and that's what makes this such a good series. The motive was pretty plain after a while and I had it narrowed down between two suspects, but couldn't pick until the killer was revealed. A great mystery in this one, I think it's the best of the series so far.
I liked the fact that Adams was easily able to balance the book between the mystery aspects and the relationships between the members of the writing group and the rest of the inhabitants of the town. There are so many things going on in the personal lives of these characters. I liked the fact that Olivia is finally open to the idea that perhaps she isn't meant to live her life alone. I liked the development of the relationship between her and Rawlings and I think that means a new direction for the series, as well as, other defining moments with other characters. There were a few times when tears about got me with this one. But sometimes things have to change in order to keep a series current and refreshing.
Overall this was an excellent book. From the mystery to the personal stories, it has depth and is very believable. Adams was able to solve the crime, and keep readers invested. I loved all of the tips of the writing trade that are always imparted in these books and I think I'm going to have to start a critique group of my own. Adams makes writing seem like what it is... hard but worth it. I think that's the best part of the series.
September 13, 2013
My favorite cozy mystery series just keeps rolling along, and I'm loving it. Ellery Adams has created a series with real depth and substance, and each book is a chapter in Olivia Limoges' life. Previous books have dealt a great deal with Olivia's past, but Poisoned Prose finds her devoting a lot of thought to her future. Having always believed that she was meant to live alone, it's a huge step to even consider entering a committed relationship with Sawyer Rawlings, but that's what Olivia is doing.
Before you start to think this is a one-woman book/series, nip that thought right in the bud. Each member of the Bayside Book Writers is a strong character who has progressively evolved through each book, and some fans may not be happy with how things turn out for two of the members here in this latest book. Following this group not only shows how they put their heads together to solve crimes, it also shows how a critique group can work to help writers produce marketable novels.
The setting of Oyster Bay, North Carolina, makes me hear the waves on the shore and smell the salt in the air. I'd love to tag along with Olivia and her dog, Captain Haviland, as they use a metal detector on the beach each day to look for treasures. And while the setting and all those fully-fleshed characters work their magic, there's a genuine puzzler of a mystery to solve as well.
If you're the type of reader who's looking for a little less fluff in the cozy mysteries you read, I highly recommend Ellery Adams' Books by the Bay series. When I stumbled across them, it was as though I'd borrowed Olivia's metal detector and found a gold doubloon.
Before you start to think this is a one-woman book/series, nip that thought right in the bud. Each member of the Bayside Book Writers is a strong character who has progressively evolved through each book, and some fans may not be happy with how things turn out for two of the members here in this latest book. Following this group not only shows how they put their heads together to solve crimes, it also shows how a critique group can work to help writers produce marketable novels.
The setting of Oyster Bay, North Carolina, makes me hear the waves on the shore and smell the salt in the air. I'd love to tag along with Olivia and her dog, Captain Haviland, as they use a metal detector on the beach each day to look for treasures. And while the setting and all those fully-fleshed characters work their magic, there's a genuine puzzler of a mystery to solve as well.
If you're the type of reader who's looking for a little less fluff in the cozy mysteries you read, I highly recommend Ellery Adams' Books by the Bay series. When I stumbled across them, it was as though I'd borrowed Olivia's metal detector and found a gold doubloon.
January 4, 2016
The length of my time reading this book is not very correct! I started but stopped for a loooooong time. Picked this one back up a few days ago.
In this already fifth installment of this series we follow Olivia Limoges and the other Bayside Book Writers into a new adventure, a murderous adventure. A storyteller that arrives in Oyster Bay is killed. Olivia and her friends do their best to figure out what happened. It's not easy as one of the many suspects is Dixie's cousin and another one is Flynn McNulty, owner of the only bookstore in Oyster Bay and Olivia's past lover.
Together with her trusty side companion Haviland and her lover Police Officer Rawlings she digs into the past of storyteller Violetta Devereaux.
I loved this book as much as I did all the previous installments. This series simply does not disappoint! It has it all, a bit of love, lots of adventure and mystery, a bit of murder, mixed with great friendships, a town in which people know one another and surprises you did not expect to happen!! Onwards to the next book, because I can't wait to see what happens in Oyster Bay next!
In this already fifth installment of this series we follow Olivia Limoges and the other Bayside Book Writers into a new adventure, a murderous adventure. A storyteller that arrives in Oyster Bay is killed. Olivia and her friends do their best to figure out what happened. It's not easy as one of the many suspects is Dixie's cousin and another one is Flynn McNulty, owner of the only bookstore in Oyster Bay and Olivia's past lover.
Together with her trusty side companion Haviland and her lover Police Officer Rawlings she digs into the past of storyteller Violetta Devereaux.
I loved this book as much as I did all the previous installments. This series simply does not disappoint! It has it all, a bit of love, lots of adventure and mystery, a bit of murder, mixed with great friendships, a town in which people know one another and surprises you did not expect to happen!! Onwards to the next book, because I can't wait to see what happens in Oyster Bay next!
January 16, 2016
I have been waiting for this book and it seemed to be shouting at me from the shelf since it arrived. I cured up with it the other day and stayed up late until I read the whole thing. I don’t know how Ellery Adams does it but she gets just keeps topping herself.
Violetta was such an interesting character. She had a painful past and continued to deal a genetic disorder that kept her in the shadows her entire life. Her life also connects to some of Oyster Bay’s residents. This draws all out favorite characters together to find the killer and to understand the reason she was killed.
In addition to this main mystery so much is happening in the lives of the people of Oyster Bay. These people have become our friends with each of our escapes to this wonderful town. They are friends with each other through thick and thin and offer each other support in so many ways. They really need each other now as new opportunities arise, decisions need to be made, and an awful turn of events rocks them all.
Another fantastic story from this fantastic storyteller. You cannot go wrong with a book by Ellery Adams!!! I highly recommend each and every one!!!
Violetta was such an interesting character. She had a painful past and continued to deal a genetic disorder that kept her in the shadows her entire life. Her life also connects to some of Oyster Bay’s residents. This draws all out favorite characters together to find the killer and to understand the reason she was killed.
In addition to this main mystery so much is happening in the lives of the people of Oyster Bay. These people have become our friends with each of our escapes to this wonderful town. They are friends with each other through thick and thin and offer each other support in so many ways. They really need each other now as new opportunities arise, decisions need to be made, and an awful turn of events rocks them all.
Another fantastic story from this fantastic storyteller. You cannot go wrong with a book by Ellery Adams!!! I highly recommend each and every one!!!
October 20, 2013
Oyster Bar is playing host to a retreat for storytellers. When one of the storytellers is murdered, Olivia Limoges, Chief Rawlings and the other members of the Bayside Book Writers join forces to solve the crime.
The Books by the Bay Mystery series is one of my favorites and for that reason alone, I would give POISONED PROSE 4 stars. This series is a little more serious than some I read. That doesn't mean there isn't some fun in the books -- how about the name of Olivia Limoges and her standard poodle, Haviland....that should get china lovers smiling. Olivia isn't a sweet young thing, has a past and has made a very successful life for herself. This is the fifth book in the series and I've come to care about Olivia and the other members of the book writers. They are very good crime solvers. If you are new to the series, it is a must to start with the first one A KILLER PLOT. Have fun!
The Books by the Bay Mystery series is one of my favorites and for that reason alone, I would give POISONED PROSE 4 stars. This series is a little more serious than some I read. That doesn't mean there isn't some fun in the books -- how about the name of Olivia Limoges and her standard poodle, Haviland....that should get china lovers smiling. Olivia isn't a sweet young thing, has a past and has made a very successful life for herself. This is the fifth book in the series and I've come to care about Olivia and the other members of the book writers. They are very good crime solvers. If you are new to the series, it is a must to start with the first one A KILLER PLOT. Have fun!
November 11, 2013
I'm a big fan of Books by the Bay Mysteries. Olivia Limoges, with her unbelievably well-trained poodle Haviland, is distinct among cozy heroines and not really cozy. Very private, sometimes aloof, with a mysterious background and lots of money, she is also generous, kind-hearted and loyal to her friends, particularly those of her writers group. This time, Ellery Adams has skillfully woven in the Appalachian storytelling tradition, a strange disease, some hidden connections between people, and the requisite buried (?) treasure to create a spellbinding mystery. Watch for real growth on Olivia's part and a surprise ending. To add to the strange atmosphere, Adams sets the action again the background of a bad drought that turns beautiful Oyster Bay brown and withered. Hats off to a terrific writer.
April 13, 2014
Pissed! The last 3 books I have read by this author have been bad. The last 2 books co-authored by Adams and Lucy Arlington and this book all had the same problems and things that are really turning me off reading any more cozy mysteries. (1) main character has become unlikable. I mean seriously from smart, compassionate and intuitive we have gone to being cynical and judgmental and think she can not only judge another person but determine their sentence?! (2) A big part of cozy mysteries is revisiting the secondary cast...in this book several were written off. (3) I thought cozies were about a single incident? In the last 3 books by this author it has been about a series of crimes. Time to find another genre or at least different authors who want to allow me to escape into a cozy environment
October 7, 2013
It is summertime in Oyster Bay, North Carolina. The home of Olivia, her poodle Haviland, Chief Rawlings and the rest of the Bayside Book Writers.
A story tellers retreat comes to Oyster Bay. Violetta Devereaux is known as the story teller to most captivate her audience with her stories and tales. In those tales lie clues hidden about a treasure.
After her appearance Violetta turns up dead. Who would want to kill her and why? Does her death have anything to do with the treasure?
The Bayside Book Writers start to look for the killer using the information they have and gather more.
Ellery Adams brings her talent as a writer and her style of mystery to Poisoned Prose, the fifth book of this series. A great read!!
A story tellers retreat comes to Oyster Bay. Violetta Devereaux is known as the story teller to most captivate her audience with her stories and tales. In those tales lie clues hidden about a treasure.
After her appearance Violetta turns up dead. Who would want to kill her and why? Does her death have anything to do with the treasure?
The Bayside Book Writers start to look for the killer using the information they have and gather more.
Ellery Adams brings her talent as a writer and her style of mystery to Poisoned Prose, the fifth book of this series. A great read!!
October 20, 2013
I have enjoyed the entire Books by the Bay series and Poisoned Prose is the best yet. Wonderful plot and the story flows well. The author has deftly developed each recurring character and the protagonist, Olivia Limoges, has become more and more approachable with each book. I've read some reviewers say she's unlikeable, but I found her to be an extremely interesting person, with many layers that she peels away, sometimes painfully, to deal with her past. My only criticism is the author's tendency to lapse into overwrought imagery. Once in a while, ok, but at times I found myself rolling my eyes. But all in all. a great book and an engaging series.
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