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A Secret Bookcase Mystery #2
A Murder at the Movies
When bookseller and events organizer Annie Murray invites the glamorous world of Hollywood along to her small-town film festival, she finds herself entangled in a sinister plot as twisted as any big-screen thriller…
After the success of her first event, which revived the fortunes of the bookstore she loves so dearly, Annie is excited to launch Redwood Grove’s first film festival. But when an infamous film critic plunges to his death during the premiere of a Hitchcock-inspired thriller, Annie’s instincts tell her that this was no accident. She soon discovers that many of the cast, crew, and guests are harboring dark secrets—from the lead actress with a scandalous past, to a film historian obsessed with protecting his vintage reel collection.
Determined to unravel the mystery, Annie must sift through a tangled web of hidden agendas and deception to expose the killer before they strike again. Can she crack the case and save her film festival—or will she find herself in the spotlight?
Packed full of plot twists and a colorful cast of characters, A Murder at the Movies sparkles with charm, heart, and humor and will keep cozy mystery fans guessing until the final pages. Perfect fans for Lauren Elliott, Tonya Kappes, and Janet Evanovich.
After the success of her first event, which revived the fortunes of the bookstore she loves so dearly, Annie is excited to launch Redwood Grove’s first film festival. But when an infamous film critic plunges to his death during the premiere of a Hitchcock-inspired thriller, Annie’s instincts tell her that this was no accident. She soon discovers that many of the cast, crew, and guests are harboring dark secrets—from the lead actress with a scandalous past, to a film historian obsessed with protecting his vintage reel collection.
Determined to unravel the mystery, Annie must sift through a tangled web of hidden agendas and deception to expose the killer before they strike again. Can she crack the case and save her film festival—or will she find herself in the spotlight?
Packed full of plot twists and a colorful cast of characters, A Murder at the Movies sparkles with charm, heart, and humor and will keep cozy mystery fans guessing until the final pages. Perfect fans for Lauren Elliott, Tonya Kappes, and Janet Evanovich.
7 pages, Audiobook
First published June 19, 2024
1905 people are currently reading
1281 people want to read
About the author
Ellie Alexander
85 books3,052 followersEllie is a voracious storyteller and a lover of words and all things bookish. She believes that stories have the ability to transport and transform us. With over forty published novels and counting, her goal is to tell stories that provide points of connection, escape, and understanding.
She loves inhabiting someone else’s skin through the pages of a book and is passionate about helping writers find their unique storytelling lens. As a writing teacher and coach, she guides writers in crafting the story they’ve always wanted to tell while navigating the path to publication that’s right for them.
Find out more about Ellie and her books by visiting her website at: http://www.elliealexander.co/ or following her on social media—
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She loves inhabiting someone else’s skin through the pages of a book and is passionate about helping writers find their unique storytelling lens. As a writing teacher and coach, she guides writers in crafting the story they’ve always wanted to tell while navigating the path to publication that’s right for them.
Find out more about Ellie and her books by visiting her website at: http://www.elliealexander.co/ or following her on social media—
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellie_alexa...
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@elliealexande...
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/elliealexande...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elliealexand...
Pinterest:
https://www.pinterest.com/elliealexan...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 398 reviews
June 21, 2024
3.5 Stars
One Liner: Nice!
Annie gets a call from a Hollywood director to organize a movie screening for a thriller after her Mystery Festival weekend becomes a grand success. They are all excited, of course, and agree.
However, Annie realizes that the Hwood (even a small fragment) entering the small town may not be a good idea. When a narcissistic film critic dies during the movie premiere, it is up to Annie to find out what happened and who the killer is.
The story comes in Annie’s first-person POV.
My Thoughts:
The advantage of reading books 1 & 2 back-to-back is that I could skim through the stuff I already know. That said, new details from Annie’s past are revealed, so it is better to pay attention.
In a way, this book isn’t different from the previous one. There’s an event, and the most rude and annoying person gets bumped off. Then, we have a list of suspects coz almost everyone hates them.
Annie is more involved in the investigation this time. While some of it is not realistic, I’ve seen similar stuff in cozies, so I don’t mind it much.
I forgot to mention Professor Plum, Annie’s cat in my review of book one. The cat doesn’t have any role except to be the MC’s pet. It’s the same in the book but it did feature a few more scenes.
There’s a slow yet visible shift in the dynamic between our MC and the potential love interest. Irrespective of what happens, I like how it highlights the difference in perspectives and the communication gap between them.
Priya’s range of coffees is great fun to read (even if ‘turmeric latte’ coming from an Indian like her makes me wince), and the way she names them is too good!
Yet again, the sleuthing is conversation-based rather than action-based. While conversations reveal details, it gets too much here. I do appreciate the little action in the climax. Give us more and make it a little hard for the MC, please. On the plus side, I can read this even when half-asleep. It is that easy.
There is a sort of cliffhanger (for the overarching mystery) in this one. We’ll know the details in the next one. The main mystery is complete, though.
To summarize, A Murder at the Movies continues the series at the same tempo. It is an easy book to read and should work as a standalone (but read the first anyway). The title for the next book is mentioned at the end, so I’ll grab it when a copy is available.
Thank you, NetGalley and Storm Publishing, for eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #AMurderattheMovies
***
Fun Fact: The potential love interest is Liam Donovan. I’d been wondering why the name sounded familiar. The last book of the Donovan Legacy series (Nora Roberts) has an MMC with the same name (and similar attitude, it seems)! And no, I’m not making any accusations. I just found it funny.
One Liner: Nice!
Annie gets a call from a Hollywood director to organize a movie screening for a thriller after her Mystery Festival weekend becomes a grand success. They are all excited, of course, and agree.
However, Annie realizes that the Hwood (even a small fragment) entering the small town may not be a good idea. When a narcissistic film critic dies during the movie premiere, it is up to Annie to find out what happened and who the killer is.
The story comes in Annie’s first-person POV.
My Thoughts:
The advantage of reading books 1 & 2 back-to-back is that I could skim through the stuff I already know. That said, new details from Annie’s past are revealed, so it is better to pay attention.
In a way, this book isn’t different from the previous one. There’s an event, and the most rude and annoying person gets bumped off. Then, we have a list of suspects coz almost everyone hates them.
Annie is more involved in the investigation this time. While some of it is not realistic, I’ve seen similar stuff in cozies, so I don’t mind it much.
I forgot to mention Professor Plum, Annie’s cat in my review of book one. The cat doesn’t have any role except to be the MC’s pet. It’s the same in the book but it did feature a few more scenes.
There’s a slow yet visible shift in the dynamic between our MC and the potential love interest. Irrespective of what happens, I like how it highlights the difference in perspectives and the communication gap between them.
Priya’s range of coffees is great fun to read (even if ‘turmeric latte’ coming from an Indian like her makes me wince), and the way she names them is too good!
Yet again, the sleuthing is conversation-based rather than action-based. While conversations reveal details, it gets too much here. I do appreciate the little action in the climax. Give us more and make it a little hard for the MC, please. On the plus side, I can read this even when half-asleep. It is that easy.
There is a sort of cliffhanger (for the overarching mystery) in this one. We’ll know the details in the next one. The main mystery is complete, though.
To summarize, A Murder at the Movies continues the series at the same tempo. It is an easy book to read and should work as a standalone (but read the first anyway). The title for the next book is mentioned at the end, so I’ll grab it when a copy is available.
Thank you, NetGalley and Storm Publishing, for eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #AMurderattheMovies
***
Fun Fact: The potential love interest is Liam Donovan. I’d been wondering why the name sounded familiar. The last book of the Donovan Legacy series (Nora Roberts) has an MMC with the same name (and similar attitude, it seems)! And no, I’m not making any accusations. I just found it funny.
June 16, 2024
The second book in this new series which is being released on the same day as the first one. Book one The Body in the Bookstore was a great read so it was easy to move straight into the second story.
In A Murder at the Movies Hollywood comes to the small town of Redwood Grove when a new movie makes its premiere there. The stars of the film have quite an impact on the local people especially when one of them is murdered. Annie Murray and her friend in the police force, Liam, work together to solve the crime.
Another very readable and entertaining cosy mystery. I hope this series continues and look forward to reading more.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
In A Murder at the Movies Hollywood comes to the small town of Redwood Grove when a new movie makes its premiere there. The stars of the film have quite an impact on the local people especially when one of them is murdered. Annie Murray and her friend in the police force, Liam, work together to solve the crime.
Another very readable and entertaining cosy mystery. I hope this series continues and look forward to reading more.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
June 29, 2024
I’m already a fan of this new cozy mystery series and it’s only two books in! This second book is at least as good as the first one, The Body In The Bookstore. What a great idea to release the first two books simultaneously. It gives the reader a chance to really get invested in the regular characters. And this series has some terrific recurring characters.
The setting is a small town in northern California called Redwood Grove. And we have book lovers and a mystery-centric bookstore. Annie Murray has worked at the Secret Bookcase for over 8 years and after holding a wildly successful town-wide mystery weekend, she is approached by an indie filmmaker to organize a movie premiere of her noir-style movie. Annie organizes a town-wide event for the premiere, with Hitchcock-themed displays and events around town.
When an influential film critic dies during the premiere, Annie gets to use her criminology background once more.
There’s an overarching mystery that will continue into future books, the mystery of who killed Annie’s best friend and classmate, Scarlet, right before their graduation. There’s also a developing relationship with a restaurant owner, Liam, which may end up as a love interest or may instead mature into a deep friendship. It also looks like Pri, Annie’s best friend and coffee shop owner, may also have a budding romance.
Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the opportunity to read an advance review copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
The setting is a small town in northern California called Redwood Grove. And we have book lovers and a mystery-centric bookstore. Annie Murray has worked at the Secret Bookcase for over 8 years and after holding a wildly successful town-wide mystery weekend, she is approached by an indie filmmaker to organize a movie premiere of her noir-style movie. Annie organizes a town-wide event for the premiere, with Hitchcock-themed displays and events around town.
When an influential film critic dies during the premiere, Annie gets to use her criminology background once more.
There’s an overarching mystery that will continue into future books, the mystery of who killed Annie’s best friend and classmate, Scarlet, right before their graduation. There’s also a developing relationship with a restaurant owner, Liam, which may end up as a love interest or may instead mature into a deep friendship. It also looks like Pri, Annie’s best friend and coffee shop owner, may also have a budding romance.
Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the opportunity to read an advance review copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
October 7, 2024
3.5 stars
This one was okay! This takes place at a film festival the bookstore is helping host, and a film critic everyone hates turns up dead. The mystery was okay and the setting was fine. This isn't as endearing or cozy as her Bakeshop Mystery series, which I loved, but I'm intrigued enough by this main character to see what happens in the next book and hope I love that one more!
This one was okay! This takes place at a film festival the bookstore is helping host, and a film critic everyone hates turns up dead. The mystery was okay and the setting was fine. This isn't as endearing or cozy as her Bakeshop Mystery series, which I loved, but I'm intrigued enough by this main character to see what happens in the next book and hope I love that one more!
July 25, 2024
I was 26% through the book and there was still no murder. I think that spoiled the thrill and suspense of the book. Finally at 32% mark when the murder takes place, one would hope, the book will rise the tension among readers. But there was nothing. From the way the characters interact or behave you would never guess they witnessed a murder. I was excited for this book but it disappointed me royally.
Thanks to NetGalley for providing me with an eARC of this book in exchange of my honest opinion.
Thanks to NetGalley for providing me with an eARC of this book in exchange of my honest opinion.
July 4, 2024
I was really looking forward to this book being the second in a new series but found it to be very disappointing. The plot premise was the Same as the first book:
• A new event for the town culminating in another obvious murder.
•The thoroughly unlikeable character is the one who ends up dead.
•Annie and Liam continue their same love/hate relationship. (How many books will have to be read before they get together?)
•Annie plays detective with her former professor again to solve the crime herself.
And finally the overuse of adjectives/adverbs to describe every little detail was too much. This was slow, boring and redundant - sadly, I won’t be reading another in this series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
• A new event for the town culminating in another obvious murder.
•The thoroughly unlikeable character is the one who ends up dead.
•Annie and Liam continue their same love/hate relationship. (How many books will have to be read before they get together?)
•Annie plays detective with her former professor again to solve the crime herself.
And finally the overuse of adjectives/adverbs to describe every little detail was too much. This was slow, boring and redundant - sadly, I won’t be reading another in this series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 30, 2025
3.5 stars! This cozy mystery series is just a really fun time and easy to binge! Each book is set in the same small town, following the main characters in town, with a complete standalone murder mystery in each book. But what makes this series fun is that we also get an overarching side plot (Annie’s best friend’s death in the past) and a budding relationship (between Annie and another character in town) growing in each book too.
In this book, Annie hosts a Hollywood filmmaker and crew to premiere their new movie when a murder happens during the showing! The film festival aspect was fun and seeing more of Annie and the small town characters too. The audiobooks are on hoopla and have been fun to just dive into.
In this book, Annie hosts a Hollywood filmmaker and crew to premiere their new movie when a murder happens during the showing! The film festival aspect was fun and seeing more of Annie and the small town characters too. The audiobooks are on hoopla and have been fun to just dive into.
January 22, 2025
Bookseller Annie Murray, having achieved considerable success with her previous event at her bookstore, eagerly seized the opportunity to plan another one. When presented with the chance to host a film festival in the quaint town of Redwood Grove, she immediately set her sights on making it a resounding success. However, as with her previous endeavors, An unlikely accident proves to be murder, and Annie Murray, who might be considered a young Agatha Christie, is determined to figure out the mystery behind the murder. The victim is when a film critic visiting town is the victims
While it may have been a mere coincidence that the festival was celebrating a Hitchcock premiere, the real-life murder immediately becomes the focus. This leaves Annie determined to uncover the truth. From bookseller to event organizer to amateur sleuth, Annie efficiently wears many hats.
Doctor Caldwell, Annie’s former criminology professor and the detective on the case, believes Annie has a knack for investigating and solving mysteries. She offers Annie a job, and not for the first time. This opportunity allows Annie to delve into the crime scene and ponder whether she’ll be content as a bookseller or if she should seriously consider pursuing a career in criminology, especially since she’s already taken several classes towards that degree.
This delightful series by Ellie Alexander is highly entertaining, and the second book is no exception. Ellie Alexander is a likable protagonist, and the supporting characters are equally easy to connect with. The mystery is woven with humor, which lightens the mood and adds levity to the book. I’m also thoroughly enjoying the slow-burn romance developing between Annie and one of the town’s residents. I eagerly anticipate where this storyline will unfold in future books of the series. With the fifth book in my reading queue, as well ans the other books preceding that, I can’t help but to hope that this becomes a long-running series.
While it may have been a mere coincidence that the festival was celebrating a Hitchcock premiere, the real-life murder immediately becomes the focus. This leaves Annie determined to uncover the truth. From bookseller to event organizer to amateur sleuth, Annie efficiently wears many hats.
Doctor Caldwell, Annie’s former criminology professor and the detective on the case, believes Annie has a knack for investigating and solving mysteries. She offers Annie a job, and not for the first time. This opportunity allows Annie to delve into the crime scene and ponder whether she’ll be content as a bookseller or if she should seriously consider pursuing a career in criminology, especially since she’s already taken several classes towards that degree.
This delightful series by Ellie Alexander is highly entertaining, and the second book is no exception. Ellie Alexander is a likable protagonist, and the supporting characters are equally easy to connect with. The mystery is woven with humor, which lightens the mood and adds levity to the book. I’m also thoroughly enjoying the slow-burn romance developing between Annie and one of the town’s residents. I eagerly anticipate where this storyline will unfold in future books of the series. With the fifth book in my reading queue, as well ans the other books preceding that, I can’t help but to hope that this becomes a long-running series.
June 20, 2024
Thank you Netgalley and Storm Publishing for the ARC of this book. This was an honest review.
The overall theme of Murder at the Movies being in a movie theatre did not appeal to me. Nevertheless, I should have figured that out from the title. It sounded like a fun event was being organized for the Hidden Bookcase by our Amature Sleuth Annie. I'm not into movies but this mystery would be perfect if you are. There's a brewing relationship between Annie and Liam, the owner of a local bar. Quite a bit of tension exists here that I actually enjoy. I just hope they get together soon. It was interesting to learn about Annie's background in criminology. I found the murder to be interesting and the hunt for the killer to be thrilling.
The overall theme of Murder at the Movies being in a movie theatre did not appeal to me. Nevertheless, I should have figured that out from the title. It sounded like a fun event was being organized for the Hidden Bookcase by our Amature Sleuth Annie. I'm not into movies but this mystery would be perfect if you are. There's a brewing relationship between Annie and Liam, the owner of a local bar. Quite a bit of tension exists here that I actually enjoy. I just hope they get together soon. It was interesting to learn about Annie's background in criminology. I found the murder to be interesting and the hunt for the killer to be thrilling.
April 15, 2025
This is the 2nd in this cozy mystery series, and the fun continues. In book 1 Annie coordinated a murder mystery weekend for her little town. It was very successful for the shops, including the quaint bookstore she works at. Successful unless you were the man that was murdered!
Now a director has contacted Annie to coordinate the premiere of her new murder film. Annie helps plan a film festival, and again the town is all in. Imagine their horror and surprise when a film critic is found dead during the premiere!
Annie previously was working on a criminology degree and their police chief was her professor, so she enlists her help. Can they find the killer before another body appears?!
These are the kind of books I have a hard time rating. It’s a fun adventure, and this one ends on an exciting cliffhanger. It’s not a great piece of literature but it’s very engaging. My 3-1/2 is being rounded down on this one, but it��s a fun 3!
Now a director has contacted Annie to coordinate the premiere of her new murder film. Annie helps plan a film festival, and again the town is all in. Imagine their horror and surprise when a film critic is found dead during the premiere!
Annie previously was working on a criminology degree and their police chief was her professor, so she enlists her help. Can they find the killer before another body appears?!
These are the kind of books I have a hard time rating. It’s a fun adventure, and this one ends on an exciting cliffhanger. It’s not a great piece of literature but it’s very engaging. My 3-1/2 is being rounded down on this one, but it��s a fun 3!
November 7, 2024
3-3.5 stars
July 1, 2024
3.5 stars! This was such a fun and fast-paced murder mystery! I loved the mystic small town and thriller bookstore that operated as the setting for the book. Annie is such a sharp-minded FMC and I loved her determination to uncover the murderer. Whilst trying to solve the main murder mystery, I also appreciated the underlying murder case of her friend Scarlet which is still ongoing. The banter between Annie and Liam was so fun, they’re a slow burn but I loved the progression of their relationship in this book. I did find that it took quite a bit of time to reach the murder and for tension to rise, however, once it picked up I couldn’t stop reading! Thank you to Netgalley and Bookouture for the e-arc.
June 9, 2024
Wow, Ms. Alexander is on a roll with her new series, two books being released at the same time, both quite wonderful. I already reviewed The Body in the Bookstore, which I really enjoyed. This book adds to our knowledge of the delightful characters, charming setting, and the why of Annie's determination to find justice. Fresh off her success at setting up the Mystery Fest that benefited The Secret Bookcase and the small northern California town that is home, Annie gets a call asking her to help stage a movie premiere in town. When there is a murder at the premiere, after a very awkward dinner at the Stag Head the night before, can Annie, her colleagues and friends help the police figure out who had the most to gain from the movie critic's death? Also, we get another enticing bit of information in the background case of Annie's college friend death. Thanks to #NetGalley and #StormPublishing for the opportunity to discover this new series! #AMurderattheMovies, #EllieAlexander, #bookreview, #bookideas, #retiredreader
June 19, 2024
Since the interactive and immersive Mystery Festival in the spring was so successful, Annie Murray is busy coordinating preparations for the fall festival. Annie Murray is a bookseller and event coordinator at the Secret Bookcase. During an unexpected phone call, Annie can hardly believe what she hears! An independent filmmaker, Heather Hathaway, is asking Annie to coordinate the premiere of her new thriller, "Midnight Alibi," which will highlight a mystery film weekend in Redwood Grove. More publicity for the mystery bookstore inspired by Agatha Christie, complete with a secret room in the reconverted old manor house. A request Annie can't refuse!
I love armchair traveling to Redwood Grove! The allure of the bookstore and its special events, along with the chance to meet Annie Murray, her cat Professor Plum, colleague Fletcher, bookstore owner Hal Christie, former professor Dr. Caldwell, and best friend Priya (Pri) Kapoor at the coffee shop is irresistible. Surely, Pri would take me to the Stag Head so I could slyly peek at the pub owner, Liam Donovan, who gives tingles to Annie.
As charming as the setting is, the unexpected event during the premiere necessitates an intriguing investigation. More questions have led to fewer answers, with cleverly placed red herrings leading the way.
Thank you to Ellie Alexander, Storm Publishing, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an eARC of this novel. The double treat of 2 releases on the same day (June 19, 2024) is a delightful surprise for readers like me. We eagerly await the next event hosted by the Secret Bookcase.
I love armchair traveling to Redwood Grove! The allure of the bookstore and its special events, along with the chance to meet Annie Murray, her cat Professor Plum, colleague Fletcher, bookstore owner Hal Christie, former professor Dr. Caldwell, and best friend Priya (Pri) Kapoor at the coffee shop is irresistible. Surely, Pri would take me to the Stag Head so I could slyly peek at the pub owner, Liam Donovan, who gives tingles to Annie.
As charming as the setting is, the unexpected event during the premiere necessitates an intriguing investigation. More questions have led to fewer answers, with cleverly placed red herrings leading the way.
Thank you to Ellie Alexander, Storm Publishing, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an eARC of this novel. The double treat of 2 releases on the same day (June 19, 2024) is a delightful surprise for readers like me. We eagerly await the next event hosted by the Secret Bookcase.
October 12, 2024
Another enjoyable read from the great Ellie Alexander. I can't wait to see what's in store next for Annie! The possibility of a budding romance isn't something I normally care about, but I'm so invested in this cast of characters, I can't help but want to see love blossom!
April 13, 2025
Version: Audiobook
Once again the mystery wasn’t that hard to solve, but the small town feels and very small development in the potential romance department had me kicking my feet and giggling. Excited for the next one!
Once again the mystery wasn’t that hard to solve, but the small town feels and very small development in the potential romance department had me kicking my feet and giggling. Excited for the next one!
September 15, 2024
Engaging sequel to a Body in the Bookstore! I enjoyed getting a more in depth look at the town and characters, and the possible budding romance intrigues me to continue to see if Annie will end up in a relationship!
Definitely a new favorite series!
Definitely a new favorite series!
June 12, 2024
The cover of Book 2 in A Secret Bookcase Mystery grabbed me, as did the gripping story in which the store sponsors a movie festival inspired by Hitchcock. Murder ensues with intriguing twists and turns and you have one fine mystery. More, please!
June 21, 2024
So much fun! Totally enjoyed the the first in the series and this one was even better. Now I want to know! When is the third one coming out. I am so invested already. Annie Murray receives an interesting phone call from a Hollywood director wanting to premiere her latest mystery movie there. The Hollywood archetypes are so interesting and enjoyable and the mystery nicely plotted. But the true joy of this series, and any Ellie Alexander series, is all the secondary characters with realistic quirks and desires that make the story so compelling! Just loved it. Thanks to netgalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 7, 2024
#AMurderattheMovies #NetGalley is the second book in this fun, light cozy mystery by Ellie Alexander.
Annie is a delightful character, she's devoted to her job and her friends, and is excited to have another event in her small town.
The Hollywood stars come with a lot of drama, and when a death shakes up a movie premier, Annie helps to uncover the clues.
I like this series because it's fresh and new. In typical cozies, the police don't like amateur sleuths, but since Annie has a connection to the detective, her assistance is appreciated.
I also love the relationship between Liam and Annie, the author is creating a very real relationship which makes it a joy to read.
I'm looking forward to reading more in this new series.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
Annie is a delightful character, she's devoted to her job and her friends, and is excited to have another event in her small town.
The Hollywood stars come with a lot of drama, and when a death shakes up a movie premier, Annie helps to uncover the clues.
I like this series because it's fresh and new. In typical cozies, the police don't like amateur sleuths, but since Annie has a connection to the detective, her assistance is appreciated.
I also love the relationship between Liam and Annie, the author is creating a very real relationship which makes it a joy to read.
I'm looking forward to reading more in this new series.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
June 10, 2024
Just the cozy small town mystery I was looking for. The characters are interesting and likeable. (Most are likable anyway.) The setting is superb, with a really neat bookstore, an old school movie theater, a really cool coffee shop and a pub I'd like to frequent myself. The author does a great job making these places come alive with her in depth descriptions and attention to detail.
If you're looking for a cozy mystery with a tight knit community, an adorable town, some delectably described drinks and meals and a murder to be solved, then this book would suit you well.
If you're looking for a cozy mystery with a tight knit community, an adorable town, some delectably described drinks and meals and a murder to be solved, then this book would suit you well.
July 25, 2024
Soooo the ending came at the weirdest time! Heather suddenly vanished from the book around the last 4 chapters and we never heard about her again! The whole book revolved around her and her movie! The main character told Heather she had a “interview” to get herself alone with the killer and we literally never heard about her again! The ending was super rushed and I mean RUSHED. There was no confession, no explanation from the killer they just started beating people 😭 I had to scroll though the book to make sure I didn’t miss anything because the math was not mathing!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 29, 2024
4.25 stars
I was already a fan of the town and the main characters from reading the first book in this series, but I enjoyed this book even more. The author could concentrate more on the plot rather than introducing all the characters. There were plenty of suspects so it was hard to guess who the actual killer was.
I am really enjoying the friendship between Annie and Pri and the potential romance between Annie and Liam. Annie's background in criminology as well as an overarching mystery of the death of her best friend make this a unique cozy mystery. I am looking forward to Book 3!
I was already a fan of the town and the main characters from reading the first book in this series, but I enjoyed this book even more. The author could concentrate more on the plot rather than introducing all the characters. There were plenty of suspects so it was hard to guess who the actual killer was.
I am really enjoying the friendship between Annie and Pri and the potential romance between Annie and Liam. Annie's background in criminology as well as an overarching mystery of the death of her best friend make this a unique cozy mystery. I am looking forward to Book 3!
September 27, 2024
Anyone who has followed my book reviews for the past few years knows that Ellie is an auto-buy author for me. So, it is not a shock to anyone that I loved this book and this series. I have already preordered the audiobook for book three. There is just something a little bit darker and more real about Annie and her world than with Ellie's other cozy mysteries that pulls me in and has me devouring them faster than ever.
June 15, 2024
Annie and the rest of the staff of the Secret Bookcase are thrilled that the mystery festival was so successful, but they’re all surprised when a Hollywood director wants to hold the premiere of her new movie in Redwood Grove - and wants Annie to organize a Hitchcock-themed film festival featuring her movie. But when a man falls to his death during the premiere, Annie is once again asked by her former criminology professor to assist with the investigation.
This is the second book in a new series by one of my favorite cozy authors, and I really liked the first book, so it wasn’t surprising that this book was just as good. The setting has been established, although readers are getting to know more details about the town of Redwood Grove. The characters who have returned from the first book will likely be the recurring cast of characters throughout the series, which makes me happy. They all work together relatively well, even though there appears to be at least one person who is reluctantly becoming part of the core group. I love Annie’s cat, Professor Plum, who is taking part in the investigation of a previous crime, whether he knows it or not.
The victim in this story was not well-liked, and almost everyone associated with the movie had a secret or two that could be motivation to kill him, so the suspect list was lengthy for most of the book. It wasn’t until shortly before the confrontation scene in the story that I started to put things together, although I didn’t quite work out the motive. The resolution of said confrontation was almost predictable, but it was still satisfying.
I will definitely keep an eye out for the third book in the series, which I’m eager to read so I can find out what happens next in several of the story lines that weren’t wrapped up in this book.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
This is the second book in a new series by one of my favorite cozy authors, and I really liked the first book, so it wasn’t surprising that this book was just as good. The setting has been established, although readers are getting to know more details about the town of Redwood Grove. The characters who have returned from the first book will likely be the recurring cast of characters throughout the series, which makes me happy. They all work together relatively well, even though there appears to be at least one person who is reluctantly becoming part of the core group. I love Annie’s cat, Professor Plum, who is taking part in the investigation of a previous crime, whether he knows it or not.
The victim in this story was not well-liked, and almost everyone associated with the movie had a secret or two that could be motivation to kill him, so the suspect list was lengthy for most of the book. It wasn’t until shortly before the confrontation scene in the story that I started to put things together, although I didn’t quite work out the motive. The resolution of said confrontation was almost predictable, but it was still satisfying.
I will definitely keep an eye out for the third book in the series, which I’m eager to read so I can find out what happens next in several of the story lines that weren’t wrapped up in this book.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
June 13, 2024
4.5 stars
A Murder at the Movies by Ellie Alexander the 2nd instalment in the "A Secret Bookcase Mystery" series. I was really happy to dive into book 2 right away and now I’m anxiously awaiting book 3.
Determined to unravel the mystery, Annie must sift through a tangled web of hidden agendas and deception to expose the killer before they strike again. Can she crack the case and save her film festival – or will she find herself in the spotlight?
I was delighted to return to the charming town of Redwood Grove and the Secret Bookcase bookstore. In this latest instalment, Annie is busy planning a movie premiere, and I loved seeing the growth of side characters like Pri and Liam. The reveal of the mysterious Double Americano's identity was a great surprise! I'm now rooting for Annie and Liam to take their friendship to the next level and eager to uncover Liam's hidden past.
Overall, I'm thoroughly invested in this series and excited to see where the author takes these endearing characters next!
I requested and received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Storm Publishing and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my OWN.
A Murder at the Movies by Ellie Alexander the 2nd instalment in the "A Secret Bookcase Mystery" series. I was really happy to dive into book 2 right away and now I’m anxiously awaiting book 3.
Determined to unravel the mystery, Annie must sift through a tangled web of hidden agendas and deception to expose the killer before they strike again. Can she crack the case and save her film festival – or will she find herself in the spotlight?
I was delighted to return to the charming town of Redwood Grove and the Secret Bookcase bookstore. In this latest instalment, Annie is busy planning a movie premiere, and I loved seeing the growth of side characters like Pri and Liam. The reveal of the mysterious Double Americano's identity was a great surprise! I'm now rooting for Annie and Liam to take their friendship to the next level and eager to uncover Liam's hidden past.
Overall, I'm thoroughly invested in this series and excited to see where the author takes these endearing characters next!
I requested and received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Storm Publishing and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my OWN.
June 13, 2024
Thank you NetGallery for the eARC.. Great book overall, I wish i knew it was a book 1 so I could have caught onto certain parts in the story. But I’m smart so I figured it out as I went along.
This was my first mystery book, where we are trying to figure out who the killer is.
I was intrigued by the cover of the book because of my obsession with going to the movies! I just knew this book was for me. And it was. Of course it took some time for the story to build up, remember it is like a puzzle and have to put all the pieces together.
Quick summary of the book is a bookstore employee Annie is given this opportunity to host a huge “Hollywood” movie fulfilled weekend festival in a small town…but in the mist of the movie, someone is MURDER! Yes murder in the movies ( hint the title).. 🍿🍿🍿 yes get your popcorn because you will be on a ride throughout this book to find out who the killer is.
Is it the director, producer , writer, one of the case members, someone from the bookstore??
WHO IS THE KILLER?
This was my first mystery book, where we are trying to figure out who the killer is.
I was intrigued by the cover of the book because of my obsession with going to the movies! I just knew this book was for me. And it was. Of course it took some time for the story to build up, remember it is like a puzzle and have to put all the pieces together.
Quick summary of the book is a bookstore employee Annie is given this opportunity to host a huge “Hollywood” movie fulfilled weekend festival in a small town…but in the mist of the movie, someone is MURDER! Yes murder in the movies ( hint the title).. 🍿🍿🍿 yes get your popcorn because you will be on a ride throughout this book to find out who the killer is.
Is it the director, producer , writer, one of the case members, someone from the bookstore??
WHO IS THE KILLER?
June 18, 2024
This is a good cosy mystery.
Annie is happy that the mystery festival she arranged was so successful, but is surprised when a Hollywood director wants her to organize a Hitchcock-themed film festival featuring her movie. But when a man falls to his death during the premiere, Annie gets drawn into the investigation.
The victim was not a popular man and almost everyone associated with the movie had the potential to want him dead, so it was great trying to work out who the killer was.
Thanks to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
Annie is happy that the mystery festival she arranged was so successful, but is surprised when a Hollywood director wants her to organize a Hitchcock-themed film festival featuring her movie. But when a man falls to his death during the premiere, Annie gets drawn into the investigation.
The victim was not a popular man and almost everyone associated with the movie had the potential to want him dead, so it was great trying to work out who the killer was.
Thanks to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
November 29, 2024
Great murder mystery!!! Made my brain turn trying to keep up with the facts! I honestly didn’t know this was a series until after I had started this one!!! Will definitely go back to book 1 and continue on into book 3!
October 1, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
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