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A Grace Thompson Cozy Mystery #1
The Missing Manuscript Murder
A missing manuscript. A dead author. And a mystery that’s anything but fiction.
When reclusive novelist Ashton Blackwood is found dead in the aisles of Shelf Indulgence, chaos erupts in the quiet town of Bloomsville. With a missing manuscript and a long list of literary enemies, the case reads like one of Blackwood’s own thrillers.
Florist-turned-sleuth Grace Thompson teams up with forensic specialist Chloe Sutton and her ever-observant Westie, Rosie, to dig through a plot tangled in ambition, betrayal, and buried secrets. From rival writers to bitter editors, the suspects are as layered as a bestseller—and just as twisty.
With Sheriff Waverly seeking their help and the danger mounting, Grace must race to uncover the truth before the killer strikes again.
A cozy mystery filled with charm, suspense, and one clever Westie who always finds the truth. This newly revised edition includes expanded scenes and an epilogue that sets the stage for Grace and Chloe’s detective agency.
When reclusive novelist Ashton Blackwood is found dead in the aisles of Shelf Indulgence, chaos erupts in the quiet town of Bloomsville. With a missing manuscript and a long list of literary enemies, the case reads like one of Blackwood’s own thrillers.
Florist-turned-sleuth Grace Thompson teams up with forensic specialist Chloe Sutton and her ever-observant Westie, Rosie, to dig through a plot tangled in ambition, betrayal, and buried secrets. From rival writers to bitter editors, the suspects are as layered as a bestseller—and just as twisty.
With Sheriff Waverly seeking their help and the danger mounting, Grace must race to uncover the truth before the killer strikes again.
A cozy mystery filled with charm, suspense, and one clever Westie who always finds the truth. This newly revised edition includes expanded scenes and an epilogue that sets the stage for Grace and Chloe’s detective agency.
323 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 20, 2024
84 people are currently reading
102 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
April 15, 2025
This is actually a cute and good cozy series. Rosie the pup is the star
October 25, 2024
Just loved these characters in this book, the storyline, especially the pup and the well put together mystery. I was hooked from page one as I think you'll be. If you’re searching for a great “who-done-it” I highly recommend it.
I received this as an ARC from the author 😀 for my unbiased opinion, I do believe this book is worth a 5 🌟 review.
I received this as an ARC from the author 😀 for my unbiased opinion, I do believe this book is worth a 5 🌟 review.
October 27, 2024
The Missing Manuscript Murder: A Grace Thompson Mystery Book 1
by Ginger Ellington
I received a complimentary copy and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The Missing Manuscript Murder, set against the charming backdrop of Bloomsville, is an enchanting tale that whisks readers away into a world filled with floral arrangements, forensic drama, and a captivating whodunit that will leave you both guessing and craving more!
The story revolves around Grace Thompson, a talented florist whose life seems as beautiful as the floral creations she designs. Grace is perfectly content in her peaceful existence, crafting stunning bouquets and providing joyous services for her community. However, the tranquil charm of Bloomsville is abruptly shattered when Ashton, an author, is found dead under suspicious circumstances. This shocking event plunges Grace into a whirlwind of intrigue, and alongside her best friend Chloe—an astute forensic expert—she finds herself in the middle of a perplexing mystery that threatens to upend her idyllic life.
From the very first page, Ellington captivates readers with her masterful storytelling, enriched by vivid descriptions that bring Bloomsville to life. Additionally, the inclusion of Rosie, Grace’s adorable Westie adds a layer of warmth and companionship, ensuring there’s never a dull moment in this delightful adventure.
As the narrative unfolds, readers are embroiled in a web of secrets, lies, and unexpected twists that keep the pages turning. Ellington skillfully builds suspense, cleverly dropping hints that tantalize and tease, ensuring you’re constantly on your toes. Just when you think you’ve solved the riddle, the plot thickens, leading you down a path of misdirection and surprise. The intricate layers of the mystery are not only compelling but profoundly engaging, making the eventual reveal incredibly satisfying.
Grace and Chloe are well-crafted characters whose unique strengths complement each other perfectly. Grace embodies the heart and soul of the novel; her empathetic nature and keen eye for detail make her an unlikely yet relatable heroine. On the other hand, Chloe’s scientific approach and unyielding resolve lend an air of credibility to their crime-solving escapades. The interplay between their personalities is delightful and mirrors the charm of an enduring friendship, filled with warmth, laughter, and just the right amount of conflict.
Ellington intersperses lighthearted moments throughout the narrative, ensuring the story maintains a balanced tone.
And let’s not forget about the hint of romance! The budding relationship between Grace and Tom Harris adds a sweet layer to the story, intertwining the mystery with tender moments of longing and chemistry. Their interactions spark a delightful tension that complements the primary narrative, making readers swoon alongside them. Ellington beautifully navigates this romantic subplot without overshadowing the central mystery, showcasing her ability to weave multiple themes into a cohesive and gripping narrative.
In conclusion, Ginger Ellington’s The Missing Manuscript Murder is an absolute delight that deserves every one of its five stars. This novel weaves a rich tapestry of mystery, friendship, and a hint of romance, capturing the hearts of readers and ensuring they are thoroughly enchanted throughout the journey.
5 out of 5 stars.
by Ginger Ellington
I received a complimentary copy and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The Missing Manuscript Murder, set against the charming backdrop of Bloomsville, is an enchanting tale that whisks readers away into a world filled with floral arrangements, forensic drama, and a captivating whodunit that will leave you both guessing and craving more!
The story revolves around Grace Thompson, a talented florist whose life seems as beautiful as the floral creations she designs. Grace is perfectly content in her peaceful existence, crafting stunning bouquets and providing joyous services for her community. However, the tranquil charm of Bloomsville is abruptly shattered when Ashton, an author, is found dead under suspicious circumstances. This shocking event plunges Grace into a whirlwind of intrigue, and alongside her best friend Chloe—an astute forensic expert—she finds herself in the middle of a perplexing mystery that threatens to upend her idyllic life.
From the very first page, Ellington captivates readers with her masterful storytelling, enriched by vivid descriptions that bring Bloomsville to life. Additionally, the inclusion of Rosie, Grace’s adorable Westie adds a layer of warmth and companionship, ensuring there’s never a dull moment in this delightful adventure.
As the narrative unfolds, readers are embroiled in a web of secrets, lies, and unexpected twists that keep the pages turning. Ellington skillfully builds suspense, cleverly dropping hints that tantalize and tease, ensuring you’re constantly on your toes. Just when you think you’ve solved the riddle, the plot thickens, leading you down a path of misdirection and surprise. The intricate layers of the mystery are not only compelling but profoundly engaging, making the eventual reveal incredibly satisfying.
Grace and Chloe are well-crafted characters whose unique strengths complement each other perfectly. Grace embodies the heart and soul of the novel; her empathetic nature and keen eye for detail make her an unlikely yet relatable heroine. On the other hand, Chloe’s scientific approach and unyielding resolve lend an air of credibility to their crime-solving escapades. The interplay between their personalities is delightful and mirrors the charm of an enduring friendship, filled with warmth, laughter, and just the right amount of conflict.
Ellington intersperses lighthearted moments throughout the narrative, ensuring the story maintains a balanced tone.
And let’s not forget about the hint of romance! The budding relationship between Grace and Tom Harris adds a sweet layer to the story, intertwining the mystery with tender moments of longing and chemistry. Their interactions spark a delightful tension that complements the primary narrative, making readers swoon alongside them. Ellington beautifully navigates this romantic subplot without overshadowing the central mystery, showcasing her ability to weave multiple themes into a cohesive and gripping narrative.
In conclusion, Ginger Ellington’s The Missing Manuscript Murder is an absolute delight that deserves every one of its five stars. This novel weaves a rich tapestry of mystery, friendship, and a hint of romance, capturing the hearts of readers and ensuring they are thoroughly enchanted throughout the journey.
5 out of 5 stars.
October 25, 2024
Who Murdered the Author… and Why ?
Evelyn Cartwright finds Ashton Blackwood’s dead body sprawled across a pile of books and she races out the door of Shelf Indulgence bookstore at a fast run. By the time she shoves open the door at Petal & Paws, Evelyn is in a total panic, running to Grace Thompson to ask for her help. Grace and her forensic specialist partner Chloe Sutton are ready to jump into the mystery and find out who forced open the safe, who murdered the author, and where Ashton’s missing novel has ended up. They need to find out as much as they can before Sheriff Waverly bumbles in and makes a mess of things. Rosie, Grace’s Westie terrier, of course will assist in sniffing out the truth in the investigation. With a number of suspects to be questioned, the ladies will be very busy searching for clues. Will their efforts unearth the murderer? And if they prove themselves capable of this, will Tom Harris, the charming baker who is definitely interested in Grace, encourage them to start their own detective agency? Are they ready to make “Sutton & Thompson Investigations” official?
I love cozy mysteries like this, and the author’s characters are exceptional! I am looking forward to the next adventure for this amazing team!
Evelyn Cartwright finds Ashton Blackwood’s dead body sprawled across a pile of books and she races out the door of Shelf Indulgence bookstore at a fast run. By the time she shoves open the door at Petal & Paws, Evelyn is in a total panic, running to Grace Thompson to ask for her help. Grace and her forensic specialist partner Chloe Sutton are ready to jump into the mystery and find out who forced open the safe, who murdered the author, and where Ashton’s missing novel has ended up. They need to find out as much as they can before Sheriff Waverly bumbles in and makes a mess of things. Rosie, Grace’s Westie terrier, of course will assist in sniffing out the truth in the investigation. With a number of suspects to be questioned, the ladies will be very busy searching for clues. Will their efforts unearth the murderer? And if they prove themselves capable of this, will Tom Harris, the charming baker who is definitely interested in Grace, encourage them to start their own detective agency? Are they ready to make “Sutton & Thompson Investigations” official?
I love cozy mysteries like this, and the author’s characters are exceptional! I am looking forward to the next adventure for this amazing team!
October 28, 2024
The first book in the Grace Thompson series introduces us to some really great, well developed characters which include Grace Thompson, who is a very talented florist, her partner, Chloe, a specialist in all things forensic, Tom Harris the local baker who seems fond of Grace and of course, Rosie, Grace's intuitive Westie. This first book deals with the murder of writer, Ashton Blackwood, a recluse, was working on a new manuscript. Ashton was Found in the Shelf Indulgence Bookstore by Evelyn Cartwright, the first instinct for Evelyn was to run to Grace's shop to tell her. Before the inept Sheriff, Waverly gets in the way, Grace, Chloe, and the clue sniffing pup, Rosie jump into the investigation, with some help from Tom. Who killed the author? Who stole his manuscript? With so many twists and turns, we are taken to a great surprise in the end. I really can't wait to see what the author has in store for book 2! I received an ARC of this book but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.
October 23, 2024
This was my first book from this author, and it did not disappoint!
Such a wholesome and cozy small town mystery that will hook the reader from chapter one!
The characters were so likable, and I was instantly drawn to them. Everyone has their own unique personality and that just makes the book so much better!
The small drizzle of romance we receive in the book is just amazing😩
If there is one thing I’m going to point a finger at, it’s the fact that it sometimes became a bit confusing whose POV the chapter was in.
All in all, Ginger Ellington really delivered a great book, with amazing characters and an equally amazing plot🤩
I can’t wait to see what more this author comes out with, and I’ll definitely be reading more from her! (And you should too!)
I received an ARC from the author, and here is my honest review on this book!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Such a wholesome and cozy small town mystery that will hook the reader from chapter one!
The characters were so likable, and I was instantly drawn to them. Everyone has their own unique personality and that just makes the book so much better!
The small drizzle of romance we receive in the book is just amazing😩
If there is one thing I’m going to point a finger at, it’s the fact that it sometimes became a bit confusing whose POV the chapter was in.
All in all, Ginger Ellington really delivered a great book, with amazing characters and an equally amazing plot🤩
I can’t wait to see what more this author comes out with, and I’ll definitely be reading more from her! (And you should too!)
I received an ARC from the author, and here is my honest review on this book!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
October 30, 2024
Grace Thompson, owner of Pearls and Paws, a flower shop, is happily working when Evelyn rushes in hysterically announcing that Ashton’s manuscript has gone missing. Promising to help Evelyn find the manuscript, she closes her shop and enters Grace’s bookstore, Shelf Indulgence, only to find the author’s body. Along with her friend and forensic specialist, Chloe Sutton they begin the search for not only the missing manuscript but also to find the killer. This entertaining storyline with likeable characters kept me interested until the final page. This is my honest, voluntary review of an advanced reader copy of this book.
October 22, 2024
Ashton seemed paranoid and scared the weeks before he died. Everyone in town thought it was for fear his new book would be stolen just before he finished it, whereas there were other nefarious operations on the move. Grace, Chloe, and Rosie the Westie Dog cannot help to get involved especially when asked for help. Through keen observations and Rosie sniffing things and clues they soon are hot on the killers trail. This has definitely kept me on edge of my seat turning pages to find out what happens next. Definitely worth a five star.
October 22, 2024
Grace is asked by Evelyn her friend to help find Ashton Blackwood's missing manuscript and she goes with her and Rosie her dog to Shelf Indulgence the bookstore. Rivalry, stalkers was something they had to deal with as Grace and Chloe go about trying to find clues .There is more than meets the eye with this intriguing read. I received this ARC copy via Booksprouts and leave a honest review. I recommend this book to other readers.
November 1, 2024
This is the first in what I assume will be a series involving Grace, who owns a flower shop and Chloe, who is a forensic specialist. The duo along with Rosie the dog, help investigate the death of a local author and the theft of his latest manuscript. The characters are interesting and the story contains interesting twists and turns, but I personally found the different chapters being written in different points of view somewhat confusing.
February 13, 2025
This was an odd one and I DNF'ed it, almost DNS it because as I read the first couple pages, I actually came to the reviews to see if it was AI. The text is written, weirdly, without any contractions, which feels really stilted to me. But I forged ahead until about 30% and realized I couldn't tell any characters apart except the dog, and even the dog was unbelievable. Glad other people like it, though.
May 9, 2025
This is another excellent written book by Ginger Ellington. Grace Thompson, Chloe Sutton and Rosie the Westie dog are a great team at solving mysteries. They help the sheriff find out who murdered Ashton Blackwood one of the local authors who was writing a very secetive manuscript and it was stolen at the same time that Ashton was murdered. There are lots of twist and turn as well as a few suspects for them to check out. Ginger has away of writing about this to keep you interested right to the end. If you enjoy trying to figure out who the murderer is then this series is just right for you. Enjoy yourself trying to figure it out it took me just about to the end.
October 23, 2024
A charming mystery and the characters of Grace and Chloe are lovely, very likeable, plus of course, we can't forget little Rosie, the Westie. The story is wonderful, kept me gripped to the end and I had to read it to the end before I put it down! I look forward to reading more of their escapades as well as the blossoming romance. Loved it.
October 26, 2024
I absolutely love everything about this series. The quirky characters and awesome dynamic is just perfect. I am enjoying seeing how things are progressing between Grace and Tom. I am beyond excited for the new adventure and can’t wait to read book 3.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
October 27, 2024
I was extremely impressed by this book by Ginger Ellington. It was a great, crisp, fast-moving read. Great characters that were fully developed and had many layers. In fact the entire book was loaded with ever-changing layers, making it challenging to unravel the mystery. A super cozy mystery that was compelling and captivating. Enjoy…
November 20, 2024
This story is well-written and kept my interest throughout. Interesting characters and lots of twists and turns until the villain is arrested. Wholesome, cozy small town mystery where a dog teams up with Grace who is a florist and Chloe who is a forensic specialist. A little romance is involved as well. I received a copy and this is my honest, voluntary review.
November 28, 2024
I enjoyed this story. The characters are fun, there is a smattering of romance, and the two friends with Rosie are quite decent in finding the truth. The plot is straightforward and the premise is finding out who killed Ashton the author and why. The answers were convoluted, yet the truth was eventually found. I do recommend this story.
January 5, 2025
The Missing Manuscript Book 1 A Grace Thompson Mystery
A missing manuscript and a dead body starts this book. An editor, a legacy throws in a curve .Kept the pages turning until the end. Really enjoyed the identifying POV for each chapter, it gives the reader an inside to each character.An excellent read.
A missing manuscript and a dead body starts this book. An editor, a legacy throws in a curve .Kept the pages turning until the end. Really enjoyed the identifying POV for each chapter, it gives the reader an inside to each character.An excellent read.
August 3, 2025
A Grace Thompson mystery
This is a quick very unusually written cozy mystery complete with several main characters and an unusual use of POV's by each of the main characters. Grace and Chloe. Grace is a Forensic expert and owner of the book shop in town where an author is set for a reading from his book. He is murdered and there begins the mystery.
This is a quick very unusually written cozy mystery complete with several main characters and an unusual use of POV's by each of the main characters. Grace and Chloe. Grace is a Forensic expert and owner of the book shop in town where an author is set for a reading from his book. He is murdered and there begins the mystery.
October 26, 2024
In Bloomsville, mysteries aren’t just whispered—they leap off the page. A missing manuscript, a dead author, and a quirky team of sleuths diving headfirst into a plot full of twists.Evelyn and her Westie Rosie make a dynamic duo in this cozy mystery. This is a good cozy mystery.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. This in no way affects my opinion of this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. This in no way affects my opinion of this book.
October 26, 2024
This is a very nice cozy mystery, which appears to be intended for a young adult audience. Everyone, including the murderer, is very polite, and the language is very clean. I would recommend this book for a teenage or young adult audience, or for a reader who is new to mysteries.
November 12, 2024
I wanted to live it as I grew up with westies. The characters were cute but each scene felt stunted and rushed. I wanted more depth and not just it happens with no explanation. Things fall into place to easy.
August 19, 2025
This was an engaging book with a lot of twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat. The characters are likeable, and I really loved Rosie the dog. This is a great story that had me hooked from beginning to end, and I highly recommend it!
November 8, 2024
Very well written mystery. It's a page turner. Really enjoyed it.
January 1, 2025
hidden scandal
Once again Chloe, Grace and Rosie come to the rescue and solve the mystery. A little romance for Grace and Tom, who then joins into help solve the case.
Once again Chloe, Grace and Rosie come to the rescue and solve the mystery. A little romance for Grace and Tom, who then joins into help solve the case.
January 21, 2025
While the book on the whole is fairly enjoyable, too many times the characters suddenly seem to know out of thin air something important without any indication of how they know it.
February 12, 2025
This was a cute and fast paced cozy mystery.
April 7, 2025
This was a wonderful mystery, great characters and plot.
April 15, 2025
Such a good story. This series will have you laughing and wonder who dun it? It is a well written quirky mystery. I enjoyed it so very much
July 14, 2025
Great opening of a new series by Ginger Ellington. Grace Thompson is a florist by trade but she is fast becoming a prolific sleuth extraordinaire. Picture this…Bloomsville , a missing manuscript , and its author Ashton Blackwood’s permanently shelved . There’s only one person Evelyn turns to get to the heart of the mystery to find out why this author is now history and stacked among the books his goose cooked. Recluse Ashton has met his demise and sleuth Grace is soon on the case along with her partner Chloe Sutton and her terrier Rosie. Well with the bumbling Sheriff someone has to work it out and fast! . Great writing ever so immersive and fun . I really love this book
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews