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Old Juniper Bookstore Mysteries #2
All My Bones
Madeline Brimley, new owner of a bookstore in a small Georgia town, finds herself playing sleuth when a friend is charged with the murder of a much-disliked woman.
Madeline Brimley recently inherited a bookstore in Enigma, Georgia, is embarking on her second career, after her first one (acting) founders upon the metaphorical rocks. Settling in, Madeline recruits her friend Gloria Coleman, the local Episcopal priest, to help her plant azaleas in the front yard of the old Victorian that houses the bookstore. Turning the soil, however, uncovers the body of one Beatrice Glassie, a troublesome woman who has been missing for the past six months.
When her friend Gloria is arrested for the murder, Madeline is determined to prove her innocence and, as she quickly finds out, there aren't many people in town who hadn't wanted to kill Bea Glassie at one point or another. And the very expensive and rare first edition of a particular volume of Grimm's Fairy Tales—ordered by the victim and her sister is somehow tied to the grim death. With the help of her not-quite-boyfriend, a local lawman, and her deceased aunt's best friend, Madeline plans to set a trap to catch the real murderer—before she becomes the next victim.
Madeline Brimley recently inherited a bookstore in Enigma, Georgia, is embarking on her second career, after her first one (acting) founders upon the metaphorical rocks. Settling in, Madeline recruits her friend Gloria Coleman, the local Episcopal priest, to help her plant azaleas in the front yard of the old Victorian that houses the bookstore. Turning the soil, however, uncovers the body of one Beatrice Glassie, a troublesome woman who has been missing for the past six months.
When her friend Gloria is arrested for the murder, Madeline is determined to prove her innocence and, as she quickly finds out, there aren't many people in town who hadn't wanted to kill Bea Glassie at one point or another. And the very expensive and rare first edition of a particular volume of Grimm's Fairy Tales—ordered by the victim and her sister is somehow tied to the grim death. With the help of her not-quite-boyfriend, a local lawman, and her deceased aunt's best friend, Madeline plans to set a trap to catch the real murderer—before she becomes the next victim.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 2, 2025
55 people are currently reading
7916 people want to read
About the author
P.J. Nelson
3 books102 followersP.J. Nelson is the pseudonym of an award-winning actor, dramatist, professor, and novelist (among many other professions) who has done just about everything except run a bookstore. He lives in Decatur, Georgia.
source: Amazon
source: Amazon
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November 14, 2025
P. J. Nelson, a pseudonym for an author who has had many jobs, but never run a bookstore, returns with book two in the Old Juniper Bookstore Mysteries series,
All My Bones.
The series features Madeline Brimley who has inherited a bookstore after her aunt Ruby dies. The bookstore is in an old Victorian mansion with her living quarters on the second floor. Set in Enigma, Georgia, Madeline recruits her friend, Gloria Coleman, the local Episcopal priest, to help her plant shrubs in the front yard. However, as they dig, they find the body of Beatrice Glassie, a mean-spirited woman who has been missing for six months.
When Gloria is arrested for the murder, Madeline is determined to prove her innocence. She quickly finds out that many of the small-town residents had had conflicts with Beatrice, including her sister, Idell. Madeline enlists the help of friends to catch the real murderer.
Madeline left Enigma to go to college and then follow her stage acting dreams in New York and Atlanta that had foundered. Restarting her life as a bookseller isn’t easy when dead bodies keep showing up around the shop. Madeline is outgoing and tends to do foolhardy things. She is skilled at improvisation and can memorize almost anything just by looking at it once. Here character has more depth in this second book as do the secondary characters.
The premise was great and I enjoyed catching up with Gloria; Philomena, who was Aunt Rose’s friend and someone Madeline knew from her childhood; David, the handyman, gardener, landscaper who Madeline has been dating; and police officer Billy, who she used to babysit and is now running for sheriff. The pacing was still a little slow at times. My biggest quibble is its predictability, including the identity of the murderer reasonably early in the novel, leading to a sparsity of suspense. However, there were plenty of conflicts, secrets, and humor to go with threads of murder, grief, forgiveness, greed, gossip, amateur sleuthing, and self-reflection.
Overall, this enjoyable and atmospheric southern cozy mystery was full of unique characters, a bit of romance and humor, and it’s full of literary references. I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
St. Martin’s Press, Minotaur Books and P. J. Nelson provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for December 02, 2025.
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My 3.89 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
When Gloria is arrested for the murder, Madeline is determined to prove her innocence. She quickly finds out that many of the small-town residents had had conflicts with Beatrice, including her sister, Idell. Madeline enlists the help of friends to catch the real murderer.
Madeline left Enigma to go to college and then follow her stage acting dreams in New York and Atlanta that had foundered. Restarting her life as a bookseller isn’t easy when dead bodies keep showing up around the shop. Madeline is outgoing and tends to do foolhardy things. She is skilled at improvisation and can memorize almost anything just by looking at it once. Here character has more depth in this second book as do the secondary characters.
The premise was great and I enjoyed catching up with Gloria; Philomena, who was Aunt Rose’s friend and someone Madeline knew from her childhood; David, the handyman, gardener, landscaper who Madeline has been dating; and police officer Billy, who she used to babysit and is now running for sheriff. The pacing was still a little slow at times. My biggest quibble is its predictability, including the identity of the murderer reasonably early in the novel, leading to a sparsity of suspense. However, there were plenty of conflicts, secrets, and humor to go with threads of murder, grief, forgiveness, greed, gossip, amateur sleuthing, and self-reflection.
Overall, this enjoyable and atmospheric southern cozy mystery was full of unique characters, a bit of romance and humor, and it’s full of literary references. I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
St. Martin’s Press, Minotaur Books and P. J. Nelson provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for December 02, 2025.
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My 3.89 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
December 18, 2025
All My Bones is the 2nd book in the Old Juniper Bookshop Mysteries. So... a cozy setting, an historic book shop, a murder, and some kooky characters, what's not to love! It's been a while since I read the first-in-series, so I didn't warm up as quickly as I usually do to these kinds of series. But it eventually got there and I invested in the murder. Will continue to read the series in the future.
December 7, 2025
Thank you to Minotaur Books for the advance copy of All My Bones by P.J. Nelson! All opinions are my own.
***
(3.75 stars)
All My Bones is the second book in the Old Juniper Bookshop cozy mystery series. It’s set in a small town in Georgia. Madeline Brimley’s career as an actress hadn’t really gone anywhere, so when she inherited a house and bookstore from her beloved aunt Rose, she moved back to her hometown. By now, she has settled in and has been in Enigma, Georgia for six months or so. She’s made friends and gotten reacquainted with people she used to know - including Billy, the young sheriff, for whom she used to babysit! In an effort to spruce up the front of the house/store, she decides to plant some rose bushes and gets help from her friend, the Episcopal priest, Gloria - but when they start digging, they discover a skeleton buried where they were going to plant the roses! It turns out that the bones belong to Bea Glassie, one of the richest women in town (and eccentric enough that people thought she was just traveling and weren’t worried that she hadn’t been seen for months). So who murdered Bea? Maddy gets involved when Gloria comes under suspicion.
One of the best parts of this series are all the town characters, from Gloria to Billy to David, the master gardener who has become a love interest for Maddy, and Maddy’s aunt Rose’s best friend, Philomena, a psychology professor who frequently checks herself in to a “loony bin,” as she herself puts it. The local college students add a lot of fun as well.
While the second in the series, I believe this could be read as a standalone.
Thanks again to Minotaur Books and NetGalley!
***
(3.75 stars)
All My Bones is the second book in the Old Juniper Bookshop cozy mystery series. It’s set in a small town in Georgia. Madeline Brimley’s career as an actress hadn’t really gone anywhere, so when she inherited a house and bookstore from her beloved aunt Rose, she moved back to her hometown. By now, she has settled in and has been in Enigma, Georgia for six months or so. She’s made friends and gotten reacquainted with people she used to know - including Billy, the young sheriff, for whom she used to babysit! In an effort to spruce up the front of the house/store, she decides to plant some rose bushes and gets help from her friend, the Episcopal priest, Gloria - but when they start digging, they discover a skeleton buried where they were going to plant the roses! It turns out that the bones belong to Bea Glassie, one of the richest women in town (and eccentric enough that people thought she was just traveling and weren’t worried that she hadn’t been seen for months). So who murdered Bea? Maddy gets involved when Gloria comes under suspicion.
One of the best parts of this series are all the town characters, from Gloria to Billy to David, the master gardener who has become a love interest for Maddy, and Maddy’s aunt Rose’s best friend, Philomena, a psychology professor who frequently checks herself in to a “loony bin,” as she herself puts it. The local college students add a lot of fun as well.
While the second in the series, I believe this could be read as a standalone.
Thanks again to Minotaur Books and NetGalley!
December 7, 2025
Well, when I read the first book in this series I wondered if it could be the work of an experienced author who was going by a nom de plume in order to try out a different writing style. I must be old because I was right. This book was good but did start to get a bit too much into poetry and philosophy for a cozy ~ knowing who the author is gives an explanation as to why. Interesting! Interesting! I wonder if I should try reading the author’s other books?
October 7, 2025
Readers weren’t kept waiting for a murder to happen in this book. Madeline Brimley , new owner of Old Juniper Bookshop and Gloria Coleman, Episcopal priest decide to plant roses in the bookshops front yard. The soil seems to be full of clay but that isn’t all they find. When Madeline digs up a scull in the books beginning she realizes there has to be more under the clay like soil. From there the story starts and Madeline works to solve the mystery and find the real killer. Her friend has been falsely accused and imprisoned for a crime she didn’t commit.
This is my first time reading anything by P. J. Nelson. This is book two of the Old Juniper Bookshop Mystery. I haven’t read book one yet but I wasn’t lost or confused in the story. There was a couple of mild cuss words and physical interaction left to the reader’s imagination, one time. I did like the mystery but the book moved slowly for the most part of the story as Sleuth Madeline worked to follow up on clues. My interest was kept peaked and I did enjoy reading the book.
I recommend this book to readers of Cozy mystery and mystery thrillers. The book is scheduled for release on 12/2/2025. It’s part of a series but I read it as a standalone.
I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed here in this review are my own.
#AllMyBones #NetGalley
This is my first time reading anything by P. J. Nelson. This is book two of the Old Juniper Bookshop Mystery. I haven’t read book one yet but I wasn’t lost or confused in the story. There was a couple of mild cuss words and physical interaction left to the reader’s imagination, one time. I did like the mystery but the book moved slowly for the most part of the story as Sleuth Madeline worked to follow up on clues. My interest was kept peaked and I did enjoy reading the book.
I recommend this book to readers of Cozy mystery and mystery thrillers. The book is scheduled for release on 12/2/2025. It’s part of a series but I read it as a standalone.
I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed here in this review are my own.
#AllMyBones #NetGalley
December 11, 2025
The second book in the series. This series has everything I love about cozies. This book added more lovable characters. The suspense was memorable. The side of romance was delightful. Plenty of witty, funny moments. Highly entertaining. Outstanding narration.
I was blessed with an ARC. Thank you NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own and unbiased. Looking forward to more in the series and I highly recommend.
This is a review of the audiobook.
I was blessed with an ARC. Thank you NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own and unbiased. Looking forward to more in the series and I highly recommend.
This is a review of the audiobook.
December 11, 2025
Big Thanks to Netgalley, the author, and the Publisher for the advanced copy! I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own
'All My Bones' is the second book in the 'An Old Juniper Bookshop Mystery' by P.J. Nelson. The book follows a bookseller/ex-actress who tries to solve a murder mystery in order to save her friend.
The book has an intriguing mystery and a plethora of interesting characters. The twists were also enjoyable, and the author does a great job with the twists and balancing the slice of life and romance with the mystery solving.
I do have to note that the way the main character treated her assistant in the end was manipulative and selfish.
Finally, the audiobook was well narrated and produced.
'All My Bones' is the second book in the 'An Old Juniper Bookshop Mystery' by P.J. Nelson. The book follows a bookseller/ex-actress who tries to solve a murder mystery in order to save her friend.
The book has an intriguing mystery and a plethora of interesting characters. The twists were also enjoyable, and the author does a great job with the twists and balancing the slice of life and romance with the mystery solving.
I do have to note that the way the main character treated her assistant in the end was manipulative and selfish.
Finally, the audiobook was well narrated and produced.
December 19, 2025
Madeline inherited her Aunt Rose's bookstore and wanted to make the front yard a bit neater than the mess it was.
When she asked her friend, Gloria, the local Episcopal priest, to help her dig up the ground, they hit a skull.
How could someone be buried in the front yard of a bookstore, and how could someone have buried a body without being noticed?
Surprisingly the body is Beatrice Glassie a resident who has been missing for six months and a woman that was not well liked.
It was made known that Gloria had fought with Beatrice around the time Beatrice was murdered, and Gloria was arrested for the murder.
Madeline begins an investigation on her own. There is no way Gloria could have murdered Beatrice.
We meet fun, quirky characters in this enjoyable book that will make you laugh.
It is the second book in a series, but I had no trouble reading and following. 5/5
Thank you to the publisher for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
When she asked her friend, Gloria, the local Episcopal priest, to help her dig up the ground, they hit a skull.
How could someone be buried in the front yard of a bookstore, and how could someone have buried a body without being noticed?
Surprisingly the body is Beatrice Glassie a resident who has been missing for six months and a woman that was not well liked.
It was made known that Gloria had fought with Beatrice around the time Beatrice was murdered, and Gloria was arrested for the murder.
Madeline begins an investigation on her own. There is no way Gloria could have murdered Beatrice.
We meet fun, quirky characters in this enjoyable book that will make you laugh.
It is the second book in a series, but I had no trouble reading and following. 5/5
Thank you to the publisher for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
July 22, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐
All My Bones
Author: P.J. Nelson
Source: NetGalley
Publication Date: Dec. 2, 2025
Have you read those light-hearted, easy-to-read books perfect for a cozy beach day or a relaxing afternoon at the bookstore? Those are my favorite kind of reads, and I call them “palate cleaners” because they’re so refreshing and fun. All My Bones is a book that fits that description perfectly.
This story starts at a local bookstore bequeathed to Madeline by her Aunt Rose. Madeline settles into country life and enjoys her new shop. However, the exterior needs sprucing up, so Madeline and her friend, a local Anglican Priest, start digging only to find bones in the front yard. This begins the fun since it seems everyone in the hometown did not like the deceased at all. Shockingly, Gloria, the priest, gets arrested for murder because the skull belonged to a parishioner who fought against her ordination because of her gender.
But a group of amateur sleuths, including bookstore owner Madeline, decide to take matters into their own hands and hunt down the real killer. It’s a fun story with me laughing out loud at some of the characters’ comments. Small-town bookstore-based murder mysteries are always a hit with me, but throw in a female priest and enjoy the adventure. This book was no exception.
This book has a prequel, but I hadn't read it, and this standalone is super easy to follow. I highly recommend All My Bones for a fun and light-hearted read. It blends country town, old feuds, an Anglican Priest, murder, sisters, mystery, and fiction.
#AllMyBones @pjnelson15 @netgalley @minotaur_books @72hourread #countrytown #oldfeuds #AnglicanPriest #murder #sisters #mystery #murder #fiction
I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own. Thank you to the publisher, Netgalley, and the author for the opportunity to read this novel.
All My Bones
Author: P.J. Nelson
Source: NetGalley
Publication Date: Dec. 2, 2025
Have you read those light-hearted, easy-to-read books perfect for a cozy beach day or a relaxing afternoon at the bookstore? Those are my favorite kind of reads, and I call them “palate cleaners” because they’re so refreshing and fun. All My Bones is a book that fits that description perfectly.
This story starts at a local bookstore bequeathed to Madeline by her Aunt Rose. Madeline settles into country life and enjoys her new shop. However, the exterior needs sprucing up, so Madeline and her friend, a local Anglican Priest, start digging only to find bones in the front yard. This begins the fun since it seems everyone in the hometown did not like the deceased at all. Shockingly, Gloria, the priest, gets arrested for murder because the skull belonged to a parishioner who fought against her ordination because of her gender.
But a group of amateur sleuths, including bookstore owner Madeline, decide to take matters into their own hands and hunt down the real killer. It’s a fun story with me laughing out loud at some of the characters’ comments. Small-town bookstore-based murder mysteries are always a hit with me, but throw in a female priest and enjoy the adventure. This book was no exception.
This book has a prequel, but I hadn't read it, and this standalone is super easy to follow. I highly recommend All My Bones for a fun and light-hearted read. It blends country town, old feuds, an Anglican Priest, murder, sisters, mystery, and fiction.
#AllMyBones @pjnelson15 @netgalley @minotaur_books @72hourread #countrytown #oldfeuds #AnglicanPriest #murder #sisters #mystery #murder #fiction
I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own. Thank you to the publisher, Netgalley, and the author for the opportunity to read this novel.
December 1, 2025
All My Bones is the second book in “the old juniper book store mysteries” by PJ Nelson, after reading the last book I thought long and hard about requesting this one but because I love cozy mysteries I went and requested it anyway. In the last book I didn’t like The thing she attributed to Pastor Vicky who essentially is a Georgia pastor and yet she drinks listen to rock music and now we’re into book number two and it starts with them discussing why the Pastur doesn’t have sex or why she should have more sex. To say I wanted to DNF this book is an understatement. however I did read it but this will be my last book. There were many questionable things throughout the book that had me raising an eyebrow or two like her relationship with her poetry writing firefighter friend – boyfriend. I love her quirky aunt and the MC herself but don’t think I will be reading this again. I am so tired of all those playing fast and loose with Peoples notably my religion because no pastor would have a discussion about why she’s not having sex when she is unmarried and lives in a small town. I don’t know why Miss Nelson thought this would be a great idea to bring up in a book or a great sub plot but I disagree. It is a good mystery don’t get me wrong that is why people read these books so if you love cozy mysteries and nothing I said offend you that definitely give this book a try.#NetGalley, #TheBlindReviewer, #MyHonestReview, #PJNelson, #AllMyBones,
November 7, 2025
All My Bones by P.J. Nelson is book 2 in the Old Juniper Bookshop Mystery series. This cozy mystery series is set in Enigma, Georgia, a small town with an outsized population of eccentric characters. Although this could work as a standalone, I think it helps to read them in order.
Madeline, a former theater actor turned bookshop owner, decides to solve a murder that has once again landed on her doorstep in order to clear her friend. The novel is so cozy, that it might be better described as literary fiction with its emphasis on character development and found family.
There is a lot to enjoy in this novel, a sweet but insecure love interest who writes poetry, plenty of small town charm and gossip, and an opinionated bookshop cat. I can envision it as a fun adapted TV series. It is well written, but may have leaned a little too heavily into the 'cozy' aspect. For a mystery novel, it felt a little too gentle and lacked the intrigue I was looking for. 3/5⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley and Minotaur Books for an advanced reader copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own. Anticipated pub date: 12/2/25
Madeline, a former theater actor turned bookshop owner, decides to solve a murder that has once again landed on her doorstep in order to clear her friend. The novel is so cozy, that it might be better described as literary fiction with its emphasis on character development and found family.
There is a lot to enjoy in this novel, a sweet but insecure love interest who writes poetry, plenty of small town charm and gossip, and an opinionated bookshop cat. I can envision it as a fun adapted TV series. It is well written, but may have leaned a little too heavily into the 'cozy' aspect. For a mystery novel, it felt a little too gentle and lacked the intrigue I was looking for. 3/5⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley and Minotaur Books for an advanced reader copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own. Anticipated pub date: 12/2/25
November 30, 2025
All My Bones by P.J. Nelson
Thank You NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review! All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
This novel is Book 2 in the Old Juniper Bookstore Mysteries. In the first book, Madeline Brimley had inherited a bookstore in the small college town of Enigma, Georgia from her Aunt Rose.
She is now settled in, but once again, as fate would have it, Madeline is on a mission to prove that her friend and the town’s Episcopal priest, Gloria Coleman, is innocent of murder! As Gloria is helping Madeline with gardening at her bookstore, they come across a dead body...that of Beatrice Glassie! Before they know it, the local town priest is arrested for her murder. However, Beatrice was not liked by many, including her own sister! So, the suspect pool is somewhat large, as to who would have wanted her dead. As Madeline works to clear Gloria’s name, she uncovers that Beatrice’s death is tied to a very rare 1st edition of one of the Grimm’s Fairy Tales volumes....and Beatrice’s sister is also involved! Will Madeline be able to catch the killer before it is too late?
Find out for yourself when this book is AVAILABLE December 2, 2025!
Thank You NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review! All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
This novel is Book 2 in the Old Juniper Bookstore Mysteries. In the first book, Madeline Brimley had inherited a bookstore in the small college town of Enigma, Georgia from her Aunt Rose.
She is now settled in, but once again, as fate would have it, Madeline is on a mission to prove that her friend and the town’s Episcopal priest, Gloria Coleman, is innocent of murder! As Gloria is helping Madeline with gardening at her bookstore, they come across a dead body...that of Beatrice Glassie! Before they know it, the local town priest is arrested for her murder. However, Beatrice was not liked by many, including her own sister! So, the suspect pool is somewhat large, as to who would have wanted her dead. As Madeline works to clear Gloria’s name, she uncovers that Beatrice’s death is tied to a very rare 1st edition of one of the Grimm’s Fairy Tales volumes....and Beatrice’s sister is also involved! Will Madeline be able to catch the killer before it is too late?
Find out for yourself when this book is AVAILABLE December 2, 2025!
June 9, 2025
I was fortunate enough to read the first book in this series, Booked for Murder, and I enjoyed its quirky southern charm and interesting mystery. Book two takes it up another notch, and I just absolutely fell in love with this book! The atmosphere is part of the book. All the literary and theater references add another dimension, and the characters are unique and intriguing! While Madeline had had the gazebo in her lovely backyard, which had been burned down, rebuilt, and her gardens there were lovely, her front yard and the entrance to the Old Juniper Bookstore was an eyesore with just dirt and stones. With the help of her friend Gloria, the Episcopal priest from across the street, they start digging up the front, determined to fill it with a special rose her Aunt Rose had developed "Ophelia's Last Laugh". Unfortunately, what they discovered was a dead body determined to have been buried there between the time Maddie's aunt died and her arrival, when the shop had been closed. When it was determined that the dead body was one Beatrice Glassie, a rich older woman, who everyone thought was traveling, things get crazy fast, as the victim's estranged sister is determined that Gloria killed her sister. With circumstantial evidence and southern small town politics in place, Gloria is jailed, and Maddie and company get to work proving their friend's innocence! From there, we get to meet a lot of people who were not exactly fond of Bea and Maddie uses determination, crazy theories and help from her friends to get Gloria off the hook and justice for Bea. This book was so much fun, I recommend it strongly. Thanks to #Netgally, #Minatour, and the author for a chance to read. #AllMyBones #OldJuniperBookstoreMysteries #PJNelson #bookreview #bookideas #retiredreader
August 18, 2025
All My Bones is a wonderful cozy mystery that grabbed my attention from the beginning.
Maddie has created a beautiful garden in her backyard, but the front yard really needs help.
During a visit with Gloria, the Episcopalian minister, they both decide to prepare for planting.
The soil is hard and difficult to break up, and when they discover old bones, things begin to unravel at a quick pace.
The bones belong to Beatrice Glassie, a woman not many people cared for, and who has been missing for 6 months.
Maddie doesn't plan to get involved in the investigation, but when Gloria is arrested for murder, she doesn't hesitate to dig up the answers.
I really enjoyed reading this book and I'm looking forward to reading more by this author.
Maddie has created a beautiful garden in her backyard, but the front yard really needs help.
During a visit with Gloria, the Episcopalian minister, they both decide to prepare for planting.
The soil is hard and difficult to break up, and when they discover old bones, things begin to unravel at a quick pace.
The bones belong to Beatrice Glassie, a woman not many people cared for, and who has been missing for 6 months.
Maddie doesn't plan to get involved in the investigation, but when Gloria is arrested for murder, she doesn't hesitate to dig up the answers.
I really enjoyed reading this book and I'm looking forward to reading more by this author.
November 10, 2025
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free, electronic ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.
Expected publication date: Dec. 2, 2025
After P.J. Nelson’s wonderful bookish mystery debut, “Booked for Murder”, I was eager to hear from Old Juniper Book Shop owner Madeleine Brimley again and was therefore thrilled when I was given the oppourtunity to read the second novel in the series, “All My Bones”.
Madeleine Brimley owns Old Juniper Book Shop in Enigma, Georgia, after inheriting it from her aunt Rose. Enigma is a small town that is shades different from the New York theatre lifestyle that Maddy left behind, but she is slowly coming to love the members of her new community, including Gloria, the reverend from the church across the street who was also close with her beloved aunt, and Maddy’s new and developing love interest, landscaper David. While doing some work on her own garden, Maddy and Gloria uncover human skeletal bones that are later determined to be the body of a local elderly busybody who no one particularly liked, including Maddy herself. However, when Gloria is arrested for the crime, Maddy knows that she has to use her sleuthing skills and find out who the murderer really is- even if it means she has to put her own life in danger.
“Bones” is the second novel in the mystery series by Nelson, but it does not have to be read in sequential order, although I recommend it. The mystery in this story is completely different from that of “Murder”, so it’s easy for readers to keep pace, although the intricacies of Maddy and her relationships would be easier to understand with the context that the previous novel supplies. Plus, “Booked” and “Bones” are sharp and charming and both books should absolutely be read regardless!
Madeleine is a former actress turned bookstore owner, young and new to Enigma, and she is an utter delight. Smart and outspoken, she speaks her mind and stands up for those she loves, regardless of the cost. Her small-town neighbours each have their own level of allure and likability, making the collection of characters a group worth getting behind. Although Madeleine’s relationship with David is just growing wings in this iteration, it takes a back seat to the real plot point, the identification of the murderer, which I always appreciate. Nelson adds levity and romance to the plot, but the relationship is not overly saccharine or cheesy, nor does it overshadow the who-dunnit plot line.
Nelson unveiled the suspect in a believable and realistic way, and the ending was deeply satisfying. Any of the twists and turns Nelson provided were given concrete endings with feasible explanations, which makes this mystery novel worth reading. “Bones” is a must-read for mystery lovers or anyone who loves stories of bookshops and small-town mayhem!
Expected publication date: Dec. 2, 2025
After P.J. Nelson’s wonderful bookish mystery debut, “Booked for Murder”, I was eager to hear from Old Juniper Book Shop owner Madeleine Brimley again and was therefore thrilled when I was given the oppourtunity to read the second novel in the series, “All My Bones”.
Madeleine Brimley owns Old Juniper Book Shop in Enigma, Georgia, after inheriting it from her aunt Rose. Enigma is a small town that is shades different from the New York theatre lifestyle that Maddy left behind, but she is slowly coming to love the members of her new community, including Gloria, the reverend from the church across the street who was also close with her beloved aunt, and Maddy’s new and developing love interest, landscaper David. While doing some work on her own garden, Maddy and Gloria uncover human skeletal bones that are later determined to be the body of a local elderly busybody who no one particularly liked, including Maddy herself. However, when Gloria is arrested for the crime, Maddy knows that she has to use her sleuthing skills and find out who the murderer really is- even if it means she has to put her own life in danger.
“Bones” is the second novel in the mystery series by Nelson, but it does not have to be read in sequential order, although I recommend it. The mystery in this story is completely different from that of “Murder”, so it’s easy for readers to keep pace, although the intricacies of Maddy and her relationships would be easier to understand with the context that the previous novel supplies. Plus, “Booked” and “Bones” are sharp and charming and both books should absolutely be read regardless!
Madeleine is a former actress turned bookstore owner, young and new to Enigma, and she is an utter delight. Smart and outspoken, she speaks her mind and stands up for those she loves, regardless of the cost. Her small-town neighbours each have their own level of allure and likability, making the collection of characters a group worth getting behind. Although Madeleine’s relationship with David is just growing wings in this iteration, it takes a back seat to the real plot point, the identification of the murderer, which I always appreciate. Nelson adds levity and romance to the plot, but the relationship is not overly saccharine or cheesy, nor does it overshadow the who-dunnit plot line.
Nelson unveiled the suspect in a believable and realistic way, and the ending was deeply satisfying. Any of the twists and turns Nelson provided were given concrete endings with feasible explanations, which makes this mystery novel worth reading. “Bones” is a must-read for mystery lovers or anyone who loves stories of bookshops and small-town mayhem!
September 28, 2025
I enjoy a cozy mystery as a pallette cleanser between other genres, so to speak, and this one did not disappoint. The characters are unique and likable and bring many book and theater references along the way. The lead character runs a book shop that she inherited from her aunt and is best friends with a female Episcopal priest full of character. When they dig up bones in an effort to landscape the bookshop front yard, the mystery of catching the killer begins. The conclusion was satisfying in a predictable, cozy mystery sort of way.
This was the second in the Old Juniper Mystery series, and although I had not read the first, I was able to jump in without any missing information needed to proceed. If you enjoy cozy mysteries, be sure to grab the first in the series now and place this one in your cart for publication day. Thank you, St. Martin's Press and Netgalley, for the ARC and opportunity to provide an honest review.
This was the second in the Old Juniper Mystery series, and although I had not read the first, I was able to jump in without any missing information needed to proceed. If you enjoy cozy mysteries, be sure to grab the first in the series now and place this one in your cart for publication day. Thank you, St. Martin's Press and Netgalley, for the ARC and opportunity to provide an honest review.
September 12, 2025
All My Bones, by P. J. Nelson, is a cozy mystery. It's the second book in the Old Juniper Bookshop Mystery series, and continues the story of Madeline Brimley, who inherited a bookstore in Enigma, Georgia.
Settling in, Madeline recruits her friend Gloria Coleman, (the local Episcopal priest), to help her break up the soil in the front yard of the old Victorian that houses the bookstore, so they can plant azaleas. Turning the soil, however, is a challenge since it apparently was mixed with Quikrete. Eventually they break through, only to discover bones. Mysterious human bones.
Before she knows it, Madeline finds herself playing sleuth when a friend is charged with the murder of a much-disliked woman.
I was charmed by the first half-to-three-quarters of All My Bones. Many parts made me smile or laugh. One thing that was distracting to me was how the characters were "motoring" here and there. I found myself wondering, "Wait. They're in a car??" No. They were walking. Also, I felt the last portion of the book seemed to drag too much.
I think my favorite character was Gloria, and her backstory was the best part of the book!
Thank you, #MinotaurBooks, for providing this book for review and consideration via #NetGalley. All opinions are my own. All My Bones has an expected publication date of December 2, 2025.
#Cozy #Mystery #Crime
Settling in, Madeline recruits her friend Gloria Coleman, (the local Episcopal priest), to help her break up the soil in the front yard of the old Victorian that houses the bookstore, so they can plant azaleas. Turning the soil, however, is a challenge since it apparently was mixed with Quikrete. Eventually they break through, only to discover bones. Mysterious human bones.
Before she knows it, Madeline finds herself playing sleuth when a friend is charged with the murder of a much-disliked woman.
I was charmed by the first half-to-three-quarters of All My Bones. Many parts made me smile or laugh. One thing that was distracting to me was how the characters were "motoring" here and there. I found myself wondering, "Wait. They're in a car??" No. They were walking. Also, I felt the last portion of the book seemed to drag too much.
I think my favorite character was Gloria, and her backstory was the best part of the book!
Thank you, #MinotaurBooks, for providing this book for review and consideration via #NetGalley. All opinions are my own. All My Bones has an expected publication date of December 2, 2025.
#Cozy #Mystery #Crime
December 9, 2025
Sometimes a book captures your attention at the very beginning and you don't want it to end; All My Bones, recently released by P. J. Nelson was that book for me. It is a book in the Old Juniper Bookstore series. Maddy Brimley, a former actress, inherited the store from her Aunt Rose, also a former actress and sly entrepreneur, approximately six months prior to finding skeletal remains in the frontyard of the shop when she and her new, yet very good friend, Reverend Gloria Coleman, an Episcopal priest, were starting to plant roses to spruce up the front yard. The back yard was quite lovely as Master Gardener David Madison had worked in it and recreated the beautiful gazebo that Dr. Philomenia Waldron, department head of the the psychology department at Barnsley College, had burned down when she discovered Rose, her very dear and special friend, had left the shop to Maddy. Maddy was of course initially furious, yet came to recognize how disappointed and surprised Phil was at what Rose did that she gave her part ownership in the shop. Full of remorse Phil had signed herself into a spa-like psychiatric clinic, something she occasionally did to clear her mind, and was being discharged as Maddy and Gloria were starting their planting. Imagine Gloria and Maddy's shock when they saw the skeleton; equally surprised was Enigma's police officer Billy Sanders. Maddy used to babysit Billy, and now he was running (unopposed) for sheriff. It was determined that the Bones belonged to Beatrice Glassie, a 80ish wealthy pillar of the community, yet an extremely contentious and bitter woman. Interestingly Beatrice hated Gloria, in reality for no other reason than she was adamantly opposed to women in the priesthood, and had tried to get her removed from the Church on numerous occasions. Immediately Idell, her somewhat younger sister, claimed Gloria was the killer, and on very little evidence she was arrested. I hope I have piqued your interest as the remainder of this fun yet suspense filled and well-written novel focuses on clearing Gloria. Thank you to NetGalley, Minotaur Books, and J. P. Nelson for giving me the opportunity to read an ARC of All My Bones; my review reflects my honest opinion. 4.5 stars.
December 10, 2025
There are too many research mistakes in this book that annoyed me. The characters try too hard to be uber 'literate'. They are also, if I may say so, idiotic (and annoying). The ending is preposterous.
The book is filled with inner dialogue and insanity (literally).
Why didn't I give it the one star I thought it deserved? Because so many other reviewers seemed to love it. They must have seen something that I didn't see that made this book worth so many stars that I didn't see...oh, and by the way, here is something else that ticks me off. Make use of an editor who is a REAL one that will catch a mistake like -Rose did NOT use computers for her records (or anything), yet when they wanted to find out something about a book owner, they looked at Rose's computer records.
*ARC supplied by the publisher Minotaur Books, the author, and NetGalley
The book is filled with inner dialogue and insanity (literally).
Why didn't I give it the one star I thought it deserved? Because so many other reviewers seemed to love it. They must have seen something that I didn't see that made this book worth so many stars that I didn't see...oh, and by the way, here is something else that ticks me off. Make use of an editor who is a REAL one that will catch a mistake like -Rose did NOT use computers for her records (or anything), yet when they wanted to find out something about a book owner, they looked at Rose's computer records.
*ARC supplied by the publisher Minotaur Books, the author, and NetGalley
December 10, 2025
This book was so fun! I love how sassy and off-center most of these characters are. It has the charm of a quirky small town with big drama. Madeline is hilarious and makes rushed dangerous decisions, butt doesn't seem to get overly worried about the consequences. She is just such a fun amateur sleuth and I loved learning more about her and her aunt's past. I have not read the first book yet (I will now) but it was so easy to jump right in. The writing is fabulous and I just wanted to keep reading without putting this down. The relationships between the different characters are interesting and keep the readers on their toes. I just had so much fun reading this book and loved the ending.
Note: I listened to the audiobook and the narrator had the perfect cadence for these fun characters. She did a fabulous job with the accents and brought both the gravitas but fun tilt to all the scenes.
Thanks to the publisher for a free copy and ALC; my thoughts and review are my own.
Note: I listened to the audiobook and the narrator had the perfect cadence for these fun characters. She did a fabulous job with the accents and brought both the gravitas but fun tilt to all the scenes.
Thanks to the publisher for a free copy and ALC; my thoughts and review are my own.
October 6, 2025
I was gifted an advanced copy. It’s a fun read. I really enjoyed this book
September 28, 2025
This 'cozy' mystery has a lot going for it: quirky characters who add a gothic touch to the murder (I could see Joan Crawford and Bette Davis cast as Bea and Idell in my mind's eye), a believable love story between the middle-aged main characters, and enough suspense to keep the story moving along and the reader guessing. The writing is wryly humorous, and Maddy and her friends have their flaws, keeping them from becoming stereotypical small town characters. The mystery turns a bit dark at times, just enough to stop the story from 'cutesy cozy' territory. I'd love to read more in this series, and will definitely read the first one and look out for future novels.
October 19, 2025
Madeline is the owner of a small bookstore in Enigma, Georgia. She grew up in the town, went to become an actress when she grew up, and recently returned to Enigma when she inherited her Aunt's bookshop. The town has several quirky characters and overall seems like a nice place to live. Then she finds the body of Beatrice Glassie, the richest person in town, who no one likes. When her friend is accused of murder, she tries to clear her name.
This was a fun, quick read. I liked the characters and their relationships. There is a minor misunderstanding with the boyfriend which is resolved quickly. This is good because I hate when a romance is in peril because of a stupid misunderstanding. There are several suspects at first and I liked how they are eliminated as suspects. I would definitely read more of this series and I hope it continues.
This was a fun, quick read. I liked the characters and their relationships. There is a minor misunderstanding with the boyfriend which is resolved quickly. This is good because I hate when a romance is in peril because of a stupid misunderstanding. There are several suspects at first and I liked how they are eliminated as suspects. I would definitely read more of this series and I hope it continues.
September 11, 2025
In All My Bones we return to the Old Juniper Bookshop for another mystery starring former actress Madeline Brimley. With the previous books events behind them, Maddie is intent on improving the look of the bookshop itself, but with help of her friend Gloria Coleman, the only female Episcopal priest in the area, the two uncover another mystery hiding in the dirt.
This discovery sets forth a while murder mystery with our main MFC at the helm, doing the exact opposite of what is told to her.
Maddie, as a character, is something we should all strive to look up too. She is funny, witty and willing to do anything and everything she can in order to save her friends no matter the circumstances. And despite a fallback with her psuedo-aunt, even forgives her knowing that she was going through her own struggles after her aunt Rose's death. However, her amateur sleuthing could be a bit annoying, after being told not to ingratiate herself into the investigation multiple times by multiple entities, she still continued to do so. It works out for her in the end, for the second time, but nobody is truly that lucky unless they are a law enforcement officer and any other time, she would likely have been arrested.
We don't get much time with Gloria Coleman this time around, which is a shame because I feel like her character is such a huge part of the first story, and I just loved her. This time around, we have more time between Phil and Maddie, as well as Maddie and David, and is nice to see that her relationships with those closest to her continued to thrive despite everything unfolding around them.
Ultimately, the story was predictable in the end and I was able to discern the true culprit behind the murder mystery after their first encounter. Despite this, I did enjoy the story wholeheartedly, much like I did the first one, which encouraged me to request to read this book as well.
Thank you to Netgalley, PJ Nelson and St. Martin's Press for an ARC of this novel. The opinions aforementioned are that of my own.
This discovery sets forth a while murder mystery with our main MFC at the helm, doing the exact opposite of what is told to her.
Maddie, as a character, is something we should all strive to look up too. She is funny, witty and willing to do anything and everything she can in order to save her friends no matter the circumstances. And despite a fallback with her psuedo-aunt, even forgives her knowing that she was going through her own struggles after her aunt Rose's death. However, her amateur sleuthing could be a bit annoying, after being told not to ingratiate herself into the investigation multiple times by multiple entities, she still continued to do so. It works out for her in the end, for the second time, but nobody is truly that lucky unless they are a law enforcement officer and any other time, she would likely have been arrested.
We don't get much time with Gloria Coleman this time around, which is a shame because I feel like her character is such a huge part of the first story, and I just loved her. This time around, we have more time between Phil and Maddie, as well as Maddie and David, and is nice to see that her relationships with those closest to her continued to thrive despite everything unfolding around them.
Ultimately, the story was predictable in the end and I was able to discern the true culprit behind the murder mystery after their first encounter. Despite this, I did enjoy the story wholeheartedly, much like I did the first one, which encouraged me to request to read this book as well.
Thank you to Netgalley, PJ Nelson and St. Martin's Press for an ARC of this novel. The opinions aforementioned are that of my own.
September 18, 2025
In ALL MY BONES, written by P.J. Nelson, Madeline Brimley has inherited the Old Juniper Bookstore from her Aunt Rose. Madeline and her Episcopal priest friend, Gloria, do some gardening on Madeline’s property and find a human skull. Whose skull is it? How and why is it buried there?
The skeletal body is discovered early on, in the first chapter, creating the intrigue that makes me want to read on. Dr. Philomena Waldrop, the close friend and life companion of Madeline’s dead Aunt Rose, is an interesting character. The plot develops at a good pace. I want to know what happens next for Madeline and David. Thank you, St. Martin's Press and NetGalley, for the chance to read and review an advance reader copy of ALL MY BONES.
The skeletal body is discovered early on, in the first chapter, creating the intrigue that makes me want to read on. Dr. Philomena Waldrop, the close friend and life companion of Madeline’s dead Aunt Rose, is an interesting character. The plot develops at a good pace. I want to know what happens next for Madeline and David. Thank you, St. Martin's Press and NetGalley, for the chance to read and review an advance reader copy of ALL MY BONES.
November 9, 2025
Review to FollowThis second in series cozy mystery is fun and engaging! You've got the small town girl who left town for university studies and had been walking the boards in various theaters around the country, and making Atlanta her hub between trips. That is until her dear aunt has passed and left her a quirky, delightful bookshop in charming small town Enigma, Georgia. In an attempt to beautify the bookshop's entrance, Maddy and pastor Gloria are digging up the front garden only to encounter ground resistance of embedded concrete and what's that? Bones? All of a sudden, the garden is decorated in police tape and not her aunt's beloved roses. Can Maddy determine who the perpetrator is before the framed innocent is sent away for a time? She'll give it her best shot for sure.
P. J. Nelson has done a superb job of engaging readers in this small town bookshop mystery. The writing is solid and charming. The scenes are well described and, of no surprise given the author's background, are cinematic in scope. The red herrings are plentiful and relationships among characters - endearing. I eagerly await the next installment in this charming mystery series.
I am grateful to author P. J. Nelson and his publisher, Minotaur Books, for having provided a complimentary uncorrected digital galley of this book through NetGalley. Their generosity, however, has not influenced this review - the words of which are mine alone.
Publisher: Minotaur Books
Publication date: December 2, 2025
Number of Pages: 352
ISBN: 978-1250909978
P. J. Nelson has done a superb job of engaging readers in this small town bookshop mystery. The writing is solid and charming. The scenes are well described and, of no surprise given the author's background, are cinematic in scope. The red herrings are plentiful and relationships among characters - endearing. I eagerly await the next installment in this charming mystery series.
I am grateful to author P. J. Nelson and his publisher, Minotaur Books, for having provided a complimentary uncorrected digital galley of this book through NetGalley. Their generosity, however, has not influenced this review - the words of which are mine alone.
Publisher: Minotaur Books
Publication date: December 2, 2025
Number of Pages: 352
ISBN: 978-1250909978
August 19, 2025
This was such a fun and atmospheric read. The little bookshop in Enigma, Georgia made the perfect backdrop for this cozy mystery, and I loved how the setting itself felt like part of the story. Nelson weaves in theater and literary references that give the book an extra layer of charm, and the cast of characters is quirky, intriguing, and so well-drawn.
Madeline Brimley, now the owner of the bookstore after her acting career fizzled, isn’t always the most likable character, but she’s definitely growing on me. Her determination to clear her friend Gloria’s name when a body turns up in her front yard made me root for her, even when she was being a little stubborn. I also really enjoyed the dynamic with her not-quite-boyfriend lawman. It added just the right touch of tension.
The mystery itself unfolds at a great pace. I was engaged from the start and didn’t feel rushed, though I did find the resolution a bit predictable. Still, with all the small-town drama, old grudges, and the very cool rare-book angle tied to the murder, I was happily along for the ride.
Nelson’s writing feels warm and inviting, like settling into a comfy chair with a story that knows exactly what it wants to be. This book is perfect if you enjoy light-hearted mysteries with plenty of atmosphere and a touch of humor. I’d recommend it to anyone looking for a cozy whodunnit that mixes bookshops, small-town secrets, and a dash of danger.
My copy of this book was provided by NetGalley and Minotaur Books for review purposes. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Madeline Brimley, now the owner of the bookstore after her acting career fizzled, isn’t always the most likable character, but she’s definitely growing on me. Her determination to clear her friend Gloria’s name when a body turns up in her front yard made me root for her, even when she was being a little stubborn. I also really enjoyed the dynamic with her not-quite-boyfriend lawman. It added just the right touch of tension.
The mystery itself unfolds at a great pace. I was engaged from the start and didn’t feel rushed, though I did find the resolution a bit predictable. Still, with all the small-town drama, old grudges, and the very cool rare-book angle tied to the murder, I was happily along for the ride.
Nelson’s writing feels warm and inviting, like settling into a comfy chair with a story that knows exactly what it wants to be. This book is perfect if you enjoy light-hearted mysteries with plenty of atmosphere and a touch of humor. I’d recommend it to anyone looking for a cozy whodunnit that mixes bookshops, small-town secrets, and a dash of danger.
My copy of this book was provided by NetGalley and Minotaur Books for review purposes. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 1, 2025
3.5 stars.
Madeline is the recent owner of Old Juniper Bookstore after inheriting it from her late aunt. She wants to spruce up the front yard and asks her friend, Gloria, to help her plant azaleas. However, as they turn the soil to prepare it for the plants, they uncover the body of Beatrice Glassie, a troublesome old woman who has been missing for the last six months unbeknownst to the town. Gloria is arrested for the murder, making Madeline determined to prove Gloria’s innocence.
I just finished reading Booked for Murder, the first book in this cozy mystery series, a couple weeks ago and was delighted to check back in with Madeline. ALL MY BONES picks up some time after the end of the first book as Madeline continues to settle into her hometown, Enigma, and her role as a bookstore owner. That said, these books can be read as standalones, as their mysteries are entirely independent.
I liked connecting back to the characters introduced in the first book and seeing how their bonds have continued to grow. I particularly enjoyed seeing the continuous budding of the relationship between Madeline and a certain gardener. This glimmer of romance doesn’t draw away from the plot and is a nice added touch.
The mystery surrounds Madeline’s discovery of bones in her front yard as she’s preparing the soil to plant flowers. As it turns out, the bones are those of a woman who was not well liked in the community and whom no one had noticed was missing for the last six months. Madeline’s friend, Gloria, has been falsely arrested for the murder and I loved seeing Madeline puzzle out the mystery in hopes of proving Gloria innocent. Madeline gets herself into a lot of interesting situations and uses her acting skills to turn many situations in her favor, leaving the reader with plenty of opportunity for a laugh.
I did anticipate the ‘who’ behind the whodunnit, but I couldn’t quite figure out the ‘why’. I enjoyed the reveal close to the end that provided the answers to my questions. I’ll definitely be interested in picking up subsequent novels in this series as they come!
I would like to thank Netgalley and the publisher, Minotaur Books, for the opportunity to read this advanced digital copy in exchange for an honest review! All opinions expressed are my own.
Madeline is the recent owner of Old Juniper Bookstore after inheriting it from her late aunt. She wants to spruce up the front yard and asks her friend, Gloria, to help her plant azaleas. However, as they turn the soil to prepare it for the plants, they uncover the body of Beatrice Glassie, a troublesome old woman who has been missing for the last six months unbeknownst to the town. Gloria is arrested for the murder, making Madeline determined to prove Gloria’s innocence.
I just finished reading Booked for Murder, the first book in this cozy mystery series, a couple weeks ago and was delighted to check back in with Madeline. ALL MY BONES picks up some time after the end of the first book as Madeline continues to settle into her hometown, Enigma, and her role as a bookstore owner. That said, these books can be read as standalones, as their mysteries are entirely independent.
I liked connecting back to the characters introduced in the first book and seeing how their bonds have continued to grow. I particularly enjoyed seeing the continuous budding of the relationship between Madeline and a certain gardener. This glimmer of romance doesn’t draw away from the plot and is a nice added touch.
The mystery surrounds Madeline’s discovery of bones in her front yard as she’s preparing the soil to plant flowers. As it turns out, the bones are those of a woman who was not well liked in the community and whom no one had noticed was missing for the last six months. Madeline’s friend, Gloria, has been falsely arrested for the murder and I loved seeing Madeline puzzle out the mystery in hopes of proving Gloria innocent. Madeline gets herself into a lot of interesting situations and uses her acting skills to turn many situations in her favor, leaving the reader with plenty of opportunity for a laugh.
I did anticipate the ‘who’ behind the whodunnit, but I couldn’t quite figure out the ‘why’. I enjoyed the reveal close to the end that provided the answers to my questions. I’ll definitely be interested in picking up subsequent novels in this series as they come!
I would like to thank Netgalley and the publisher, Minotaur Books, for the opportunity to read this advanced digital copy in exchange for an honest review! All opinions expressed are my own.
December 3, 2025
All My Bones by P. J. Nelson is book two in the Old Juniper Bookshop Mystery series, which has again re-ignited my love of cozy mysteries!
Although I enjoyed the first book in the series, I liked this one even more! Why? I'm really not sure! Since I can still picture various scenes from the first book, stepping back into Enigma, Georgia felt a bit like returning home (or maybe going back to a favourite vacation spot)! I already had such a strong connection to the main character, Madaline Brimley, so maybe that, layered with southern charm and this fun plot, hit a bit differently (better) this time around!
I just want to reiterate the coziness of this book! Nelson has done such a good job of inviting readers into this town, with a welcoming glass of sweet tea and Southern hospitality! It truly felt like I took a little trip and visited Enigma, the Old Juniper Bookshop, and went with Maddy as she sleuthed along to find answers! (And I'm convinced that Cannonball, the cat, is some form of Aunt Rose reincarnated, so I can't wait to see if I'm right!)
(Now, maybe I'm just restating the same thoughts in different ways), but this book is super atmospheric! From the gazebo to the bookstore to the theater stage, each setting fell into place like a backdrop around me!
Hallie Bee Bard returned for this sequel and once again created a truly entertaining audiobook! The various accents and different voices for the characters added to my enjoyment and allowed each individual to be easily distinguished amongst the others!
Can you tell this one really ticked all my cozy mystery boxes!? I'm so hopeful there will be a third in the series!
Thank you, NetGalley, St. Martin's Press, Minotaur Books, and Dreamscape Media for the complimentary copies to read and review.
Although I enjoyed the first book in the series, I liked this one even more! Why? I'm really not sure! Since I can still picture various scenes from the first book, stepping back into Enigma, Georgia felt a bit like returning home (or maybe going back to a favourite vacation spot)! I already had such a strong connection to the main character, Madaline Brimley, so maybe that, layered with southern charm and this fun plot, hit a bit differently (better) this time around!
I just want to reiterate the coziness of this book! Nelson has done such a good job of inviting readers into this town, with a welcoming glass of sweet tea and Southern hospitality! It truly felt like I took a little trip and visited Enigma, the Old Juniper Bookshop, and went with Maddy as she sleuthed along to find answers! (And I'm convinced that Cannonball, the cat, is some form of Aunt Rose reincarnated, so I can't wait to see if I'm right!)
(Now, maybe I'm just restating the same thoughts in different ways), but this book is super atmospheric! From the gazebo to the bookstore to the theater stage, each setting fell into place like a backdrop around me!
Hallie Bee Bard returned for this sequel and once again created a truly entertaining audiobook! The various accents and different voices for the characters added to my enjoyment and allowed each individual to be easily distinguished amongst the others!
Can you tell this one really ticked all my cozy mystery boxes!? I'm so hopeful there will be a third in the series!
Thank you, NetGalley, St. Martin's Press, Minotaur Books, and Dreamscape Media for the complimentary copies to read and review.
November 27, 2025
Madeline Brimley is busy making a success of her inherited bookshop in Enigma, Georgia. It hasn’t been easy, but Madeline has made it work. She and her best friend, Gloria Coleman are busy planting flowers in front of the store when they get the shock of their lives. Someone has buried human bones there and when the bones are identified as Bea Glassie, the small town is turned upside down.
There are many who disliked Bea, including her own sister. The police focus on one person - Madeline’s BFF Gloria. She’s immediately arrested. It’s up to Madeline and her friends to figure out who really did away with Bea. She knows it couldn’t be Gloria.
This is an intriguing mystery. It’s the second book of the series. You don’t have to read the first one, but I would think readers would enjoy getting the full picture behind Madeline being there in the first place. It’s always helpful to have background information.
Madeline is a strong character who never backs down. She sometimes acts a bit recklessly, as all amateur sleuths seem to do but she has a good reason. She must prove her friend’s innocence, and the police aren't much help.
The story moved along at a steady pace. There were many potential suspects each with their own story to tell. I enjoyed getting to know Madeline a little more in this book and look forward to reading more books in this series.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a free Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
There are many who disliked Bea, including her own sister. The police focus on one person - Madeline’s BFF Gloria. She’s immediately arrested. It’s up to Madeline and her friends to figure out who really did away with Bea. She knows it couldn’t be Gloria.
This is an intriguing mystery. It’s the second book of the series. You don’t have to read the first one, but I would think readers would enjoy getting the full picture behind Madeline being there in the first place. It’s always helpful to have background information.
Madeline is a strong character who never backs down. She sometimes acts a bit recklessly, as all amateur sleuths seem to do but she has a good reason. She must prove her friend’s innocence, and the police aren't much help.
The story moved along at a steady pace. There were many potential suspects each with their own story to tell. I enjoyed getting to know Madeline a little more in this book and look forward to reading more books in this series.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a free Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
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