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A Secret Bookcase Mystery #6
A Body at the Book Fair: A Secret Bookcase Mystery, Book 6
In the gripping conclusion to The Secret Bookcase series, Annie Murray races to untangle the ultimate plot twist…
Life is good for she’s found healing at the Secret Bookcase, her beloved Agatha Christie-themed mystery bookstore in the cozy town of Redwood Grove, and is on the brink of launching her very own detective agency. But she's still haunted by one unsolved the murder of her best friend Scarlet ten years ago.
When Annie heads to Santa Clara for their annual book fair, she’s looking forward to meeting fellow booklovers. And she’s also got a secret she’ll be close to Silicon Summit Partners, the powerful investment firm she just knows had a hand in Scarlet’s death. But when an industry colleague is murdered at the book fair, Annie is first on the scene to investigate. The suspect list reads like a book lover’s who’s a celebrity author with a suspicious agenda, a rival with a grudge, and even a kindly grandmother pursuing her lifelong dream of owning a bookstore.
With her fellow bookseller and crime-fighting partner Fletcher playing Watson to her Holmes, can Annie catch the killer before they strike again? And will it distract her from her mission to finally bring her best friend Scarlet’s murderer to justice?
This fun-filled and clean cozy mystery will keep you guessing until the very end. Perfect for fans of Lauren Elliott, Merryn Allingham and M.C. Beaton, and book lovers everywhere.
Life is good for she’s found healing at the Secret Bookcase, her beloved Agatha Christie-themed mystery bookstore in the cozy town of Redwood Grove, and is on the brink of launching her very own detective agency. But she's still haunted by one unsolved the murder of her best friend Scarlet ten years ago.
When Annie heads to Santa Clara for their annual book fair, she’s looking forward to meeting fellow booklovers. And she’s also got a secret she’ll be close to Silicon Summit Partners, the powerful investment firm she just knows had a hand in Scarlet’s death. But when an industry colleague is murdered at the book fair, Annie is first on the scene to investigate. The suspect list reads like a book lover’s who’s a celebrity author with a suspicious agenda, a rival with a grudge, and even a kindly grandmother pursuing her lifelong dream of owning a bookstore.
With her fellow bookseller and crime-fighting partner Fletcher playing Watson to her Holmes, can Annie catch the killer before they strike again? And will it distract her from her mission to finally bring her best friend Scarlet’s murderer to justice?
This fun-filled and clean cozy mystery will keep you guessing until the very end. Perfect for fans of Lauren Elliott, Merryn Allingham and M.C. Beaton, and book lovers everywhere.
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Published July 15, 2025
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About the author
Ellie Alexander
85 books3,047 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—
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...
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https://www.pinterest.com/elliealexan...
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 243 reviews
June 8, 2025
The final book in this series and at last we solve the mystery of Scarlet's death which has been a constant thread since the first book.
A Body at the Book Fair is an excellent wrap for a very enjoyable series. All of our favourite characters are in it and there is plenty going on. Luckily, although this is the end for the Secret Bookcase Mysteries, there is a promise for a spin off series called The Novel Detectives. I am looking forward to this.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
A Body at the Book Fair is an excellent wrap for a very enjoyable series. All of our favourite characters are in it and there is plenty going on. Luckily, although this is the end for the Secret Bookcase Mysteries, there is a promise for a spin off series called The Novel Detectives. I am looking forward to this.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
June 18, 2025
3.5 Stars
One Liner: The finale…
Annie and Fletcher, the new co-owners of the Secret Bookcase and private investigators, attend the annual book fair in Santa Clara. Their plan is for Annie to finally solve the mystery behind her best friend, Scarlet’s, death all those years ago. However, Annie ends up becoming a part of another case when an industry colleague dies in front of an audience, and it is clearly a murder.
Can Annie, with help from her friends, solve both cases and come out alive?
The story comes in Annie’s first-person POV.
My Thoughts:
This is the concluding book in the series. While the first two chapters provide the necessary backstory to make this a standalone, I think readers might enjoy it more if they read at least the previous two books. That shouldn’t take long since these are short books and can be finished in a couple of hours or so.
Here, the main mystery is about the death at the annual book fair. The other is not a mystery since the FMC figured things out in the previous book. This is more of a confrontation/ conclusion part, but not without risks, of course.
Technological advancement is the central theme, focusing on the use of tech in the publishing and bookselling industry. Would you like a VR (virtual reality) device that ‘shows’ a book’s setting, characters, story, etc., or do you prefer to imagine it yourself? I fall into the latter category. While VR sounds fun, I don’t want technology to replace my imagination!
We also get some insight into the cut-throat world of publishing, like how stressful the auctions for popular authors’ manuscripts are, how not everything is ethically done, and so on.
There are some mentions of coffee and food, too. On that note, can anyone tell me what a progressive Indian restaurant is supposed to mean? I thought most Indian restaurants in the West don’t serve traditional dishes (even if they say they do) like we have them here (and anyone willing to try avocado raita? The picky-eater-me is not impressed).
Anyhoo, the mystery is solved, and the overarching plot is also handled pretty easily. There’s a bit of danger, but since someone in the FMC’s team is actually sensible, everyone is safe and alive.
There’s a surprise for series readers at the end. Don’t miss the author’s note (it’s a short one anyway). If you enjoyed the books so far, you’ll be happy with the update.
To summarize, A Body at the Book Fair is the final book in the series and keeps the pacing, plotting, and character development aligned with the previous books. Since the series has been a steady 3.5 stars for me, I think it’s only fair to round up this time.
Thank you, NetGalley and Storm Publishing, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #ABodyAtTheBookFair
One Liner: The finale…
Annie and Fletcher, the new co-owners of the Secret Bookcase and private investigators, attend the annual book fair in Santa Clara. Their plan is for Annie to finally solve the mystery behind her best friend, Scarlet’s, death all those years ago. However, Annie ends up becoming a part of another case when an industry colleague dies in front of an audience, and it is clearly a murder.
Can Annie, with help from her friends, solve both cases and come out alive?
The story comes in Annie’s first-person POV.
My Thoughts:
This is the concluding book in the series. While the first two chapters provide the necessary backstory to make this a standalone, I think readers might enjoy it more if they read at least the previous two books. That shouldn’t take long since these are short books and can be finished in a couple of hours or so.
Here, the main mystery is about the death at the annual book fair. The other is not a mystery since the FMC figured things out in the previous book. This is more of a confrontation/ conclusion part, but not without risks, of course.
Technological advancement is the central theme, focusing on the use of tech in the publishing and bookselling industry. Would you like a VR (virtual reality) device that ‘shows’ a book’s setting, characters, story, etc., or do you prefer to imagine it yourself? I fall into the latter category. While VR sounds fun, I don’t want technology to replace my imagination!
We also get some insight into the cut-throat world of publishing, like how stressful the auctions for popular authors’ manuscripts are, how not everything is ethically done, and so on.
There are some mentions of coffee and food, too. On that note, can anyone tell me what a progressive Indian restaurant is supposed to mean? I thought most Indian restaurants in the West don’t serve traditional dishes (even if they say they do) like we have them here (and anyone willing to try avocado raita? The picky-eater-me is not impressed).
Anyhoo, the mystery is solved, and the overarching plot is also handled pretty easily. There’s a bit of danger, but since someone in the FMC’s team is actually sensible, everyone is safe and alive.
There’s a surprise for series readers at the end. Don’t miss the author’s note (it’s a short one anyway). If you enjoyed the books so far, you’ll be happy with the update.
To summarize, A Body at the Book Fair is the final book in the series and keeps the pacing, plotting, and character development aligned with the previous books. Since the series has been a steady 3.5 stars for me, I think it’s only fair to round up this time.
Thank you, NetGalley and Storm Publishing, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #ABodyAtTheBookFair
June 10, 2025
Annie Murray and her offsider, Fletcher, headed for Santa Clara for a book fair, one she was extremely interested in for the Secret Bookcase, Annie's store. She also had an ulterior motive as the fair was near to where her best friend Scarlett had died ten years prior, and her case had never been solved. But when a book industry person died on the first day of the fair, Annie was determined to help the local Detective - and she was happy to have her. Could she solve that murder as well as work her own agenda?
With Fletcher, her boyfriend Liam and Pri having her back, Annie was determined to continue with their plan. But she was scared. She needed to solve the murder for Scarlett's sake, her own sake, and Scarlett's family's sake - but was it possible?
A Body at the Book Fair is the 6th and final episode in A Secret Bookcase Mystery by Ellie Alexander and I was excited to read there'll be a spin-off series - The Novel Detectives - starting with book #1 in 2026. This has been an excellent series - I enjoy the characters, and it was amazing to finally have Scarlett's death solved. Highly recommended (but start at book 1).
With thanks to NetGalley & Storm Publishing for my digital ARC to read and review.
With Fletcher, her boyfriend Liam and Pri having her back, Annie was determined to continue with their plan. But she was scared. She needed to solve the murder for Scarlett's sake, her own sake, and Scarlett's family's sake - but was it possible?
A Body at the Book Fair is the 6th and final episode in A Secret Bookcase Mystery by Ellie Alexander and I was excited to read there'll be a spin-off series - The Novel Detectives - starting with book #1 in 2026. This has been an excellent series - I enjoy the characters, and it was amazing to finally have Scarlett's death solved. Highly recommended (but start at book 1).
With thanks to NetGalley & Storm Publishing for my digital ARC to read and review.
August 29, 2025
I loved this series and will reread at some point. The main characters are consistently fun and memorable. These don’t need to be read in order, personally I do prefer to read in order. A true cozy.
Highly recommend!
I was blessed with an ARC and the opinions expressed are my own.
Highly recommend!
I was blessed with an ARC and the opinions expressed are my own.
July 12, 2025
(3.75 stars)
A Body At The Book Fair is the sixth and final book in the Secret Bookcase Mystery series. Like each of the other books, there’s a separate mystery here plus the conclusion of a mystery that has spanned all six books. Because of that overarching plot, I’d recommend reading the series in order or at least reading the two before this one first.
Annie Murray has a criminology background but has been working at a mystery-themed bookstore in a small town in Northern California for several years. She has been trying to solve the case of the murder of her best friend, Scarlet, for the past ten years and we finally get to see her succeed.
I actually was more interested in the rest of the book. Annie and her co-worker Fletcher are attending a booksellers conference and a death takes place there, during a tech presentation in front of a large audience. There’s a lot of discussion about new book-related technologies (virtual reality and more) and an interesting (to me) discussion about book auctions where publishers vie for the opportunity to publish a particular book with a lot of buzz.
I’ve enjoyed all the main characters in this series: Annie, Fletcher (a Sherlock Holmes aficionado), Priya who runs a coffee shop, and Liam, who runs the local pub. Fletcher and Annie are getting ready to start their own private investigation business, Novel Detectives, and by the end of the book they have all the certifications required to do so. That would be in addition to their roles at the bookstore, apparently. Looks like there’s going to be a spin-off series!
Thank you to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a review copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
A Body At The Book Fair is the sixth and final book in the Secret Bookcase Mystery series. Like each of the other books, there’s a separate mystery here plus the conclusion of a mystery that has spanned all six books. Because of that overarching plot, I’d recommend reading the series in order or at least reading the two before this one first.
Annie Murray has a criminology background but has been working at a mystery-themed bookstore in a small town in Northern California for several years. She has been trying to solve the case of the murder of her best friend, Scarlet, for the past ten years and we finally get to see her succeed.
I actually was more interested in the rest of the book. Annie and her co-worker Fletcher are attending a booksellers conference and a death takes place there, during a tech presentation in front of a large audience. There’s a lot of discussion about new book-related technologies (virtual reality and more) and an interesting (to me) discussion about book auctions where publishers vie for the opportunity to publish a particular book with a lot of buzz.
I’ve enjoyed all the main characters in this series: Annie, Fletcher (a Sherlock Holmes aficionado), Priya who runs a coffee shop, and Liam, who runs the local pub. Fletcher and Annie are getting ready to start their own private investigation business, Novel Detectives, and by the end of the book they have all the certifications required to do so. That would be in addition to their roles at the bookstore, apparently. Looks like there’s going to be a spin-off series!
Thank you to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a review copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
May 3, 2025
This was the last book in this series. A very quick read but seemed rushed to both wrap up a 10 year old murder and solve a new murder in a couple days. Missed the bookstore setting . Some of the happenings seemed very improbable so this was not my favorite of the series. It was just too jumbled trying to get everything wrapped
June 15, 2025
3.5 stars
A big fan of this series, I was both excited and a little nervous going into this final installment. And while this book had its bright spots, it didn’t quite deliver the satisfying finale I was hoping for.
Annie and Fletcher are, as always, in fine form. Their teamwork remains one of the series’ greatest strengths, and I enjoyed watching them work together in this new environment. I also enjoyed meeting some new faces in this book. However, I couldn't stop questioning the change of setting, from the cosy charm of Redwood Grove to the bustling world of a book fair. I do applaud the author taking the risk to shift the action to a new location, especially for a final book in the series, but I struggled to engage with it, maybe because the narrative had to split time with resolving the long-running cold case.
Speaking of which, while I was glad to finally get closure on Scarlet’s death, the way it played out strained credibility. Even though it had a fun amateur approach fans of cosies probably relish more than the standard mystery reader, Annie’s plan was a stretch. That said, I’m still glad the cold case was resolved. It’s been hanging over the series for a while, and it deserved an ending.
The silver lining is that there’s a spinoff series on the horizon, which I’m genuinely excited about. It was on my wish list ever since the author announced the end to this series. I'm so happy to see that wish came true! I’m hoping it brings some of the Redwood Grove magic back while giving space to some of the new characters introduced here.
Thanks to Netgalley for providing a free copy of this book for an honest review.
A big fan of this series, I was both excited and a little nervous going into this final installment. And while this book had its bright spots, it didn’t quite deliver the satisfying finale I was hoping for.
Annie and Fletcher are, as always, in fine form. Their teamwork remains one of the series’ greatest strengths, and I enjoyed watching them work together in this new environment. I also enjoyed meeting some new faces in this book. However, I couldn't stop questioning the change of setting, from the cosy charm of Redwood Grove to the bustling world of a book fair. I do applaud the author taking the risk to shift the action to a new location, especially for a final book in the series, but I struggled to engage with it, maybe because the narrative had to split time with resolving the long-running cold case.
Speaking of which, while I was glad to finally get closure on Scarlet’s death, the way it played out strained credibility. Even though it had a fun amateur approach fans of cosies probably relish more than the standard mystery reader, Annie’s plan was a stretch. That said, I’m still glad the cold case was resolved. It’s been hanging over the series for a while, and it deserved an ending.
The silver lining is that there’s a spinoff series on the horizon, which I’m genuinely excited about. It was on my wish list ever since the author announced the end to this series. I'm so happy to see that wish came true! I’m hoping it brings some of the Redwood Grove magic back while giving space to some of the new characters introduced here.
Thanks to Netgalley for providing a free copy of this book for an honest review.
July 10, 2025
While this isn’t my favorite series by this author, it has grown on me, particularly since the cold case has really heated up. As this is the last in the series, I knew that the cold case would be wrapped up so I was anxious to see how it would all end. What a disappointment! I tore through the first half of this book and the current mystery, all the while waiting for Annie’s meeting with the major player in Scarlet’s disappearance only to be met with one implausible and ridiculous scenario after another. The ending was wrapped up way too quickly for as long as it was drawn out and the methods to get the information were unbelievable. What information did she get? We don’t ever find out. This does set up the next series nicely and I will hope for better with that one.
I received a copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.
I received a copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.
June 3, 2025
I loved returning to the charming town of Redwood Grove and the Secret Bookcase bookstore. In this instalment Annie and Fletcher head to Santa Clara for their annual book fair, which also happens to be where Silicon Summit Partners is located. With her fellow bookseller and crime-fighting partner Fletcher playing Watson to her Holmes, can Annie catch the killer before they strike again? And will it distract her from her mission to finally bring her best friend Scarlet’s murderer to justice?
It was entertaining, full of twists and turns and I didn’t completely guess whodunnit until Annie did..
Overall, I'm thoroughly invested in Annie and the Novel Detectives I’m excited to see where the author takes these endearing characters next!
I highly recommend this series to all my cozy loving friends!
I requested and received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Storm Publishing and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my OWN.
It was entertaining, full of twists and turns and I didn’t completely guess whodunnit until Annie did..
Overall, I'm thoroughly invested in Annie and the Novel Detectives I’m excited to see where the author takes these endearing characters next!
I highly recommend this series to all my cozy loving friends!
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, 2025
Gosh, how I love an Annie Murray mystery! I've been hooked from the very start, with A Body in The Bookstore. I love seeing Annie's progression and how she tackles every task thrown her way, of course with the help of her beloved Red Grove community!
Every installment in Ellie Alexander's 'A Secret Bookcare Mystery' series has been great but this one has to be my favorite! She took it up a notch! Not only did we finally solve Scarlet's murder and bring forth justice, but Annie is really doing bad ass detective work, and I live for it! Annie is getting her hands real dirty and taking even bigger risks (gasp-worthy risks), and her dear Liam is behind her every step! Liam is actually hands-on, partner-in-crime style in this one, and I loved every bit of it!
This book is a fast read, with the author giving us quick insight and background before the story kicks off, so you won't necessarily need to read the other five installments to understand what's going on. I can say that overall, this series is a cozy mystery series, very fast-paced yet very suspenseful, but this installment turned it up a notch! The only thing I wished was a bit different was the ending. I was rooting and cheering Annie on as she solved this case, and just like the other books, I was expecting a big "wow" moment/ cliffhanger for the next book. Unfortunately, this one was just "I might have a case for you." I mean, it's cool or whatever, but luckily I'm already deeply invested in Annie Murray and her crew so of course I'm already anticipating the next novel, however, it was a little lackluster. But, it doesn't take away from the novel as a whole! Still a 5-star read, still rooting for Annie and crew!
Thank you NetGalley, Storm Publishing, and Ellie Alexander for this ARC!
Every installment in Ellie Alexander's 'A Secret Bookcare Mystery' series has been great but this one has to be my favorite! She took it up a notch! Not only did we finally solve Scarlet's murder and bring forth justice, but Annie is really doing bad ass detective work, and I live for it! Annie is getting her hands real dirty and taking even bigger risks (gasp-worthy risks), and her dear Liam is behind her every step! Liam is actually hands-on, partner-in-crime style in this one, and I loved every bit of it!
This book is a fast read, with the author giving us quick insight and background before the story kicks off, so you won't necessarily need to read the other five installments to understand what's going on. I can say that overall, this series is a cozy mystery series, very fast-paced yet very suspenseful, but this installment turned it up a notch! The only thing I wished was a bit different was the ending. I was rooting and cheering Annie on as she solved this case, and just like the other books, I was expecting a big "wow" moment/ cliffhanger for the next book. Unfortunately, this one was just "I might have a case for you." I mean, it's cool or whatever, but luckily I'm already deeply invested in Annie Murray and her crew so of course I'm already anticipating the next novel, however, it was a little lackluster. But, it doesn't take away from the novel as a whole! Still a 5-star read, still rooting for Annie and crew!
Thank you NetGalley, Storm Publishing, and Ellie Alexander for this ARC!
June 12, 2025
4.25 stars
Bookseller and newly licensed PI Annie Murray is excited to attend a booksellers convention with her business partner in a nearby town. While she's there, she hopes to follow up on a strong lead to finally solve the case of her college best friend's death.This book does a good job of balancing the behind the scenes looks at the convention (one of my favorite parts!), a death at the convention, and Scarlet's cold case.
This book wraps up the mystery of what really happened to Scarlet and concludes this series. (There will be a spinoff series coming out next year, though.) The ending is suspenseful, but a bit rushed and requires some suspension of disbelief. However, I like how things are wrapped up, as well as how things are set up for Annie and her friends' "next chapter."
I received an advance review copy of this ebook from Storm Publishing, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.
Bookseller and newly licensed PI Annie Murray is excited to attend a booksellers convention with her business partner in a nearby town. While she's there, she hopes to follow up on a strong lead to finally solve the case of her college best friend's death.This book does a good job of balancing the behind the scenes looks at the convention (one of my favorite parts!), a death at the convention, and Scarlet's cold case.
This book wraps up the mystery of what really happened to Scarlet and concludes this series. (There will be a spinoff series coming out next year, though.) The ending is suspenseful, but a bit rushed and requires some suspension of disbelief. However, I like how things are wrapped up, as well as how things are set up for Annie and her friends' "next chapter."
I received an advance review copy of this ebook from Storm Publishing, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.
May 19, 2025
A great finish to the five book series. This series is different from the Bakeshop mysteries (my favorite) in there is an arc that continues through all of the books.
I enjoyed each installment and although this isn't a stand alone, Alexander is a master of catching up the reader if they are new to the series. The place the author really shines is in character development and setting. The Secret Bookshop is wonderful, the Central California coast setting is perfect and I loved all of the characters. I'm happy all the loose ends are tied up and I look forward to continuing the journey with Annie and Fletcher in the new series. I smiled at the nod to the wonderful Oregon coffee from the Torte Bakeshop.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an advance copy!
I enjoyed each installment and although this isn't a stand alone, Alexander is a master of catching up the reader if they are new to the series. The place the author really shines is in character development and setting. The Secret Bookshop is wonderful, the Central California coast setting is perfect and I loved all of the characters. I'm happy all the loose ends are tied up and I look forward to continuing the journey with Annie and Fletcher in the new series. I smiled at the nod to the wonderful Oregon coffee from the Torte Bakeshop.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an advance copy!
May 11, 2025
I have been a big fan of The Secret Bookcase mysteries. While I am sorry to see the series end, it seems that fans are not going to be left high and dry as there appears to be a spin-off, Novel Detectives, coming in the future. I was a little sad that this final book takes place away from the Secret Bookcase and the town of Redwood Grove, both of which I have come to love. I missed some of the regular characters, the charm of the town and bookstore. While the idea of a book fair is a great setting for a book, I felt it was kind of short-changed as we not only have a murder at the book fair that Annie witnesses but we also have some resolution in the case of Annie's friend Scarlet. I did feel that both cases were rushed and honestly felt the solution to Scarlet's case was very improbable. That being said, I enjoyed this series, I was glad that Priya and Liam were along for our finally and that we got some peace for Scarlet. I will definitely be interested in checking out the spin-off to this series. A big thanks to #Netgally, #StormPublishing, and the author for an opportunity to read. #ABodyattheBookFair #ASecretBookcaseMystery #EllieAlexander #bookreview #bookideas #retiredreader
May 7, 2025
This is the last in this delightful series, however, a new series is in the works. This is a perfect
conclusion to the series with all of the loose ends tied up and the characters’ relationships
will all be waiting for their next adventures in the new series.
The backdrops of the Central Coast and the Santa Clara Valley, known as “Silicon Valley,”
are so well you feel the sunshine, the lovely,rain, and the wildlife that make perfect the
setting for the bookstore. Even when we spent time ferreting out the killer of Scarlett,
we cannot help but wish we could spend a weekend at the Secret Bookcase.
We fall in love with the characters from every installment and hope to see some of
them visit the store, and maybe we’d pop in!
I adore,this series! If you are,reading your first book, it’s OK as it’s easy to feel
right at home.
My thanks to Storm Publishing for the download copy of the book for
review purposes.
conclusion to the series with all of the loose ends tied up and the characters’ relationships
will all be waiting for their next adventures in the new series.
The backdrops of the Central Coast and the Santa Clara Valley, known as “Silicon Valley,”
are so well you feel the sunshine, the lovely,rain, and the wildlife that make perfect the
setting for the bookstore. Even when we spent time ferreting out the killer of Scarlett,
we cannot help but wish we could spend a weekend at the Secret Bookcase.
We fall in love with the characters from every installment and hope to see some of
them visit the store, and maybe we’d pop in!
I adore,this series! If you are,reading your first book, it’s OK as it’s easy to feel
right at home.
My thanks to Storm Publishing for the download copy of the book for
review purposes.
September 16, 2025
From what I understand, this is the final book of "The Secret Bookstore.” These are very pleasant reads, that stand alone This book was written by Ellie Alexander and it had a lovely narration by Ellen Guay. Very comfortably.
Annie Murray, events coordinator along with her partner, Fletcher, really have a good chemistry together and make things happen at their store in Redwood Grave, in California. Business is starting to slow down, so they are looking for ideas to fire up the town and those beyond. With major brainstorming sessions, they come up with some really positive ideas for this event. They get it put in place, and the whole town is involved and invited. Everybody has contributed to this idea, and the town has never been better, and never has there been such money in their coffers.
On the first night of the event, Annie is a couple hours before going to the ballroom in the hotel for a Mystery Dinner, and she tours the store, and the hotel looking at decorations each has. There is a small room in the bookstore, and for some reason it's hard to open. With effort she finally opens it, and inside she spots her former classmate, Kayla. She is sitting in a chair, head tilted, and very bloody. Annie, horrified, hurries and tries to bring her back. Unable to do so, determine she is dead, and they call the Police. A surprise appearance made by Dr. Caldwell her criminology professor turned Detective in College. Great reunion, and Dr. Caldwell immediately goes to work.
About 10 years prior, Annie's best friend Scarlet was murdered. She has been working with files, evidence, reports, etc. over that time to see if she can solve it. She and Scarlet were planning to open a Detective Agency for their living. Annie is carrying on that commitment, setting up and running the Novel Detective Agency, and their offices would take one room of the Secret Mystery Bookstore.
Annie is persistent, and there finally are some breaks that give her enough information that she and Dr. Caldwell from School, with help from Fletcher, Hal, and friend Priya. They fit well into the works of solving the case(s).
There is a newly developed love interest, Liam whom prior was Annie's most despicable person in the whole town. With strange goings on, she starts to see him differently, and he is treating her differently as well. It's quite cute to watch it develop.
They finally have enough they can solve the case. Wasn't who I thought it would be, but is a logical choice. Good job everyone. Pretty good read, recommend. Clean language. The books in this series can stand alone and maintain plot interest. RATE: 4 stars
Annie Murray, events coordinator along with her partner, Fletcher, really have a good chemistry together and make things happen at their store in Redwood Grave, in California. Business is starting to slow down, so they are looking for ideas to fire up the town and those beyond. With major brainstorming sessions, they come up with some really positive ideas for this event. They get it put in place, and the whole town is involved and invited. Everybody has contributed to this idea, and the town has never been better, and never has there been such money in their coffers.
On the first night of the event, Annie is a couple hours before going to the ballroom in the hotel for a Mystery Dinner, and she tours the store, and the hotel looking at decorations each has. There is a small room in the bookstore, and for some reason it's hard to open. With effort she finally opens it, and inside she spots her former classmate, Kayla. She is sitting in a chair, head tilted, and very bloody. Annie, horrified, hurries and tries to bring her back. Unable to do so, determine she is dead, and they call the Police. A surprise appearance made by Dr. Caldwell her criminology professor turned Detective in College. Great reunion, and Dr. Caldwell immediately goes to work.
About 10 years prior, Annie's best friend Scarlet was murdered. She has been working with files, evidence, reports, etc. over that time to see if she can solve it. She and Scarlet were planning to open a Detective Agency for their living. Annie is carrying on that commitment, setting up and running the Novel Detective Agency, and their offices would take one room of the Secret Mystery Bookstore.
Annie is persistent, and there finally are some breaks that give her enough information that she and Dr. Caldwell from School, with help from Fletcher, Hal, and friend Priya. They fit well into the works of solving the case(s).
There is a newly developed love interest, Liam whom prior was Annie's most despicable person in the whole town. With strange goings on, she starts to see him differently, and he is treating her differently as well. It's quite cute to watch it develop.
They finally have enough they can solve the case. Wasn't who I thought it would be, but is a logical choice. Good job everyone. Pretty good read, recommend. Clean language. The books in this series can stand alone and maintain plot interest. RATE: 4 stars
August 4, 2025
This is the final book in A Secret Bookcase Mystery series, I definitely would suggest reading them in order as there is an ongoing side investigation that carries on throughout the entire series. In this story Annie and Fletcher take off to Santa Clara to attend a book fair while also hoping to find the evidence they need to nail down her friend's murderer. Before they have a chance to get that investigation going someone at the book fair dies and she is thrown into that investigation to figure out who killed him. I really liked the setting of the book and all the chaos that came with it. I think everything wrapped up nicely for the series and gave the closure needed. Ellie Alexander could definitely come back around to this bookstore and extend the series with new mysteries especially with Annie and Fletchers new business. I had a great time with this series!
Thank you to Storm Publishing and Ellie Alexander for an eARC of this book in exchange of my honest review. #ABodyattheBookFair #NetGalley
Thank you to Storm Publishing and Ellie Alexander for an eARC of this book in exchange of my honest review. #ABodyattheBookFair #NetGalley
May 5, 2025
A very quaint way to finalize the Secret Bookcase Mystery series.
I love that the overall storyline was summed up well. Annie has been haunted by the death of a friend and finally has the opportunity to confront her suspicions.
Of course, things always deviate a bit and she finds herself in the middle of another murder mystery, but what I loved most was the intertwining of new and old that culminated in the finale.
I would highly recommend the entire series to anyone that loves cozy mystery, Annie is one of the greats.
I love that the overall storyline was summed up well. Annie has been haunted by the death of a friend and finally has the opportunity to confront her suspicions.
Of course, things always deviate a bit and she finds herself in the middle of another murder mystery, but what I loved most was the intertwining of new and old that culminated in the finale.
I would highly recommend the entire series to anyone that loves cozy mystery, Annie is one of the greats.
July 19, 2025
This is the ending to Annie’s story. We find out who killed her best friend 10 years ago while Annie solves another murder at a book con. It was entertaining and a satisfying ending.
May 27, 2025
3.5/5 This was a nice cozy mystery read. While I haven't read the other books in the series it was easy to catch up as the author does recap details from the prior books. The characters were all likeable and the two different mysteries going on were interesting. Overall a good read. Thank you to Storm Publishing and Netgalley for this ARC.
July 23, 2025
I really enjoyed this last one in the Secret Bookcase mystery series. A book festival sign we up. I like how everything came together in the end. I think there is going to be a spinoff series which I can't wait for.
July 17, 2025
A great conclusion to A Secret Bookcase Mystery series. In this final installment Annie's adventures solving murders while searching for the one killer that has evaded her for years we are taken out of our normal small town of Redwood Grove and to a booksellers convention. There is of course, murder & mayhem, but with the Novel Detectives on the case all will be solved during this cozy mystery. We are also treated to the resolution of the series long mystery. It looks as if a new series will begin with the Novel Detectives and I am excited to continue with Annie & gang for more cozy adventures.
October 30, 2025
A Body at the Book Fair is the sixth and final book in the Secret Bookcase Mystery series. Protagonist, Annie Murray has been trying to solve the murder of her best friend, twelve years ago while they were in college together. She thinks she has it figured out, so while heading to Santa Clara for their annual book fair, she’s also going to be close to Silicon Summit Partners, the powerful investment firm she just knows were resp0nsible for Scarlet’s death. There are two storylines going on here. While at the book fair, one of the presenters dies while demonstrating his new technical gadget. It is determined that someone tampered with it and that he was murdered, so Annie is on the case. She was in the hall when the accident occurred and took charge, securing the scene and keeping everyone in the hall until the police arrive. Knowing that she is not just a bookstore owner, but also a private investigator, the detective in charge asks for her help. Once that mystery is cleared up, she and her friends head over to Silicon Summit Partners to try and find hidden evidence to prove who killed Scarlett. Not just once this time, but twice, Annie finds herself in danger. Will she finally get answers about what happened to Scarlet?
I have been following this story from the first book and was happy that Annie finally gets closure regarding Scarlet's death. The mystery of who killed the tech presenter was interesting. There were several suspects, some who were really annoying, and lots of reasons for people to dislike him. Working closely with the police, she got people to talk to her and give her information that she shared. Annie and Fletcher, her co-worker at the store, have planned to open their own detective agency and I have to say the do work well together. I wasn't surprised to see who the actual culprit was, but I hadn't figured out the motive. The storyline dealing with Scarlet's death was suspenseful and a bit worrisome. Was Annie going to end up like Scarlet. With her BFF Pri, and boyfriend Liam along to help out, I knew things would end okay, but how it all played out, had me on the edge of my seat. Apparently this series has ended, but there will be a spinoff that I will be watching for. The audiobook was narrated by Ellen Quay and I enjoyed her performance. She has been the voice of this series and I recognized the characters easily. If you enjoy a good cozy mystery series, I recommend you pick this one up, but you need to start from the beginning.
I have been following this story from the first book and was happy that Annie finally gets closure regarding Scarlet's death. The mystery of who killed the tech presenter was interesting. There were several suspects, some who were really annoying, and lots of reasons for people to dislike him. Working closely with the police, she got people to talk to her and give her information that she shared. Annie and Fletcher, her co-worker at the store, have planned to open their own detective agency and I have to say the do work well together. I wasn't surprised to see who the actual culprit was, but I hadn't figured out the motive. The storyline dealing with Scarlet's death was suspenseful and a bit worrisome. Was Annie going to end up like Scarlet. With her BFF Pri, and boyfriend Liam along to help out, I knew things would end okay, but how it all played out, had me on the edge of my seat. Apparently this series has ended, but there will be a spinoff that I will be watching for. The audiobook was narrated by Ellen Quay and I enjoyed her performance. She has been the voice of this series and I recognized the characters easily. If you enjoy a good cozy mystery series, I recommend you pick this one up, but you need to start from the beginning.
June 20, 2025
A Body at the Book Fair by Ellie Alexander sees Annie and Fletcher attending a book fair and Liam and Pri joining them as part of the trip will be finally nailing Scarlet’s murderer. They have a plan. Then at the very first presentation the inventor of a virtual reality book reader is killed by his own device. Annie is a witness and hops to her feet to organize the situation before the police get there. As it happens the detective is a young woman, Detective Greene, who arrives and it appears they are kindred spirits and bond immediately. Now Annie has two deaths: Fox Andrews, the inventor, and Scarlet, the friend. The other people at the book fair are interesting and Annie and Fletcher soon mark several of them as suspects. They proceed from there. When the time comes for Annie to approach Logan Ashford for a job so she can get an employee badge so she can enter the building in her own time. That goes smoothly so she is able to go back to the book fair to both investigate and shop for the store.
Good characters all, it will be a good thing when Scarlet’s death is no longer hanging over Annie. She and Fletcher have gotten their investigators’ licenses and Novel Detectives is ready to roll. Liam is one character that is not fleshed out as much as I would like and while loyal, is underused. The mysteries, both of them, were well-thought-out and interesting. It’s so sad that in this world there are people so willing to take advantage of others. A lesson to be learned from fiction? Love this series. Great premise. Interesting people. Constant references to books. Couldn’t be better.
I was invited to read A Body at the Book Fair by Storm Publishing. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #StormPublishing #EllieAlexander #ABodyAtTheBookFair
Good characters all, it will be a good thing when Scarlet’s death is no longer hanging over Annie. She and Fletcher have gotten their investigators’ licenses and Novel Detectives is ready to roll. Liam is one character that is not fleshed out as much as I would like and while loyal, is underused. The mysteries, both of them, were well-thought-out and interesting. It’s so sad that in this world there are people so willing to take advantage of others. A lesson to be learned from fiction? Love this series. Great premise. Interesting people. Constant references to books. Couldn’t be better.
I was invited to read A Body at the Book Fair by Storm Publishing. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #StormPublishing #EllieAlexander #ABodyAtTheBookFair
May 10, 2025
Having recently taken over her beloved Secret Bookcase mystery bookstore with work colleague Fletcher, Annie Murray is about to begin a new and exciting phase of her life. She's also passed her private investigators exams and, again with Fletcher, will be opening the doors of the Novel Detectives just as soon as their certification arrives. Before that, she has one more thing to do, finally confront the killer of her best friend, Scarlet, whose murder ten years earlier changed the course of her life.
The annual book fair in Santa Clara is an ideal base for networking and collecting the final clues she needs to close Scarlet’s case because, if she's got it right, they will be located very close by the hotel where she'll be staying. When one of the book fair contributors dies in front of her, Annie knows she has to investigate that as well, especially as the lead detective and fellow booklover asks for her help! With only a weekend to tie everything up and identify two killers Annie needs the help of her close friends, Pri, Liam, and Fletcher, but even with their assistance will she be able to keep everything straight? Dealing with desperate, dangerous people is now part of her chosen career, but can she ensure her first official case isn't her last?
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Storm Publishing, but the opinions expressed are my own. I have loved all of Ellie Alexander's Secret Bookcase Mysteries, and this one is no exception. Both cases were satisfyingly full of twists, turns, and jeopardy, with the main protagonists all playing their part. The whole series is highly recommended.
The annual book fair in Santa Clara is an ideal base for networking and collecting the final clues she needs to close Scarlet’s case because, if she's got it right, they will be located very close by the hotel where she'll be staying. When one of the book fair contributors dies in front of her, Annie knows she has to investigate that as well, especially as the lead detective and fellow booklover asks for her help! With only a weekend to tie everything up and identify two killers Annie needs the help of her close friends, Pri, Liam, and Fletcher, but even with their assistance will she be able to keep everything straight? Dealing with desperate, dangerous people is now part of her chosen career, but can she ensure her first official case isn't her last?
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Storm Publishing, but the opinions expressed are my own. I have loved all of Ellie Alexander's Secret Bookcase Mysteries, and this one is no exception. Both cases were satisfyingly full of twists, turns, and jeopardy, with the main protagonists all playing their part. The whole series is highly recommended.
August 30, 2025
The Body at the Book Fair is the sixth installment of the Secret Bookcase Mystery series by Ellie Alexander. Annie has happily settled into her life in Redwood Grove. She and her business partner, Fletcher, are purchasing the bookstore and opening their own private detective business. It sounds like an odd combination, but Annie studied police procedure in college and Fletcher is an avid Sherlock Holmes fan. Annie’s best friend and college roommate, Scarlet, was murdered shortly before their college graduation. Annie is determined to solve the mystery. Annie and Fletcher are attending a book fair in Santa Clara and, as usual when they are around, a murder takes place. Many of the attendees are suspects. The local police ask Annie to help with the case. Annie also has plans to solve Scarlet’s murder while she is in Santa Clara. You don’t need to have read the other books to enjoy this one. I do feel the characters weren’t as fleshed out as in earlier books. That is probably because it takes place away from Redwood Grove. But all in all, a fun cozy mystery read.
June 6, 2025
Good news and bad news. First the bad news, this is the final book in the secret bookcase series. However, and the good news, we aren't losing the characters as a new series will start with Fletcher and Annie opening their new venture. And, Scarlet's murder, the story that has arced across all five books, has resolved. At the same time, most of our favorite characters attended a fabulous book fair with intriguing merch and murder of a presenter. A fascinating discussion of the economics of publishing highlights the story. Thanks to netgalley and Storm Publishing for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 14, 2025
While this is book 6 and the conclusion to The Secret Bookcase series, it is not the end for this cast of favorite characters.
This book merely provides yet another crime to solve and a conclusion to Annie's friend, Scarlett's murder.
I would definitely advise reading these 6 books in order to truly follow along.
Keep an eye out in 2026 for the first book in a new series called Novel Detectives where you will see your favorite characters beginning a new chapter in their lives by starting a detective agency while continuing to run the bookshop.
Thank you to Netgalley and Storm Publishing. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book merely provides yet another crime to solve and a conclusion to Annie's friend, Scarlett's murder.
I would definitely advise reading these 6 books in order to truly follow along.
Keep an eye out in 2026 for the first book in a new series called Novel Detectives where you will see your favorite characters beginning a new chapter in their lives by starting a detective agency while continuing to run the bookshop.
Thank you to Netgalley and Storm Publishing. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 13, 2025
An okay ending to the series. Honestly, if I didn't have so much personal nostalgia and love for this series, this final book would be kind of a disappointment.
The final mystery was kind of rushed in order to wrap up the over-arching mystery's plot, but the over-arching mystery felt rushed as well. In both mysteries, the perpetrators acted really oddly and basically gave themselves up in unbelievable ways.
This series has never been super complex or a master-class in writing, but I definitely did notice the quality dip for me personally on this entry. It doesn't take away my enjoyment of this series overall, and maybe one day there will be more books set in this world for me to listen to as I clean my apartment!
The final mystery was kind of rushed in order to wrap up the over-arching mystery's plot, but the over-arching mystery felt rushed as well. In both mysteries, the perpetrators acted really oddly and basically gave themselves up in unbelievable ways.
This series has never been super complex or a master-class in writing, but I definitely did notice the quality dip for me personally on this entry. It doesn't take away my enjoyment of this series overall, and maybe one day there will be more books set in this world for me to listen to as I clean my apartment!
May 26, 2025
Annie and Fletcher are attending a book conference down south. They also have plans to find evidence for Scarlet's killer. When Annie is attending one of the panels, a tech guy is killed on stage. Annie & Fletcher help the police investigate.
I really love this series and love following clues with Annie. I love that she has a criminology degree and now is starting a private investigation business. I can't wait to read the new series.
I really love this series and love following clues with Annie. I love that she has a criminology degree and now is starting a private investigation business. I can't wait to read the new series.
June 6, 2025
3.5
This is the end of the series and a spinoff is planned. Best for those who have read the other books. Big leaps and a rushed ending to this cozy series. Yes, parts were clunky. But the characters are charming, so I forgave a lot.
I received an arc from NetGalley
This is the end of the series and a spinoff is planned. Best for those who have read the other books. Big leaps and a rushed ending to this cozy series. Yes, parts were clunky. But the characters are charming, so I forgave a lot.
I received an arc from NetGalley
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