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Scones and Secrets
The leaves are turning, the scones are baking, and Ginny Malone is ready for a cozy autumn in Moonstone Bay—until Halloween brings more tricks than treats…
Fall has settled over Moonstone Bakery, and while Ginny's employee Maya is busy perfecting pumpkin spice lattes behind the counter, she's even more excited about participating in Moonstone Bay's newly revived historical ghost tours. But when the historian in charge of the tours turns up dead under mysterious circumstances, what should be a season of spooky fun turns genuinely terrifying.
With Maya as the prime suspect—thanks to her complicated history with the victim—and the whole town buzzing with gossip, Ginny and Vince must navigate old secrets, new suspects, and enough red herrings to fill a haunted mansion. Between managing the bakery's autumn rush, keeping Shortcake out of the Halloween decorations, and clearing Maya's name, they'll need all their investigative skills to separate historical fact from deadly fiction.
Scone by scone and secret by secret, Ginny and her friends must solve the case before Halloween night—or Maya's ghost tour might become all too real.
Scones and Secrets serves up the perfect blend of cozy mystery loyal friendships, autumn charm, small-town intrigue, and a puzzle that will keep you guessing until the final page.
Grab your copy of Scones and Secrets today and sink your teeth into the most spine-tingling Moonstone Bay mystery yet!
Fall has settled over Moonstone Bakery, and while Ginny's employee Maya is busy perfecting pumpkin spice lattes behind the counter, she's even more excited about participating in Moonstone Bay's newly revived historical ghost tours. But when the historian in charge of the tours turns up dead under mysterious circumstances, what should be a season of spooky fun turns genuinely terrifying.
With Maya as the prime suspect—thanks to her complicated history with the victim—and the whole town buzzing with gossip, Ginny and Vince must navigate old secrets, new suspects, and enough red herrings to fill a haunted mansion. Between managing the bakery's autumn rush, keeping Shortcake out of the Halloween decorations, and clearing Maya's name, they'll need all their investigative skills to separate historical fact from deadly fiction.
Scone by scone and secret by secret, Ginny and her friends must solve the case before Halloween night—or Maya's ghost tour might become all too real.
Scones and Secrets serves up the perfect blend of cozy mystery loyal friendships, autumn charm, small-town intrigue, and a puzzle that will keep you guessing until the final page.
Grab your copy of Scones and Secrets today and sink your teeth into the most spine-tingling Moonstone Bay mystery yet!
174 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 30, 2025
42 people are currently reading
10 people want to read
About the author
Nova Walsh
23 books49 followersAuthor Nova Walsh writes culinary cozy mysteries full of humor, shenanigans, and friendships that last a lifetime. She mixes in a healthy dose of amateur sleuthing, some slow-burn romance, and a pinch of comedy in every book she writes.
Nova is a former chef/caterer who still loves to cook but loves to write even more. She’s an enthusiastic, if not totally successful gardener who loves travel, wine, and hanging out with friends.
Nova grew up in the southwest, and now lives in Galveston, Texas, with her husband, son, and dogs. When she isn’t writing, she’s often cooking, spending time with family, or reading a good book with a pup by her side.
Nova is a former chef/caterer who still loves to cook but loves to write even more. She’s an enthusiastic, if not totally successful gardener who loves travel, wine, and hanging out with friends.
Nova grew up in the southwest, and now lives in Galveston, Texas, with her husband, son, and dogs. When she isn’t writing, she’s often cooking, spending time with family, or reading a good book with a pup by her side.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
October 9, 2025
A cozy slice of mystery (with a side of pumpkin scones!)
Scones and Secrets is the perfect weekend escape — a fast, fun, and feel-good cozy mystery that will make you wish Moonstone Bay were real. Between the charming small-town vibe, the smell of cinnamon drifting from the Moonstone Bakery, and a cast of lovable locals (human and animal alike — Shortcake the cat totally steals the show), I was completely hooked from the first chapter.
Ginny, our baker-turned-sleuth, finds herself knee-deep in another mystery when her friend Maya’s ex-boyfriend is found dead during a ghost tour. What follows is a blend of humor, suspense, friendship, and delicious-sounding baked goods that make you want to put the kettle on and stay up “just one more chapter.”
Nova Walsh balances the cozy warmth of everyday life — kitchen renovations, pets, romance, and community — with just enough intrigue to keep the pages turning. The pacing is quick, the writing is light and witty, and the atmosphere is pure comfort.
If you like your mysteries with a dash of romance, loyal friends, and a sprinkle of sugar, you’ll devour this one in a single sitting. Can’t wait to see what happens next in Moonstone Bay!
Scones and Secrets is the perfect weekend escape — a fast, fun, and feel-good cozy mystery that will make you wish Moonstone Bay were real. Between the charming small-town vibe, the smell of cinnamon drifting from the Moonstone Bakery, and a cast of lovable locals (human and animal alike — Shortcake the cat totally steals the show), I was completely hooked from the first chapter.
Ginny, our baker-turned-sleuth, finds herself knee-deep in another mystery when her friend Maya’s ex-boyfriend is found dead during a ghost tour. What follows is a blend of humor, suspense, friendship, and delicious-sounding baked goods that make you want to put the kettle on and stay up “just one more chapter.”
Nova Walsh balances the cozy warmth of everyday life — kitchen renovations, pets, romance, and community — with just enough intrigue to keep the pages turning. The pacing is quick, the writing is light and witty, and the atmosphere is pure comfort.
If you like your mysteries with a dash of romance, loyal friends, and a sprinkle of sugar, you’ll devour this one in a single sitting. Can’t wait to see what happens next in Moonstone Bay!
November 20, 2025
With new, delicious pumpkin treats on the menu and the bake shop decorated for the holiday, Ginny Malone is fully embracing her first Halloween in Moonstone Bay. Ginny’s best friend and favorite contractor has assured her that her kitchen will be fully functional in time for her Halloween party. Her relationship with Vince is making steady progress, and business is booming.
Ginny’s peace of mind is shattered when someone murders the director of the town’s historical society. Ginny’s assistant Maya dated the man, but left him when she found out he was married. To the investigating officer, that’s a prime motive for murder. Ginny, Vince and the gang know Maya wouldn’t hurt a fly and set out to find the killer.
Like the other books in the series, Scones is a fun story with relatable, likeable characters, a sweet romance and a puzzling mystery with enough twists and turns to keep you guessing. I loved this book. I especially like the romance between Vince and Ginny. They’re perfectly imperfect and make a great couple. The recipes are a nice addition to the book too.
I received an advance review copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving this 5-star review.
Ginny’s peace of mind is shattered when someone murders the director of the town’s historical society. Ginny’s assistant Maya dated the man, but left him when she found out he was married. To the investigating officer, that’s a prime motive for murder. Ginny, Vince and the gang know Maya wouldn’t hurt a fly and set out to find the killer.
Like the other books in the series, Scones is a fun story with relatable, likeable characters, a sweet romance and a puzzling mystery with enough twists and turns to keep you guessing. I loved this book. I especially like the romance between Vince and Ginny. They’re perfectly imperfect and make a great couple. The recipes are a nice addition to the book too.
I received an advance review copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving this 5-star review.
October 20, 2025
What a fun read! Thanks to BookSirens, I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
While I started with #5 in this series (simply because it was Halloween themed and October!), the author does a great job of not making the storylines HAVE to be read in chronological order (though I will be going back to the start!). The characters were well developed, the mystery at hand was engrossing enough to keep me hooked and I really liked how it all played out ~ not too simple (as some "cozy" mysteries can be) but just an overall enjoyable read all the way around!
Ginny was a relatable lead, dealing with "life" but staying loyal to her commitments and her friends, which made her likeable and her background as a lawyer helped with the credibility of her sleuthing, as did her boyfriend Vince, the PI. I look forward to going back to the beginning of the Moonstone Bay Bakery series as well as reading other series by Nova Walsh ~ 4.5 stars, definitely recommend!
While I started with #5 in this series (simply because it was Halloween themed and October!), the author does a great job of not making the storylines HAVE to be read in chronological order (though I will be going back to the start!). The characters were well developed, the mystery at hand was engrossing enough to keep me hooked and I really liked how it all played out ~ not too simple (as some "cozy" mysteries can be) but just an overall enjoyable read all the way around!
Ginny was a relatable lead, dealing with "life" but staying loyal to her commitments and her friends, which made her likeable and her background as a lawyer helped with the credibility of her sleuthing, as did her boyfriend Vince, the PI. I look forward to going back to the beginning of the Moonstone Bay Bakery series as well as reading other series by Nova Walsh ~ 4.5 stars, definitely recommend!
October 26, 2025
Thoughts:
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I read this book as a standalone as an introduction to Walsh’s work and I was not disappointed. The book is a great cozy mystery set in a small town and has both mystery and love throughout in different forms. I loved Shortcake and the unlikely friendship formed with Princess and the strong bonds between the different friends in the story. I also enjoyed the bits of comic relief throughout to diffuse the tension a little such as the bar scene or bits between Shortcake and Princess. The mystery was well developed and it took me quite a while to be able to suss it out, and even then I got the evidence wrong, which I love to do and the details about the Halloween party at the end was a great touch.
Favourite Quote:
“The murder had shattered the peaceful illusion of small-town safety, but it had also reminded me that I had people I cared about and who cared about me in return Whatever came next, we'd face it together”
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I read this book as a standalone as an introduction to Walsh’s work and I was not disappointed. The book is a great cozy mystery set in a small town and has both mystery and love throughout in different forms. I loved Shortcake and the unlikely friendship formed with Princess and the strong bonds between the different friends in the story. I also enjoyed the bits of comic relief throughout to diffuse the tension a little such as the bar scene or bits between Shortcake and Princess. The mystery was well developed and it took me quite a while to be able to suss it out, and even then I got the evidence wrong, which I love to do and the details about the Halloween party at the end was a great touch.
Favourite Quote:
“The murder had shattered the peaceful illusion of small-town safety, but it had also reminded me that I had people I cared about and who cared about me in return Whatever came next, we'd face it together”
October 14, 2025
Scones and Secrets is a charming entry in the cozy mystery genre—an easy, enjoyable escape perfect for a lazy afternoon.
The story unfolds at a comfortable pace, giving readers time to sink into its quaint setting and colorful cast of characters. The pacing is steady throughout, and the plot flows smoothly from one clue to the next without unnecessary detours.
While it may not stand out as a particularly memorable or groundbreaking mystery, its appeal lies in its simplicity. The author captures the comforting tone that cozy mystery fans love: a dash of intrigue, a sprinkle of small-town charm, and, of course, the promise of tea and baked goods along the way.
Scones and Secrets is the kind of book best enjoyed with a warm blanket and a cup of Earl Grey—a delightful companion for readers seeking a light and neatly woven mystery that doesn’t demand too much but delivers just enough.
The story unfolds at a comfortable pace, giving readers time to sink into its quaint setting and colorful cast of characters. The pacing is steady throughout, and the plot flows smoothly from one clue to the next without unnecessary detours.
While it may not stand out as a particularly memorable or groundbreaking mystery, its appeal lies in its simplicity. The author captures the comforting tone that cozy mystery fans love: a dash of intrigue, a sprinkle of small-town charm, and, of course, the promise of tea and baked goods along the way.
Scones and Secrets is the kind of book best enjoyed with a warm blanket and a cup of Earl Grey—a delightful companion for readers seeking a light and neatly woven mystery that doesn’t demand too much but delivers just enough.
October 6, 2025
I am an ARC reader for Book Sirens and this is my honest opinion. I've been following the adventures of Ginny, her bakery in Moonstone Bay and Vince, the landlord of the bakery building since book one, when Ginny fled her high flying life as a lawyer after her divorce and moved into the dilapidated bungalow she'd inherited. Vince is a P I, and the two of them make a great investigative team. This time, it's Maya, Ginny's assistant in the bakery who is accused of murder. Ginny and Vince get to work straight away, after the obstinate town sheriff doesn't want to dig deeper. These books, although murder mysteries, are light and sweet and a refreshing change now and then from heavier, faster paced books
November 14, 2025
3.5*
This was my first Nova Walsh and my first time reading the Moonstone Bakery series. I picked it up looking for a cute Halloween/Fall read, and it didn’t disappoint. I loved that I didn’t need to read the earlier books to follow the story or understand the characters—though I’m sure I’d enjoy them even more if I did. The small-town setting is exactly the kind of cozy I love, and the characters were charming enough that I’m already curious to go back and start from book one. Bonus points for the recipes at the end—they make me want to bake everything!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thanks BookSirens and Nova Walsh for this opportunity.
This was my first Nova Walsh and my first time reading the Moonstone Bakery series. I picked it up looking for a cute Halloween/Fall read, and it didn’t disappoint. I loved that I didn’t need to read the earlier books to follow the story or understand the characters—though I’m sure I’d enjoy them even more if I did. The small-town setting is exactly the kind of cozy I love, and the characters were charming enough that I’m already curious to go back and start from book one. Bonus points for the recipes at the end—they make me want to bake everything!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thanks BookSirens and Nova Walsh for this opportunity.
October 3, 2025
Scones and Secrets is Book 5 in the Moon stone Bakery by Nova Walsh. This book is welcoming Fall with Halloween fun and murder all mixed together. Ginny a one time attorney and amazing baker has jumped into the murder at the haunted tour. Maya's ex- boyfriend has died and the police are zeroing in on Maya as the killer. Ginnty's boyfriend, Vince, is A PI and he partners with Ginny to set Maya free. The theater is supposed to be haunted, but, it does hold secrets. Are those secrets what ked someone to kill? Put on your sleuthing cap and discover the killer before Ginny. Scones and Secrets is a wonderful Halloween read. I received an arc for free and am leaving my review voluntarily.
October 8, 2025
It is Halloween in Moonstone Bay in book 5 of this sweet series.
Ginny has to help Maya clear her name after she is connected to a murder.
This was my second book in the series and I was okay as a reader and did not find that any ongoing plot issues were too confusing or too difficult to figure out which I appreciated. The core characters remain which makes for easy transitions.
These are definitely cozy by nature as there is little gore, sex, or violence so a nice light read. Like the recipes at the end as reading about all the bakery items made me want to try them!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Ginny has to help Maya clear her name after she is connected to a murder.
This was my second book in the series and I was okay as a reader and did not find that any ongoing plot issues were too confusing or too difficult to figure out which I appreciated. The core characters remain which makes for easy transitions.
These are definitely cozy by nature as there is little gore, sex, or violence so a nice light read. Like the recipes at the end as reading about all the bakery items made me want to try them!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 17, 2025
This is a terrific cozy mystery with mouth-watering food to also drool over. The murder of the historical director during an historical tour causes Maya, one of Ginny's staff, to be the initial prime suspect. Ginny and Vinny set out to prove otherwise.
The main characters here are all lovely so easy to root for and there's several funny moments in between the seriousness of the investigation. The book itself is not too long so it's perfect for a relaxing read. I love how the author includes recipes at the end for the fabulous food mentioned in the book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The main characters here are all lovely so easy to root for and there's several funny moments in between the seriousness of the investigation. The book itself is not too long so it's perfect for a relaxing read. I love how the author includes recipes at the end for the fabulous food mentioned in the book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 10, 2025
3.5 stars. I love Nova Walsh’s Sugar Creek series, so I was excited to jump into this series. Unfortunately, I didn’t feel as connected to the characters, but I realize that could stem from jumping in at book 5. I also felt like I was missing some pieces, like with the letters.
The mystery itself was well written. I also appreciate that it wasn’t spooky or gory, even with the fall theme.
If you’re looking for a clean mystery with culinary elements, this fits the bill. It can be read as a standalone, but I would’ve preferred to start at book one.
The mystery itself was well written. I also appreciate that it wasn’t spooky or gory, even with the fall theme.
If you’re looking for a clean mystery with culinary elements, this fits the bill. It can be read as a standalone, but I would’ve preferred to start at book one.
December 25, 2025
I really enjoyed reading Scones and Secrets. I loved how Moonstone Bay was a tight community that sticks up for the people that they care about, even if the odds seems to be against them.
I really enjoyed Ginny and Vince's relationship. It felt like these were all characters that would easily become close friends. They all seem kind and open. I was also intrigued by the fact that the mystery was connected to a historical mystery from so long in past.
I am providing my honest and voluntary review for an advance review copy for free.
I really enjoyed Ginny and Vince's relationship. It felt like these were all characters that would easily become close friends. They all seem kind and open. I was also intrigued by the fact that the mystery was connected to a historical mystery from so long in past.
I am providing my honest and voluntary review for an advance review copy for free.
October 2, 2025
Ginny is loyal and a sleuth by nature. So when Maya is a suspect in her ex's murder, Ginny jumps in with both feet and armed with her feisty nature and tenacity sets about to prove Maya is being set up. But why and by whom??? So gobsmacked at the reveal of the second murder (from the past).
Get your sleuth on in this suspenseful, entertaining gem of a read. I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest review.
Get your sleuth on in this suspenseful, entertaining gem of a read. I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest review.
October 23, 2025
Ένα πολύ ωραίο φθινοπωρινό μυστήριο μικρής πόλης με αξιαγάπητους χαρακτήρες και με μια ανατροπή που δεν την περίμενα . Όλα ξεκινάνε όταν η Μαγια κατηγορείται για τον φόνο του πρώην της και οι φίλοι της που έχουν το αρτοποιείο προσπαθούν να βοηθήσουν στην αθωότητα της. Ωστόσο μια μικρή πόλη ξέρει να κρατά καλά τα μυστικά της ακόμη και αν φαινομενικά είναι ήσυχη . Ένα πολύ έξυπνο βιβλίο χωρίς δράματα και αίματα . Είχα αυτό το arc και αφηνω πρόθυμα την κριτική μου
October 21, 2025
Maya becoming the prime suspect in a murder case has Ginny stepping up to go after the truth. There is a lot to this mystery than meets the eye. An Intriguing read. I received this ARC copy via Booksirans and recommend this book to other readers .
November 3, 2025
Who killed the historian? A man who was delving into the history of the local historic theater is found murdered and his girlfriend is a suspect. But who really killed him?
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 5, 2025
A fine culinary mystery that probably tastes as good as it feels! Ginny is one cookie slueth in this continuation of the Moonstone Bakery series.
Thanks to BookSirens and the author for a good ride and advanced reader's copy.
Thanks to BookSirens and the author for a good ride and advanced reader's copy.
December 9, 2025
What a great little Halloween novella. I liked how they worked together to prove that Maya was innocent. The recipes at the end sound amazing. I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I look forward to reading more books by Nova Walsh.
October 7, 2025
Secrets and more, much more
A fun read watching the ends and outs of relationships and love. Of secrets and knowledge. And especially solutions and happy endings
A fun read watching the ends and outs of relationships and love. Of secrets and knowledge. And especially solutions and happy endings
November 5, 2025
I enjoyed the mystery and the characters and of course the descriptions of the baking.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews