What do you think?
Rate this book
Ruby True #2
Elves' Bells
When an elf falls to his death from Eastwind’s clock tower, a cryptic message on him points to Fifth Wind witch Ruby True as the main suspect.
With the help of Sheriff Bloom’s judgment and Clifford’s nose, will they be able to sniff out the real culprit… before another Eastwinder dies?
With the help of Sheriff Bloom’s judgment and Clifford’s nose, will they be able to sniff out the real culprit… before another Eastwinder dies?
- GenresParanormalMystery
186 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 12, 2019
171 people are currently reading
53 people want to read
About the author
Nova Nelson
70 books274 followersNova Nelson grew up on a steady diet of Agatha Christie novels. She loves the mind candy of cozy mysteries and has been weaving paranormal tales since she first learned handwriting. Those two loves meet in her Eastwind Witches series, and it's about time, if she does say so herself.
When she's not busy writing, she enjoys long walks with her strong-willed dogs and eating breakfast for dinner.
Be sure to follow her on Goodreads!
Join the Cozy Coven for Eastwind updates, contests, and more! Go to: www.cozycoven.com
When she's not busy writing, she enjoys long walks with her strong-willed dogs and eating breakfast for dinner.
Be sure to follow her on Goodreads!
Join the Cozy Coven for Eastwind updates, contests, and more! Go to: www.cozycoven.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
May 10, 2022
enjoying this series. Not as predictable as the first book.
November 3, 2019
“The ego is a powerful force. And a destructive one.”-and- “…the play’s the thing.”
Ruby and Gabby are at it again in the second of the series that predates Nora’s arrival in Eastwind. The two friends work and support each other as they solve what seems like the unsolvable cases in Eastwind. This one has elves in a precarious situation and it’s up to the two of them to solve a case that seems to be tied to a traveling group of actors. With each performance someone’s life is put in danger as the town clock strikes 12. Can our dynamic duo save the next victim? Will Clifford get his meat pie? And, what has romance got to do with it?
Nova Nelson has penned another winner in this series that gives us backstory for both Ruby True and Sheriff Gabby Bloom, with sprinklings of backstory for supporting characters in their own younger days all wrapped up in cosy mystery format. Another winner. Highly Recommended 5/5
[disclaimer: I received this book from the author and voluntarily reviewed it]
Ruby and Gabby are at it again in the second of the series that predates Nora’s arrival in Eastwind. The two friends work and support each other as they solve what seems like the unsolvable cases in Eastwind. This one has elves in a precarious situation and it’s up to the two of them to solve a case that seems to be tied to a traveling group of actors. With each performance someone’s life is put in danger as the town clock strikes 12. Can our dynamic duo save the next victim? Will Clifford get his meat pie? And, what has romance got to do with it?
Nova Nelson has penned another winner in this series that gives us backstory for both Ruby True and Sheriff Gabby Bloom, with sprinklings of backstory for supporting characters in their own younger days all wrapped up in cosy mystery format. Another winner. Highly Recommended 5/5
[disclaimer: I received this book from the author and voluntarily reviewed it]
November 8, 2019
Suicide? Or murder?
Regaling the reader with another tale of two of Eastwind’s most interesting characters, the second in the True & Bloom series shows us more of what makes both the angel-sheriff and the Fifth Wind witch such good friends. There’s no pretense between the pair and that makes for pretty entertaining dialogue at times.
In this book, we get to see Ruby True, witch, interacting with an old love and a potential new one. I felt sad that the first didn’t work out and anxious that Ruby would somehow sabotage the second.
But that’s all simply background for a very well-told tale involving elves and faeries, an invisible elf enclave (somewhere in Eastwind), and a band of roving actors.
The lead up to and the final resolution of the story’s mystery has some great scenes and surprises. And a satisfying ending.
I totally enjoyed Elves’ Bells and recommend it to readers who like colorful characters and a bit of magic mixed in with their mysteries.
I received an advance copy of this book and am pleased to leave a review.
Regaling the reader with another tale of two of Eastwind’s most interesting characters, the second in the True & Bloom series shows us more of what makes both the angel-sheriff and the Fifth Wind witch such good friends. There’s no pretense between the pair and that makes for pretty entertaining dialogue at times.
In this book, we get to see Ruby True, witch, interacting with an old love and a potential new one. I felt sad that the first didn’t work out and anxious that Ruby would somehow sabotage the second.
But that’s all simply background for a very well-told tale involving elves and faeries, an invisible elf enclave (somewhere in Eastwind), and a band of roving actors.
The lead up to and the final resolution of the story’s mystery has some great scenes and surprises. And a satisfying ending.
I totally enjoyed Elves’ Bells and recommend it to readers who like colorful characters and a bit of magic mixed in with their mysteries.
I received an advance copy of this book and am pleased to leave a review.
April 10, 2022
Pushed to the edge..
Ruby's trying to avoid the latest excitement in Eastwind as a stage has been placed in the Emporium and plays of varying degrees of quality are being performed for the shoppers.
But she's caught out by one and then sees a body which has fallen from the clock tower.. questions are raised when the body appears to reference her having "5th" written on its chest with berry juice..
From witness to suspect but can she help Sheriff Gabby Bloom solve the mystery.. the victim is an elf who lives in an invisible street and keeps away from the town. When the next performance occurs there's another fall but Gabby manages to swoop down in time.. but will this elf remember what took her to the top of the tower?
Still not as fluid as the following series, which is a shame.. would have been great to meet Ruby earlier in her Eastwind life instead of so far along it.
Ruby's trying to avoid the latest excitement in Eastwind as a stage has been placed in the Emporium and plays of varying degrees of quality are being performed for the shoppers.
But she's caught out by one and then sees a body which has fallen from the clock tower.. questions are raised when the body appears to reference her having "5th" written on its chest with berry juice..
From witness to suspect but can she help Sheriff Gabby Bloom solve the mystery.. the victim is an elf who lives in an invisible street and keeps away from the town. When the next performance occurs there's another fall but Gabby manages to swoop down in time.. but will this elf remember what took her to the top of the tower?
Still not as fluid as the following series, which is a shame.. would have been great to meet Ruby earlier in her Eastwind life instead of so far along it.
November 21, 2020
The second installment for our heroine duo solving a murder.
Our very own Ruby True is suspected of murder and it's up to both her and Bloom to find the real suspect before someone else dies.
This is very funny and heartwarming. I love all of Nova Nelson's books.
Buy this and you'll enjoy every minute of reading it. Fabulous.
Our very own Ruby True is suspected of murder and it's up to both her and Bloom to find the real suspect before someone else dies.
This is very funny and heartwarming. I love all of Nova Nelson's books.
Buy this and you'll enjoy every minute of reading it. Fabulous.
January 17, 2022
Good read
Book 2 has loads of faeries, some elves, Gabby, the angel sheriff, and, of course, Ruby, the Fifth Wind witch, and her familiar, Clifford. This mystery surrounds a body that falls out of the town's clock tower during a travelling actors' play. Nova Nelson really knows how to keep your attention. Highly recommend.
Book 2 has loads of faeries, some elves, Gabby, the angel sheriff, and, of course, Ruby, the Fifth Wind witch, and her familiar, Clifford. This mystery surrounds a body that falls out of the town's clock tower during a travelling actors' play. Nova Nelson really knows how to keep your attention. Highly recommend.
August 13, 2020
Fantasy
An angel and a witch, paired up as crime solving partners, intriguing. Cute interesting mysteries with supernatural characters. Only one thread left dangling for me, was the original bell returned and what about the previously possessed bell? What happened to it?
An angel and a witch, paired up as crime solving partners, intriguing. Cute interesting mysteries with supernatural characters. Only one thread left dangling for me, was the original bell returned and what about the previously possessed bell? What happened to it?
October 15, 2021
Interesting Realm.
I like the characters and stories, but the are many typos and frankly they distract from the enjoyment of the storyline. I will keep reading and reporting the errors but the author should use better editing.
I like the characters and stories, but the are many typos and frankly they distract from the enjoyment of the storyline. I will keep reading and reporting the errors but the author should use better editing.
May 29, 2022
A blunder in this one made me laugh. Ruby is in her late forties (human years) and she says she's been alive for over forty decades. She's not immortal or anything that would live to over 400 years old. She's only known about magic for about 20 years. Oops.
July 17, 2023
Good Reading
But, Ruby True is nowhere near Nora Ashcroft’s stories! These are definitely a must read for backstory only! Wish I could watch through Nora’s eyes, then these might be great.
But, Ruby True is nowhere near Nora Ashcroft’s stories! These are definitely a must read for backstory only! Wish I could watch through Nora’s eyes, then these might be great.
May 4, 2021
Ths story grabs you
Each book pulls you more into the story. The first was slightly hard to get into, the second much easier. But I'm hooked, I can hardly wait for the next book.
Each book pulls you more into the story. The first was slightly hard to get into, the second much easier. But I'm hooked, I can hardly wait for the next book.
October 6, 2021
Great fun and fantasy
Love Ruby True character. Snarky and hard to make friends, but helpful when needed. Love seeing into her past loves.
Love Ruby True character. Snarky and hard to make friends, but helpful when needed. Love seeing into her past loves.
March 15, 2022
Fun, light read for fans of fantasy/paranormal and cozy mysteries. Definitely a nice change from heavier fare.
June 3, 2022
Spectacular read! I'm loving these stories focusing on Ruby and Gabby. They've all sucked me in from the very beginning and did not let me go.
August 17, 2022
I'm really liking this series! The friendship between Ruby and Gabby, the relationship between Ruby and Clifford, the possible romance between Ruby and Zax ... and the quirky supporting characters.
February 4, 2023
Heavens No
This just missed the mark. Gave rambling a whole new meaning. I would think twice about reading the 3rd one now. No thanks.
This just missed the mark. Gave rambling a whole new meaning. I would think twice about reading the 3rd one now. No thanks.
May 22, 2023
Good
Oooh I do like this series. Ill have to read more of this authors work. Definitely reading the next in this series.
Oooh I do like this series. Ill have to read more of this authors work. Definitely reading the next in this series.
October 16, 2023
Good Read
Ruby, the East Wind witch investigates what the real mystery is in why elves are jumping off the bell tower during a play in the town square.
Ruby, the East Wind witch investigates what the real mystery is in why elves are jumping off the bell tower during a play in the town square.
February 11, 2020
Enjoyed
Another winner and I am really excited about this series and I am really looking forward to your next book.
Another winner and I am really excited about this series and I am really looking forward to your next book.
October 28, 2019
Wow! Elves are coming off the top of the clock tower. Same time a finally somewhat decent play is being presented. Are they committing suicide? Is it murder and if so how?
Ruby just wants her quiet life. True keeps asking for help with the case. Especially since Ted was able to tell them something and, Ruby is not being contacted by the deceased's ghost. What gives.
I never saw the ending coming. Nice job!!!
I love learning about True, Bloom , Ted, even Stu in his early years. Gives new depth to characters from Eastwind.
Hi Clifford!!! You need to teach Grim some of your tricks. I am impressed. Would not know that about you if not for this 'prequel' series. I love you too.
If you haven't read the Eastwind Witches series yet. I kind of envy you. You get to start with how the friendship with True and Bloom started, then get to go read later in the timeline of that world when Nora comes and understand them better.
If you are like me and start at that series, then hopefully you like learning and getting a new understanding of Ruby and her life. I know I am. I see things in a different light now.
This book can be read by itself. I missed book one in this True and Bloom series. I did not have any problem following the story. You are going to love it like I do.
This is my honest and freely given review. I did receive an ARC book.
Ruby just wants her quiet life. True keeps asking for help with the case. Especially since Ted was able to tell them something and, Ruby is not being contacted by the deceased's ghost. What gives.
I never saw the ending coming. Nice job!!!
I love learning about True, Bloom , Ted, even Stu in his early years. Gives new depth to characters from Eastwind.
Hi Clifford!!! You need to teach Grim some of your tricks. I am impressed. Would not know that about you if not for this 'prequel' series. I love you too.
If you haven't read the Eastwind Witches series yet. I kind of envy you. You get to start with how the friendship with True and Bloom started, then get to go read later in the timeline of that world when Nora comes and understand them better.
If you are like me and start at that series, then hopefully you like learning and getting a new understanding of Ruby and her life. I know I am. I see things in a different light now.
This book can be read by itself. I missed book one in this True and Bloom series. I did not have any problem following the story. You are going to love it like I do.
This is my honest and freely given review. I did receive an ARC book.
November 13, 2019
A spin-off of the East Wind Witches series we see Ruby and Gabby Bloom the angel sheriff of the town and their relationship. In this book, we see a traveling play troupe set up to perform in from of the bell tower . Just as the clock strikes 12, an elf falls to his death from the tower. Was it suicide or was he pushed? When the next day at 12 another elf falls we now have an investigation. Bloom asks Ruby who has amazing insight to help her with the case. We are introduced to an invisible part of the city and some very strange characters as well as a little romance with Ruby. Will the final scene be the death of Ruby or more elves? There is a lot of humor along with a very twisting ending that I didn't see coming! I love this series so far because the characters of Ruby True and Sheriff Gabby Bloom have a wonderful camaraderie that can be infectious. I can't wait to see what else is in store in this terrific spin off before Nora comes to stay with Ruby. The East Wind Witches Series is a fantastic series as well in which True and Bloom is a spinoff another fantastic series! I received and ARC from the author but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.
November 12, 2019
All the world's a stage, and the witches and fairies merely... suspects.
When an elf falls to his death from Eastwind’s clock tower during a theater performance, a cryptic message on him points to Fifth Wind witch Ruby True as the main suspect.
With the help of Sheriff Bloom’s judgment and Clifford’s unbeatable nose, will they be able to sniff out the real culprit… before another Eastwinder dies?
* * * * *
Elves Bells is a paranormal cozy mystery in the True & Bloom series that takes place 30 years before the Eastwind Witches Cozy Mysteries.
If you like strong female friendships, gossipy small towns, and lighthearted humor, you will love Nova Nelson's delightful tale!
This was a very funny read.
Wonderful plot and story line that kept me engaged from the very start.
Well written and fleshed out characters and loved the banter that was happening in this.
Great world building has gone in with this as well.
Really funny humour running throughout.
Recommend reading!!!
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
When an elf falls to his death from Eastwind’s clock tower during a theater performance, a cryptic message on him points to Fifth Wind witch Ruby True as the main suspect.
With the help of Sheriff Bloom’s judgment and Clifford’s unbeatable nose, will they be able to sniff out the real culprit… before another Eastwinder dies?
* * * * *
Elves Bells is a paranormal cozy mystery in the True & Bloom series that takes place 30 years before the Eastwind Witches Cozy Mysteries.
If you like strong female friendships, gossipy small towns, and lighthearted humor, you will love Nova Nelson's delightful tale!
This was a very funny read.
Wonderful plot and story line that kept me engaged from the very start.
Well written and fleshed out characters and loved the banter that was happening in this.
Great world building has gone in with this as well.
Really funny humour running throughout.
Recommend reading!!!
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
November 13, 2019
This is the second book in the new series True and Bloom! It takes place when Ruby True is in her mid 40’s and her friendship with angel sheriff Gabby Bloom. I love this new spin off of the Eastwind Witches series. It gets us to see what some of the characters were life when they were younger! Ruby being the only 5th wins witch in town helps the sheriff solve the murder when an elf falls to his death with 5th written on his shirt! Gabby enlists Ruby’s help in case the residents of Eastwind try to accuse Ruby of being the killer. Meanwhile, other residents are trying to bring the arts to Eastwind! A new play is being done in the emporium which features pixies. The audience is enthralled with the play! I really enjoyed the complex mystery and seeing how Ruby and Gabby interpret the clues as their investigation continues! It’s really interesting to see how much the characters change when they are older. The story had plenty of drama, romance between the characters and plenty of action! Just how I like my books!
November 12, 2019
Another great addition to the Eastwind Collection. This is my first read in the "True & Bloom" series and I have to say I thoroughly enjoyed it. I liked reading about all the characters from the original series "Eastwind Witches", this series takes place way before Nora comes to town. My only complaint, I missed Grim and bacon. Maybe he will show up in future books as a younger Grim. LOL Actors have converged on the town, as they are putting on their first play an Elf jumps or is pushed off the watch tower. Do the new arrivals have anything to do with this? Is Ruby really dating? Bloom is still Bloom, and Stu is just a kid. I also liked the weird but beautiful house. Sounds like a good book, right? It is!!!!!!!!! I received an ARC from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest and unbiased review.
November 20, 2019
Set in Eastwind, back in the days before Nora arrived, Ruby True was the only Fifth Wind. The angel, Gabby Bloom, was the sheriff. They were good friends and Ruby sometimes worked with Gabby. There’s a new play in town that everyone is all excited about, but Ruby could care less. When an elf commits suicide during the play, that changes for both Gabby and Ruby. Is it really suicide? And why is 5th written on the dead body’s shirt? Gabby and Ruby are going to investigate no matter how much Ruby doesn’t want to see a play.
I absolutely loved this book. The plot twists are great and the characters unforgettable. I definitely didn’t see how it would end, but I was glued to the book to find out. If you like your paranormal cozies with some snark and good laughs, you’ll love this too!
I received this book as an ARC and am reviewing it because I liked it so much.
I absolutely loved this book. The plot twists are great and the characters unforgettable. I definitely didn’t see how it would end, but I was glued to the book to find out. If you like your paranormal cozies with some snark and good laughs, you’ll love this too!
I received this book as an ARC and am reviewing it because I liked it so much.
November 6, 2019
I love this new series about Ruby. It tells a lot about Ruby's story that isn't mentioned in the Nora book series. I find myself having lots of ah ha moments while reading them. This adds so much more depth to Ruby's character. I like her so much more now. Oh and we can't leave out the sheriff. That is another character that was a complete mystery in the Nora books! I am so glad Nova started this series. There are so many story levels happening all at once, and that doesn't even include the amazing story of what is happening to the elves at the clock tower! This book is superb! I definitely recommend reading it, NOW!!
I received an advanced copy of the book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an advanced copy of the book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 17, 2019
Another case for the great Ruby True and Gabby Bloom
Book 2 in the True and Bloom series and we are back with the intrepid duo. Whilst Ruby is minding her own business and going about her life, a show is in town showing the moment a Queen is murdered by her elven guards. Although it’s a shock when an actual Body is found in front of the clock tower. It’s down to Ruby and Gabby to find out the who, why and what’s gonna happen now. A great book which had me chuckling from some of the pages. I had to go and read book one of the series to read about the younger Ruby True although it isn’t needed.
Book 2 in the True and Bloom series and we are back with the intrepid duo. Whilst Ruby is minding her own business and going about her life, a show is in town showing the moment a Queen is murdered by her elven guards. Although it’s a shock when an actual Body is found in front of the clock tower. It’s down to Ruby and Gabby to find out the who, why and what’s gonna happen now. A great book which had me chuckling from some of the pages. I had to go and read book one of the series to read about the younger Ruby True although it isn’t needed.
October 28, 2019
Another great book from this author. When a roaming group of play actors come to Eastwind people flock to see them in the town square in front of the clock tower. On the strike of midday an elf falls to his death from the clock tower. Was it suicide or murder? The next day a similar thing happens. Both elves have something on them that seems to point towards Ruby being guilty - which of course she wasn't. Sheriff Gabby and Ruby investigate to see if they can get to the bottom of the situation. As usual, the story has plot twists and an unexpected ending.
October 31, 2019
Well, Elves' Bells -a great play on words for the title! I am a fan of the original Eastwind series and I am getting used to this spinoff, reading about Ruby as a younger woman than I have had in my mind's eye...although it seems that Gabby hasn't aged a day (well, of course not!). I found this story to be very well-written, imaginative and with a great cast of characters (love the magical world heirarchy, ha!). And a little Stu Manchester - cute!! Looking forward to more True and Bloom adventures.
November 5, 2019
Outstanding!
Book 2 in the new spin-off series from the Eastwind Witches: True & Bloom.
It’s got a humorous tone, with light-hearted banter between Ruby and Bloom. Dual POV, which I loved. While I was reading, I had that excited feeling you get when you’re reading a really good book. Full of humor. It was a real page-turner! So well-written, so more-ish! Ah-ma-zing! And we get to meet Stu as a boy! Cool. When I was at the end of the book, I caught myself smiling.
Favorite quote, about Ruby: “She nodded as pleasantly as she could muster within the bounds of her mood.”
Book 2 in the new spin-off series from the Eastwind Witches: True & Bloom.
It’s got a humorous tone, with light-hearted banter between Ruby and Bloom. Dual POV, which I loved. While I was reading, I had that excited feeling you get when you’re reading a really good book. Full of humor. It was a real page-turner! So well-written, so more-ish! Ah-ma-zing! And we get to meet Stu as a boy! Cool. When I was at the end of the book, I caught myself smiling.
Favorite quote, about Ruby: “She nodded as pleasantly as she could muster within the bounds of her mood.”
Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews