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Secrets and Scrabble #2
Secret at Skull House
Ellery Page is back--and in hot water again!
Unlike everyone else in Pirate's Cove, Ellery Page, aspiring screenwriter, reigning Scrabble champion, and occasionally clueless owner of the village's only mystery bookstore, is anything but thrilled when famed horror author Brandon Abbott announces he's purchased legendary Skull House and plans to live there permanently.
Ellery and Brandon have history. Their relationship ended badly and the last thing Ellery wants is a chance to patch things up--especially when his relationship with Police Chief Jack Carson is just getting interesting. But then, maybe Brandon isn't all that interested in getting back together either, because he seems a lot more interested in asking questions about the bloodstained past of his new home than discussing a possible future with Ellery. What is Brandon really up to?
Ellery will have to unscramble that particular puzzle post haste. Because after his former flame disappears following their loud and public argument, Ellery seems to be Police Chief Carson's first--and only--suspect.
***This story contains no on-screen sex or violence
An M/M Cozy Mystery.
Unlike everyone else in Pirate's Cove, Ellery Page, aspiring screenwriter, reigning Scrabble champion, and occasionally clueless owner of the village's only mystery bookstore, is anything but thrilled when famed horror author Brandon Abbott announces he's purchased legendary Skull House and plans to live there permanently.
Ellery and Brandon have history. Their relationship ended badly and the last thing Ellery wants is a chance to patch things up--especially when his relationship with Police Chief Jack Carson is just getting interesting. But then, maybe Brandon isn't all that interested in getting back together either, because he seems a lot more interested in asking questions about the bloodstained past of his new home than discussing a possible future with Ellery. What is Brandon really up to?
Ellery will have to unscramble that particular puzzle post haste. Because after his former flame disappears following their loud and public argument, Ellery seems to be Police Chief Carson's first--and only--suspect.
***This story contains no on-screen sex or violence
An M/M Cozy Mystery.
234 pages, Paperback
First published October 28, 2020
175 people are currently reading
711 people want to read
About the author
Josh Lanyon
225 books5,420 followersAuthor of 100+ titles of Gay Mystery and M/M Romance, Josh Lanyon has built her literary legacy on twisty mystery, kickass adventure, and unapologetic man-on-man romance.
Her work has been translated into twelve languages. The FBI thriller Fair Game was the first Male/Male title to be published by Italy’s Harlequin Mondadori and Stranger on the Shore (Harper Collins Italia) was the first M/M title to be published in print. In 2016 Fatal Shadows placed #5 in Japan’s annual Boy Love novel list (the first and only title by a foreign author to place on the list). The Adrien English series was awarded the All-Time Favorite Couple by the Goodreads M/M Romance Group. In 2019, Fatal Shadows became the first LGBTQ mobile game created by Moments: Choose Your Story.
She’s an EPIC Award winner, a four-time Lambda Literary Award finalist (twice for Gay Mystery), an Edgar nominee, and the first ever recipient of the Goodreads All Time Favorite M/M Author award.
Josh is married and lives in Southern California with her irascible husband, two adorable dogs, a small garden, and an ever-expanding library of vintage mystery destined to eventually crush them all beneath its weight.
Find other Josh Lanyon titles at www.joshlanyon.com
Follow Josh on Twitter, Facebook, and Goodreads.
Her work has been translated into twelve languages. The FBI thriller Fair Game was the first Male/Male title to be published by Italy’s Harlequin Mondadori and Stranger on the Shore (Harper Collins Italia) was the first M/M title to be published in print. In 2016 Fatal Shadows placed #5 in Japan’s annual Boy Love novel list (the first and only title by a foreign author to place on the list). The Adrien English series was awarded the All-Time Favorite Couple by the Goodreads M/M Romance Group. In 2019, Fatal Shadows became the first LGBTQ mobile game created by Moments: Choose Your Story.
She’s an EPIC Award winner, a four-time Lambda Literary Award finalist (twice for Gay Mystery), an Edgar nominee, and the first ever recipient of the Goodreads All Time Favorite M/M Author award.
Josh is married and lives in Southern California with her irascible husband, two adorable dogs, a small garden, and an ever-expanding library of vintage mystery destined to eventually crush them all beneath its weight.
Find other Josh Lanyon titles at www.joshlanyon.com
Follow Josh on Twitter, Facebook, and Goodreads.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 384 reviews
June 2, 2023
Not as great for me as the first book, but I still found it fun and entertaining.
I really like Ellery and his friendship with Jack is really sweet. There were some bumps in the road in this one, but the ending seems promising.
I think that the mystery was a bit far-fetched here and I didn't find it that believable. I just hope that
*******
Re-read 1/2022: Enjoyed it more this time around. Changing my initial rating of 3 stars to 4.
Re-read 6/2023:
I really like Ellery and his friendship with Jack is really sweet. There were some bumps in the road in this one, but the ending seems promising.
I think that the mystery was a bit far-fetched here and I didn't find it that believable. I just hope that
*******
Re-read 1/2022: Enjoyed it more this time around. Changing my initial rating of 3 stars to 4.
Re-read 6/2023:
Read
May 22, 2020It's kind of funny to find myself returning to the Cozy Mystery genre. I was so DONE with cozies when I cut ties with my mainstream publishers. I couldn't ever imagine writing another. But now... The World is Too Much With Us as Wordsworth said, and it's comforting to turn to this particular literary art form. Sure, it's not every reader's cup of tea, but I find something zen-like in the structure and discipline of creating a world that...makes sense. :-D I'm planning on an eight-book series. The longest series I've done yet--and that's largely possible because of the episodic nature of cozies.
January 16, 2022
Once more we return to Pirate's Cove where we follow reluctant amateur sleuth Ellery (best character name, seriously) who can't help, like John McClane, but ask himself— "How does the same shit happen to the same guy twice?"
The stakes are slightly higher than last time because a new detective is on the case and he seems less eager to seek truth than throwing out accusations. As if Ellery's problems aren't enough, local tabloid editorRita Skeeter Sue Lewis has reignited her vendetta against Ellery because she appears to imagine that there's a contest between them for Police Chief Jack Carson's affections. It was all I could do not to shake her and yell at her with an amplified megaphone HE'S NOT THAT INTO YOU. And in any case, if she thinks writing trash about the person Carson may like is the best way to make him re-like (if he ever did) her, then she is quite plainly: stupid.
Of course that is not the last of Ellery's conflicts. There is a secret on the cove. We learn more about its origins, how it was created by the founding pirates, how there are tunnels. But we also learn that while the townsfolk are eager to gossip and gush about the history of the island, they clam up when it comes to Skull House.
Ellery confronts his almost outsider status but every time he tries to find out about whatever tragedies occurred at Skull House, he gets ominous warnings. Sometimes even threats. Just what is this secret at Skull House? And why is Ellery so certain that this latest murder he is accused of has everything to do with that decades old murder?
This book was just as charming as the first one. The way Lanyon makes the cove's residents interact with each other tells us so much. As economical as Lanyon is with the dialog and descriptions, the story is still immersive, evocative, suspenseful. Of course there isn't any real sense of peril because it's a cozy but that's covered because once more, I think this book is subliminal advertising for Lanyon's other books. This time I was reminded of my personal favourite Stranger on the Shore.
And lastly, the romance in this book posed yet another mystery. Just what is going on with Police Chief Jack Carson?
This book was just what I needed to get away from this increasingly chaotic world. A slice of escapist heaven from one of my favourite authors. Ellery has even gone on to become one of my favorite protagonists, his innate strength, his subtle self worth. I am glad and grateful for it all. I can't wait for book 3.
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
The stakes are slightly higher than last time because a new detective is on the case and he seems less eager to seek truth than throwing out accusations. As if Ellery's problems aren't enough, local tabloid editor
Of course that is not the last of Ellery's conflicts. There is a secret on the cove. We learn more about its origins, how it was created by the founding pirates, how there are tunnels. But we also learn that while the townsfolk are eager to gossip and gush about the history of the island, they clam up when it comes to Skull House.
Ellery confronts his almost outsider status but every time he tries to find out about whatever tragedies occurred at Skull House, he gets ominous warnings. Sometimes even threats. Just what is this secret at Skull House? And why is Ellery so certain that this latest murder he is accused of has everything to do with that decades old murder?
This book was just as charming as the first one. The way Lanyon makes the cove's residents interact with each other tells us so much. As economical as Lanyon is with the dialog and descriptions, the story is still immersive, evocative, suspenseful. Of course there isn't any real sense of peril because it's a cozy but that's covered because once more, I think this book is subliminal advertising for Lanyon's other books. This time I was reminded of my personal favourite Stranger on the Shore.
And lastly, the romance in this book posed yet another mystery. Just what is going on with Police Chief Jack Carson?
It was kind of hard to define their relationship. Friends with possibilities?
This book was just what I needed to get away from this increasingly chaotic world. A slice of escapist heaven from one of my favourite authors. Ellery has even gone on to become one of my favorite protagonists, his innate strength, his subtle self worth. I am glad and grateful for it all. I can't wait for book 3.
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 11, 2025
***4 - 4.5 Stars*** for both, audiobook and story
Sorry for being selfish here, Ellery, but I for one am so glad it did! 😉 I'm totally hooked on this series, although Jack and his idea of "Let's see where this might go" makes me a bit grouchy. 🤨
"How does the same shit happen to the same guy twice?"
Sorry for being selfish here, Ellery, but I for one am so glad it did! 😉 I'm totally hooked on this series, although Jack and his idea of "Let's see where this might go" makes me a bit grouchy. 🤨
January 8, 2026
Reread- 3.5 stars - Jan 2026
Its been a while since I read first few books of this series but this time around, I am trying to read all the 8 books. I adore this series. The setting of Pirates Cove is actually my 3rd favorite among cozy mysteries, just after 'Thursday murder club' & 'The Marlow murder club'.
--------‐---------------
Book 2 -Secret at skull house
Series- Secrets and Scrabbles
Rating- 3 Stars
Genre- Amature Sleuth/cozy mystery/ whodunit/cold case
In the second instalment, we meet Ellery's ex who is a paranormal book writer. He is obnoxious, but hey dont we all know who dies first in a horror flick. 🤭🤭 I still loved Ellery and his dear puppy, Watson. However, I was hoping for some romance, since we get a glimpse of it in the previous book. But, JL is a tease and she again played the dead ex card for the absence of any romance. Although I had fun reading this book, I am thinking of not continuing this series at this point. Maybe, after few days I will read the rest of the two released books from the series.
I can't help but have started listening to another standalone by the author that's going to keep me company while travelling.😇😇
Its been a while since I read first few books of this series but this time around, I am trying to read all the 8 books. I adore this series. The setting of Pirates Cove is actually my 3rd favorite among cozy mysteries, just after 'Thursday murder club' & 'The Marlow murder club'.
--------‐---------------
Book 2 -Secret at skull house
Series- Secrets and Scrabbles
Rating- 3 Stars
Genre- Amature Sleuth/cozy mystery/ whodunit/cold case
In the second instalment, we meet Ellery's ex who is a paranormal book writer. He is obnoxious, but hey dont we all know who dies first in a horror flick. 🤭🤭 I still loved Ellery and his dear puppy, Watson. However, I was hoping for some romance, since we get a glimpse of it in the previous book. But, JL is a tease and she again played the dead ex card for the absence of any romance. Although I had fun reading this book, I am thinking of not continuing this series at this point. Maybe, after few days I will read the rest of the two released books from the series.
I can't help but have started listening to another standalone by the author that's going to keep me company while travelling.😇😇
May 8, 2020
Nobody crafts a story like Josh Lanyon, and this wonderful "cozy" mystery series really shows off her skills. I'm loving Secrets and Scrabble!
Ellery is a doll, and there's a fascinating cast of characters to back him up. The mysterious goings-on of Buck Island keep getting more interesting, and if Ellery and Jack just stay friends I think I'll be okay.
So much fun, and all I can say is: Josh Lanyon, please write faster!!!
a copy of Secrets at Skull House was provided by NetGalley for the purpose of my honest review
Ellery is a doll, and there's a fascinating cast of characters to back him up. The mysterious goings-on of Buck Island keep getting more interesting, and if Ellery and Jack just stay friends I think I'll be okay.
So much fun, and all I can say is: Josh Lanyon, please write faster!!!
a copy of Secrets at Skull House was provided by NetGalley for the purpose of my honest review
August 23, 2024
Very… cozy. A good mystery, and a very well done audiobook.
Why only 3 stars then? Because for a long time, I didn’t really know what the focus is - the murder happens relatively late, and until then, you obviously know who’s going to be the victim (not only from reading the blurb, but because it’s very obvious), but we had a few irrelevant side plots that just fizzled out.
And I was annoyed with Jack. I mean - the book is told from the third person pov of Ellery, so ofc we love him more. But Jack with his hot and cold behaviour isn’t good enough for Ellery, even if he seems to be the only other queer man in the island (and even if he’s not openly gay/bi, which leaves enough room for Sue the insufferable journalist to slander Ellery again, partly because she’s jealous 🙄).
But I digress.
Great mystery, not as obvious as in the first book. Good writing. Excellent narration. But little to none romance development, which - at this point - I’m not even mad about because Jack got on my nerves with his issues.
Ellery deserves better.
Why only 3 stars then? Because for a long time, I didn’t really know what the focus is - the murder happens relatively late, and until then, you obviously know who’s going to be the victim (not only from reading the blurb, but because it’s very obvious), but we had a few irrelevant side plots that just fizzled out.
And I was annoyed with Jack. I mean - the book is told from the third person pov of Ellery, so ofc we love him more. But Jack with his hot and cold behaviour isn’t good enough for Ellery, even if he seems to be the only other queer man in the island (and even if he’s not openly gay/bi, which leaves enough room for Sue the insufferable journalist to slander Ellery again, partly because she’s jealous 🙄).
But I digress.
Great mystery, not as obvious as in the first book. Good writing. Excellent narration. But little to none romance development, which - at this point - I’m not even mad about because Jack got on my nerves with his issues.
Ellery deserves better.
August 31, 2021
The resemblance in setting between it and Andrien English Mystery series is uncanny. Same serious Cop with past trauma meets Library owner, wannabe scriptwriter and the prine suspect of a murder. Little town, chatty people, nosy neighbour, lots of ex in the frame. It's just the same.
But you know where it differs? In seriousness, angst, gruesome, brutal depiction of murder and soul burning smut. In a manner of speaking this series is just the same Adrien English Mystery but with much softer undertone. Josh Lanyon mentioned, It's an experimental project, and do i dare saying It's not exactly what i anticipated.
No doubt Josh Lanyon writes some finest mysteries. And I enjoyed reading all of her books I've read so far, so expectations were high. It indeed is a good story. The very non existing romance is also kinda well put, but somehow it failed to reach the bar.
So A big piece of cake for Adrien English Mystery series and a tiny cupcake with lilbit frosting for Secrets & Scrabbles.
Am I ditching this series midway. For now unfortunately yes!
But you know where it differs? In seriousness, angst, gruesome, brutal depiction of murder and soul burning smut. In a manner of speaking this series is just the same Adrien English Mystery but with much softer undertone. Josh Lanyon mentioned, It's an experimental project, and do i dare saying It's not exactly what i anticipated.
No doubt Josh Lanyon writes some finest mysteries. And I enjoyed reading all of her books I've read so far, so expectations were high. It indeed is a good story. The very non existing romance is also kinda well put, but somehow it failed to reach the bar.
So A big piece of cake for Adrien English Mystery series and a tiny cupcake with lilbit frosting for Secrets & Scrabbles.
Am I ditching this series midway. For now unfortunately yes!
May 1, 2020
3.5 stars
Ellery Page finds himself in hot water again, when his other ex found murdered after buying Skull House, a 'historic' house at Pirate's Cove, that said to be cursed. Not only that, his friendship progress with Chief of Police Jack Carson also comes to a halt, though Ellery doesn't know if he's the reason behind it...
This second book in Josh Lanyon's cozy mystery series has another out of town victim and a murderer from the Cove. If there are so many books in this series being prepared, I'm worry that Ellery actually is living with bunch of serial killers in the small town 😂.
It's an enjoyable read... although I'm rather miffed with Ellery's love interest, Jack. I think his reason for taking a step back is LAME LAME LAME.
Ellery Page finds himself in hot water again, when his other ex found murdered after buying Skull House, a 'historic' house at Pirate's Cove, that said to be cursed. Not only that, his friendship progress with Chief of Police Jack Carson also comes to a halt, though Ellery doesn't know if he's the reason behind it...
This second book in Josh Lanyon's cozy mystery series has another out of town victim and a murderer from the Cove. If there are so many books in this series being prepared, I'm worry that Ellery actually is living with bunch of serial killers in the small town 😂.
It's an enjoyable read... although I'm rather miffed with Ellery's love interest, Jack. I think his reason for taking a step back is LAME LAME LAME.
April 7, 2025
4.25 stars
June 20, 2024
Story: 4 Stars
Audio: 4 Stars
Another great plot; 👏🏻 a cold case that becomes a hot case when a murder happens on the premises of the in-famous Skull House; and Pirates Cove favorite book-seller becomes the official “person of interest “ AGAIN!! 🙄 This time I did get irritated by resident detective/chief of police Jack for not taking Ellery seriously 😬. But alls well that ends well; he manages to save the day at the very end. However, I’m also peeved that there has been no traction in their romance.. I mean!! 🤷♀️ Com’on Jack!! 😉
Still enjoying the audibles of JL.. 🫶🫶
Audio: 4 Stars
Another great plot; 👏🏻 a cold case that becomes a hot case when a murder happens on the premises of the in-famous Skull House; and Pirates Cove favorite book-seller becomes the official “person of interest “ AGAIN!! 🙄 This time I did get irritated by resident detective/chief of police Jack for not taking Ellery seriously 😬. But alls well that ends well; he manages to save the day at the very end. However, I’m also peeved that there has been no traction in their romance.. I mean!! 🤷♀️ Com’on Jack!! 😉
Still enjoying the audibles of JL.. 🫶🫶
August 13, 2024
2024 audio review
Poor Ellery (as mentioned below, lol). Nuf said. :D Narration, great!
2020 ebook review
A complimentary copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
I have said this before and it's worth repeating - Josh Lanyon is a TREASURE! I am like the superist of super fans for JL and I am not ashamed! :D This is an adorable story and I am excited to read more!
Ellery is back! And once again murder is afoot. Poor Ellery. How does he end up in these situations? His life before moving to Pirate's Cove was clearly more peaceful and well, less filled with dead bodies. This time though the victim is none other than his ex, Brandon, who was not a likeable guy but didn't deserve to be murdered. Police Chief Jack, who must be rethinking his choice of places to live because this was not what he signed up for in a supposedly small/quiet island town, is trying to keep Ellery from being also murdered and keep him from being arrested for a crime he didn't commit.
This is such a cute story and Watson! OMG, I LOVE Watson! Such a sweet puppy. Ellery, encouraged by Nora and the rest of the town sleuths, tries to find the real murderer and unfortunately, finds him, lol. There is a decades old murder behind all of this one person desperately wants to keep the past in the past and isn't afraid to kill to keep it there.
The romance between Ellery and Jack broke my heart. I was really upset with Jack for how he treated Ellery and thought Ellery forgave Jack a little too quick, but what can you do? Ellery is a kind person and isn't able to hold a grudge against Jack when his reasons behind everything he did had logical sense behind them. I am rooting for these guys! And really they are of course the reason why I can't wait for the next book.
This is a slooooow romance, on purpose, and I am loving every second of it. They are taking things slow, not letting immediate feelings drive their actions and I like this. I do recommend this and please note this should not be read as a standalone. Technically you could because the mystery is not related, but the character backstories are all intertwined so you'd miss a lot.
5 stars because!
Not a spoiler about the book:
Poor Ellery (as mentioned below, lol). Nuf said. :D Narration, great!
2020 ebook review
A complimentary copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
I have said this before and it's worth repeating - Josh Lanyon is a TREASURE! I am like the superist of super fans for JL and I am not ashamed! :D This is an adorable story and I am excited to read more!
Ellery is back! And once again murder is afoot. Poor Ellery. How does he end up in these situations? His life before moving to Pirate's Cove was clearly more peaceful and well, less filled with dead bodies. This time though the victim is none other than his ex, Brandon, who was not a likeable guy but didn't deserve to be murdered. Police Chief Jack, who must be rethinking his choice of places to live because this was not what he signed up for in a supposedly small/quiet island town, is trying to keep Ellery from being also murdered and keep him from being arrested for a crime he didn't commit.
This is such a cute story and Watson! OMG, I LOVE Watson! Such a sweet puppy. Ellery, encouraged by Nora and the rest of the town sleuths, tries to find the real murderer and unfortunately, finds him, lol. There is a decades old murder behind all of this one person desperately wants to keep the past in the past and isn't afraid to kill to keep it there.
The romance between Ellery and Jack broke my heart. I was really upset with Jack for how he treated Ellery and thought Ellery forgave Jack a little too quick, but what can you do? Ellery is a kind person and isn't able to hold a grudge against Jack when his reasons behind everything he did had logical sense behind them. I am rooting for these guys! And really they are of course the reason why I can't wait for the next book.
This is a slooooow romance, on purpose, and I am loving every second of it. They are taking things slow, not letting immediate feelings drive their actions and I like this. I do recommend this and please note this should not be read as a standalone. Technically you could because the mystery is not related, but the character backstories are all intertwined so you'd miss a lot.
5 stars because!
Not a spoiler about the book:
June 17, 2020
I love Secret at Skull House by Josh Lanyon!
The second in the Secrets and Scrabble series, a cozy mystery novel. I'm very new to the cozy mystery genre, but I'm enjoying them immensely.
This is a true series so definitely read Murder at Pirate's Cove first. I enjoyed the first one, but this sequel is so much better imo.
The set up is that Ellery's ex-boyfriend, Brandon, has purchased Skull House and is looking to base one of his novels on the dark secrets it holds. The town of Pirate's Cove is very protective of it's history, very secretive when it comes to it's darker aspects.
So when Ellery gets an unusual call from Brandon, he fears the worst. When he can't find Brandon, Ellery calls Police Chief Jack Carson. However, there's nothing Jack can do at the time.
But when Brandon's body shows up a day later, Ellery is once again the prime suspect because of their past relationship. It seems someone wasn't happy with Brandon's poking around at a murder that happened 20 years ago. It seems that the murder is still living on the island and is determined to keep their secret... If Ellery is going to clear his name and stay out of jail he needs to get to the bottom of this mystery.
Another aspect of this story that I love, is Ellery's and Jack's relationship. This is undeniably going to be a slow burn. It's so realistically angsty. Jack is the chief of police so it's natural to distance himself personally from Ellery while the investigation is ongoing, but Ellery thinks there's more to it. Ellery wants to keep things with Jack slow, because he's had some bad past relationships, but when the two put the breaks on their friendship we see how lonely Ellery is. I can't wait for them to work through their baggage and get together. They both deserve to be happy!
Arc provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The second in the Secrets and Scrabble series, a cozy mystery novel. I'm very new to the cozy mystery genre, but I'm enjoying them immensely.
This is a true series so definitely read Murder at Pirate's Cove first. I enjoyed the first one, but this sequel is so much better imo.
The set up is that Ellery's ex-boyfriend, Brandon, has purchased Skull House and is looking to base one of his novels on the dark secrets it holds. The town of Pirate's Cove is very protective of it's history, very secretive when it comes to it's darker aspects.
So when Ellery gets an unusual call from Brandon, he fears the worst. When he can't find Brandon, Ellery calls Police Chief Jack Carson. However, there's nothing Jack can do at the time.
But when Brandon's body shows up a day later, Ellery is once again the prime suspect because of their past relationship. It seems someone wasn't happy with Brandon's poking around at a murder that happened 20 years ago. It seems that the murder is still living on the island and is determined to keep their secret... If Ellery is going to clear his name and stay out of jail he needs to get to the bottom of this mystery.
Another aspect of this story that I love, is Ellery's and Jack's relationship. This is undeniably going to be a slow burn. It's so realistically angsty. Jack is the chief of police so it's natural to distance himself personally from Ellery while the investigation is ongoing, but Ellery thinks there's more to it. Ellery wants to keep things with Jack slow, because he's had some bad past relationships, but when the two put the breaks on their friendship we see how lonely Ellery is. I can't wait for them to work through their baggage and get together. They both deserve to be happy!
Arc provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 15, 2021
I adored this 2nd Cozy Mystery set in Pirate’s 🏴☠️ Cove! ❤️❤️
This one solved a cold case, a new case and stopped a possible murder 😱
Jack & Ellory get closer 😍
The townsfolk still gossip.
What’s not to love in this murderous little town?
This one solved a cold case, a new case and stopped a possible murder 😱
Jack & Ellory get closer 😍
The townsfolk still gossip.
What’s not to love in this murderous little town?
September 2, 2023
Don't know why but I liked this one way more than the first in the series. Now I can't wait to continue with the next one 😅
April 30, 2020
I think after having read this one, I'm going to conclude that cozy mysteries aren't for me. I don't read pure mysteries because they don't hold my attention, and with no relationship aspect in this one to speak of, it didn't hold my attention either. I skimmed through most of the last 50% and was just relieved when I was done with it rather than happy or satisfied. I think Ellery and gang are likeable, the writing is good, and the world building is good, but these books are just not the right fit for me personally. If you like mystery and don't expect much in the romance department (by which I mean no romance at all), you'll be satisfied with this one. I give the writing 5 stars and the classification of this book as a romance-type novel 0 stars.
January 14, 2023
I enjoyed this one less than book 1, that I barely remember TBH. The mystery took a very long time to emerge and the "investigation" was only so so. . The romance side was also very disappointing. Lack of communication galore and their one date was meh. They don't really get to know each other and it was awkward but not in a cute way. Neither MCs is getting more fleshed out, they remain pretty one-dimensional even after 2 books. I'm not sure I'll continue with the series, if a book comes my way on sale maybe....
August 23, 2020
This one was disappointing, I liked the process of reading it so it can have 3*, but it's weak on every aspect.
Welcome to Midsomer!
The romance is non-existant. Carson's reasoning is sound but felt out of place in this light romp, too much like serious emotion admist a farce. He's kept distant in this installment rather than being developed so appeared cardboard, offering nothing. Zero chemistry. It's the usual Lanyon dynamic; stoic policeman and persistent amateur. It's a series, I'm happy to read for the mysteries, but..
The mystery has a little tension, some accusations, a lot of gossip and then you're at the reveal wondering how you got there. Ellery's involvement is ridiculous and classic cosy fodder, the Silver Sleuths had potential but the characters never quite sparked. A few times I paused to try and connect a name to a character and decided it didn't matter enough to check, a lot of caricatures. Nora has wet eyes at least once. I think if Ellery had at least yelled at the intrepid reporter the story would have a little kick.
The villian wasn't a suprise, it had to be someone, but there was no process to the investigation, no evidence to solve, nothing to tie the person in. There was no feeling of everything coming together, more a dull so that's it then.
I've pre-ordered the next book thinking this would be a bright little cosy series, a little concerned now; the fact these all have release dates brings the worry they're going to be churned out rather than developed, but the next blurb sounds pure Jessica, hopefully it'll have more life among the murders.
Welcome to Midsomer!
The romance is non-existant. Carson's reasoning is sound but felt out of place in this light romp, too much like serious emotion admist a farce. He's kept distant in this installment rather than being developed so appeared cardboard, offering nothing. Zero chemistry. It's the usual Lanyon dynamic; stoic policeman and persistent amateur. It's a series, I'm happy to read for the mysteries, but..
The mystery has a little tension, some accusations, a lot of gossip and then you're at the reveal wondering how you got there. Ellery's involvement is ridiculous and classic cosy fodder, the Silver Sleuths had potential but the characters never quite sparked. A few times I paused to try and connect a name to a character and decided it didn't matter enough to check, a lot of caricatures. Nora has wet eyes at least once. I think if Ellery had at least yelled at the intrepid reporter the story would have a little kick.
The villian wasn't a suprise, it had to be someone, but there was no process to the investigation, no evidence to solve, nothing to tie the person in. There was no feeling of everything coming together, more a dull so that's it then.
I've pre-ordered the next book thinking this would be a bright little cosy series, a little concerned now; the fact these all have release dates brings the worry they're going to be churned out rather than developed, but the next blurb sounds pure Jessica, hopefully it'll have more life among the murders.
July 31, 2020
Book Reaction: https://neverhollowed.com/2020/07/31/...
Rating: 3.5 Stars – that place between like and love
Rating: 3.5 Stars – that place between like and love
May 7, 2020
Honestly, I really admire Ellery because inherited bookstore or not, I would have been out of that island by now.
Anyway, Josh is one of my favorite authors, but I always find myself annoyed with at least one of her MCs. Like, Jack annoyed me so much for most of the story! I understand why he made that decision, but I think it would have been nice to share it with Ellery before he asked.
Eh I'm just not sure of how I feel about this series. I can't say that I really care about the mystery and the lack of romance doesn't help either :/ Realistically though, I also understand that there's only a couple of weeks in between the books.
Anyway, Josh is one of my favorite authors, but I always find myself annoyed with at least one of her MCs. Like, Jack annoyed me so much for most of the story! I understand why he made that decision, but I think it would have been nice to share it with Ellery before he asked.
Eh I'm just not sure of how I feel about this series. I can't say that I really care about the mystery and the lack of romance doesn't help either :/ Realistically though, I also understand that there's only a couple of weeks in between the books.
July 28, 2020
Audiobook review4,5 stars
We are back in the small town of Pine Cove and life is getting back to normal for Ellery Page. Being a suspect in a murder wasn’t the ideal way to be introduced to a new town and community, but for the most part they now seem to be accepting of him. His bookstore has become the hub for gossip and for townspeople to meet, and while grateful for the traffic, Ellery wished they’d actually buy books from the store, but he’s content and enjoying his new life. He’s also enjoying whatever he and Jack had going, still not sure exactly what that was but happy to take the time to figure it out.
That is until his ex-boyfriend, Brandon Abbott, bought Skull House, an infamous – and haunted – house in town. Not only did he buy it – he intended to move to Pine Cove. The villagers welcome him with open arms, loving to have a celebrity in their midst. Well, everyone but Ellery that is. Let’s just say that he’s less than thrilled – even less so when the guy ends up murdered and he ends up the number one murder suspect – again.
In the past I’ve had a (mostly) difficult time with the cozy mystery genre. Maybe I’ve had some bad luck, but it seems like almost every one of them have either a main character (the amateur sleuth) that annoys me to no end, or they constantly makes these TSTL decision, to the point where I wouldn’t mind for them to end up the next victim. I’m so grateful that Secrets and Scrabble series has nothing of that. It’s all lovable characters and a quirky small town and good mysteries. I’m also really enjoying whatever Ellery and Jack have going on – or not going on. Sometimes I might want to hit them over the head, but that’s part of the charm, I think. It’s refreshing to have a relationship that rivals a snail in pacing, there are too many stories out there with insta-love, so it’s nice for a couple (not that they are one yet) to take their time to find their way. Like always I’m not going into detail of the mystery, but I will let you know that it was one and it kept me entertained.
I thoroughly enjoyed Matt Haynes performance of this book. He really makes you feel the essence of the small town and the gossiping townsfolk. He also portrays Ellery perfectly, his personality comes through so clearly and credibly. How he loves his new friends and how he’s reluctantly persuaded to investigate Brandon’s murder. He inflicts emotions into every line, to the point where it’s so easy to become a part of the story, to live in it. I’ve listened to countless of audiobooks by now, and I’ve come to realise that delivering a dialogue credibly is anything but easy especially interwoven with a narrative and descriptions. Haynes does it all perfectly, I’m kind of in awe off how well he nails every situation, and every line. You never have to wonder about any situation, he makes you feel the tension, the humour, exasperation and suspense.
This is quickly becoming my favourite series of Lanyon’s and I hope to come back for many more visits in the future. Highly recommended.
A copy of this book was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
May 20, 2020
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
Secret at Skull House is the second novel in Josh Lanyon’s Secrets and Scrabble series and, while I thought it was impossible to do so, I love Ellery even more. Once again, the amateur sleuth is back in the spotlight and another murder is the reason why. This time the mystery surrounds one of Ellery’s ex-boyfriends, Brandon Abbot. Brandon is not the nicest of men and he and Ellery ended their brief relationship on a sour note, but that doesn’t keep the pompous, adulation-hungry author from seeking out Ellery immediately upon arriving in Pirate’s Cove and attempting to push his way back into Ellery’s life.
Just when things seemed to be moving forward with Jack—a real date has been proposed—Brandon is back to screw things up. Still, it seems that the man is more interested in the secrets surrounding a twenty-year-old cold case that saw the murder of a local football jock and the subsequent disappearance of his alleged killer, a local teen who seemed immune to said jock’s advances.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
Secret at Skull House is the second novel in Josh Lanyon’s Secrets and Scrabble series and, while I thought it was impossible to do so, I love Ellery even more. Once again, the amateur sleuth is back in the spotlight and another murder is the reason why. This time the mystery surrounds one of Ellery’s ex-boyfriends, Brandon Abbot. Brandon is not the nicest of men and he and Ellery ended their brief relationship on a sour note, but that doesn’t keep the pompous, adulation-hungry author from seeking out Ellery immediately upon arriving in Pirate’s Cove and attempting to push his way back into Ellery’s life.
Just when things seemed to be moving forward with Jack—a real date has been proposed—Brandon is back to screw things up. Still, it seems that the man is more interested in the secrets surrounding a twenty-year-old cold case that saw the murder of a local football jock and the subsequent disappearance of his alleged killer, a local teen who seemed immune to said jock’s advances.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
April 29, 2022
I’m really loving this series. It combines two of my favorite things—cozy mysteries and LGBTQ+ characters. I adore Ellery and the island community of Pirate’s Cove. Great supporting cast which we get to know more with each book. I really like the romance subplot too. I like the tension and slow burn. Both Ellery and Jack are afraid of getting burned so they dance around each other. Cannot wait to start book three.
March 4, 2025
Reread March 2025
I really enjoyed this one even though I figured out the bad guy pretty early (like I usually do with this author's books) so that ruined it a little for me.
I really enjoyed this one even though I figured out the bad guy pretty early (like I usually do with this author's books) so that ruined it a little for me.
January 31, 2024
RECENSIONE A CURA DI ELYXYZ
È con vero piacere che mi sono tuffata su questo secondo volume della serie “Misteri e Scrabble” perché il primo mi aveva intrigata parecchio, e devo dire che anche questo si difende bene!
La trama inizia poco dopo la fine del precedente, e tutti nel paesello di mare hanno ancora ben in mente le accuse e il proscioglimento di Ellery, che si è dimostrato innocente sebbene le malelingue insinuassero il contrario.
Il nostro protagonista vorrebbe solo un po’ di pace, un flusso decente di clienti che gli permettesse di campare dignitosamente, e magari l’affetto del Capo della polizia locale, se non è chiedere troppo… ma Ellery Page non sembra baciato dalla fortuna e i suoi tre pii desideri tardano ad avverarsi.
Continua sul nostro blog!
È con vero piacere che mi sono tuffata su questo secondo volume della serie “Misteri e Scrabble” perché il primo mi aveva intrigata parecchio, e devo dire che anche questo si difende bene!
La trama inizia poco dopo la fine del precedente, e tutti nel paesello di mare hanno ancora ben in mente le accuse e il proscioglimento di Ellery, che si è dimostrato innocente sebbene le malelingue insinuassero il contrario.
Il nostro protagonista vorrebbe solo un po’ di pace, un flusso decente di clienti che gli permettesse di campare dignitosamente, e magari l’affetto del Capo della polizia locale, se non è chiedere troppo… ma Ellery Page non sembra baciato dalla fortuna e i suoi tre pii desideri tardano ad avverarsi.
Continua sul nostro blog!
May 5, 2020
3.5 stars. Cozy mysteries are my jam, and I did really think think this was a good one. I had no idea whodunnit until the big reveal, and honestly did not see it going the way it did. I feel for Ellery and all the shenanigans he seems to get drawn straight into. My gripes this time around were that it seemed to wrap up WAY to quickly, and I strongly dislike the way the love interest is shaping up (although, this tends to be the case with me and Lanyon books generally, so maybe we disagree on how romance works). However, the mystery worked out well, and the writing was very good; I look forward to continuing the series!
October 24, 2023
Reread 02/2023 review- 2.75 stars. Yikes, that changed drastically. I agree with the first two points in my original review, and Jack really agitated me in this one... And Ellery kind of got on my nerves a bit too
Reread 11/2021 review-3.2〜3.6 stars??
Reread 12/2020 review- 3.8 stars. I NEED book 3 already!! 🙇🏻♀️
Original 09/2020 review- 3 stars.
-I don’t like this as much as the first one.
-I didn’t like the Ellery and Jack interactions as much.
-There were still elements of AE, such as them both running a Group or club at their bookstore on Tuesday nights (which was nice)
-Regardless, I can’t wait for book 3!!
Reread 11/2021 review-3.2〜3.6 stars??
Reread 12/2020 review- 3.8 stars. I NEED book 3 already!! 🙇🏻♀️
Original 09/2020 review- 3 stars.
-I don’t like this as much as the first one.
-I didn’t like the Ellery and Jack interactions as much.
-There were still elements of AE, such as them both running a Group or club at their bookstore on Tuesday nights (which was nice)
-Regardless, I can’t wait for book 3!!
December 26, 2021
I love Ellery, and his relationship with Jack. The romance is there, as it was in book 1, but it takes a back seat, putting the mystery in the forefront. Here we have a very unlikeable victim...a shop owner who is suspected of murder... a wonderful small town full of supporting characters that we are coming to know and like... and there is enough information about running the bookshop to keep those of us who think of that as a dream job interested. The murderer is revealed at the end in classic fashion and our two romantic main characters are left to work on their relationship for book 3. This one was fun... fast paced.... I couldn't put it down.
April 3, 2022
Another cozy crime novel set in Pirates Cove.
I still find I love the characters and the settings, the writing is light and fun, the murders as expected and the grand reveal not too taxing.
I also like the light M/M romance too. The books are sweet, inoffensive and fun.👍 Perfect for escaping the grim real world.
I still find I love the characters and the settings, the writing is light and fun, the murders as expected and the grand reveal not too taxing.
I also like the light M/M romance too. The books are sweet, inoffensive and fun.👍 Perfect for escaping the grim real world.
May 11, 2020
I have really enjoyed this series so far! I love cozy mysteries and this story is fast paced and kept me interested the entire time. I am really looking forward to more in this series!
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