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Library Witch Mystery #9
Monsters & Manuscripts
With summer on the way, Rory is looking forward to relaxing at the beach between her latest set of magical exams.
A mysterious beast appearing from the sea and terrifying everyone was not part of her plan.
Rory's cousin Cass, who responds to anything involving magical beasts by instantly making friends with it, is first to take an interest. But this beastie seems to have no intention of playing nice, and between her cousin's antics and Aunt Candace's unending hunt for a good story, Rory has her hands full trying to stop her relatives from running headlong into danger.
The strange new family in town who have an affinity with animals might be the key to helping her solve the mystery of what the creature is and where it came from. But Robin and her squirrel familiar, Tansy, have their own secrets - and if Rory isn't careful, their presence in town might expose the library's hidden depths for everyone to see.
Can Rory get to the bottom of the mystery before her family winds up in trouble as deep as the ocean floor?
A mysterious beast appearing from the sea and terrifying everyone was not part of her plan.
Rory's cousin Cass, who responds to anything involving magical beasts by instantly making friends with it, is first to take an interest. But this beastie seems to have no intention of playing nice, and between her cousin's antics and Aunt Candace's unending hunt for a good story, Rory has her hands full trying to stop her relatives from running headlong into danger.
The strange new family in town who have an affinity with animals might be the key to helping her solve the mystery of what the creature is and where it came from. But Robin and her squirrel familiar, Tansy, have their own secrets - and if Rory isn't careful, their presence in town might expose the library's hidden depths for everyone to see.
Can Rory get to the bottom of the mystery before her family winds up in trouble as deep as the ocean floor?
182 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 16, 2021
117 people are currently reading
208 people want to read
About the author
Elle Adams
81 books279 followersElle Adams lives in the middle of England, where she spends most of her time reading an ever-growing mountain of books, planning her next adventure, or writing. Elle's books are humorous mysteries with a paranormal twist and tons of magical mayhem.
She also writes urban and contemporary fantasy novels as Emma L. Adams.
She also writes urban and contemporary fantasy novels as Emma L. Adams.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
November 20, 2021
Monsters & Manuscripts is Book 9 in the Library Witch Mystery Series by Elle Adams.
I LOVE this series. I love Rory and Xavier's relationship, it is so fun and they are great together.
In this installment, there is a mysterious monster that is causing havoc at the pear.
I love that Robin and her family from the Wildwood Witch Series appear for a fantastic crossover.
I love all of Elle Adam's books and this is so fantastic!!!
I LOVE this series. I love Rory and Xavier's relationship, it is so fun and they are great together.
In this installment, there is a mysterious monster that is causing havoc at the pear.
I love that Robin and her family from the Wildwood Witch Series appear for a fantastic crossover.
I love all of Elle Adam's books and this is so fantastic!!!
November 24, 2025
Cass has been slightly less irritating for a few books, since she's become a bit less hostile to Rory, but that's all over apparently! She's taken a huge dislike to Lainey for some reason. In this book we find out that Cass is bi and has apparently dated half the town, so I'm wondering if she actually is attracted to Lainey and is just extremely tsundere? I find extreme tsundere characters really irritating, so even if this is the case, it would STILL be annoying. Otherwise she's just irrationally judgmental and mean, and that is bad too.
Also, this book is yet another crossover with the author's other books... this time, the main character of the Wildwood Witch mysteries, which I've read 2 of and found as obnoxious as this series. The characters are just so horrible and unpleasant to one another, and the main character, Robin, has even FEWER people who are nice to her than Rory does, which makes the books even less fun to read.
In this case, Robin herself is actually surprisingly nice and helpful. However, Robin's super-judgmental mother and heartlessly law-obsessed brother are with her (supposedly, they're on vacation, but apparently they can't take a vacation from bossing other people around and acting like a pair of complete assholes). Naturally, they are very judgmental and intolerant about the library, which they just ASSUME is dangerous, illegal, totally unregulated, etc (even though Rory's Aunt Adelaide is a responsible person, which they could have found out, instead of making a bunch of unfounded accusations). Unsurprisingly, the library kicks them out.
This book ends in a less cliffhangery place than usual, where you could comfortably stop reading the series if you wanted (even though there are 6 more books, AFAIK).
Also, this book is yet another crossover with the author's other books... this time, the main character of the Wildwood Witch mysteries, which I've read 2 of and found as obnoxious as this series. The characters are just so horrible and unpleasant to one another, and the main character, Robin, has even FEWER people who are nice to her than Rory does, which makes the books even less fun to read.
In this case, Robin herself is actually surprisingly nice and helpful. However, Robin's super-judgmental mother and heartlessly law-obsessed brother are with her (supposedly, they're on vacation, but apparently they can't take a vacation from bossing other people around and acting like a pair of complete assholes). Naturally, they are very judgmental and intolerant about the library, which they just ASSUME is dangerous, illegal, totally unregulated, etc (even though Rory's Aunt Adelaide is a responsible person, which they could have found out, instead of making a bunch of unfounded accusations). Unsurprisingly, the library kicks them out.
This book ends in a less cliffhangery place than usual, where you could comfortably stop reading the series if you wanted (even though there are 6 more books, AFAIK).
October 28, 2025
I enjoyed meeting Robin, and went back to read her series. The mystery was good, but I only give 3 stars because of how horrible Cass and Aunt Candace are. It's silly to read a book and be so enraged by the characters, but here we are. Cass is cruel and snide, and doesn't want to lift a finger to help her family. I have to wonder why she gets paid for working at the library when she does so little library work. She's too focused on her animals and her own interests to contribute. I loathe her. I am tempted to be very disappointed in Aunt Adelaide's parenting, but when I consider that she's had to shoulder most of the work running the library I cut her some slack.
Aunt Candace is no more helpful than Cass. In fact, she manages to be more obnoxious than Cass because Candace creates problems in addition to shirking work. Irresponsible, selfish, inconsiderate, self-absorbed, deceitful and unreliable, Candace annoys me even more than Cass. I've said it before, but I can't figure out if Candace is supposed to be madcap hilarious and I'm not feeling the laughs, or if she's just awful because every story has to have complications to drive it along.
Poor Estelle tries so hard to make the carnival a success, but theres always someone in Ivory Beach that doesn't want its inhabitants to have nice things. Rory runs around, as usual, urgently trying to help Estelle, prevent Candace from causing trouble, and solve the murder before anyone else gets hurt. Fortunately she has Xavier to help her keep from getting killed in the process. It's no wonder he likes her so much; kindness and affection are definitely not things he's gotten growing up in the Grim Reaper's house.
Aunt Candace is no more helpful than Cass. In fact, she manages to be more obnoxious than Cass because Candace creates problems in addition to shirking work. Irresponsible, selfish, inconsiderate, self-absorbed, deceitful and unreliable, Candace annoys me even more than Cass. I've said it before, but I can't figure out if Candace is supposed to be madcap hilarious and I'm not feeling the laughs, or if she's just awful because every story has to have complications to drive it along.
Poor Estelle tries so hard to make the carnival a success, but theres always someone in Ivory Beach that doesn't want its inhabitants to have nice things. Rory runs around, as usual, urgently trying to help Estelle, prevent Candace from causing trouble, and solve the murder before anyone else gets hurt. Fortunately she has Xavier to help her keep from getting killed in the process. It's no wonder he likes her so much; kindness and affection are definitely not things he's gotten growing up in the Grim Reaper's house.
January 6, 2026
There's some kind of beast that attacks the beach, people being locked out of the library and a woman that is more interested in finding things she can use to write her fiction books than she is interested in what is really happening and how it effects people.
I had taken a break from reading this series and now I remember why. I really don't like Sylvester, the owl, who has an ego the size of a planet and who doesn't realize that when you have knowledge that people need it's appropriate to help them and hot hide everything effectively making people bow down to you to get the info they need.
The aunt isn't really any better for the reason I noted above, I don't care much for Cass, either, as she is totally focused on the animals she cares for so much that she isolates herself and doesn't really seem to understand that her primary concern should be with the people she lives with first and her animals second.
I'm not going to bother with any more in this series.
I had taken a break from reading this series and now I remember why. I really don't like Sylvester, the owl, who has an ego the size of a planet and who doesn't realize that when you have knowledge that people need it's appropriate to help them and hot hide everything effectively making people bow down to you to get the info they need.
The aunt isn't really any better for the reason I noted above, I don't care much for Cass, either, as she is totally focused on the animals she cares for so much that she isolates herself and doesn't really seem to understand that her primary concern should be with the people she lives with first and her animals second.
I'm not going to bother with any more in this series.
November 18, 2021
entertaining supernatural cozy mystery series
This is an entertaining supernatural cozy mystery series. If I’m cast of characters in an entertaining storyline. A family of witches that run a magical library in a small seaside town. Rory who happens to date a local Grim Reaper and her two cousins and two aunts run a Magical library in their small town. There is always many mysteries going on inside the library and also always some mystery to help solve outside the library. Rory and her family will always be in the thick of things change figure out what’s going on and how it happened. A fun and entertaining read with lots of fun characters and entertaining storylines. This particular book has a crossover with a Hedwige Robin from the Wildwood which is another of this authors series. Check it out.
This is an entertaining supernatural cozy mystery series. If I’m cast of characters in an entertaining storyline. A family of witches that run a magical library in a small seaside town. Rory who happens to date a local Grim Reaper and her two cousins and two aunts run a Magical library in their small town. There is always many mysteries going on inside the library and also always some mystery to help solve outside the library. Rory and her family will always be in the thick of things change figure out what’s going on and how it happened. A fun and entertaining read with lots of fun characters and entertaining storylines. This particular book has a crossover with a Hedwige Robin from the Wildwood which is another of this authors series. Check it out.
December 2, 2021
There's a mysterious creature coming out of the sea and Rory is trying to find answers. In addition, she's also taking her magical exams and dealing with a witch family in town who may just expose the library's hidden secrets. Can Rory pass her exams and solve the mystery while keeping her family and the library safe?
I've really enjoyed this series and this book is no exception. The book's well-written with a wonderful cast of characters, and I always enjoy returning to Ivory Beach. I was drawn into this entertaining, paranormal cozy from the beginning and kept hooked until the end. The mystery of the creature will keep you on your toes and guessing. I'm looking forward to the next book. I highly recommend both book and series which I suggest you read in order for the most benefit and enjoyment.
I've really enjoyed this series and this book is no exception. The book's well-written with a wonderful cast of characters, and I always enjoy returning to Ivory Beach. I was drawn into this entertaining, paranormal cozy from the beginning and kept hooked until the end. The mystery of the creature will keep you on your toes and guessing. I'm looking forward to the next book. I highly recommend both book and series which I suggest you read in order for the most benefit and enjoyment.
February 24, 2022
Hhmm..
Ok.. no further progress on her dad's diary I feel like I missed something somewhere.. now we have a mystery creature (don't we always?) for Cass to try and befriend, a few members of the Wildwood coven on holiday poking around in library business, and Aunt Candace dating again while Rory is trying to get through her most recent exams.
It would be great if the characters were more likeable but Cass is surly, Candace selfish and unpleasant and assorted others like Evangeline rather two dimensional.. it's going off the boil and simmering at mediocre unfortunately.. rather disappointing and not really feeling like it's going anywhere..
Ok.. no further progress on her dad's diary I feel like I missed something somewhere.. now we have a mystery creature (don't we always?) for Cass to try and befriend, a few members of the Wildwood coven on holiday poking around in library business, and Aunt Candace dating again while Rory is trying to get through her most recent exams.
It would be great if the characters were more likeable but Cass is surly, Candace selfish and unpleasant and assorted others like Evangeline rather two dimensional.. it's going off the boil and simmering at mediocre unfortunately.. rather disappointing and not really feeling like it's going anywhere..
February 6, 2025
We're back in Ivory Beach with Rory and her family. In this book, there is no murder but a monster is terrorizing the beach goers. No one can figure out what the monster is; even know-it-all Sylvester doesn't seem to know. Everyone in town wants to get rid of the monster before someone is hurt, but Cass wants to save and protect it and Aunt Candace wants to find it so she can incorporate it into one of her novels. Rory meets a tourist, a member of a powerful coven of witches from another town, who can talk with animals, so she solicits her help but to no avail. It's only when Cass and Jet disappear that Rory and Xavier are able to track down the monster.
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February 9, 2022Love it!
Another adventure at the library, I totally loved it! There is a mystery monster about, and I couldn’t guess what it was, when it was revealed I was so excited! This is a great read, I love this series! I liked the ending too! I hope there will be more books in this series!
Another adventure at the library, I totally loved it! There is a mystery monster about, and I couldn’t guess what it was, when it was revealed I was so excited! This is a great read, I love this series! I liked the ending too! I hope there will be more books in this series!
March 12, 2022
Monsters and Manuscripts
Rory and her family get involved in another mystery as they try to find out what kind of creature is leaving claw marks on the pier and scarring the tourist. Cass leaves bait under the pier and the next morning part of the pier has been torn off. Rory meets a new friend named Robin who has red squirrel as her familiar.
Rory and her family get involved in another mystery as they try to find out what kind of creature is leaving claw marks on the pier and scarring the tourist. Cass leaves bait under the pier and the next morning part of the pier has been torn off. Rory meets a new friend named Robin who has red squirrel as her familiar.
November 25, 2021
Really sweet cozy witch mystery
This book is pleasant reading from the beginning to the end. Rory and Reaper make a great couple and the mysterious monster is a big surprise. I only wish the monster was introduced earlier as it would have added to the story.
This book is pleasant reading from the beginning to the end. Rory and Reaper make a great couple and the mysterious monster is a big surprise. I only wish the monster was introduced earlier as it would have added to the story.
November 30, 2021
Another Good Book in the Series
Rory, Xavier, Estelle, and the rest of the library family are back with a mystery on the beach. Throw in the Wildwood Coven and chose ensues. A enjoyable read.
Rory, Xavier, Estelle, and the rest of the library family are back with a mystery on the beach. Throw in the Wildwood Coven and chose ensues. A enjoyable read.
December 8, 2021
Another Winner From Elle Adams
Double your pleasure; double your fun! Robin and Tansy make a guest appearance to help Rory solve the mystery of an alleged sea monster. Cass is up to her eyeballs in this one, but she’s not talking.If that weren’t enough, somebody’s big secret gets outed!! A must read from Elle Adams.
Double your pleasure; double your fun! Robin and Tansy make a guest appearance to help Rory solve the mystery of an alleged sea monster. Cass is up to her eyeballs in this one, but she’s not talking.If that weren’t enough, somebody’s big secret gets outed!! A must read from Elle Adams.
February 9, 2022
Could be better
I feel like all these books are annoying me now. Honeslty where is her relationship going cause it sounds as if its just taking a walk kiss and goodnight all the time, for a bookworm you would think she would be all up in her dads book yet its dragging on.
I feel like all these books are annoying me now. Honeslty where is her relationship going cause it sounds as if its just taking a walk kiss and goodnight all the time, for a bookworm you would think she would be all up in her dads book yet its dragging on.
March 24, 2022
No murder required
I truly enjoyed this book. Not that I haven't enjoyed the others in the series because they are just as good. My enjoyment is because no-one died in this story which I found very refreshing. Still a mystery to figure out that kept me confused til the end.
I truly enjoyed this book. Not that I haven't enjoyed the others in the series because they are just as good. My enjoyment is because no-one died in this story which I found very refreshing. Still a mystery to figure out that kept me confused til the end.
October 23, 2022
Awesome!
This book is a great way to tune out the world with all of the political nonsense going on. It keeps one turning the pages and continue reading to tune out the news. Enjoy!
This book is a great way to tune out the world with all of the political nonsense going on. It keeps one turning the pages and continue reading to tune out the news. Enjoy!
March 2, 2023
Great book
This series has a hold on me that I don't want it to let go. The characters, the magical world, the story line and all of the twists make these books very hard to put down. When I finish one I go right to the next one. I don't want it to end. Highly recommend
This series has a hold on me that I don't want it to let go. The characters, the magical world, the story line and all of the twists make these books very hard to put down. When I finish one I go right to the next one. I don't want it to end. Highly recommend
March 10, 2023
No murder but lots of mayhem
Werewolves and mystery beasts o my! This book is a great addition to the series and introduces some new characters that might belong in a different series. All in all a very wonderful book
Werewolves and mystery beasts o my! This book is a great addition to the series and introduces some new characters that might belong in a different series. All in all a very wonderful book
May 26, 2025
monsters More monsters, , Shapeshifter’s
Again another fun mystery novel a quick read this one involved in mysterious monster by the ocean like usual involve the library and also involves shape shifters, and the mysterious monster when you find out if anyone is really cool
Again another fun mystery novel a quick read this one involved in mysterious monster by the ocean like usual involve the library and also involves shape shifters, and the mysterious monster when you find out if anyone is really cool
November 19, 2021
Great book
This is another great book in the Library Witch series by Elle Adam's. I love all the characters and the library.
This is another great book in the Library Witch series by Elle Adam's. I love all the characters and the library.
January 13, 2022
Great story!
I loved this book! It was filled with witches and magic, paranormal characters and amazement, familiars and endearment, werewolves and vampires, reapers and love.
I loved this book! It was filled with witches and magic, paranormal characters and amazement, familiars and endearment, werewolves and vampires, reapers and love.
March 29, 2022
Lots of twists
I love Rory and the gang. This one had a lot of surprises. Waiting not so patiently for the next one.
I love Rory and the gang. This one had a lot of surprises. Waiting not so patiently for the next one.
July 12, 2022
Can't wait until the next book releases!
December 31, 2022
his is a well written and has well developed characters. The story is catching and with the strong characters makes for a very enjoyable read. Very entertaining! Great Reading Everyone!
February 1, 2023
Loved it! I amazed at all of the new, strange things that happen in the library and would absolutely go for a visit.
November 13, 2023
Monster's & Manuscripts
Another grest.book in this series. I can't put theses books down. If you like magic, talking animals, and libraries this series is for you!
Another grest.book in this series. I can't put theses books down. If you like magic, talking animals, and libraries this series is for you!
June 16, 2024
I simply love these books, I can't get over the ease of reading and the joy I get. I read them in a day and love the characters, storyline, plot, and author.
July 8, 2025
2.5 stars
August 24, 2025
Mayhem ensues when a monster comes to town
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October 29, 2025monsters and manuscripts by elle Adams. the banter between the fmc and her family is funny as hell. yes her cousin and aunt can be cruel but I think it adds to the conviction of the fmc
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews