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Secret, Book, & Scone Society #8
The Tattered Cover
Not yet published
Expected 28 Oct 25Win a free print copy of this book!
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100 copies available
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It was a dark, rainy night at Nora Pennington’s Miracle Books when a mysterious death brings the Secret, Book, and Scone Society into the Halloween season on the trail of a murderer . . .
As the residents of Miracle Springs, North Carolina, select their costumes, plan parties, and get excited for a night of tricks or treats, Nora joins in on the festivities by hosting medium memoirist Lara Luz at the bookstore. Charismatic and compelling, Lara mesmerizes the audience with her life story. Struck by a bolt of lightning as a child, she was pronounced dead only to be resurrected with the ability to connect with those on the other side.
Lara performs a reading for a select group of bookstore patrons when the encroaching storm knocks out the power. In the sudden darkness, howling cold winds intensify, and Lara clutches her heart, collapsing dead without warning. But Nora doesn’t believe she died of natural causes. Not one member of the psychic’s reading group—which includes the town’s widower pharmacist, an urgent care nurse, a mystery author, and even truculent Deputy Hollowell—were admirers of Lara.
Nora confirms this when she stumbles upon Lara’s journal in the aftermath of her death. For within its leathery bound pages are the medium and her clients’ deepest and darkest secrets, written in code. Now, Nora and the Secret, Book, and Scone Society must sift through the suspects and their motives to uncover which one of them is a killer before he or she is tempted to strike again . . .
As the residents of Miracle Springs, North Carolina, select their costumes, plan parties, and get excited for a night of tricks or treats, Nora joins in on the festivities by hosting medium memoirist Lara Luz at the bookstore. Charismatic and compelling, Lara mesmerizes the audience with her life story. Struck by a bolt of lightning as a child, she was pronounced dead only to be resurrected with the ability to connect with those on the other side.
Lara performs a reading for a select group of bookstore patrons when the encroaching storm knocks out the power. In the sudden darkness, howling cold winds intensify, and Lara clutches her heart, collapsing dead without warning. But Nora doesn’t believe she died of natural causes. Not one member of the psychic’s reading group—which includes the town’s widower pharmacist, an urgent care nurse, a mystery author, and even truculent Deputy Hollowell—were admirers of Lara.
Nora confirms this when she stumbles upon Lara’s journal in the aftermath of her death. For within its leathery bound pages are the medium and her clients’ deepest and darkest secrets, written in code. Now, Nora and the Secret, Book, and Scone Society must sift through the suspects and their motives to uncover which one of them is a killer before he or she is tempted to strike again . . .
304 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication October 28, 2025
13 people are currently reading
9114 people want to read
About the author
Ellery Adams
62 books5,115 followersUSA Today and New York Times bestseller author Ellery Adams has written over forty novels and can’t imagine spending a day away from the keyboard. Ms. Adams, a Native New Yorker, has had a lifelong love affair with stories, food, and rescue animals. She likes to spend her free time rearranging the bookshelves in her home in central North Carolina.
Ellery's Series Include: Secret, Book, & Scone Society (Kensington) Book Retreat Mysteries (Kensington) Books By the Bay Mysteries (Berkley Prime Crime), Charmed Pie Shoppe Mysteries ((Berkley Prime Crime), Molly Appleby Antiques & Collectibles Mysteries (Beyond the Page), and Hope Street Mysteries (Beyond the Page).
For book club guides, bibliotherapy lists, and recipes, please visit www.elleryadamsmysteries.com
Ellery's Series Include: Secret, Book, & Scone Society (Kensington) Book Retreat Mysteries (Kensington) Books By the Bay Mysteries (Berkley Prime Crime), Charmed Pie Shoppe Mysteries ((Berkley Prime Crime), Molly Appleby Antiques & Collectibles Mysteries (Beyond the Page), and Hope Street Mysteries (Beyond the Page).
For book club guides, bibliotherapy lists, and recipes, please visit www.elleryadamsmysteries.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
August 27, 2025
This book was amazing and such an exciting read it kept me on my toes the whole time and I would 10/10 recommend this book to anyone who loves a good mystery 💖
August 20, 2025
Nora is excited to have an author event at her bookstore. The author will do private reading of a select few people. What Nora did not expect is for the author to die in the store under suspicious circumstances. I have loved this whole series for all the small town vibes, a book telling about other books, the book club, and amateur sleuthing as Nora looks for clues. This is a cozy mystery that you get to know all the characters and get updated on what is going on in their lives now.
It just makes you want to visit this fictional town and go to the bookstore and grab a coffee and as one. The author has a gift of bringing all the characters to life and endearing them in your heart.
Thank you Kensington books and NetGalley for advance copy.
It just makes you want to visit this fictional town and go to the bookstore and grab a coffee and as one. The author has a gift of bringing all the characters to life and endearing them in your heart.
Thank you Kensington books and NetGalley for advance copy.
May 26, 2025
Nora and the book club are drawn into another murder case when a medium dies during a reading at the bookstore. She had a bad heart, so was it natural or murder? They begin looking for clues and trying to figure out why the mystery author, the pharmacist and the deputy came to the signing and the reading afterwards. Great series.
August 9, 2025
Another great book! I love coming back to Miracle Springs and visiting the bookstore ☺️. Another wonderful mystery to be solved with all my favorite characters. Definitely a must read.
July 7, 2025
Another cute cozy mystery , the eighth in the series set in a charming Miracle Springs, North Carolina. The town is getting ready for Halloween and Nora has invited a medium memorialist to give a book chat and some personal reading at her bookstore. Nora is not exactly comfortable with having the medium but has been assured that have author visits will be good for business. A thunderstorm is brewing as the event begins and just as the author begins the personal readings the lights go out. When they get some candles lit they see the author is having difficulty breathing. was it natural death or murder??? The Secret, Book and Scone Society try their best to solve a murder , have a baby shower and plan a wedding all before Christmas. People are not always who or what they seem.
This was a fun read, great for getting cozy with.
This was a fun read, great for getting cozy with.
May 27, 2025
#TheTatteredCover #NetGalley is another wonderful addition to this much loved series by Ellery Adams.
As Nora embraces the Halloween festivities , she's happy to host an author event, featuring a psychic who just had her book published.
The event is a hit, and Nora hopes the private reading for a few select guests does just as well.
Unfortunately, as cozy mystery readers, we know things will not go well, and an unexpected death will occur, setting the scene for a murder investigation.
What I did not expect was who the killer was, or the disbelief that this person could even be a suspect.
Ms. Adams set the mood for an incredibly twisted tale that kept this reader glued to the pages.
I think #TheTatteredCover is my favorite so far, and I'm happy to recommend it to other readers.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
As Nora embraces the Halloween festivities , she's happy to host an author event, featuring a psychic who just had her book published.
The event is a hit, and Nora hopes the private reading for a few select guests does just as well.
Unfortunately, as cozy mystery readers, we know things will not go well, and an unexpected death will occur, setting the scene for a murder investigation.
What I did not expect was who the killer was, or the disbelief that this person could even be a suspect.
Ms. Adams set the mood for an incredibly twisted tale that kept this reader glued to the pages.
I think #TheTatteredCover is my favorite so far, and I'm happy to recommend it to other readers.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
July 14, 2025
Although she's not sure why Miracle Springs bookstore owner Nora Pennington has never done any author presentations at Miracle Books. So when the cosy crime author she invites for her very first event is more successful than she'd dared hope, she begins looking forward to the next one featuring a popular local medium who has written their memoirs. Unfortunately, by the end of the evening, one of her guests is dead, and Nora has a very strong suspicion they were murdered. Determined to ensure the victim receives justice, she begins looking at everyone present on the fateful night, including the victim, hoping to help make her partner and local sheriff, Grant McCabe's job a little easier. Their killer is growing desperate, however, and they both know that increases the danger for everyone involved.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Kensington Publishing, Kensington Cozies, but the opinions expressed are my own. I absolutely loved this. It's definitely one of my favourite reads this year so far. The storyline was enthralling from the start, with Nora and McCabe, Hester, June, Estella, and Sheldon (who's my favourite), all in fine form. Their personal everyday lives mixed with the investigation brilliantly, and I loved every single word. This a book you'll read late into the night and then again the very next morning. Highly recommended, as is the whole series. Easiest 5* rating in a long while.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Kensington Publishing, Kensington Cozies, but the opinions expressed are my own. I absolutely loved this. It's definitely one of my favourite reads this year so far. The storyline was enthralling from the start, with Nora and McCabe, Hester, June, Estella, and Sheldon (who's my favourite), all in fine form. Their personal everyday lives mixed with the investigation brilliantly, and I loved every single word. This a book you'll read late into the night and then again the very next morning. Highly recommended, as is the whole series. Easiest 5* rating in a long while.
August 3, 2025
I love revisiting Miracle Springs—home to Miracle Books and the warmhearted Secret, Book, and Scone Society. Set during Halloween, this installment adds an extra touch of magic for fellow holiday enthusiasts, weaving in clever twists and turns you won’t want to miss.
August 3, 2025
The Tattered Cover (A Secret, Book, and Scone Society Novel #8) by Ellery Adams represents yet another delightful installment in this cherished series.
If you enjoy cozy mysteries sprinkled with friendship, a touch of the supernatural, unexpected wedding, a baby, and a few secrets from a seemingly hostile deputy, then this cozy thriller is exactly what you need. It brings together a captivating plot that will keep you guessing, alongside heartwarming characters that have become dear to readers.
In the charming town of Miracle Springs, NC, as the residents prepare for a Halloween like no other, Nora Pennington, the owner of Miracle Books, is set to host her first author event. Featuring psychic Lara Luz and her newly released memoir, the evening takes an unexpected turn as a thunderstorm hits, plunging the venue into darkness just as the readings commence. When the lights flicker back to life, it's clear something is wrong—Lara is struggling to breathe. Could it be a tragic accident, or is there more to the story? Watching the characters from the Secret, Book, and Scone Society grow and evolve has been a delight, and this installment truly stands out as my favorite. It's a true treasure! So grab a cup of tea and immerse yourself in this charming yet spine-tingling mystery.
A heartfelt thank you to Ellery Adams for this amazing signed giveaway ARC win! I feel so fortunate to be among the four LFL Stewards who received this fantastic mystery novel.
If you enjoy cozy mysteries sprinkled with friendship, a touch of the supernatural, unexpected wedding, a baby, and a few secrets from a seemingly hostile deputy, then this cozy thriller is exactly what you need. It brings together a captivating plot that will keep you guessing, alongside heartwarming characters that have become dear to readers.
In the charming town of Miracle Springs, NC, as the residents prepare for a Halloween like no other, Nora Pennington, the owner of Miracle Books, is set to host her first author event. Featuring psychic Lara Luz and her newly released memoir, the evening takes an unexpected turn as a thunderstorm hits, plunging the venue into darkness just as the readings commence. When the lights flicker back to life, it's clear something is wrong—Lara is struggling to breathe. Could it be a tragic accident, or is there more to the story? Watching the characters from the Secret, Book, and Scone Society grow and evolve has been a delight, and this installment truly stands out as my favorite. It's a true treasure! So grab a cup of tea and immerse yourself in this charming yet spine-tingling mystery.
A heartfelt thank you to Ellery Adams for this amazing signed giveaway ARC win! I feel so fortunate to be among the four LFL Stewards who received this fantastic mystery novel.
August 11, 2025
It's Halloween and Nora is hosting a medium at their first ever author event. Stormy weather adds to the night, when there is a death-or is it murder? Nora can't shake the feeling that something was off, has a very strong feeling as to who is the culprit, and works with her friends to solve the mystery. Not wanting to give away any more info, read the book! Love the characters and the idea of the close knit town and store. Looking forward to more in the series. Many thanks to NetGalley, Ms Adams for all the books and her series, and Kensington Books for publishing. This review is given from an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 18, 2025
If I could rate this 10 stars I would! The Tattered Cover is my favorite in the Secret, Book, and Scone Society series, so far. This installment blends heartfelt moments with suspenseful twists. The themes of friendship, redemption, and the healing power of stories shine through. Highly recommended for anyone who loves mysteries with soul.
August 6, 2025
The Tattered Cover is the eighth book in a wonderful series set in Miracle Springs, NC. If I could I'd move there in a heartbeat. Ellery Adams descriptions of the community are so vivid and heartwarming. I've loved this series from the start and can't say the books keep getting better, they are all good. They are consistently well written mysteries and as the series progresses we have learned more of the backstories of the characters.
August 2, 2025
I thought Book 5 in this series was my favorite, but that was until this one came along. The autumn setting was perfect for this suspenseful tale and the pacing was absolutely spot on. And the murderer - I never saw it coming. The Secret, Book and Scone Society members were very present which I really appreciated (because I just love June) and I adored the development of their next stages in life. When the story climax really started to hit, I honestly had to stop reading for a good minute to compose myself because it was going to a very, very dark place. This story was completely gripping. Best in the series in my opinion. My thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for allowing me to read an advanced copy.
August 10, 2025
Thank you very much to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for an advance copy of The Tattered Cover.
I read it in one day. Ellery Adams has a lovely gift for writing small town cozy mysteries set in a bookstore run by Nora who considers herself a bibliotherapist- someone who can pick out just the right book to move folks forward in their lives.
She and her close friends have a book and scone society where clues and details are shared about local crimes.
I love the local Western North Carolina references and the deep love of books that shines through it.
For this installment, the murder takes place in Nora’s bookstore.
I always love the details about the bookstore’s customers, the talented barista, the great baker who stocks the store’s baked goods with very amusing themed items, etc.
A visiting author dies as she is in the midst of talking to a select few people who bought tickets to an exclusive meeting with her.
Nora is right in the thick of it, and begins to investigate the attendees once it’s determined the author was murdered. It seems that most of the attendees had connections to the deceased that they had not previously disclosed.
Her love interest, the sheriff keeps her informed on the official side of the investigation and she shares her (and her friends’) findings.
The suspicions rise, fall, and swirl like so many autumn leaves in this story set mostly between mid October and December. The friend group also plans a wedding for a beloved salon owner, so there are some side stories mixed into the mystery thread.
I appreciated the deeper explanation of the killer’s motivations. We already suspect something isn’t as it appears, but getting a deeper explanation made it more satisfying.
I hope this review is helpful while being spoiler-free.
I have always enjoyed Adams’ Secret Book and Scone Society mysteries and hope you will too.
The author is also kind enough to list the books recommended as bibliotherapy throughout, so that it’s easy to find them after without having to search.
Thanks again to Ellery Adams, NetGalley, and Kensington Publishing for providing the advance copy.
I read it in one day. Ellery Adams has a lovely gift for writing small town cozy mysteries set in a bookstore run by Nora who considers herself a bibliotherapist- someone who can pick out just the right book to move folks forward in their lives.
She and her close friends have a book and scone society where clues and details are shared about local crimes.
I love the local Western North Carolina references and the deep love of books that shines through it.
For this installment, the murder takes place in Nora’s bookstore.
I always love the details about the bookstore’s customers, the talented barista, the great baker who stocks the store’s baked goods with very amusing themed items, etc.
A visiting author dies as she is in the midst of talking to a select few people who bought tickets to an exclusive meeting with her.
Nora is right in the thick of it, and begins to investigate the attendees once it’s determined the author was murdered. It seems that most of the attendees had connections to the deceased that they had not previously disclosed.
Her love interest, the sheriff keeps her informed on the official side of the investigation and she shares her (and her friends’) findings.
The suspicions rise, fall, and swirl like so many autumn leaves in this story set mostly between mid October and December. The friend group also plans a wedding for a beloved salon owner, so there are some side stories mixed into the mystery thread.
I appreciated the deeper explanation of the killer’s motivations. We already suspect something isn’t as it appears, but getting a deeper explanation made it more satisfying.
I hope this review is helpful while being spoiler-free.
I have always enjoyed Adams’ Secret Book and Scone Society mysteries and hope you will too.
The author is also kind enough to list the books recommended as bibliotherapy throughout, so that it’s easy to find them after without having to search.
Thanks again to Ellery Adams, NetGalley, and Kensington Publishing for providing the advance copy.
August 25, 2025
After hosting one successful author event, Nora Pennington agrees to host a second one at Miracle Books. This one is for Lara Luz, a medium who’s promoting her memoir. As a bonus, she’s giving a reading to six bookstore patrons. The event seems to be going well until Lara collapses, apparently from her heart condition. Only it turns out it wasn’t an accident.
When Nora finds Lara’s journal (the tattered cover in the title), she gets involved in solving the case even as she helps her 8-month pregnant friend plan her wedding and makes decisions about her relationship with her partner, the sheriff.
This book was a bit like a Hallmark story: If you’re in the right mood, it’s lovely. This book was set in the end of the year - Halloween through Christmas - with lots of the feel good vibes that the holiday season brings. As with a lot of cozy mysteries, it also had featured a strong subplot of what was going on with the lives of some of the secondary characters - Estelle’s pending marriage and childbirth, for example, and delved into the background of the villain a bit, helping explain their actions.
Highly recommended if you’re looking for a nice holiday story. I received a copy of this from NetGalley.com that I voluntarily chose to review.
When Nora finds Lara’s journal (the tattered cover in the title), she gets involved in solving the case even as she helps her 8-month pregnant friend plan her wedding and makes decisions about her relationship with her partner, the sheriff.
This book was a bit like a Hallmark story: If you’re in the right mood, it’s lovely. This book was set in the end of the year - Halloween through Christmas - with lots of the feel good vibes that the holiday season brings. As with a lot of cozy mysteries, it also had featured a strong subplot of what was going on with the lives of some of the secondary characters - Estelle’s pending marriage and childbirth, for example, and delved into the background of the villain a bit, helping explain their actions.
Highly recommended if you’re looking for a nice holiday story. I received a copy of this from NetGalley.com that I voluntarily chose to review.
August 13, 2025
In the eighth instalment of The Secret, Book, & Scone Society by Ellery Adams, Nora Pennington, Bibliotherapist and owner of Miracle Books, is hosting her first author event. A Psychic Medium named Lara Lutz will be reading from her new memoir and doing a few private sessions with paying guests.
The event has a few hitches, including a power outage, a sick author, and some unexpected guests, and despite Nora trying her best to keep her composure, her intuition is telling her those are the least of her problems for the night. When Lara dies seemingly from heart failure, right in the readers circle, Nora is disappointed to have been proven right.
As always, this series delivers the perfect blend of book references, cozy characters, and delightful treats. I love spending time with the girls - Nora, Hester, Estella, and June - as well as Nora’s partner Grant and her employee Sheldon. I love that over the course of the seven books in the series, I’ve truly been able to picture these characters and they hold such a special spot in my heart.
This book focuses a lot more on the mystery, and the characters (especially Estella who is experiencing some major life milestones) than some of the others in the series. I did find myself missing the miraculous power of Nora’s bibliotherapy, Hester’s comfort scones, Estella’s empowering hair styling, and June’s cozy knitwear. Because of that, I wouldn’t suggest a new reader starting with this book; however, loyal readers of the series will love Nora’s latest adventure!
Thank you to NetGalley, Kensington Publishing, and Ellery Adam’s for a e-ARC of The Tattered Cover in exchange for an honest review.
The event has a few hitches, including a power outage, a sick author, and some unexpected guests, and despite Nora trying her best to keep her composure, her intuition is telling her those are the least of her problems for the night. When Lara dies seemingly from heart failure, right in the readers circle, Nora is disappointed to have been proven right.
As always, this series delivers the perfect blend of book references, cozy characters, and delightful treats. I love spending time with the girls - Nora, Hester, Estella, and June - as well as Nora’s partner Grant and her employee Sheldon. I love that over the course of the seven books in the series, I’ve truly been able to picture these characters and they hold such a special spot in my heart.
This book focuses a lot more on the mystery, and the characters (especially Estella who is experiencing some major life milestones) than some of the others in the series. I did find myself missing the miraculous power of Nora’s bibliotherapy, Hester’s comfort scones, Estella’s empowering hair styling, and June’s cozy knitwear. Because of that, I wouldn’t suggest a new reader starting with this book; however, loyal readers of the series will love Nora’s latest adventure!
Thank you to NetGalley, Kensington Publishing, and Ellery Adam’s for a e-ARC of The Tattered Cover in exchange for an honest review.
August 19, 2025
It is a dark and stormy night and Nora will be hosting her first author event. Lara Lutz a Psychic Medium is going to read from her new book. The book is a memoir, as well as doing a handful of private readings.
The event does not exactly go as Nora would like. Especially when during the private readings Lara ends up dying.
Nora is convinced that Lara was murdered, even as some are saying it was her bad heart. When Nora finds Lara’s journal in Miracle Books she comes to the conclusion that Lara was definitely not a very nice person.
Nora, Hester, June and Estella jump into helping with the investigation.
Every visit to Miracle Springs has me wishing it was a real place. I could definitely see myself curled up on a chair in Miracle Books with a mug of tea and a good book.
I have always loved the relationship between the ladies as the characters grow and develop. Love my visits to Miracle Springs getting to spend time with the ladies, Sheldon, Grant and Charlie is a wonderful addition. They have all found a special place in my heart.
Thank you NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for the opportunity to read this book.
The event does not exactly go as Nora would like. Especially when during the private readings Lara ends up dying.
Nora is convinced that Lara was murdered, even as some are saying it was her bad heart. When Nora finds Lara’s journal in Miracle Books she comes to the conclusion that Lara was definitely not a very nice person.
Nora, Hester, June and Estella jump into helping with the investigation.
Every visit to Miracle Springs has me wishing it was a real place. I could definitely see myself curled up on a chair in Miracle Books with a mug of tea and a good book.
I have always loved the relationship between the ladies as the characters grow and develop. Love my visits to Miracle Springs getting to spend time with the ladies, Sheldon, Grant and Charlie is a wonderful addition. They have all found a special place in my heart.
Thank you NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for the opportunity to read this book.
August 22, 2025
A Captivating Mystery with a Heartwarming Setting.
The Tattered Cover" by Ellery Adams
This cozy mystery is absolutely wonderful! I loved Nora's story and her friends, Hester and Estella June. Having already read "The Little Lost Library," it was so gratifying to follow Nora's journey again.
The story, set in the beautiful Fall season, is just perfect. Ellery Adams always crafts captivating stories, and I really enjoy her North Carolina settings since I used to live there. Nora's bookstore is a place that gives me so much peace and always brings a smile to my face.
If you're looking for a cozy mystery set in a small town, "The Tattered Cover" is definitely for you. I give it 5 stars without a second thought!
The Tattered Cover" by Ellery Adams
This cozy mystery is absolutely wonderful! I loved Nora's story and her friends, Hester and Estella June. Having already read "The Little Lost Library," it was so gratifying to follow Nora's journey again.
The story, set in the beautiful Fall season, is just perfect. Ellery Adams always crafts captivating stories, and I really enjoy her North Carolina settings since I used to live there. Nora's bookstore is a place that gives me so much peace and always brings a smile to my face.
If you're looking for a cozy mystery set in a small town, "The Tattered Cover" is definitely for you. I give it 5 stars without a second thought!
August 11, 2025
review to come
July 15, 2025
This is another book in the Secret Scone and Book society series. Nora joins in on the holiday festivities by hosting medium memoirist Lara Luz at the bookstore. This sets off a series of events that involve the book members and the local community. This was an enjoyable read and I look forward to more books in this series.
August 8, 2025
Nora Pennington, owner of Miracle Books in Miracle Springs, North Carolina, is surprised when an author wants to do a reading and signing at her small bookstore. But urged by her employee and friend Sheldon, she agrees. When that turns out to be successful, she organizes a mixed signing by several authors just before Halloween. Among them is Lara Luz, a psychic who wants to read from her memoir and then has agreed to do special readings for a small number of attendees. Among them are a widower, a nurse, and surprisingly, Deputy Hollowell, a K9 officer who's clashed with Nora from the day she came into town. But, if this is a success as well, Nora will be able to hold more.
Unfortunately, it isn't. The lights go out due to a storm, and Lara is struck down, supposedly from a bad heart. When Nora tries to help, Lara's partner pushes her, and Nora strikes her head and passes out. When she awakens, she discovers that Lara is dead, and she eventually learns that it was murder. Her own partner, Sheriff Grant McCabe, wants her to stay out of it because she received a concussion, but Nora and her friends are curious enough to want to know who murdered her -- Nora is concerned that her reputation will be tarnished by the murder in her store -- so they still do their own investigation. When Nora accidentally finds Lara's personal journal, she sees that the woman kept track of her clients.
But it's more than that. When she starts to decipher Lara's code, something sinister pops up...and it might just be the key to why Lara was killed...
This is the eighth book in the series, and I have loved them all. I have grown fond of the people in Miracle Springs, and have even felt for them and their own secrets and pain. Once you journey to a town in books, if the writer is good enough (and Ms. Adams certain is), you want to return again and again.
This book does not disappoint. I do not want to say too much about it, because I want the reader to enjoy their own travels to Miracle Springs. I will say that finding the murderer isn't easy, and the answers aren't always the ones that come with the clues. The conclusion was definitely surprising; the story was intriguing and even dark at times. But all this added to the suspense and the enjoyment of the tale.
Nora has her own decisions to face; Estella is looking at a new life to come forth; and even Hester may find some changes coming to her. But even the subplots are part of the main plot, and it's pulling you into the story almost from the start. I read this one through in one sitting, which I rarely do. All I can say now is that when you get the chance to read this, do so. You will not be disappointed. Highly recommended.
I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley but this in no way influenced my review.
Unfortunately, it isn't. The lights go out due to a storm, and Lara is struck down, supposedly from a bad heart. When Nora tries to help, Lara's partner pushes her, and Nora strikes her head and passes out. When she awakens, she discovers that Lara is dead, and she eventually learns that it was murder. Her own partner, Sheriff Grant McCabe, wants her to stay out of it because she received a concussion, but Nora and her friends are curious enough to want to know who murdered her -- Nora is concerned that her reputation will be tarnished by the murder in her store -- so they still do their own investigation. When Nora accidentally finds Lara's personal journal, she sees that the woman kept track of her clients.
But it's more than that. When she starts to decipher Lara's code, something sinister pops up...and it might just be the key to why Lara was killed...
This is the eighth book in the series, and I have loved them all. I have grown fond of the people in Miracle Springs, and have even felt for them and their own secrets and pain. Once you journey to a town in books, if the writer is good enough (and Ms. Adams certain is), you want to return again and again.
This book does not disappoint. I do not want to say too much about it, because I want the reader to enjoy their own travels to Miracle Springs. I will say that finding the murderer isn't easy, and the answers aren't always the ones that come with the clues. The conclusion was definitely surprising; the story was intriguing and even dark at times. But all this added to the suspense and the enjoyment of the tale.
Nora has her own decisions to face; Estella is looking at a new life to come forth; and even Hester may find some changes coming to her. But even the subplots are part of the main plot, and it's pulling you into the story almost from the start. I read this one through in one sitting, which I rarely do. All I can say now is that when you get the chance to read this, do so. You will not be disappointed. Highly recommended.
I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley but this in no way influenced my review.
September 3, 2025
Ellery Adams' fantastic A Secret, Book, and Scone Society series is one of my favorite cozy mystery reads. And since autumn is approaching and thoughts of the upcoming holidays are impossible to ignore, I especially enjoyed the creative way Miracle Books' display window is painstakingly designed and executed by employee Sheldon and his boss, Nora, first for Halloween and later for the Thanksgiving-to-Christmas timeframe.
But, in The Tattered Cover, book #8 in the series, there is more afoot than holiday preparations. The store's first author reading and book signing is a big success, leading Nora to schedule yet another author, a medium whose memoir has just been published. Lara believes that a childhood lightning strike brought on her psychic talents and agrees to do a private seance for six paying customers after the reading. The weather is brutal, and when the power goes out during the seance, the author collapses and dies in front of those in attendance. She had been feeling under the weather, but was her demise from natural causes or something more dastardly?
Nora's detective beau's investigation reveals that there were several people at the bookstore that night--some of them local residents--who had an axe to grind with Lara. Her journal is found, and there are hopes it will help solve the mystery, but it seems it was written in some sort of code. Nora and her close friends put their heads together to decipher the journal, but their progress is slow, and another suspicious death occurs.
It is an interesting mystery, but what I particularly love about these books is the tight circle of supportive friends Nora has established--each with troubling secrets in her background, as Nora does. They have confided in each other and found a measure of redemption and relief in so doing. I also like the mature relationship between Nora and Detective McCabe, which continues to develop in this book. Among Nora's friends, there is also a pregnancy and a wedding to relish. I look forward to each new entry in this well-written series and am always ready to return to Miracle Springs.
My review is based on a complimentary pre-release copy of this book.
But, in The Tattered Cover, book #8 in the series, there is more afoot than holiday preparations. The store's first author reading and book signing is a big success, leading Nora to schedule yet another author, a medium whose memoir has just been published. Lara believes that a childhood lightning strike brought on her psychic talents and agrees to do a private seance for six paying customers after the reading. The weather is brutal, and when the power goes out during the seance, the author collapses and dies in front of those in attendance. She had been feeling under the weather, but was her demise from natural causes or something more dastardly?
Nora's detective beau's investigation reveals that there were several people at the bookstore that night--some of them local residents--who had an axe to grind with Lara. Her journal is found, and there are hopes it will help solve the mystery, but it seems it was written in some sort of code. Nora and her close friends put their heads together to decipher the journal, but their progress is slow, and another suspicious death occurs.
It is an interesting mystery, but what I particularly love about these books is the tight circle of supportive friends Nora has established--each with troubling secrets in her background, as Nora does. They have confided in each other and found a measure of redemption and relief in so doing. I also like the mature relationship between Nora and Detective McCabe, which continues to develop in this book. Among Nora's friends, there is also a pregnancy and a wedding to relish. I look forward to each new entry in this well-written series and am always ready to return to Miracle Springs.
My review is based on a complimentary pre-release copy of this book.
August 10, 2025
The Tattered Cover by Ellery Adams is the eighth book in the Secret, Book, & Scone Society series. I feel each book in this series just gets better with the characters constantly evolving and changing. In this story we have a wedding, a murder, and a baby. There is love, heartbreak, betrayal, friendship, and laughter.
It is Halloween time and Nora Pennington is hosting her second author event in the history of Miracle Books. The season is a perfect time to have medium Lara Luz talk about her memoir and do a small reading at the store. During the reading, the lights go out and Lara complains about her heart, and then dies. It seems a natural death, but Deputy Hollowell is at the reading and treats it as suspicious and takes photos of the scene.
Nora finds Lara’s journal later and concludes that Lara wasn’t a nice person and was probably coercing clients into paying more for readings or maybe even extorting clients. As the gang investigates, the story takes some turns that leave you wondering what is going on. Why did people lie about knowing Lara? You have to feel for Allie and Deputy Hollowell as things are brought to light in this book.
Sheldon and his decorating of the storefront window is one of the best things about this series. I love how he takes story time to new heights each time and the love he has for his job. Charlie has been a terrific addition to the cast of characters in this series. The quotes at the beginning of each chapter are fun and I really appreciate the bibliography at the end of all the books mentioned in the story. I hope that this series has a long life because it is so much fun.
Events from The Little Lost Library come into play in this story and we find out more about Deputy Hollowell and what brought her to Miracle Springs. I can’t say enough good things about this book and the characters in it.
Thank you NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
It is Halloween time and Nora Pennington is hosting her second author event in the history of Miracle Books. The season is a perfect time to have medium Lara Luz talk about her memoir and do a small reading at the store. During the reading, the lights go out and Lara complains about her heart, and then dies. It seems a natural death, but Deputy Hollowell is at the reading and treats it as suspicious and takes photos of the scene.
Nora finds Lara’s journal later and concludes that Lara wasn’t a nice person and was probably coercing clients into paying more for readings or maybe even extorting clients. As the gang investigates, the story takes some turns that leave you wondering what is going on. Why did people lie about knowing Lara? You have to feel for Allie and Deputy Hollowell as things are brought to light in this book.
Sheldon and his decorating of the storefront window is one of the best things about this series. I love how he takes story time to new heights each time and the love he has for his job. Charlie has been a terrific addition to the cast of characters in this series. The quotes at the beginning of each chapter are fun and I really appreciate the bibliography at the end of all the books mentioned in the story. I hope that this series has a long life because it is so much fun.
Events from The Little Lost Library come into play in this story and we find out more about Deputy Hollowell and what brought her to Miracle Springs. I can’t say enough good things about this book and the characters in it.
Thank you NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 3, 2025
𝑺𝒉𝒆 𝒌𝒏𝒆𝒘 𝒉𝒐𝒘 𝒑𝒐𝒊𝒔𝒐𝒏𝒐𝒖𝒔 𝒍𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒃𝒆. 𝑯𝒐𝒘 𝒊𝒕 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒅𝒊𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒊𝒔𝒉 𝒉𝒐𝒑𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒎𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒎𝒐𝒔𝒕 𝒕𝒆𝒏𝒅𝒆𝒓 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒕 𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒏 𝒃𝒊𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒓.
I adore this series, and this installment was everything I hoped for. With temperatures already near sweltering, it was glorious to escape to fall in Miracle Springs, North Carolina, where residents of this charming small town are gearing up for Halloween by selecting the perfect costume, planning parties, and getting to work on the perfect spooky decor. Miracle Books proprietor Nora Pennington embraces the Halloween festivities by hosting an author event featuring psychic Lara Luz and her newly published memoir.
Lara enthralls the audience with the tale of how her abilities began. She was struck by lightning as a child and pronounced dead only to be resurrected with the ability to connect with those on the other side of the veil. A mysterious gift to be revered, or the storytelling of a charlatan? Before anyone can find out, Lara is struck dead during a brief power outage.
When Nora finds a strange journal belonging to the woman, she realizes that the chances of Lara dying of natural causes are slim. Once again, she must unravel a dark mystery to bring the truth to light.
The mystery is always a bonus in these books. The author has created such a sense of sisterhood, identity, and acceptance within the pages of each installment that I'm able to completely disconnect from real life and become an honorary resident of Miracle Springs, even if only for a while. Many thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Books for this early copy. Look for this one on October 28, 2025.
I adore this series, and this installment was everything I hoped for. With temperatures already near sweltering, it was glorious to escape to fall in Miracle Springs, North Carolina, where residents of this charming small town are gearing up for Halloween by selecting the perfect costume, planning parties, and getting to work on the perfect spooky decor. Miracle Books proprietor Nora Pennington embraces the Halloween festivities by hosting an author event featuring psychic Lara Luz and her newly published memoir.
Lara enthralls the audience with the tale of how her abilities began. She was struck by lightning as a child and pronounced dead only to be resurrected with the ability to connect with those on the other side of the veil. A mysterious gift to be revered, or the storytelling of a charlatan? Before anyone can find out, Lara is struck dead during a brief power outage.
When Nora finds a strange journal belonging to the woman, she realizes that the chances of Lara dying of natural causes are slim. Once again, she must unravel a dark mystery to bring the truth to light.
The mystery is always a bonus in these books. The author has created such a sense of sisterhood, identity, and acceptance within the pages of each installment that I'm able to completely disconnect from real life and become an honorary resident of Miracle Springs, even if only for a while. Many thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Books for this early copy. Look for this one on October 28, 2025.
August 13, 2025
On a dark and rainy Halloween night Nora Pennington hosts medium Lora Luz to talk about her memoir and do a reading for a small group of ticket holders, including the recently widowed pharmacist, a mystery author, the mother of Nora's newest employee, even Nora's nemesis, Deputy Hollowell. When Lara dies before the readings are finished, some say it was her bad heart. Nora disagrees and believes she was murdered. The Secret, Book and Scone Society crew jumps into the fray to investigate.
Miracle Springs is another of Ellery Adams wonderfully created locations where I would love to live or at least visit. She has a knack for creating inviting small communities that I find enticing. She also has a gift for developing characters who are quirky and flawed yet endearing. Over this eight book series it has been delightful to watch the characters grow as well as their relationships develop and mature. I was delighted to see weddings, babies, understanding of the true character of others and acceptance of self as an integral part of the story.
This series just keeps getting better and better and I eagerly anticipate each new book.
My thanks to NetGalley and Kensington for the opportunity to read an advance reader copy of this book.
Miracle Springs is another of Ellery Adams wonderfully created locations where I would love to live or at least visit. She has a knack for creating inviting small communities that I find enticing. She also has a gift for developing characters who are quirky and flawed yet endearing. Over this eight book series it has been delightful to watch the characters grow as well as their relationships develop and mature. I was delighted to see weddings, babies, understanding of the true character of others and acceptance of self as an integral part of the story.
This series just keeps getting better and better and I eagerly anticipate each new book.
My thanks to NetGalley and Kensington for the opportunity to read an advance reader copy of this book.
September 1, 2025
The Tattered Cover
Ellery Adam’s
Book 8
Secret, Book, and Scone Society
I would like to thank Kensington Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC copy of The Tattered Cover.
This novel read like a Hallmark Movie to me. It was a very cozy kind of read. Unfortunately, this book is number 8 in the Secret, Book, and Scone Society series. I have not read any of the previous books. I enjoyed the book non-the-less because enough information was given to understand the sequence of events and the relation of the characters. The only character that I did not care for was unfortunately, the protagonist, Nora. Rather than portraying her as a sleuth, she was, in my interpretation, a busybody, prying into police business because her significant other was the sheriff.
I enjoyed the group of friends making up the S, B, and S Society and their antics. My favorite character was Sheldon, who worked in Nora’s bookstore.
This was an easy read, and it definitely has encouraged me to read the first book in the series, to try to understand Nora’s character. A solid 3 stars.
Ellery Adam’s
Book 8
Secret, Book, and Scone Society
I would like to thank Kensington Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC copy of The Tattered Cover.
This novel read like a Hallmark Movie to me. It was a very cozy kind of read. Unfortunately, this book is number 8 in the Secret, Book, and Scone Society series. I have not read any of the previous books. I enjoyed the book non-the-less because enough information was given to understand the sequence of events and the relation of the characters. The only character that I did not care for was unfortunately, the protagonist, Nora. Rather than portraying her as a sleuth, she was, in my interpretation, a busybody, prying into police business because her significant other was the sheriff.
I enjoyed the group of friends making up the S, B, and S Society and their antics. My favorite character was Sheldon, who worked in Nora’s bookstore.
This was an easy read, and it definitely has encouraged me to read the first book in the series, to try to understand Nora’s character. A solid 3 stars.
August 5, 2025
The Tattered Cover by Ellery Adams is the latest in her very popular Secret, Book and Scone Society mystery series. Ellery Adams is an author that never disappoints me. I have loved everything that I have read that she has written. This book is no different. It gave me all the feelings and I couldn’t put it down. There is a big mystery for Nora and her friends to solve and although it seems like there is a pretty obvious pick for the murderer figuring out the whys and hows are fascinating and devastating. There is also a lot of character development in this book and I loved every second of it. The best thing about Ms. Adams' books are the way she conveys everyone’s feelings and how nothing is black and white, but life is many shades of gray. I laughed, I cried and I couldn’t put this book down. Thank you for another wonderful book Ms. Adams!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this book. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this book. All opinions are my own.
August 13, 2025
There is a lot packed into this book, both good & bad! I do love to see some joy in the group with an upcoming wedding and baby to plan for, and some other relationships moving in positive directions. There are definitely several storylines running together in the story with the death of a psychic in the bookstore and the connection to another author doing a book reading. Nora is trying to put all the pieces together while getting used to living with her boyfriend and trying to decide if she wants to move back to her train car home. There are a number of suspects, some tied to the Miracle Springs crew, and some visitors. A second death causes even more chaos and suspicion and Nora is left with nagging thoughts about the perpetrator that cause problems in her own relationships. I really enjoyed this book and its ending.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy.
June 24, 2025
An unusual author with an unusual past and present has an author event at the store only to have it marred by storms, death, and a concussion. Not the usual expectations for one giving psychic readings! Add in an impromptu wedding, a hostile deputy with secrets, another murder, and a baby.
Another spellbinding read from a gifted author.
I requested and received a temporary uncorrected digital galley from Kensington Books/Kensington Cozies via NetGalley. Thank you! Available Oct 28, 2025 ***** #bookbub #goodreads #storygraph
#TheTatteredCover by @elleryadams #SecretBookAndSconeSocietyBk8 #NetGalley @kensingtonbooks
#cozymystery #crimenovel #mystery #mysteries #northcarolina #smallbusiness #smalltown #psychicmedium #authors #bookseller #localcops #secrets #lies, #relatives #friendship #ruses #librarything #murderinvestigation
Another spellbinding read from a gifted author.
I requested and received a temporary uncorrected digital galley from Kensington Books/Kensington Cozies via NetGalley. Thank you! Available Oct 28, 2025 ***** #bookbub #goodreads #storygraph
#TheTatteredCover by @elleryadams #SecretBookAndSconeSocietyBk8 #NetGalley @kensingtonbooks
#cozymystery #crimenovel #mystery #mysteries #northcarolina #smallbusiness #smalltown #psychicmedium #authors #bookseller #localcops #secrets #lies, #relatives #friendship #ruses #librarything #murderinvestigation
August 25, 2025
Miracle Springs, much like Three Pines, is a place I'd be more than happy to call home. The town is just the right size, with cozy shops and a cast of characters that feel like family. Ellery Adams has done a fabulous job creating this found community and keeping each new installment of the series fresh. This latest offering takes place between Halloween and Christmas and has all the right Hallmark feels.
The Tattered Cover is the 8th book in the series and we've become familiar with the friends, the bookstore and their community. I would sure enjoy some bibliotherapy and a cup of Sheldon's delicious coffee. In fact, I always finish one of these books with a list of new books to add to my TBR list. So thank you Ellery Adams for that. :)
And thank you NetGalley and Kensington publishing for the ARC of The Tattered Cover. Very much enjoyed !
The Tattered Cover is the 8th book in the series and we've become familiar with the friends, the bookstore and their community. I would sure enjoy some bibliotherapy and a cup of Sheldon's delicious coffee. In fact, I always finish one of these books with a list of new books to add to my TBR list. So thank you Ellery Adams for that. :)
And thank you NetGalley and Kensington publishing for the ARC of The Tattered Cover. Very much enjoyed !
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