Ink and Shadows

Secret, Book, & Scone Society #4

by Ellery Adams

This large print edition features an easy-to-read larger type size while preserving the complete text of the original edition.

Ellery Adams, the author of multiple New York Times bestselling mystery series and a perennial B&N bestseller, offers the fourth in her beguiling cozy mystery series featuring a librarian-turned-bookseller with a penchant for bibliotherapy and a sideline in solving crime. While people visit Miracle Springs for healing treatments, it's Nora who helps them find peace by prescribing the perfect book along with a fresh-baked scone. After all, sometimes the key to happiness, friendship—or solving a murder—can simply be found within the pages of the right book…



Controversy erupts in Miracle Springs, North Carolina, when the owner of the local bookstore tries to play peacekeeper—but winds up playing detective instead…



Known for her window displays, Nora Pennington decides to showcase fictional heroines like Roald Dahl's Matilda and Madeline Miller's Circe for Halloween. But a family-values group disapproves of the magical themes and wastes no time launching a modern-day witch hunt. Suddenly, former friends and customers are targeting not only Nora and Miracle Books, but a new shopkeeper, Celeste, who's been selling CBD oil products.



Nora and her friends in the Secret, Book, and Scone Society are doing their best to put an end to the strife—but then someone puts an end to a life. Declared an accident, the ruling can't explain the old book page covered with strange symbols and disturbing drawings left under Nora's doormat. It's up to Nora and the Secret, Book, and Scone Society to sort out the clues before more bodies turn up and the secrets from Celeste's past come back to haunt them all…

Genres: Mystery, Cozy Mystery, Fiction, Cozy, Audiobook, Books About Books, Romance

476 pages, Paperback

First published January 26, 2021

About the author

USA Today and New York Times bestseller author Ellery Adams has written over forty novels. A Native New Yorker, she now lives 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).

Ellery also writes genre-blending fiction focusing on women and their inner monsters. Her first release in this exciting new direction is Invasive Species (2026). Friends in Dark places will follow in 2027.

For book club guides, bibliotherapy lists, and recipes, please visit www.elleryadamsbooks.com

Reviews

[Tina Loves To Read · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a cozy mystery, and this is the 4th book in the Secret, Book, and Scone Society series. I have read the other books in this series. I really enjoy the characters in this series, and I also enjoyed the mystery in this book. This book was well-written. I feel there is points of this book that the pacing is off. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher (Kensington) or author (Ellery Adams) via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review about how I feel about this book, and I want to send a big Thank you to them for that.

[PamG · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ink and Shadows by Ellery Adams brings a fresh setting and engaging characters to this southern cozy mystery. An independent book store, Miracle Books, is owned by Nora Pennington. She’s known for her window displays and her ability to match customers with the perfect book. As Halloween approaches, she decides to showcase fictional heroines. A family values group disapproves of her choices and when she won’t remove the display, they target her business as well as a couple of other local businesses.

Nora and her friends in the Secret, Book, and Scone Society book club try to end the discord, but soon Nora finds a dead body. Was it an accident, murder or suicide? Does it relate to the protests or is something else happening in the small town of Miracle Springs, North Carolina? Of course, Nora and her friends investigate.

Nora, as well as several of the other characters, are well developed, flawed, and complex. There’s also a lot of chemistry between Nora and Jed and between Nora and Sheriff Grant McCabe. However, romance is a very minor part of the story. The secondary characters provide additional interest and conflict.

Secrets, misunderstandings, difficult pasts, greed, family, friendship, tragedy, romance, and humor keep the story moving at a good clip. This novel isn’t super twisty, but had a few surprises along the way. A lot of loose ends were tied up at the end, but the reader has no clues to a couple of them other than through the reveal. I would have preferred some clues along the way. I enjoyed all of the literary references. How many of the books mentioned have you read? Additionally, the novel contains a list of books mentioned in the novel.

Overall, the novel was engrossing and entertaining. Each chapter starts with a quote. Which will be your favorite? This is the fourth book in the Secret, Book, and Scone Society Novel series and I am looking forward to reading the next one. However, I also want to go back and read the first three novels in the series.

I received a physical copy of this book from Kensington Books and the author in a Goodreads Giveaway. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date was January 26, 2021.

[Tina Loves To Read · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a cozy mystery, and this is the fourth book in the Secret, Book, and Scone Society series. I have read the other books in this series. I really enjoy the characters in this series, and I also enjoyed the mystery in this book. This book was well-written. I feel there is points of this book that the pacing is off. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher (Kensington) or author (Ellery Adams) via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review about how I feel about this book, and I want to send a big Thank you to them for that.

[Judy · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a cute cover! and who can resist a bookstore setting for a novel? This is the fourth book in the Secret, Book & Scone Society series, but only the second one I've read. I love the character in the society, especially Nora, the owner. It's really just a group of friends with a penchant for solving mysteries, and they have a big one this time. There's a new resident of the small town of Mineral Springs who is opening a new shop called Soothe, with her daughter. But trouble has followed her to town and the mystery begins.

This is definitely a cozy mystery and is very enjoyable with all the homey touches of the bookstore, the bake shop, and the friendly sheriff. I loved my time immersed in this book and I hope to return to this series with the next installment.

Thanks to Kensington Books through Netgalley for an advance copy.

[The Sassy Bookworm · Rating 4 out of 5]

Half way through this book, I realized I had read book one in the series. 🙈 In that book, I wasn't a huge fan of Nora. She was a lot more likable in this book, for sure. Although, I am confused about the Jed/Sheriff triangle. Does she have feelings for them both? Someone enlighten me...😂

Anywho, carrying on, like the first book, this is truly a bibliophile's dream. I love the book quotes at the start of each chapter. The many authors and books listed. It just warms this bookworms heart. The story itself was well written. The mysterie(s) were well plotted. Again, I found this book to be darker than your typical "cozy" mystery. Especially that scene at the end...oy vey, it brought tears to my eyes. The characters themselves are likable. I love how they interact with each other. I love the small-town setting.

I really can't think of anything that I didn't like. 🤷

**Arc Via NetGalley**

[Kate Baxter · Rating 4 out of 5]

This fourth book in the excellent, "A Secret, Book and Scone Society" cozy mystery series was every bit as good as its predecessors. Yet, as for it being a cozy, it holds a bit more gravitas than others of its genre. The "society" is a small group of women, each dealing with their past and personal brokenness which, in shared friendship, seeks to serve its community well through kindness and generosity. However, in this installment, that kindness is truly put to the test as a group of holier than thou women protest the wholesomeness of the shops of each of the society members, as well as that of the newest female-owned herbal/CBD shop. It's hard enough to run a business without the added pressures the protestors bring to the fore. Sales slide and the women worry. Meanwhile, the daughter of the new herbal shop's owner is observed at the Hope and Blues festival with a nefarious fellow. Shortly thereafter a body is found by Nora near her home and the mystery is afoot.

Albeit lightly, this story deals with some rather difficult subject matter: bullying, loss of a child, addiction, fire survival, cultism and morality. Through the hearts of the well-developed characters, life's lessons are taught in a gentle and informative manner. Author Ellery Adams has yet again given readers a well-written tale with a lot of heart. I eagerly await the society's next mystery-solving tale.

I am grateful to Ellery Adams and her publisher, Kensington Books, for having provided a complimentary copy of this book through Goodreads. Their generosity, however, has not influenced this review - the words of which are mine alone.

[Linda Langford · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another wonderful, amazing story from the magical pen of Author Ellery Adams. This series has the greatest characters who are full of warmth and compassion and make every story have a happy ending. This story is centered around Nora Pennington and her bookshop, Miracle Books. Nora has the ability to match people to the books they need to read that will be therapeutic for them. Nora’s gathered a small group of phenomenal friends around her who also have special gifts they can administer to help others in need—whether it’s mental or physical needs.

This story is a bit darker than previous ones as a cult and dark magic are part of the fear tactics in the plot. I felt like I had an idea of who the murderer was but couldn’t be sure until the ending.

I always love the book references Nora applies to the refreshments she serves customers in the bookstore. I was moved when her old friend, Bobbie sought her out and immediately began to help with the crime investigation. The plot is really clever and interesting. I was practically cheering when the gang trapped the heartless killer! Bravo!

I reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and Kensington Publishing. All opinions are my own. Thank you.

[Gloria · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nora and her friends have another disturbing time with evil people who have menacing goals. This is an emotional time for Nora as she and her friends are led to help a new resident and her daughter to Miracle Springs. Unfortunately, things don't turn well for them. And her boyfriend Jed is having issues with his mom and her health. Everything is tied up neatly at the end for all the friends. I always enjoy listening to this narrator. I listened to the book via Chirp and also had the Kindle version to read.

[Grandma Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome series and narrator. A re listen for me. Charming and memorable characters. If you enjoy cozy mysteries, I highly recommend.

[Wendy · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5* An enjoyable mystery featuring bookseller Nora with her group of friends drawn into the suspicious death of Bren, a young woman newly-moved into town with her mother, Celeste. Celeste and Bren just opened a new business specializing in natural treatments like aromatherapy and herbal, CBD preparations, Meanwhile, there's a new "family-values" ladies group who are inciting protests against Celeste's store, along with Nora's bookstore and a native-American owned gift shop. Then, Celeste is murdered and Nora has the bad luck to be the one to discover her. So, like it or not, Nora is involved in trying to find the killer. This is not the first book of this series, but it is the first book I have read. Don't think this series has to be read in order. But, I'm assuming earlier books show how Nora's group of friends/ book club came about. Or, how her book shop assistant, Sheldon, came to work with her. That would have given more insight into these side characters, but it's not necessary to understanding and enjoying this book. This book is scheduled for publication in January, but I can't help but think that this would've been a perfect fall release. The book is set in autumn, on the lead-up to Halloween and the atmosphere it invokes is equal parts cozy and spooky/eerie.
**Thank you to Kensington Books for providing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review!**

[Karen Stallman · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Ink and Shadows " the 5th instalment in the "The Secret, Book & Scone Society" Mystery series by Ellery Adams. This book can be read as a standalone but I highly recommend you read in order to get the full background.

I really enjoy this series, I like how each of the four women have their own unique quality that they bring to the table as well as how they are right there to help each other out as well as a new comer to their community. As a fellow chronic pain suffer I also like how Ms. Adams portrays Sheldon with respect and dignity.

The setting of Miracle Springs sounds beautiful and I would love to visit somewhere like it on vacation and wander into a bookstore like Nora’s. Who wouldn’t want to sit look at all the books, just relax in the peaceful atmosphere.

The mystery is interesting and well plotted, with two murders to solve. I liked that herbalism, and other natural remedies took part in the story, I also found the symbolism of the statue empowering as Cecilia says broken things are still beautiful.

I highly recommend this series to all my mystery loving friends.

I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from Kensington Books and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Micky Cox · Rating 5 out of 5]

Compelling characters draw you in, but an intriguing plot will keep you entertained and delighted for hours! The main characters are group of strong, intelligent, successful women who struggle with their own insecurities and issues, but always look out for what is best for each other, their friends, other business owners and even strangers. The author does an outstanding job of bringing these ladies and their friends to life in a way that makes you connect with them and root them on. The issues that are brought up in each book are realistic and on point with many people today thus making the stories more compelling as readers can connect to either a character or storyline that reflects something they are feeling or experiencing. Throw in a murder or two and the entertainment factor just shoots up more! If you haven't started this series yet, you absolutely should! I absolutely can't wait to see where the next book takes the book club ladies and gents!

[May · Rating 3 out of 5]

In my opinion, it wasn't as good as the first 3 in the series. It felt a bit forced and predictable. Over all, it was still quite good.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ink and Shadows by Ellery Adams is a book lover’s dream. Adams incorporates so many book titles into the story and her window/table displays that I was constantly smiling with nostalgia for having read the books or stopping to look up a title and often add it to my TBR. I was so happy to see that Adams had included a list of the titles at the end of the book, in case I had missed any. And the quotes at the beginning of each chapter added another layer that bibliophiles are sure to enjoy.

Halloween is my favorite holiday so all the nods to it, along with the festivals, decorating, and books were wonderful to read about. If I owned a bookshop or still worked at the library I would copy many ideas from her Strong Women window display for next Halloween. There was an occult aspect that went with the story, but I never felt like it was scary, instead adding to the enjoyment of learning about a new topic… and it does take place around Halloween after all! Adams really does follow the theme of strong women through every aspect of the story and I really, really loved it.

This is the first book that I’ve read in the Secret, Book, and Scone mysteries but I was able to quickly get a feel for the characters and Adams added the perfect amount of background information from previous books that I never felt lost. After enjoying this one so much I’m glad I received the first book in the series, so I can read the first three and catch up.

[Cozybooklady · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again I was blown away by author Ellery Adams. Her writing style creates a world so believable, the reader is immediately transported to
Miracle Springs, where they find themselves observing the mystery unfolding around them.

I thought the premise for the story was captivating, I enjoy reading about healing, herbal remedies and the power of positive thinking. I can easily picture myself sitting in the bookstore, talking with Nora and the secret book club ladies.

I will admit I was really, really hoping that Nora and Gabe would become an item. Did they? Find out by preordering your copy now! You won’t be disappointed.

InkandShadows #NetGalley

[Peggy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ink and Shadows is the fourth book in the Secret, Book & Scone Society by the talented Ellery Adams. This series had me hooked from the very first book and Ms. Adams keeps drawing me back to these characters. At the heart of this series are the friendships, sisterhood, and bonds that these four women share and continue to strengthen. Ms. Adams invites the reader in to share in their joys, sorrows, laughter, worries, and tears. Each woman is flawed and imperfect, but together they lift each other up in friendship and help one another through their journey. Each one has their special talent and they lean on each other through each mystery until it's solved.

The mystery in this book is a bit darker than in previous books with a hint of the occult and the tragic murder of a mother and daughter, who were new to Miracle Springs. The suspects were few as we didn't get to know the victims long enough to know their history but the reader is not surprised when the killer is revealed.

Ms. Adams is a talented author whose words and stories always entertain. I'll be looking forward to the next book in the series.

I voluntarily read a digital advanced review copy provided to me by the publisher through Netgalley. The thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

[Jerri Cachero · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again, Ellery Adams takes the reader to the magical Miracle Springs. While the town may seem like the perfect "healing spot" with tourists, evil and danger are bubbling up to the surface in this book. When Nora Pennington's window display sets off a torrent of protest from a group of women, unrest and murder are the end result. Nora and the book club have to bring justice to the dead and understanding and forgiveness to the living all while solving a mystery that has many dangerous twists and turns!

Reading Ink and Shadows was like coming home and visiting old friends. I love each of the characters for their struggles and their success in overcoming tragedy and creating a new life. The relationships between the book club/sleuths is based on trust and love and it's wonderfully written. Each character brings a viewpoint that readers can identify with and it's truly a group effort.

I enjoy these books and look forward to the next mystery.

I received an ARC from NetGalley and the opinions expressed in this review are my own.

[Bridget · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Ink and Shadows, I was pleased to meet up with Nora Pennington again. The Miracle Springs, North Carolina bookshop owner is working on her renowned window displays and this time it's a Halloween theme. Unfortunately, not everyone approves of her choices of magical displays including a family-values group and her shop, Miracle Books, becomes a target for vandalism along with new shopkeeper Celeste Leopold's premises, a therapy store called Soothe. Then Nora discovers a body on the damp grass near her home and a note on her welcome mat...

This book is the fourth in the Secret, Book, & Scone Society series, but it can be enjoyed as a stand-alone, however, some character development carries over from each book.

There were secrets aplenty in this great cozy. With a super mystery, an eclectic bunch of characters, a compelling plot and a few well-placed red herrings added to the mix, this was a fantastic read that kept me on my toes. While classified as a cozy mystery, this for me, was what I would describe as a more mature and sophisticated cozy than most, as it delves into some more serious topics, such as cults than usual, though still retaining those traditional cozy qualities. I would like to read the first two books I've missed in this series as I thoroughly enjoyed Ink and Shadows. A book lover’s dream, Ellery Adams mingled many book titles into the story and her window and table displays, and I was occasionally smiling with a nostalgic fondness for having read the books or stopping to search for a title. Well done Ellery Adams!

I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley, and this review is my own unbiased opinion.

[Sam Sigelakis-Minski · Rating 4 out of 5]

Definitely my favorite in the series so far. It fixed some of the harmful stereotypes, and made Nora more likable. I also love the occult references and factoids. Still annoyed about Nora's choice in man. RTC.

Update: Full review on Sam's Beach Reads.

What I Loved:

The Secret, Book, and Scone Society. Nora has the group of friends that every woman wants: Supportive, willing to help out when times are rough, always good food and wine flowing, and filled with laughter. The women all support other women – as soon as they know Celeste is having problems, they all step in to help her with the shop and keep her fed. They are all creative and intelligent and bounce off of each others’ strengths. While in some of the prior books, I was annoyed by Hester’s moodiness, or Nora’s secretiveness, most of the problems have gone away as the women have all grown and became more trusting. Ink and Shadows brought the best out in all four of them. Also, who can’t love new characters librarian Bobbie and sassy shopkeeper Sheldon!

Attention to “Banning Books” Culture. I loved that Adams brought in a group of puritanical, preachy people that have it out for books on witchcraft, spiritual shops, and non-Christian beliefs, because Miracle Springs was getting to be a little *too* perfect. Sadly, people like that exist, and I liked that Adams faced it head-on and kept most of the town levelheaded about it. Nora’s shop display with all of the strong witchy women really spoke to me – I would live in a bookstore like that! And it really speaks of a safe space for all members of the community. I am a huge supporter in all literature being available and ready to be read, regardless of opinion, and loved seeing Nora champion the cause with her combination of class and secret sass. It was also awesome seeing “young readers” and I loved how Adams peppered Ink and Shadows with great YA recommendations.

(Semi-related) The Witchery. Magic permeates Ink and Shadows, from the angel Juliana that guards Celeste, to the spooky grimoire, to the witchy women in the window (say that three times fast) at Miracle Books. The Secret, Book, and Scone Society series has always had a hint of magical realism in Nora’s bibliotherapy abilities and Hester’s comfort scone creations, but this is the first book in the series the bring in more overtly magical elements. I loved every minute of it!

What Didn’t Work as Well (for me):

The Murder Mysteries. I often have a hard time when books kill people I like, no matter long long I have known the character or predicted the murder. Ink and Shadows was no exception, so you can probably take this with a grain of salt. Furthermore, I thought the method of murders to be creative and interesting, and I learned something new while reading this, so no issue there. However, I disliked the big reveal and felt like the actual mystery was too nebulous to the plot itself – this felt more like a great women’s literature book with some murders thrown in. This wasn’t a deal breaker for me, but it may be for some diehard cozy fans.

Nora/Jed/ the Sheriff. Okay, I think we can *all* agree Jed was an unmitigated ass in this book. He puts unnecessary demands on Nora, and is largely absent from Ink and Shadows. While his absence was completely understandable given the circumstances (taking care of his ill mother), his attitude and behavior was completely unjustified. Nora as a heroine is very likable, and it is frustrating seeing her stressed over “a boy.” On the contrary, the sheriff is solicitous, there for Nora, and keeps her company. Nora experiences a minor twinge of feelings for the sheriff before Jed comes to his senses, and I am very concerned that this is going to lead to a love triangle. No thank you. I hope that Adams either fixes Jed, or brings Nora and the sheriff together officially.

[Melissa P. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book series makes me hungry for both books and food. I love that they always talk about other books (giving me ideas for future reads or remembering fondly a book I've already read). As for the food, a lot of the dinners and desserts they talk about in the books can make your mouth water. This particular book was very, very good. I loved the new characters like Bren, Celeste, etc. I still love the main characters and their friendships. Not only that but how independent and smart they all are. I would like to add one quote one of the ladies said. I feel like it's important and maybe it will help someone or at least make them smile. "Why do women have such a hard time letting people take care of us? It makes no sense because the better we feel, the more we can do. The more we can give. Instead, we take care of everybody else until we're running on fumes. When are we going to learn that self-care isn't selfish?" How very true. I highly recommend this book and series. Happy reading! 😊☕️📕

[LORI CASWELL · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dollycas’s Thoughts

Secret, Book, and Scone Society Members

Nora, the owner of Miracle Books, tries to heal people’s woes with a unique set of books she personally selects for them.

Hester runs the Gingerbread House bakery. Customers tell her a little bit about their lives and what brought them to Miracle Springs. Then she bakes them up a “comfort scone”.

June works at the hot springs spa where people come to rejuvenate themselves.

Estella is a beautician who tries to help her clients find their true selves.

The latest amazing window display at Miracle Books highlights a group of fictional heroines and their stories that are perfect for Halloween. While many find the display fantastic a small group of women taunting family values have found the display offensive and plan to protest and boycott the store and make sure others do the same. It is not just Nora’s shop feeling the group’s ire. They are also targeting Red Bird Gallery and Gifts, and Soothe, a new shop that has just opened selling CBD oil products. Nora is livid and calls for a Secret, Book, and Scone Society meeting to find ways to thwart the “Women of Lasting Values Society”‘s efforts.

Meanwhile, Celeste Leopold and her daughter Bren are busy getting everything in Soothe the way they want it, hoping to draw in plenty of customers that can be helped by their products. Bren does not seem to be happy with their move to Miracle Springs though.

Later at the Farm to Table Festival Nora and her friends notice Bren sitting with a man they don’t recognize. After an altercation, the man takes off. Nora tries to talk to Bren and lets her know that she was there if Bren ever needs to talk. But before Bren can take her up on the offer Nora finds the young woman dead near her home and a very old page from a book filled with strange symbols and drawings under her doormat. The death is ruled accidental but Nora knows there is much more to the story. The Secret, Book, and Scone Society has a new case and they believe their key to finding the killer is in Bren and her mother’s past.

Ellery Adams is a treasure and so are her characters. The women of the Secret, Book, and Scone Society are so cleverly crafted. They all have their strengths and huge hearts supporting each other through thick and thin but also reaching out to help others in need.

In Ink and Shadows, they take Celeste under their wings as she deals with the death of her daughter. Helping out in her shop, bringing her dinner, and staying to share time with her. They also use their sleuthing techniques to try to find out who killed Bren and why. While these women have special “gifts”, they are so real, genuine, compassionate, and empathic even when they are facing their own drama. I quickly became invested in their lives while reading the first book in this series and with each subsequent book they draw me in even more.

I just have to say also that Sheldon is an excellent addition to this series. He is a perfect fit among this strong group of women. He is dealing with his own trials every day but fights to live his life to the fullest.

The mysteries included in this fourth book of the series were so interesting and intriguing. I really found myself caught up by the book page with the symbols and the mysterious book it came from along with Celeste and Bren’s life before coming to Miracle Springs. The book was very well-plotted with several surprises. I enjoyed the way so many members of the community were involved in the story. I was cheering when Nora got help with the family values group from some unexpected people and the way their ideas changed the landscape of many people’s thoughts.

Ms. Adams continues to feature some hot-button topics in her stories. I loved a scene where bullying was discussed. Nora continues to deal with the aftermath of her fire and that took a big step within these pages too, I hate to mention other topics because I don’t want to give too much of the story away.

The author drops a lot of diverse book titles throughout these books and she thoughtfully includes a full list at the end of the book. I always find myself highlighting several while I am reading to investigate later. The quotes at the beginning of each chapter are often very thought-provoking as well.

There was also one passage voiced by June that I would love to make into a poster:

“To me getting lucky is reading something so magical that I’m put under the book’s spell. That book owns me. I can’t think of anything else until I finish it. And I can’t think about anything else for days afterward. And the next book I read is doomed. It can’t take the place of the magic book. But I keep reading. I keep reading because I know that feeling will come along again.”

I totally agree with June.

Because of the theme of the series and the subjects presented I know a lot of research goes into each book so the length of time between each book release is very understandable. This book originally came out while I was dealing with my cancer treatments and I didn’t get to read it until now. The good thing about that is I only have to wait about a month before The Vanishing Type is released and I am so happy about that. Stay tuned I will be sharing my thoughts about that one soon.

Note – book does include some explicit language.

[Lisa Leone-campbell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nora Pennington, our beloved local Miracle Springs bookstore owner seems to have settled down quite nicely into her new town. Her store, with help from her new employee an older gentleman named Sheldon, is doing a brisk business. Her relationship with Jed seems to be going well and her friends in the Secret, Book and Scone Society are…well, as Sheldon says “the magical women of this town.”

But none of that will last very long.

With Halloween fast approaching, Nora and Sheldon must decide what type of outdoor window display they want to create. Usually the town appreciates the creative displays, but this year one of the mother’s from an organization has decided the display is unacceptable. Her group decides to cause quite a scene in the town by boycotting the bookstore as well as other shops she feels are inappropriate. With ads placed in the newspaper, picketers outside and vandalism, the stores begin to suffer.

One of these businesses is a new shop named Soothe which sells CBD oils and other products, along with many healing herbs. The new shopkeeper Celeste and her teenage daughter Bren have just moved to Miracle Springs. Celeste is hoping to start a new life for them both while Bren unfortunately is only angered by the move and seems to resent her mother.

When Bren dies suddenly on Nora’s property and she finds pages with symbols on them which seem to have been torn out of a very old book left under her doormat, she begins to think this is may not be the accidental death the coroner has claimed.

So as they do, the Secret, Book and Scone Society jumps into action by assisting Celeste in her shop as she grieves for her daughter. But when Nora finds a threatening postcard addressed to Celeste, she realizes Celeste must be hiding secrets from her previous life with Bren from their former town.

As for those pages with symbols, Nora knows someone who could decipher them. But that would mean calling a person from her own past, a past she would rather not revisit, and friends she has had no contact with since she fled her own former life. But Nora feels responsible in some way for Bren’s death and must make peace with the idea of exposing her new present to someone from her past. What could these pages possibly mean? Where is the book they were torn out of? And how do they connect to Celeste and Bren?

In Ink and Shadows there is murder, mystery, mayhem, chaos and wonderfully empowered funny women who have all gone through major life crisis and who have come out on the other end with a great sense of passion for life and sympathy and understanding for others in this wonderful town Ellery Adams has created.

And finally, just another reason to love Adams, throughout the story she places her own book selections with an appendix at the end of the book. So know that while you read this mystery with a town full of loving and caring people…well most of them, you can perhaps find your next read while trying to solve a murder!

Thank you #NetGalley #Kensington #InkandShadows #ElleryAdams for the advanced copy.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the only series that I have been very constant with has been this one, and Ellery Adams consistently delivers in each Secret, Book, & Scone Society installment. Ink and Shadows is book 4, and I not only loved the Halloween vibes but the look into banned books as well. Nora and her friend/employee Sheldon cause quite a ruckus in town when they create a banned books window display, and this basically becomes the backdrop of the story. I ended up learning some interesting information about banned books that I didn't previously know, and I love that each of the books in this series is able to teach me something different.

There is a helpful list of some characters in the front of the book, as well as a list of bibliotherapy titles at the end which I especially loved. Nora is known for her bibliotherapy throughout all the books in this series and this is a special thing that I haven't seen in any other series or book. As with the other installments, there is a lot going on besides what I have mentioned here (including murder of course) and there is more than enough to keep the reader interested. As with all the books in the series, Ink and Shadows can easily be read as a standalone thanks to Adams providing some information on what happened in prior books, but I still recommend starting at the beginning so as to not miss a second of these characters arcs. Cozy mystery fans and lovers of bookish books, this is for you.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Taryn · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this next book of the series we find Nora picturing her new window display and the strong women at the forefront. Once the display is up Nora couldn't be happier that is until a family values group makes a stink about some of the subjects in the window. Anything they feel is remotely magical or cult like they disapprove of and want gone, which happens to include other stores not just her bookstore. Nora and her friends are doing all they can to settle the other shopkeepers and figure out a way to quiet the disapproving group. When a death occurs the police declare it accidental but Nora doesn't believe that to be true. She gathers the group together in hopes of putting the pieces together to figure out what is truly going on. It doesn't help that other bad things are going on, several cases of vandalism, strange pictures on Nora's doorstep, and a stalker leaving notes. The ladies know that they must figure out just what is going on and who is behind it all before someone else ends up dead! I love this series and the emotions it brings forth throughout the read. The characters are unique and easy to connect with making the read that much more relatable.

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ink and Shadows by Ellery Adams is the 4th A Secret, Book, and Scone Society Novel. This is my favorite book in the series. It contains developed characters that are realistic. Nora came to Miracle Springs, North Carlina for a fresh start after she was severely burned. Nora has a knack for picking out the books that people need at that moment in time. I enjoy the paranormal element with Nora’s pinkie finger tingling when something is amiss. Sheldon Vega is a favorite of mine. He is a kind, creative man who suffers from chronic pain. Ellery Adams manages to convey how chronic pain affects his life (and how painful it can be). I like how understanding Nora is of Sheldon’s pain and that he cannot always make it to work. The whodunit was interesting with some unique elements. It is one that plays out which disappointed me (I love solving the crimes in the book before the reveal). It is a complex mystery that touches on some dark topics (grimoires, dark magic, cults). This book would be great to read during the month of October (it will get you in the mood for Halloween). I love the book references sprinkled throughout the story. I especially loved that my favorite childhood series was mentioned (other girls wanted to be Nancy Drew, I wanted to be Cherry Ames). I especially liked the window displays that Nora and Sheldon created. They are magical and unique. While I know the Women of Lasting Values is fictional, there are (unfortunately) groups like it in the real world who object to books for one reason or another. I like how this issue was addressed in the story. I did object to the foul language in the story. There is only a small amount, but I would rather it not be included. Nora and Jed have some romantic issues. I am not a fan of the Nora and Jed pairing. I would love to see Nora end up with Sheriff McGabe. I liked how close Nora and Grant became in this book (I am keeping my fingers crossed that they will become a couple). We did get to learn more about Nora’s past and meet an old friend. She was a great addition. Ink and Shadows can be read as a standalone if you have not indulged in the other books in this intriguing cozy mystery series. Ink and Shadows is a clever cozy mystery with dazzling displays, bonanza of books, a disturbing death, a controlling collective, a pagan page, and fine friends.

[Gail C. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book. It was like reading a well-crafted, beautifully plotted mystery that is swirled through both a love of books and an appreciation for what kindness and caring toward others, particularly those who are lonely or in pain, can accomplish. This is an excellent continuation of a series that stands out in the cozy genre.
In this book, the primary mystery has to do with two newcomers to the town of Miracle Springs, Celeste and her daughter, Bren. Celeste has opened a new store that features products designed to aid in relaxation. Nora,, the proprietor of the local bookshop and creator of the Secret, Book, and Scone Society pays a visit to the shop and happily welcomes them to town. She and the other women of the society plan a more in-depth welcome, however before are able to really make their welcome known, Celeste’s and Nora’s shop are targeted by a group of women who object to them as threatening family values. As things escalate, Brin is murdered and Nora becomes determined to learn if it is related to this new protest group or something from Brin and Celeste’s past.
Things get much worse before they get better. There is a second murder, Nora and her steady beau hit a rough patch, and Nora feels the awakening of an interest in the sheriff. The investigation also has the sheriff involving a book expert from out of town who turns out to be a close friend from Nora’s former life, a life Nora left without warning when she suffered her own tragedy. Where would having this old and dear friend suddenly re-enter Nora’s life lead and would she understand why Nora ran away, would she be able to forgive Nora for all her perceived sins?
For a more in-depth review of this book follow the link below. My thanks to Kensington Books and NetGalley for making this advance copy available for review. The opinions expressed here are entirely my own.
Here's a link to the in-depth review: https://www.mysteryandsuspense.com/re...

[Sahitya · Rating 3 out of 5]

Probably more of a 3.5.

This series has become a source of comfort for the past couple of years, so it felt nice to be back in this world, especially at a time when I wasn’t feeling that good.

Along with the lovely ladies of the Secret, Book and Scone society, we get to briefly meet some new additions to the town of Miracle Springs - ladies who manage to bring some intrigue as well as conflict to the proceedings. While I enjoyed the depiction of fall season and the various festivals that happen in a small town to attract tourists, I sometimes felt that the mystery itself was a bit far fetched. The addition of the conflict with the family values group also felt a bit too much to this story, though it’s not really an uncommon occurrence in many places. But it did make for some interesting conversations about powerful women and the importance of books in giving us access to new worlds. The pacing of the book was as always very fast and I finished it in a single sitting. I also liked the talk about YA fantasy as part of the book recommendations, but it was woefully white which is a disappointment, particularly considering the amount of popular diverse YA we’ve had in the past few years.

In the end, this was a fun addition to a beloved series and definitely a cozy winter read. Definitely recommend to anyone who is looking for something fun in the cozy mystery genre, and while I would suggest to start at the beginning, I think this is one series where most of the books work well as standalones.

[Annu · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another good cozy and I’ve caught up with this series. It’s Halloween in miracle springs and Nora is targeted for endorsing and decorating books about magic. And so is a mother-daughter duo. Usually in cozies, the victims are unlikeable but I was extremely sad about the murders in this book and this cozy made me care about the victims. However, Nora stepped in to solve the mystery and nabs the killer. And we have a new member in the group, Sheldon. He’s just so much fun. We are also introduced to Nora’s best friend Bobbie, and I hope to see her in other books as well. The relationship between Jed and Nora is just really sweet, they have problems, but they work it out just like everybody else. My thanks to the publisher and NetGalley to read and review this book.

[Lacey Harrington · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first in this series and it didn’t disappoint! Nora is a intelligent, kind and generous MC. When a new shop opens she welcomes them. When the shops daughter is killed Nora takes on the case. I love Miracle Books and I am sure Nora would suggest the perfect titles for me. Her store is also a big hit with her window displays. She goes for a strong women theme when a family values group wants her to take it down. I enjoyed this one and am looking forward to the next.
#InkandShadows #NetGalley

[Sheri Jesse · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book pulled me in from the beginning and did not let me go. I had to keep reading to see how it all turned out. I'm not yet convinced that Jed is the one for Nora but it's not really my choice. I'm so looking forward to the next book in this series.