"A fresh start in a picturesque seaside town turns deadly when a journalist and her husband uncover that their charming neighbors—and the entire community—are hiding secrets worth killing for.
Agatha Christie meets The Americans.
The charming seaside town of Santa Maris, with its eucalyptus trees, clusters of California wildflowers, and the calming swells of the Pacific Ocean, seems like the perfect place for a new start for Finn and Harper James. They are immediately charmed by the quaint downtown, sweeping views of aquamarine waters, and miles of untouched Redwood trails. What’s even better is that the entire neighborhood welcomes them with open arms.
Maybe this move is exactly what they both needed. Harper’s career as an investigative reporter for the LA Times blew up in her face when she made a grave error trusting the wrong source, and Finn’s next assignment is…well, complicated. His mission is twofold: help his wife settle into her new career path and find his missing asset—stat! Oh, and don’t blow his cover.
As they move in and begin to make Santa Maris feel like home, Finn and Harper realize that there are watchful eyes everywhere in the neighborhood, and maybe things aren’t quite as cozy as they seem. Ruth Palmer, a retired judge who lives across the street, insists she has a story that is sure to pull Harper out of her funk and make national headlines. Ruth is convinced that Keelie and Dan Vanderholm, the previous tenants of their new house, were murdered. The authorities just can’t find the bodies.
Harper’s investigation into the death of the Vanderholms and Finn’s search for his missing asset begin to intersect in ways they could never imagine and lead them both to discover serious secrets lurking in their sweet new town. Between suspicious activities at the research lab on campus, where Harper’s been hired to teach journalism, a recently released convict with a vendetta for revenge, and shady activity at the house next door, everyone has something to hide.
This move was supposed to bring them closer, not drive them apart. But when another murder occurs, they realize that if they can’t solve this case together and get their stories straight, murder might be about to move in on them."
"It’s autumn in Redwood Grove, and Annie and Fletcher have their hands full running the Secret Bookcase and handling their growing caseload at the Novel Detectives.
To add to the excitement, a popular ghost hunter has set his sights on the old English estate to feature on his hit TV show—Sleeping with Spirits. He’s going to record an episode overnight at the bookstore and will provide guests with special haunted tours. It seems like a great idea for publicity and a fun way to generate more revenue.
But when one of the crew members is found dead, Annie and Fletcher know they’re dealing with something much more alarming than an angry poltergeist.
It’s up to the Novel Detectives to track down the real culprit and put an end to any otherworldly rumors—before someone else gets hurt.
This gripping cozy mystery will have you sleeping with the lights on! Perfect for fans of Lauren Elliott, Merryn Allingham and M.C. Beaton.
Readers adore Ellie Alexander’s cozy mysteries:
“Absolutely loved this!!! I was on the edge of my seat the entire time and had no idea whodunit until it was revealed… I love a good twist!” NetGalley review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Kept me glued to the page as I raced to find out whodunit. A winner!” NetGalley review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Ellie Alexander has done it AGAIN!! As cozy mysteries go this is one of the coziest… So good I devoured it in one sitting.” NetGalley review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Knocked me out of my seat!!! Loved this... eagerly waiting the next… Five stars hands down.” NetGalley review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“ELLIE ALEXANDER HAS A NEW SERIES!!!!! I immediately wanted to hop on a flight to Redwood Grove… The characters and the setting seemed so real.” NetGalley review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Ellie Alexander has once again proven herself as the queen of cozy mysteries.” NetGalley review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“I have loved every series Ellie has written so far and this one did not disappoint! I truly was hooked and I stayed up way too late because I just needed to finish the book.” NetGalley review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“A definite must-read for all book lovers, and fans of cozy murder mysteries.” NetGalley review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐"
"In the charming town of Redwood Grove, even the grandest estates have something to hide…
When reclusive heiress Bernadette Garst vanishes from her sprawling mansion, bookshop owner and investigator Annie Murray is summoned to the scene.
Arriving at the legendary Garst property, Annie and her partner Fletcher discover a household riddled with secrets, bitter family rivalries, and suspicious staff members. When Bernadette’s lawyer also goes missing, it’s clear the case is escalating into something far more dangerous.
With her keen eye for detail and a little help from her friends, Annie must piece together the clues hidden within the opulent estate grounds. Can she solve the puzzle before it’s too late?
This cozy mystery sees the Novel Detectives facing their most high-profile case yet. Perfect for fans of Lauren Elliott, Merryn Allingham and M.C. Beaton.
Readers adore Ellie Alexander’s cozy mysteries:
“Ellie Alexander has done it AGAIN!! As cozy mysteries go this is one of the coziest… So good I devoured it in one sitting.” NetGalley review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Absolutely loved this!!! I was on the edge of my seat the entire time and had no idea whodunit until it was revealed… I love a good twist!” NetGalley review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Kept me glued to the page as I raced to find out whodunit. A winner!” NetGalley review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Knocked me out of my seat!!! Loved this… eagerly awaiting the next… Five stars hands down.” NetGalley review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“ELLIE ALEXANDER HAS A NEW SERIES!!!!! I immediately wanted to hop on a flight to Redwood Grove… The characters and the setting seemed so real.” NetGalley review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“I have loved every series Ellie has written so far and this one did not disappoint! I truly was hooked and I stayed up way too late because I just needed to finish the book.” NetGalley review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“A definite must-read for all book lovers, and fans of cozy murder mysteries.” NetGalley review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Ellie Alexander has once again proven herself as the queen of cozy mysteries.” NetGalley review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐"
"An assistant athletics coach is found murdered at Redwood Grove High School and all evidence points one way—but the Novel Detectives are about to face their most puzzling case yet.
When beloved local teacher and track coach Josh Bynum stumbles into the Secret Bookcase distressed and with no memory of the previous night, Annie's and Fletcher’s instincts tell them something doesn’t add up.
As the duo delve deeper into the tight-knit world of high school athletics, they uncover a web of secrets. Between ambitious parents, suspicious fundraising activities, and a star athlete with a lot to lose, everyone has something to hide.
Annie and Fletcher will need all their investigative skills and the support of their Redwood Grove friends if they’re to solve this mystery. Has Josh been set up? And what if there’s a clever killer somewhere in their beloved hometown—who might decide to target them next?
Perfect for fans of Lauren Elliott, Merryn Allingham and M.C. Beaton, this latest installment in Ellie Alexander’s new series combines small-town charm with a twisty ‘just one more chapter’ mystery that will keep you guessing until the final page.
Readers adore Ellie Alexander’s cozy mysteries:
“Absolutely loved this!!! I was on the edge of my seat the entire time and had no idea whodunit until it was revealed… I love a good twist!” NetGalley review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Kept me glued to the page as I raced to find out whodunit. A winner!” NetGalley review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Ellie Alexander has done it AGAIN!! As cozy mysteries go this is one of the coziest… So good I devoured it in one sitting.” NetGalley review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Knocked me out of my seat!!! Loved this… eagerly waiting the next… Five stars hands down.” NetGalley review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“ELLIE ALEXANDER HAS A NEW SERIES!!!!! I immediately wanted to hop on a flight to Redwood Grove… The characters and the setting seemed so real.” NetGalley review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Ellie Alexander has once again proven herself as the queen of cozy mysteries.” NetGalley review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“I have loved every series Ellie has written so far and this one did not disappoint! I truly was hooked and I stayed up way too late because I just needed to finish the book.” NetGalley review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“A definite must-read for all book lovers, and fans of cozy murder mysteries.” NetGalley review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐"
"Opening a detective agency above her beloved bookstore seems like the perfect business plan—until Annie Murray’s first case involves a suspicious death right on her doorstep.
June Munrow, an elderly resident of Annie’s home town, Redwood Grove, is convinced that young Kelly Taylor’s recent drowning wasn't the tragic accident everyone believes it to be. Despite the police ruling, June is determined to prove there’s more to the story and hires the Novel Detectives to uncover the truth.
As Annie delves into Kelly’s life, she discovers a tangled web of secrets involving Kelly’s complicated relationships, a peculiar landlord, and her mysterious roommate. Everyone connected to Kelly seems to be hiding something, and the deeper Annie digs, the more puzzling the case becomes.
With her trademark blend of curiosity and compassion, can Annie piece together the clues and solve her first official case—before she gets into deep water herself?
Perfect for fans of Lauren Elliott, Merryn Allingham and M.C. Beaton, this charming cozy mystery is brimming with small-town secrets and bookish charm that will keep you turning pages late into the night.
Readers adore Ellie Alexander’s cozy mysteries:
“Absolutely loved this!!! I was on the edge of my seat the entire time and had no idea whodunit until it was revealed… I love a good twist!” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Kept me glued to the page as I raced to find out whodunit. A winner!” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Ellie Alexander has done it AGAIN!! As cozy mysteries go this is one of the coziest… So good I devoured it in one sitting.” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Knocked me out of my seat!!! Loved this... eagerly waiting the next… Five stars hands down.” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“ELLIE ALEXANDER HAS A NEW SERIES!!!!! I immediately wanted to hop on a flight to Redwood Grove… The characters and the setting seemed so real.” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐"
"When her hometown launches a holiday scavenger hunt with a life-changing cash prize, Marissa Henry jumps at the chance to save her fledgling business—until she’s partnered with the most gorgeous but infuriating man in town.
Marissa’s catering company is her passion project but it’s swiftly turning into a financial disaster. With bills piling up and her culinary dreams crumbling faster than aged cheddar, she’s determined to win the prize money.
There’s just one problem: she’s been paired with William Graff, who wrecked her carefully curated display when she catered his wealthy family’s party and who she’s convinced is an entitled jerk. But as they race through holiday challenges, from Christmas light chaos to competitive snowman-creation, Marissa discovers there’s more to William than his trust fund and his ugly holiday sweater collection.
Soon Marissa has something new to fight for: a chance at an unexpected romance that could really change her life.
If you love cozying up with a Hallmark movie and a hot chocolate, and books by Emily Henry and Christina Lauren, you’ll adore this enemies-to-lovers holiday romance which serves up:
- Small-town Christmas charm with a competitive twist
- A grumpy/sunshine dynamic that sizzles with tension
- Forced proximity that leads to irresistible attraction
- Multiple POVs featuring beloved secondary characters finding their own second chances
- A swoon-worthy hero who’s more than his wealthy reputation
- Holiday traditions, winter magic, and a guaranteed HEA
Get ready to fall in love with Bend, Oregon, where holiday magic and happily-ever-afters are always in season.
Readers love Ellie Alexander’s books:
“I truly was hooked and I stayed up way too late because I just needed to finish the book.” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“I couldn’t put the book down, I enjoyed it so much! I had so much fun reading this book.” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Always engaging… wonderful scenery and plenty of excitement… oozing with chemistry.” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“An exceptional storyteller… just when you think you have it figured out, there's another twist.” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Wonderful… I love the storyline and it’s a fun, clean read.” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“What a great author! She draws you in and keeps you engaged from start to finish.” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“A consummate storyteller who makes you feel as though you could book a trip to the area.” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐"
"Journalist Meg Reed is about to find out that sometimes the best stories aren’t the ones you’re assigned to write— they’re the ones you’re brave enough to live.
Meg thought she’d closed the door on her past when she left Oregon—and her ex, Matt Parker—for her dream job at ESPN. But when her editor assigns her to cover a winter sports event during the holidays, Meg finds herself face-to-face with her past.
Matt’s throwing his thirtieth birthday bash, and Meg’s determined to keep things professional—attend the party for old time’s sake, cover the story and get back to her carefully constructed life in New York.
And then she sees Matt again.
When their eyes meet across the festive lodge with its crackling fire and glittering Christmas trees, seven years dissolve in an instant. The chemistry that once burned between them flickers back to life, bringing with it all the complicated feelings she thought she’d dealt with.
As Meg sips hot chocolate in her cozy log cabin and tries to focus on crafting her feature story, she can’t shake the pull of old dreams and new possibilities. Some feelings don’t fade—and some people are worth fighting for. But is it too late for second chances?
A heartwarming tale of friendship, forgiveness, and finding your way back to love—just in time for the holidays. This cozy festive rom-com will thrill fans of Abby Jimenez, Laurie Gilmore and Christina Lauren.
- Second-chance romance with irresistible unresolved chemistry
- Small-town Christmas magic and cozy winter vibes
- Multiple POVs with interconnected love stories
- Swoon-worthy friends-to-lovers and workplace romance
- Found family and unbreakable friendships
- Guaranteed HEA with all the festive feels
Perfect for readers who believe in the magic of Christmas and the power of coming home.
Readers love Ellie Alexander’s books:
“I truly was hooked and I stayed up way too late because I just needed to finish the book.” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“I couldn’t put the book down, I enjoyed it so much! I had so much fun reading this book.” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Always engaging… wonderful scenery and plenty of excitement… oozing with chemistry.” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“An exceptional storyteller… just when you think you have it figured out, there's another twist.” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Wonderful… I love the storyline and it’s a fun, clean read.” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“What a great author! She draws you in and keeps you engaged from start to finish.” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“A consummate storyteller who makes you feel as though you could book a trip to the area.” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐"
"In the gripping conclusion to The Secret Bookcase series, Annie Murray races to untangle the ultimate plot twist…
Life is good for Annie: she’s found healing at the Secret Bookcase, her beloved Agatha Christie-themed mystery bookstore in the cozy town of Redwood Grove, and is on the brink of launching her very own detective agency. But she's still haunted by one unsolved case: the murder of her best friend Scarlet ten years ago.
When Annie heads to Santa Clara for their annual book fair, she’s looking forward to meeting fellow booklovers. And she’s also got a secret mission: she’ll be close to Silicon Summit Partners, the powerful investment firm she just knows had a hand in Scarlet’s death. But when an industry colleague is murdered at the book fair, Annie is first on the scene to investigate. The suspect list reads like a book lover’s who’s who: a celebrity author with a suspicious agenda, a rival with a grudge, and even a kindly grandmother pursuing her lifelong dream of owning a bookstore.
With her fellow bookseller and crime-fighting partner Fletcher playing Watson to her Holmes, can Annie catch the killer before they strike again? And will it distract her from her mission to finally bring her best friend Scarlet’s murderer to justice?
This fun-filled and clean cozy mystery will keep you guessing until the very end. Perfect for fans of Lauren Elliott, Merryn Allingham and M.C. Beaton, and book lovers everywhere."
"In the cozy town of Redwood Grove, Annie Murray’s Valentine’s Day plans take a sinister turn when a beloved pillar of the local community is found dead at her Agatha Christie-inspired bookshop.
As Annie assists the lead detective in unraveling the mystery, she quickly identifies a host of likely suspects — from an oddball psychic to a professional matchmaker, to a rival bookseller — each with a worryingly plausible motive.
With her keen eye for detail, soon Annie suspects there may be connections to the decade-old tragedy of her best friend’s death, which still haunts her. Putting her own Valentine’s Day plans with the irresistible Liam on hold, Annie must solve the crime — before she ends up on a hot date with a killer.
This charming and utterly addictive cozy mystery will keep you guessing until the very end. Fans of Tonya Kappes, Lauren Elliott and Ellery Adams will love this murder mystery with a dash of romance."
"Annie Murray's festive plans at the Secret Bookcase are thrown into disarray when a celebrity baker drops dead during a gingerbread-baking competition…
As whispers of foul play swirl like snowflakes, Annie soon finds herself tangled in a web of secrets, small-town rivalry, and long-buried mysteries.
With pub owner and new love Liam by her side and the help of her loyal bookstore colleagues, Annie sets out to solve Redwood Grove’s latest murder mystery. And the closer she gets to the truth, the more she discovers that the baking community isn’t as sweet as it seems…
Can Annie unwrap the truth before the killer strikes again? Or will this be one Christmas she won't live to remember?
Grab yourself a Christmas cookie and lose yourself in this delightfully twisty murder mystery that will keep you guessing until the very last page. A perfectly festive read fans of Joanna Fluke, Tonya Kappes, and Ellery Adams will adore."
"Annie Murray is excited to host a murder mystery–themed dinner party, but soon the evening takes a deadly turn…
When her friend Penny confesses she’s struggling to finance the restoration of the historic Wentworth farmhouse, Annie is instantly inspired. The beautiful property has stood empty since the 1970s, but rumors still swirl about the eccentric Wentworth family and their hidden fortune. It’s the perfect setting for a spooky, immersive dinner party, and the evening is a roaring success—until neighboring landowner Curtis Wright drops dead at the dining table…
Annie knows she didn’t add arsenic to the entrée, so who messed with her catering, and why? Everyone in the party had some reason to hate renowned bully Curtis—not least Penny, who was under pressure to sell land to him. Annie realizes she’ll need to clear her friend’s name fast. Soon, she’s in deep, uncovering long-buried family secrets, shady business deals, and pitch-black hidden passageways.
But as Annie closes in on the truth, the killer is determined to stop her at all costs. Will justice be served in time, or will Annie get a helping of death with dessert…?"
"When bookseller and events organizer Annie Murray invites the glamorous world of Hollywood along to her small-town film festival, she finds herself entangled in a sinister plot as twisted as any big-screen thriller…
After the success of her first event, which revived the fortunes of the bookstore she loves so dearly, Annie is excited to launch Redwood Grove’s first film festival. But when an infamous film critic plunges to his death during the premiere of a Hitchcock-inspired thriller, Annie’s instincts tell her that this was no accident. She soon discovers that many of the cast, crew, and guests are harboring dark secrets—from the lead actress with a scandalous past, to a film historian obsessed with protecting his vintage reel collection.
Determined to unravel the mystery, Annie must sift through a tangled web of hidden agendas and deception to expose the killer before they strike again. Can she crack the case and save her film festival—or will she find herself in the spotlight?
Packed full of plot twists and a colorful cast of characters, A Murder at the Movies sparkles with charm, heart, and humor and will keep cozy mystery fans guessing until the final pages. Perfect fans for Lauren Elliott, Tonya Kappes, and Janet Evanovich."
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