I like this book themed series set at Storyton Hall, Virginia, USA.

Likes:
+the golden ticket idea that awards a stay to a family who could not otherwise afford it.
+the friendships and relationships (Jane and the Fins, Jane and Eloise, all the Cover Girls, etc.)
+the romantic progressions of various couples within the novels (as well as the hint that some of the long-time Fins who have foregone romance might have the chance to in the future if it's presented to them.)

Dislikes:
+the darker sides to this story: loss of a child; resentment; racism; being ungrateful for what you have; scheming to get power.

Indifferent:
+the author tries for a happy ending, but I'm not sure the transition to that works. Readers have just gone through this emotional well of learning how Aiden died and why the murders were committed as well as being subjected to the Pettys--and then poof, we're decorating the gazebo in a Jane Eyre theme. ( )

Kat - enjoyed but not the favorite of the series ( )

Adams' depiction of Storyton Hall, the beautiful book-themed resort where the series is set, is where this book shines. Adams describes Storyton with loving detail. She does a great job of drawing the reader into the story through the setting. I'd love to visit a place like Storyton in real life - minus the crime, of course!

Some of the elements surrounding Storyton are a bit ridiculous, such as the secret library of books that Jane is in charge of guarding, but it does add a fun fantastical element to the series.

My biggest gripe with this book was with its characters, particularly some of the supporting cast. Many of the characters were a bit one-note to me, as if they were caricatures of people rather than realistic, well-rounded characters. I think this problem could have been remedied by cutting down the cast list or the number of subplots the book featured, as this would have left Adams more room for character development.

Though there were brief discussions of darker themes like grief and racism, I felt that these discussions were not particularly deep. The book's discussions about race, in particular, did not seem to be treated with as much care and attention as I would have liked. In general, I'd describe the book as having a saccharine sweet tone, which is something that I personally did not enjoy.

People who don't mind mysteries that are not too realistic, who enjoy mysteries with beautifully painted settings, may enjoy this book. However, I'd recommend that people more drawn to character-driven stories give this book a pass.

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This is the second book in Ellery Adams' Book Retreat Mystery Series that I've read, and even though I read #6 after #2, it was easy to follow so I don't think you have to read them in order but I'm sure #1 sets the scene best. This is a well-written cozy murder mystery with many references to books and authors, both classic and contemporary. Taking place in the fictional Storyton Hall, Virginia, resort owner Jane Steward manages this literary-themed retreat center where guests are pampered with delicious food, entertained with clever activities, and there is always an unexpected murder or two to be solved behind the scenes while keeping the guests safe. This novel features a Valentine's Day themed weekend at Storyton Hall for families and writers of children's books. Costumes, fairy tales, romance and revenge combine with murder to provide a page-turning mystery. ( )

Now that she is selling her rare and valuable book collection, Jane Steward hopes things will finally be safe at Storyton Hall for her, her sons, and those are like family to her. Her hopes are quickly dashed when a body is found, and the murder victim is dressed like Little Red Riding Hood. When a second body - again dressed like a fairy tale character - is found, Jane is determined to help find the killer in order to protect those she loves. It will not be easy though - Storyton Hall is full of guests and any of them could be a killer.

ā€œMurder in the Storybook Cottageā€ is the nicely done sixth book in Ellery Adamsā€™ Book Retreat cozy mystery series. I love everything about the series - from the characters to the authorā€™s clear love of books to the setting - I especially love the setting. I love Storyton Hall which is devoted to everything books and wish it existed in real life! The children's book conference was inspired - I loved reading about the various events that happened during it. As for the mystery, I found the fairy tale aspects to be very nicely done. As to who the killer was, I did kind of figure it out but it was more like ā€œI wonder if so and so did itā€ rather than being completely convinced. Even so, I only figured out half the mystery and the reason for the murders was sad. And the ending! Fans of one of Adamsā€™ other series (I won't spoil it by saying which one) will be delighted by the ending and I look forward to reading the next book in this wonderful series.

ā€œMurder in the Storybook Cottageā€ is a nicely done cozy mystery. ( )