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Nora Pennington, owner of Miracle Books, believes that a well-chosen novel can bring healing and hope. But she and the other members of the Secret, Book, and Scone Society know that sometimes, practical help is needed too. Such is the case with the reed-thin girl hiding in the fiction section of Nora’s store, wearing a hospital ID and a patchwork of faded bruises. She calls herself Abilene, and though Nora and her friends offer work, shelter, and a supportive ear, their guest isn’t ready to divulge her secrets. But when a customer is found dead in an assumed suicide, Nora uncovers a connection that points to Abilene as either a suspect—or another target.

Summer’s end has brought other new arrivals to Miracle Springs too. Entrepreneur Griffin Kingsley opens Virtual Genie, a cyber business that unloads people’s unwanted goods for cash. With the town in an economic slump and folks hurting for money, Virtual Genie and its owner are both instantly popular. A patient listener, Griffin dispenses candy to children and strong coffee to adults, and seems like a bona fide gentleman. But Nora’s not inclined to judge a book by its cover. And when a second death hits town, Nora and her intrepid friends must help the new, greenhorn sheriff discern fact from fiction—and stop a killer intent on bringing another victim’s story to a close . . .

It’s been a while since I listened to the first book, so I’d forgotten a bit about the members of the Secret, Book, & Scone Society, but Adams does a good job referring to the previous book and catching the reader up.

This book is everything I like about cozy mysteries–an eclectic cast, unique circumstances, a bit of romance, and a hint of danger. I will admit that the heat level in this one surprised me; it’s not spicy in that it shows anything, but it also doesn’t shy away from outlining what’s happening.

Overall, it was a fun read. Classic cozy mystery. I’m sure I’ll read more of the series.

Rated PG.

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Check out book one in the series here!