Storyton Hall hosts fans of romantic fiction as well as some popular authors. One of the authors dies. Suspects and motives abound, but publishers and fans are surprised to learn something about their beloved author. This book was not as strong as the first. I found a few moments comedic--such as the times Jane's caretaker training becomes useful. After two retreats and two deaths at Storyton Hall, I wonder if anyone would want to attend a retreat there again. ( )

A readable sequel to Murder in the Mystery Suite, even though following a very similar narrative trajectory. Characterization of the main players in this mystery was distinctive. However, the support staff and villagers from the first instalment were repeated as in Book 1. My engagement in the mystery flagged in this respect.
Further causes for disengagement were lapses in the storyline with details needing attention where the wrong character name was used and plot developments never followed up. Suspense wanes with even the romance interest for Jane (the manager of Storyton Hall) which felt superficial. I think I am done with this series now, but it was worth the time exploring this as a potential cozy mystery series to follow. ( )

Murder at a Romance writers/fan con. ( )

I really enjoyed this book, just not quite as much as the opening book in the series, for a cozy mystery this is a surprisingly adventurous story line. ( )

During a special Valentine's event at a booked them resort, Storyton Hall, there is romance, murder, and mayhem.
This is the second book in the Book Retreat Mystery series, and I did not read the first one. I do this a lot.
While there was clearly information I missed by not reading the first book, there was enough recapping done to fill in the blanks and I didn't have that much of a hard time following along.
I am a little mixed on this book. I didn't hate it, but it was a bit much at times. The characters, especially the locals from the nearby town, were very broad to the point of almost being caricatures. Everyone was mad about books and incredibly well-read in the classics. EVERYONE. There was a secret society, at least two men with mysterious pasts, a possible betrayal, angelic teenage boys, and a hawk. There was a lot.

I felt no real connection to any of the characters but the mystery itself was quite enjoyable if not all that challenging.
Perhaps if I had read the first one I'd have a better appreciation for this one, but I don't see me reading any of the others in this series.
Overall not horrible, but not great. ( )