Ellie Alexander is one of my favorite mystery authors. And this was a great start a new series. Can't wait to see where the series go.

The second book in this new series which is being released on the same day as the first one. Book one The Body in the Bookstore which was a fantastic read and captured this reader from beginning to conclusion. A Murder At The Movies is a equally captivating mystery and great second in series. Thank you to the author for releasing both the first and second in series on the same day. This is a treat for readers. Its a readers dream to be able to read the first and second in this wonderful series.

We return to charming Redwood Grove to Annie who works in their small town bookstore. She has recently had success as a event planner when she put on a successful mystery event.. Her event was publicized and now Hollywood wants to visit and join in putting on a movie event.. Annie will participate and is asked to be the event planner. The event is poised to be a great success and very exciting for the small town. The event begins to go off perfectly when a shocking murder occurs at the event. Annie is once again on the case with her criminalogy background and the help of her friend the local detective. Red herrings abound and clues kept me guessing the well crafted sleuth to conclusion. I loved the Hollywood aspect and different personalities Annie worked with . The author frames her characters beautifully.
I loved this next in series. I highly recommend this wonderful new series .

Thank you to Net Galley, the publisher and to the author for the opportunity for review. I cannot wait for the next in series.

I am enjoying this series and can't wait for the next one. I want to know what happens. The mystery kept get guessing. I like the characters and setting.

Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for my eARC in exchange for an honest review.

3.5 Stars
One Liner: Nice!

Annie gets a call from a Hollywood director to organize a movie screening for a thriller after her Mystery Festival weekend becomes a grand success. They are all excited, of course, and agree.
However, Annie realizes that the Hwood (even a small fragment) entering the small town may not be a good idea. When a narcissistic film critic dies during the movie premiere, it is up to Annie to find out what happened and who the killer is.
The story comes in Annie’s first-person POV.

My Thoughts:
The advantage of reading books 1 & 2 back-to-back is that I could skim through the stuff I already know. That said, new details from Annie’s past are revealed, so it is better to pay attention.
In a way, this book isn’t different from the previous one. There’s an event, and the most rude and annoying person gets bumped off. Then, we have a list of suspects coz almost everyone hates them.
Annie is more involved in the investigation this time. While some of it is not realistic, I’ve seen similar stuff in cozies, so I don’t mind it much.
I forgot to mention Professor Plum, Annie’s cat in my review of book one. The cat doesn’t have any role except to be the MC’s pet. It’s the same in the book but it did feature a few more scenes.
There’s a slow yet visible shift in the dynamic between our MC and the potential love interest. Irrespective of what happens, I like how it highlights the difference in perspectives and the communication gap between them.
Priya’s range of coffees is great fun to read (even if ‘turmeric latte’ coming from an Indian like her makes me wince), and the way she names them is too good!
Yet again, the sleuthing is conversation-based rather than action-based. While conversations reveal details, it gets too much here. I do appreciate the little action in the climax. Give us more and make it a little hard for the MC, please. On the plus side, I can read this even when half-asleep. It is that easy.
There is a sort of cliffhanger (for the overarching mystery) in this one. We’ll know the details in the next one. The main mystery is complete, though.

To summarize, A Murder at the Movies continues the series at the same tempo. It is an easy book to read and should work as a standalone (but read the first anyway). The title for the next book is mentioned at the end, so I’ll grab it when a copy is available.
Thank you, NetGalley and Storm Publishing, for eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.

This is a common review for both the two novels in A Secret Bookcase series I read.
It's an entertaining series that improves with each novels. Both are well plotted and features a solid mystery.
I like how Annie, the main character evolved. Her desire to solve the murder of Scarle, her friend murdered some days before graduation, borders on obsession and PTDS and can be quite disturbing at time. It becomes less relevant in the characters descriptions in the second half of the first novel and it's in the background in the second.
The cast of characters is intersting and Annie grew on me as she was able to move on.
The bookshop and the festival are fascinating and the solid mysteries kept me guessing.
Recommended
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine

So much fun! Totally enjoyed the the first in the series and this one was even better. Now I want to know! When is the third one coming out. I am so invested already. Annie Murray receives an interesting phone call from a Hollywood director wanting to premiere her latest mystery movie there. The Hollywood archetypes are so interesting and enjoyable and the mystery nicely plotted. But the true joy of this series, and any Ellie Alexander series, is all the secondary characters with realistic quirks and desires that make the story so compelling! Just loved it.

A top notch mystery. Great characters and a wonderfully written whodunit. I cannot wait to read more in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.

This was an really enjoyable book! I loved the main character Annie and all of her friends.

This, the second book in the series, had less scenes in the bookstore with introduction of various Hollywood-type characters and naturally movie-related topics. The author supplies lots of mystery and suspicion concerning the murder and another crime, leaving the reader with plenty of possibilities for the perp.

Each book in "Secret Bookcase Mystery" series also advances Annie's thoughts about the past and plans for the future as well those of her best friend Pri.

Thank you Netgalley and Storm Publishing for the ARC of this book. This was an honest review.

The overall theme of Murder at the Movies being in a movie theatre did not appeal to me. Nevertheless, I should have figured that out from the title. It sounded like a fun event was being organized for the Hidden Bookcase by our Amature Sleuth Annie. I'm not into movies but this mystery would be perfect if you are. There's a brewing relationship between Annie and Liam, the owner of a local bar. Quite a bit of tension exists here that I actually enjoy. I just hope they get together soon. It was interesting to learn about Annie's background in criminology. I found the murder to be interesting and the hunt for the killer to be thrilling.

I'm so loving this new series! This is the second book and continues the sleuthing of Annie. She is having a film festival in Redwood Grove! When the critic dies at the premiere Annie is sure it was no accident. She set out to solve the mystery with a cast of suspects. Lots of red herrings with twists. It seems like there are many who had issues with the victim. The characters are well developed. Love the plot! Thanks#Netgalley and #StormPublishing for the eARC in exchange for a honest review. All opinions are mine.

Second book in the new Secret Bookcase Mystery series picks up right where the first one left off. This time a movie is being premiered in town and Annie has helped plan premiere weekend. Unfortunately another death occurs and Annie is helping her old professor, Dr. Caldwell, who is now a detective in Redwood Grove., to solve the murder. I was totally surprised when the killer was revealed, I had no clue! I also like the thread going through the series of the murder of Annie's college friend Scarlett. Slowly I hope she solves Scarlett's murder so she can move on with her life. Like maybe hook up with Liam?

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. This review is based on an ARC from NetGalley, courtesy of the publisher.

A Murder at the Movies is a new cozy mystery installment in a new series about a bookstore. This one follows the premiere of a thriller movie in a small town that ends in a mystery.

I thought this book was good! I liked all the characters and I loved the setting. The bookstore sounded so cute! I liked the little sprinkles of movie things as well.

I didn’t read the first in this series but I’ll probably go back now that they’re published and read it!

I liked this cozy mystery and I would recommend!

Thank you so much to netgalley and the publisher for the arc of this one in exchange for an honest review!

This cozy mystery, set against the backdrop of a film festival, follows a bookstore owner whose passion for sleuthing is ignited by a suspicious death. The charming setting and engaging plot make for an enjoyable read, with a clever blend of literary and bookish elements. While lighthearted and cute, the story keeps readers guessing until the end.

Astonishing for book two to be released the same day as book 1, but fantastic for those of us who can’t stand to wait for the next book in a series. I finished book 1 last night and read this one today. I want to live in Redwood Grove. The buildings, the park, the strong sense of community, it’s all perfect, well except for the murder of course. The strong bonds of friendship and the idea that friends are the family we choose continue in this book. The mystery is very clever, I however am not as I was thwarted again, my theory about the killer was way off base. The secondary mystery from book 1 continues here, and will continue into book 3, which is something I haven’t encountered before in my reading but am enjoying immensely. This has become one of my favorite series, I can’t wait for book 3.

Thanks to Netgalley and Storm Publishing for a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.

In "A Murder at the Movies" by Ellie Alexander, readers are transported into the captivating world of small-town charm mixed with the allure of Hollywood glamour. This is book 2 in the A Secret Bookcase Mystery series. As bookseller and event organizer Annie Murray delves into the creation of Redwood Grove's first film festival, she quickly finds herself embroiled in a sinister plot that rivals any big-screen thriller. Alexander masterfully crafts a narrative that is equal parts suspenseful and charming, drawing readers into a web of intrigue that keeps them guessing until the very end.

Annie Murray emerges as a relatable and engaging protagonist, whose sharp instincts and determination drive the investigation forward. As she navigates the complexities of the film industry and uncovers dark secrets lurking beneath the surface, readers are taken on a thrilling journey filled with twists and turns. From the enigmatic lead actress with a scandalous past to the eccentric film historian obsessed with his vintage reel collection, each character adds depth and intrigue to the story, keeping readers on the edge of their seats.

The setting of Redwood Grove serves as more than just a backdrop but rather as a character in its own right, with its picturesque charm providing the perfect backdrop for the unfolding drama. Alexander's descriptive prose vividly brings the small town to life, immersing readers in its quaint streets and close-knit community. As Annie races against time to expose the killer and save her beloved film festival, the stakes are raised to thrilling heights, culminating in a gripping climax that will leave readers breathless.

Overall, "A Murder at the Movies" is a compelling and atmospheric mystery that will captivate fans of the genre from start to finish. With its engaging plot, well-developed characters, and evocative setting, Ellie Alexander delivers a thrilling read that is sure to keep readers guessing until the very end. Whether you're a fan of cozy mysteries or simply love a good whodunit, this book is guaranteed to delight and entertain.

Exciting News: Today (June 19) is Release Day for Books 1 and 2 in this NEW SERIES!

Since the interactive and immersive Mystery Festival in the spring was so successful, Annie Murray is busy coordinating preparations for the fall festival. Annie Murray is a bookseller and event coordinator at the Secret Bookcase. During an unexpected phone call, Annie can hardly believe what she hears! An independent filmmaker, Heather Hathaway, is asking Annie to coordinate the premiere of her new thriller, "Midnight Alibi," which will highlight a mystery film weekend in Redwood Grove. More publicity for the mystery bookstore inspired by Agatha Christie, complete with a secret room in the reconverted old manor house. A request Annie can't refuse!

I love armchair traveling to Redwood Grove! The allure of the bookstore and its special events, along with the chance to meet Annie Murray, her cat Professor Plum, colleague Fletcher, bookstore owner Hal Christie, former professor Dr. Caldwell, and best friend Priya (Pri) Kapoor at the coffee shop is irresistible. Surely, Pri would take me to the Stag Head so I could slyly peek at the pub owner, Liam Donovan, who gives tingles to Annie.
As charming as the setting is, the unexpected event during the premiere necessitates an intriguing investigation. More questions have led to fewer answers, with cleverly placed red herrings leading the way.

Thank you to Ellie Alexander, Storm Publishing, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an eARC of this novel. The double treat of 2 releases on the same day is a delightful surprise for readers like me. We eagerly await the next event hosted by the Secret Bookcase.

Annie Murray's Mystery Fest was a huge success so when she gets a phone call asking her to host a movie premiere in Redwood Grove, she's all in. Unfortunately the cast and crew are a sketchy bunch and when the world's most egotistical movie reviewer dies it's anyone's guest which one of the visitors did the dirty deed. Annie's on the case again - and everyone knows. Will someone take her out before she can solve the case?

I'm pretty much sold on this series. I enjoyed the first book and this one was also quite good. The only thing I feel is missing is what I love so much about Alexander's Bake Shop series. Torte is so cozy and portrayed in such a way that I feel like I know the shop. The Secret Bookcase is not that way. It feels a bit ambiguous and though we get some descriptions about the various rooms and the secret bookcase itself (and the entire town of Redwood Grove), I don't feel like I'm being immersed in it quite like I do with Ashland and Torte. Another thing that's not doing it for me is Liam. He's kind of developing into a love interest but I don't like him and I don't like him for Annie. They have nothing in common and he's not very nice to her. He does seem to be coming around a bit, perhaps we're just a bit slow recognizing his good points since we're seeing him through Annie's lens.

All these things being said, I did enjoy this book and I do really like Annie specifically and I also love Hal and Fletcher. For me, loveable characters is the most important thing and I think that the Secret Bookcase and Redwood Grove are coming over time.

Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.

Annie Murray has a degree in criminology, but after her best friend died just before their graduation, she went to work at Secret BookStore in Redwood Grove, a small town in California. The bookstore owner, Hal, and the workers, Fletcher and Annie, are all affectionate about mystery books. After the success of Mystery Fest, Annie is contacted by a filmmaker to organize the film premiere in Redwood Grove. During the Premiere Weekend, an accident happens. Annie uses some of her educational skills to help understand how the accident occurred. Mystery, romance, history, and some funny and not-so-funny things happen in this story. It is an interesting book.

After a successful mystery book weekend, Annie has been asked to host a movie premiere. It’s a Hitchcock type movie and ties in well with many of the books at her shop. The Hollywood type attendees are certainly different. But who would have expected one to take a dive off the balcony during the premiere. This is a great addition to this series. Love the characters and the town.

I definitely love the dedication. This was such a clever and twisted book. The characters are warm, lovely and some are mysterious.Annie organises the first film festival. Heather and her team arrives in the town but during the premiere of the film, Martin falls from the balcony and he couldn’t make it. While, Annie is trying to get to the bottom of his mystery. So many mysterious things happens before and during the premiere of the film. The killer is one among them. She is trying to find the links connecting to the mystery. Perhaps someone has taken Martin’s life due to revenge or so they can benefit in certain way. The mystery of his death is twisted and with truth, secrets come out too. The ending was so terrifying.

Thanks to the publisher and Author