Category: Book Reviews

Honest reviews of clean fiction filled with atmosphere, mystery, heart, and unforgettable characters.

Posted in Book Reviews, Historical Fiction

The Secret of the Lantern Keepers by Jenni Keer

Posted on by Vikki Lynn Sorensen

Rating: ⭐⭐

About the Book

The Secret of the Lantern Keepers by Jenni Keer is the first book in The Averly Sisters trilogy, following three Victorian triplets who each possess an unusual ability. After their father’s death, the sisters discover that they must spend a year apart and each solve an unsolved crime if they want to inherit their family home.

Edith Averly’s gift allows her to see echoes of violent events from the past. Her father’s unfinished case sends her to Green Briar Lunatic Asylum on the Cornish moors, where she goes undercover as a patient to investigate the unsolved murder of Dr. Hawkins. But the asylum holds secrets of its own, and Edith soon finds herself questioning who she can trust.

A Premise That Pulled Me In

Based on the synopsis, I had high hopes for this one. A gothic mystery, an asylum, triplets with unusual abilities, and cold cases to solve? Yes, please.

I especially loved the idea of three sisters, each with a different ability, potentially using those gifts to solve mysteries from the past. The opening chapter was deliciously jarring and wonderfully shocking, immediately drawing me into the story.

I was also happy with the backstory about the girls and their father. As the beginning of a trilogy, some setup was expected, and I enjoyed getting to know the sisters and their unusual upbringing.

The Atmosphere Was Excellent

The setting was one of my favorite parts of the book.

An asylum on the Cornish moors?

Wonderful.

There was so much potential for a dark, atmospheric gothic mystery, and Jenni Keer does a lovely job creating that atmosphere. The writing was beautiful, the language was evocative, and the character interactions were well done.

Unfortunately, the story itself didn’t quite live up to that promising beginning.

Where the Mystery Got Lost

The cold-case murder I expected to be at the heart of the story ultimately felt more like a backdrop. Instead, much of the book focused on the treatment of women during the 1880s.

Women were sent to asylums for things we now understand differently, including what we would recognize as symptoms of menopause. There were abusive and unfaithful husbands, families who dismissed women, and women who had very little control over their own lives.

I found these historical elements believable and, in many cases, important. My problem was that they eventually overshadowed the mystery.

As the story progressed, I found myself wondering when we were going to return to the murder investigation. I had picked up this book wanting to get to know Edith, explore her unusual ability, and watch her use it to help solve a cold case. Instead, the historical commentary became the dominant storyline.

Edith’s Ability Felt Underused

This was particularly disappointing because Edith’s ability had so much potential.

Her ability to see echoes of violent events from the past could have been a fascinating investigative tool. I kept waiting for it to become more central to the mystery, but it never quite became the asset I expected it to be.

That left me feeling that one of the most intriguing elements of the premise had been pushed aside.

Too Much Historical Commentary

The historical focus also affected the pacing for me.

There are 41 chapters in the book, and I felt the actual mystery was concentrated largely in the opening and closing sections, leaving a long middle where the same general message about the treatment of women was revisited repeatedly.

Again, I don’t disagree with the historical reality being presented. Women faced significant injustice during this period, and those stories are worth telling. I simply felt the message became so prominent that it overwhelmed the gothic mystery I had been expecting.

There was also a reference to the idea that “men wrote the Bible” in the context of explaining why men could treat women as they did, essentially suggesting that this gave men permission to do as they pleased without consequences.

While the book never explicitly states that conclusion, that was how the reference came across within the larger discussion. As a Christian reader, I believe Scripture was written under the direct inspiration of the Holy Spirit, so I found that particular reference unnecessary. Rather than adding to the story for me, it pulled me out of it.

A Rushed Conclusion

By the time I reached the ending, I was ready for the story to wrap up.

The conclusion felt very rushed, particularly after such a long buildup. I had actually considered DNFing around the 70% mark, but decided to finish because I wanted to see how everything came together.

Unfortunately, the ending didn’t completely redeem the slow middle for me.

Will I Continue the Series?

Probably not.

That is disappointing because I was initially very interested in meeting Edith’s sisters and discovering their abilities. The concept of three sisters with three different gifts solving three different cold cases is genuinely intriguing.

However, after this experience, I’m concerned that the remaining books may place a similar emphasis on the historical commentary rather than the mysteries and supernatural elements that attracted me to the series in the first place.

Final Thoughts

This was my first book by Jenni Keer, and I really wanted to love it.

The premise had so many things I enjoy: a gothic setting, a mysterious asylum, unusual abilities, family secrets, a cold case, and a supernatural element that isn’t centered around occult practices. The writing and atmosphere were strong, and there were certainly moments when I was completely absorbed in the story.

Ultimately, though, the book I thought I was getting and the book I actually read were two different things.

The gothic mystery got lost somewhere along the way.

Two stars from me.

Not because the book was poorly written – it wasn’t. There was a lot here that was beautifully written and wonderfully atmospheric. It simply wasn’t the story I hoped it would be, and the elements that interested me most weren’t given enough room to shine.

Clean Reads Note

This review reflects my personal reading experience and expectations based on the book’s premise. If you enjoy historical fiction that focuses heavily on women’s experiences and social injustices during the Victorian era, you may connect with this book more strongly than I did.

Posted in Historical Fiction

Why I Love Emma M. Lion

Posted on by Vikki Lynn Sorensen

I’ve never really been part of a movement. I kind of live my life on my own terms, and apparently, that applies to my reading life too.

Since returning to Bookstagram, I’ve loved seeing what everyone else is reading. I enjoy being part of the current conversations, discovering what people are excited about, and occasionally adding yet another book to my already ridiculous TBR pile.

The problem is, I never seem to have as much time to read as everyone else does.

I don’t know how you all do it. I’m sure many of you have regular jobs, homeschool your children (which, in my opinion, is basically a corporate job and then some), run households, raise families, and somehow still manage to read approximately 47 books a month.

Meanwhile, I have a corporate 9-to-5 job.

That’s it. Of course, I’m a mood reader. Much like my crochet projects, I read according to what I feel like creating, or in this case, escaping into, on any given day. So, yes, I often have several books going at once.

But I digress.

So, Why Emma M. Lion?

I’ve listened to all eight volumes of The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion, and I’m now going back through the books and actually reading them on my Kindle.

And I have to tell you something.

It’s been a VERY long time since I’ve been this obsessed with a book series.

Outside of the Bible, I’m not sure I’ve ever been this invested in a collection of books.

Which naturally led me to ask myself:

What is it about these books that keeps pulling me back? Why do I find myself combing through Bookstagram, looking for other Emma M. Lion fans to talk to about these stories?

As an introspective reader, I keep coming back to the same question:

Why Emma M. Lion?

I think I’ve finally figured out at least some of the answer.

1. I See My Daughters in Emma

As a woman with two grown daughters, I admit I see a little bit of each of my girls in Emma.

She’s caring and innocent, but she’s also a bit daring. She’s fiercely loyal and loves the people around her deeply. She doesn’t crave the spotlight, but she’ll step directly into it when doing so might help someone else.

There are little pieces of my girls in her, and maybe that’s part of why I feel so protective of her.

2. Perfectly Imperfect

Emma isn’t self-absorbed, and she certainly isn’t perfect. In fact, it’s her flaws that I’ve come to love and appreciate most.

She’s constantly learning, growing, making mistakes, and trying to do better.

And after almost 58 years on this earth, I can relate to that. I’m still learning too.

None of us has it all figured out.

Emma just happens to have a particularly entertaining way of figuring it out.

3. She Gets Me

This one still surprises me. It’s not every day that I find myself relating to a young fictional character.

I’ve lived some life at this point. I’ve raised children, navigated relationships, experienced loss, made mistakes, started over, and learned a few things along the way.

And yet, somehow, Emma gets me. Maybe it’s because, like Emma, I can’t help but believe my best years are still ahead. That part feels especially familiar.

4. Emma Is Compassionate

Emma has compassion even for people who haven’t necessarily been kind to her.

We’ve seen small glimpses of it in her relationships with Archibald and Parian, and we’ve seen it in much bigger ways with Victoria Braithwaite.

That kind of compassion matters to me. Not because Emma always gets everything right, but because she keeps choosing to care.

I think the world could use more of that.

5. And, She’s Funny

Emma is funny. And I love that about her. She doesn’t take herself too seriously, and I think we could all use a little more of that.

Life can get heavy. Sometimes you need a book that lets you laugh at the absurdity of things for a while.

Emma does that for me.

6. These Books Are a Light Read

Now, y’all know I love a good ghost story.

I love historical fiction. I love Christian fiction. I love books that give me something to think about.

But sometimes those books get a little too far into my brain. And once they’re in there, they tend to bash around and wreak havoc.

Sometimes I don’t want that. Sometimes I want something calming, lighthearted, and amusing.

That’s when I reach for Emma M. Lion.

These books give my brain somewhere pleasant to go without requiring me to recover emotionally when I get to the last page.

7. The Alchemy

Need I say more?

There’s something precious happening here.

Emma is part of this wonderful friendship without everything immediately becoming complicated by romantic entanglements.

Of course, we know about Emma and Pierce. I’m not talking about that. I’m talking about the writing. The relationships feel meaningful without turning every interaction into a romantic circus.

And I appreciate that more than I can say.

It’s something that is done exceptionally well.

8. The Supporting Cast

I mean, come on.

Part of us, while we may be loath to admit it, even loves Cousin Archibald.

“What? What!”

You know exactly what I mean.

The supporting characters add so much personality to these books. They aren’t simply there to move Emma’s story along. They have their own quirks, personalities, relationships, and moments that make St. Crispians feel like a real place populated by real people.

Even when those people make me want to shake them.

9. I’m Here for Emma’s Journey

There’s something wonderfully comforting about getting to sit beside someone else’s life for a while.

Emma’s life has a little bit of everything: chaos, calm, friendship, humor, loss, and all the ordinary moments that make a story feel lived in.

And then there’s the storytelling. I love nothing more than imagining myself sitting beside Emma with a cup of tea in my hand while she prattles on about her day. It feels almost like listening to a friend tell me what happened over the weekend.

And I’m invested in that friend.

10. The Setting

I believe there’s an anglophile lurking somewhere inside many of us who love to read.

Speaking for myself, I’m naturally drawn to stories set in Victorian England.

I’m certainly not naïve enough to ignore the very dark side of that period. History wasn’t nearly as pretty as the books sometimes make it feel.

But I’m also romantic enough to enjoy the pretty parts.

The gowns.

The balls.

The manners.

The properness of it all.

There’s something about that world that draws me in.

And St. Crispians gives me just enough of that atmosphere to make me want to settle into my chair with a cup of tea and stay there for a while.

So, What Is It About Emma M. Lion?

Of course, there are other reasons I love these books.

They’re clean reads, which matters to me. They’re funny without being ridiculous. They’re full of interesting characters and relationships. And once I stepped into the world of St. Crispians, I found myself wanting to stay there.

But I think it goes deeper than that.

Maybe I love Emma because she reminds me that being imperfect doesn’t mean we stop growing.

Maybe it’s because she reminds me of pieces of my daughters.

Maybe it’s because she’s compassionate, funny, flawed, curious, and still convinced that there’s more life ahead of her.

Or maybe I just really like sitting down with a cup of tea and listening to this particular fictional woman prattle on about her life.

Whatever the reason, I’ve been hard-pressed to find another series that has captured my attention quite like The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion.

May these books never end.

Posted in Ghost Stories

Echoes Among the Stones

Posted on by Vikki Lynn Sorensen

By Jaime Jo Wright

In the past, I’ve talked about the top three things every haunting story should have:

A rocking chair.
One of those cymbal-clanging monkeys.
Creepy dolls.

Well, let me add one more to the list:

A dollhouse.

Especially one with a recreated murder scene, complete with blood splatters.

Creep-y.

This book may not have the rocking chair or the clanging monkey, but the creep factor is HIGH. In fact, when talking about ghost stories and haunting stories, I may have to start including a creep-factor scale.

What do you think?

Because once again, Jaime Jo Wright managed to keep me up way past my bedtime, living out the “just one more chapter” life of a reader.

And yes, I know better.

Two Timelines, One Mystery

One of the things I love about Wright’s books is her use of dual timelines, and Echoes Among the Stones is another great example.

It’s one thing to have a present-day character tell us what happened in the past. It’s another thing altogether when an author takes us there and lets us experience it for ourselves.

That’s exactly what happens here.

In the present day, Aggie Dunkirk arrives in Wisconsin after the end of her career and returns to the home of her eccentric grandmother, Mumsie. Mumsie has been obsessed with an unsolved murder from decades earlier, going so far as to recreate the crime scene in a dollhouse.

Aggie takes a job helping restore the historical section of a cemetery damaged by flooding, where she is paired with archaeologist Collin O’Shaughnessy. Before long, the work begins uncovering secrets connected to the old murder, and Aggie finds herself pulled into a mystery that someone is still very determined to keep buried.

Then we travel back to 1946.

Imogene Grayson comes home to discover her younger sister Hazel has been murdered. Imogene is determined to find justice for her sister, even though the investigation is taking place in a time when forensic science is still developing and women aren’t exactly welcomed into the process.

As Imogene refuses to let Hazel’s murder become a forgotten cold case, her story begins to connect with Aggie’s in ways neither woman could have anticipated.

And that is where things get really interesting.

The Suspects Kept Me Guessing

The character merry-go-round had me guessing.

Of course, years of watching British cozy mysteries have taught me to suspect everyone, so I was right there with Imogene questioning just about everybody.

I did eventually figure out who the murderer was, but not until much later in the book. And then there was the character who came completely out of left field and left me a little speechless.

I love when a mystery makes me think I have it figured out and then politely taps me on the shoulder and says, “Nope.”

Wright does that several times here.

Spoiler Alert

Okay, we’re getting into spoiler territory now.

If you haven’t read Echoes Among the Stones yet, stop here, go read the book, and then come back.

Seriously.

You’ve been warned.

And Then There’s Mumsie

In the present-day storyline, I absolutely loved, loved, loved finding out that Mumsie was Imogene.

That was such a brilliant move.

It meant that I wasn’t simply hearing someone tell the story of the past. I was watching one of the main characters live through it, and then seeing how those experiences shaped the woman she became.

Seeing how Imogene’s past affected Mumsie in the present, her relationships, her marriage and the way she interacted with Aggie added an entirely different layer to the story.

I will admit, though, that I was slightly disappointed by her husband’s identity. I wanted it to be someone more significant. And yet, once I understood why it couldn’t be, I also understood the choice.

I suspected quite a few people in Imogene’s family, including her mother, so apparently no one was safe from my suspicion.

Nobody.

Aggie’s Story Is About More Than a Mystery

Then there’s Aggie.

Aggie Dunkirk is a strong female character, but what I appreciated most about her was that her story isn’t simply about solving a murder.

She’s grieving the death of her mother while also grieving the loss of her career. She returns to Mill Creek and to her grandmother, Mumsie, with whom she has a decidedly adversarial relationship.

At first, that part of the story gave me a little bit of a “Hallmark Christmas movie” feeling. And listen, I love a good Hallmark Christmas movie.

But Wright doesn’t leave Aggie there.

It’s clear pretty quickly that Aggie has unresolved grief of her own, and those unresolved issues have affected her life in some pretty significant ways.

The mystery gives her something to chase, but underneath that mystery is a woman who needs to confront her own grief.

A Romance That Actually Makes Sense

And this is where Collin comes in.

I really appreciated that Collin isn’t there to be a one-size-fits-all Band-Aid for Aggie’s grief.

He doesn’t magically fix her. Instead, he walks alongside her. He reminds her of God’s love for her. He reminds her that God doesn’t cause bad things to happen, but He is always near to those who are hurting.

That distinction mattered to me.

Their relationship feels less like Man Meets Broken Woman and Fixes Her and more like Two People Walking Alongside Each Other While One of Them Learns How to Heal.

And I much prefer that.

My Final Thoughts

Echoes Among the Stones has everything I want in a Jaime Jo Wright mystery: a creepy atmosphere, an old murder, a dual timeline, a whole collection of suspicious people, family secrets, unexpected twists and just enough romance to keep things interesting without taking over the story.

But underneath all of that is a story about grief, forgiveness, redemption and what happens when we refuse to let our grief have the final word.

And, as usual, Wright gives us plenty to think about after the mystery is solved.

Just maybe don’t read this one alone in a dark house.

Especially if you have a dollhouse.

I’m just saying.

Cozy Sips: Hot Spiced Apple Cider

For this book, my drink pairing has to be Hot Spiced Apple Cider.

There’s something about reading a deliciously creepy story set in Wisconsin while the weather is finally giving up the last of summer’s heat and ushering in the cool of fall.

Give me a blanket.

Give me my book.

Give me a steaming mug of apple cider.

And then add an atmospheric YouTube video with some spooky music in the background.

You know what?

Maybe don’t.

Because I have to sleep eventually. And if you’re reading Echoes Among the Stones on a cool fall evening?

That is about as cozy as creepy gets.

Posted in Ghost Stories

The Bell Tolls at Traeger Hall

Posted on by Vikki Lynn Sorensen

By Jaime Jo Wright

As a fan of anything Jaime Jo Wright writes, I went into this book with high expectations.

I was not disappointed.

In all my years of reading spooky stories, I’ve come to two conclusions:

  • Some books are creepy because of what happens in them.
  • And then there are books that are creepy because of the atmosphere they create.

The Bell Tolls at Traeger Hall is definitely the second kind.

There’s a creepy house, a dark bell tower that tolls whenever someone’s life is in danger, weird family secrets, and dead bodies being laid out in the front parlor for far longer than they need to be.

Yes. I was thoroughly invested.

The story follows two women living decades apart whose lives become connected by the mystery surrounding Traeger Hall. And because this is Jaime Jo Wright, you know you’re going to get an atmospheric setting, complicated characters, family secrets, and twists that keep you guessing.

Spoiler warning: This review discusses plot details and character arcs from the book.

Book Details

Title: The Bell Tolls at Traeger Hall
Author: Jaime Jo Wright
Genre: Gothic Mystery / Christian Fiction
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 out of 5

Content Note

This book contains themes of abuse, family trauma, death, grief, murder, and the mistreatment of deceased bodies. There are references to verbal and emotional abuse, including an abusive parent.

Synopsis

In the past, Waverly is left behind after the brutal deaths of her aunt and her cruel, narcissistic uncle. She is expected to keep vigil over their bodies for far longer than anyone should have to endure.

As she begins uncovering the secrets surrounding their deaths, the local undertaker comes to her aid. Together, they begin piecing together a mystery that reaches much deeper than either of them expected.

In the present day, Jennie inherits Traeger Hall following the deaths of her mother and her abusive father.

With the help of Zane, a local man, and his non-verbal son, Jennie begins uncovering the secrets surrounding Traeger Hall as she reopens the house, much to the dismay of the people of Newton Creek.

And Newton Creek has plenty of secrets of its own.

Cozy Vibes Check

Calling this book “cozy” may be stretching the definition a little.

This is gothic cozy.

In fact, the atmosphere is one of my favorite things about this book. Traeger Hall feels like a character in its own right, and I absolutely love that element in a gothic novel.

The town of Newton Creek also feels almost like another character. It watches. It remembers. It holds onto its secrets while Jennie slowly begins pulling them into the light.

It’s dark, atmospheric, mysterious, and just a little unsettling.

The Creep Factor

There is one particular element that really increased the creep factor for me:

The bodies.

Waverly is forced to keep vigil over the bodies of her aunt and uncle for far longer than necessary.

In the midst of a recent family loss myself, this hit differently.

I cannot imagine the elongation of grief that would come from having your loved one’s body laid out in your living room day after day while you’re still trying to process the fact that they’re gone.

It made me very grateful for funeral homes.

And it added an entirely different layer of horror to the story.

Two Women, Two Timelines

Dual timelines are something I’ve come to expect from Jaime Jo Wright, and she does them so well.

Waverly and Jennie are separated by decades, but their stories become increasingly connected as the mysteries surrounding Traeger Hall begin to unfold.

Both women have experienced tremendous trauma. Both have been hurt by people who should have loved and protected them. And both have to figure out what it means to move forward.

But their journeys are not identical. And I’m glad they aren’t.

Jennie’s Journey

This may have been my favorite part of the entire book.

Far too often, stories about abuse give characters a very predictable path to healing.

  • Tell your story.
  • Have a good ugly cry.
  • And suddenly, everything is better.

Wright doesn’t do that with Jennie.

Jennie is skeptical. She’s guarded. She’s carrying years of abuse, and she doesn’t suddenly become a completely different person because she’s uncovered the truth about her past.

Instead, she becomes willing to open the door.

And for Zane, that’s enough.

As someone who survived a verbally and emotionally abusive marriage, I appreciated this more than I can really explain.

I didn’t readily jump into the arms of Jesus when I got divorced. Healing took years. I was grateful for the people who surrounded me with love and patience while I worked through what had happened.

That’s why Jennie’s journey felt so honest to me. She wasn’t magically fixed. She was willing to keep going. And sometimes, that is what healing looks like.

And Then There Is Zane

Zane brings such a steady presence to the story. I especially loved his perspective on trauma and faith.

One of my favorite quotes from the book is:

“I believe God helps those of us who experience trauma so we can discover the path to keep going in spite of the pain. To have faith and find strength outside of ourselves and hopefully find beauty again.”

That quote really captures what I appreciated about this story. Faith isn’t presented as a magic eraser for everything that has happened. Sometimes faith is simply finding enough strength to take the next step. And then the next one. And eventually discovering that there can still be beauty after the pain.

Did the Mystery Keep Me Guessing?

Absolutely.

The mystery kept me guessing until the very end.

There were twists I suspected and twists I absolutely did not see coming. And even when I thought I’d figured something out, Wright managed to give me another piece of the puzzle to consider.

That is one of the reasons I keep coming back to her books. I’ve only read a handful of Jaime Jo Wright’s novels, but I look forward to each one. She uses familiar elements: dual timelines, haunting settings, family trauma, complicated characters, and shocking twists.

Yet somehow, she never makes them feel repetitive. She remakes them with every story.

And I’m absolutely here for it.

Cozy Sips Pairing: A London Fog

If you’re going to spend an afternoon at Traeger Hall, you might as well have something warm to drink while the bell tower is doing its thing.

I’m pairing this book with a London Fog, a classic Earl Grey tea drink made with steamed milk. The combination feels almost too perfect for this book: Victorian atmosphere, Earl Grey, steamed milk, and just enough mystery to make you wonder what exactly is happening in that bell tower.

Final Thoughts

The Bell Tolls at Traeger Hall gave me exactly what I hoped for: an atmospheric mystery, a creepy house, complicated characters, a little bit of faith, and enough twists to keep me turning pages.

But what stayed with me most wasn’t the mystery.

It was Jennie’s journey.

Healing doesn’t always happen in a straight line. Sometimes it isn’t dramatic. Sometimes it doesn’t look the way we expect it to look. Sometimes healing is simply deciding that you’re willing to take another step.

And sometimes, that is enough.

Posted in Historical Fiction

When the Day Comes

Posted on by Vikki Lynn Sorensen

by Gabrielle Meyer

The Time-Crossing Historical Fiction Story I Didn’t Know I Needed

About the Book:
Libby (Anne Elizabeth) is living two different lives in two different time periods. Each day brings her back and forth between two worlds, forcing her to navigate different expectations, relationships, and choices. As she tries to understand why she has been given these two lives, Libby must discover where she truly belongs and what purpose lies behind her unusual journey.

When the Day Comes is a story about identity, courage, faith, and the choices that shape who we become.

What I Loved

I have a confession: this book sat on my reading list for over a year.

Not because I didn’t think I would like it, but because I wasn’t sure about the time-crossing element. My first thought was, “Is this going to be confusing?” My second thought was, “Am I going to need a timeline chart and a notebook?”

Thankfully, the answer was no.

Instead, Gabrielle Meyer created something truly special.

I have never read a dual timeline story quite like this one. The idea of following the same main character through two different time periods could have easily become complicated, but somehow Meyer made it feel completely natural.

And that is not easy.

I loved Libby (Anne Elizabeth) and the way she navigated two different lives, two different worlds, and two different sets of expectations. She was a character who made me want to understand her choices and cheer for her journey.

But what impressed me most was the explanation behind the time-crossing element. It was original, thoughtful, and beautifully woven into the story. It never felt like a gimmick. It felt like it belonged.

I also appreciated that the two timelines were equally engaging. Sometimes in dual timeline stories, readers find themselves impatiently waiting to return to one storyline over another. That never happened here. Both timelines mattered. Both worlds had purpose.

I had wondered if this book would feel similar to Outlander, but it truly stands on its own. (For the record, I never read the books and only made it through the first season of the show before deciding it was not for me.) This story had its own identity, its own heart, and its own beautifully unique approach.

This was a masterpiece, and I use that word intentionally.

When the Day Comes reminded me why I love historical fiction. It can transport us to another time while still asking timeless questions about faith, purpose, love, and who we are meant to become.

My Rating

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Perfect for Readers Who Enjoy:

Christian historical fiction, dual timeline stories, strong heroines, unique storytelling, and books that blend history with a touch of the unexpected.

Cozy Sip Pairing:

Classic Earl Grey Tea with Honey and Cream

This book feels like a cozy afternoon wrapped in a blanket while traveling through different centuries, discovering new places, and getting completely lost in a story you never expected to love.

Posted in Christian Fiction

The Way Back

Posted on by Vikki Lynn Sorensen

by Heidi Chiavaroli

A Story About Scars, Healing, and Finding Your Way Back

About the Book:
Laney’s life has been shaped by painful memories, trauma, and scars she wishes she could leave behind. When she returns to a place connected to her past, she begins uncovering the pieces of her story that she has spent years trying to avoid. Through family secrets, unexpected connections, and the stories of those who came before her, Laney begins a journey toward healing and discovering where true hope can be found.

The Way Back is a story about facing the wounds we carry, learning to forgive, and discovering that our broken places do not disqualify us from being loved.

What I Loved

Some books are difficult because of the subject matter, but they are also important because of the way those subjects are handled. The Way Back is one of those books.

Heidi Chiavaroli approached the topics of trauma and self-harm with such tenderness and compassion. These moments were never written for shock value. Instead, they were handled with care, reminding readers that behind every scar is a story and behind every story is a person who deserves grace.

This book was especially meaningful to me because I have walked alongside someone I love through the struggle of self-harm. Seeing that journey represented with such sensitivity was incredibly powerful.

One of the most beautiful parts of Laney’s healing journey was the reminder that scars are not something we have to hide. We often see scars as evidence of something painful or broken, but Jesus’ scars tell a different story. His scars are reminders of love, sacrifice, and redemption.

Watching Laney begin to see herself through the eyes of Jesus was one of my favorite parts of the book. She slowly learns that her scars are not what define her. They are part of her story, but they are not the final chapter.

I also loved the supporting characters who helped guide Laney through her healing. Her mother’s story was heartbreaking and gave deeper understanding to the pain Laney carried. Her grandmother was one of my favorite characters because of her quiet strength. She did not need grand speeches or dramatic moments. Her love and wisdom spoke through the little things.

The story of Abbie Burgess was another beautiful piece of the puzzle. It helped bring the past and present together while reminding Laney that storms do not last forever.

For me, this book became a lighthouse. It was a reminder that even when we feel lost in the middle of our storms, God is still guiding us toward healing, hope, and home.

My Rating

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Perfect for Readers Who Enjoy:

Christian fiction, emotional healing journeys, redemption stories, faith-filled contemporary fiction, and books about finding hope after hardship.

Cozy Sip Pairing:

Vanilla Honey Latte with Cinnamon

This story feels like sitting in a quiet corner with a warm drink in your hands while someone gently reminds you that healing takes time, grace is always available, and your story is not over yet.

Posted in Historical Fiction

The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion, Vol 1-3

Posted on by Vikki Lynn Sorensen

By Beth Brower

A Delightfully Chaotic Historical Fiction Treat

About the Book:
Written through the journals of Emma M. Lion, this charming historical fiction series follows Emma as she navigates family expectations, friendships, romance, and the many complications that come with society’s rules. Filled with witty observations, misunderstandings, and memorable characters, Emma’s journals offer a humorous look at life, love, and the people who make both more complicated.

What wit! What joy! What humor!

Sometimes you need a book that makes you think deeply. Sometimes you need a book that breaks your heart open. And sometimes you need Emma M. Lion and a cast of characters who make you laugh.

This series was such a delightful escape.

Emma’s journal entries are filled with personality. She is observant, opinionated, and wonderfully entertaining. Her voice is what makes this series shine because you truly feel like you are reading the private thoughts of someone who has a lot to say about the world around her.

And then we have the men in Emma’s life.

Oh, the men.

They bring an entirely new level of entertainment to these books.

Archibald, especially, deserves his own paragraph. Or possibly his own book. His morning coats alone have enough personality to qualify.

He is frustrating, stubborn, dramatic, and somehow completely charming at the same time. There were moments when I wanted to tell Emma, “Are we absolutely sure about this?” But then Archibald would do something unexpectedly funny or endearing, and I understood why he was such a memorable character.

The other gentlemen who appear throughout the series add their own mix of complications, misunderstandings, and charm. Each one brings something different to Emma’s world, creating the kind of historical fiction cast that keeps you turning pages.

What I loved most about this series is that it does not take itself too seriously. It is lighthearted, clever, and full of the kind of humor that makes you smile.

This is the perfect series for those moments when you want a cozy read, a little laughter, and characters who feel like old friends.

If you enjoy witty historical fiction with a little romance, a little chaos, and a lot of charm, Emma M. Lion is waiting.

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Perfect for readers who enjoy:

Clean historical fiction, Jane Austen-inspired humor, witty heroines, charming romances, and cozy reads.

Cozy Sip Pairing:

Lavender London Fog with a Plate of Biscuits

A lavender London Fog with a plate of biscuits, because Emma M. Lion feels like the literary equivalent of a lively afternoon tea filled with laughter and gossip.

Posted in Ghost Stories

The Souls of Lost Lake

Posted on by Vikki Lynn Sorensen

By Jaime Jo Wright

Urban myth meets clean horror meets creepy storytelling!

Let’s get what this book is all about out of the way. 

In the present day, Wren Blythe loves her quiet life in the Northwoods of Wisconsin, where she helps her father with his ministry at a youth camp. But when a young girl disappears, the community comes together for a desperate search and an old campfire legend begins to resurface.

The story of Ava Coons, a young girl accused of murdering her own family decades ago, has haunted the area for years. Some believe her ghost still wanders the woods. While searching for the missing child, Wren discovers the ruins of the Coons family cabin and becomes determined to uncover the truth behind the mystery that has lingered for so long.

In 1930, thirteen-year-old Ava Coons walked out of the woods covered in blood and carrying a logger’s ax. Her family was gone, their bodies never found, and the people of Tempter’s Creek quickly decided she must be responsible. Years later, Ava has learned to live with the questions she can’t answer and the suspicion that follows her everywhere.

But when another person is murdered and someone else disappears, the whispers begin again. Could Ava’s past hold a darker secret than anyone ever imagined?

This dual-timeline mystery blends suspense, secrets, and the search for truth as Wren and Ava’s stories collide across generations.

My Thoughts

Out of the four Jaime Jo Wright books I’ve read so far, The Souls of Lost Lake is hands down my favorite. It is also the creepiest one yet. I absolutely loved the urban legend feel woven throughout this story. There is something so fascinating about a whispered campfire tale becoming connected to real history, forgotten secrets, and mysteries that refuse to stay buried.

I honestly had a hard time putting this book down. At the same time, I found myself thinking that maybe this is not the best book to read alone in the dark. But honestly, those are the stories that pull you in the most. The atmosphere, the suspense, and the feeling that something is hiding just beyond the pages made this one unforgettable.

Let’s Unwrap the Past

Ava Coons is one of those characters who completely captured my heart while also testing my patience. I wanted to reach through the pages, wrap her in a hug, and take away all the hurt and pain she had carried for so long. Then there were moments when I wanted to shake her and tell her to stop pushing away the people who genuinely wanted to help her.

The way the town viewed Ava and the way she eventually saw herself because of that judgment was heartbreaking. She was defined by a tragedy she could not remember and a story other people decided was true.

The 1930 storyline gave me some serious To Kill a Mockingbird vibes. The small-town assumptions, the quick judgments, and the search for truth beneath years of rumors all added another emotional layer to the story.

And that ending? I did not see it coming. I was convinced I knew where the story was headed, and I was completely wrong. The final reveal caught me off guard in the best possible way.

Now Let’s Talk About the Present

I have to talk about the Tolkien references because I loved them! There is definitely a Lord of the Rings fan woven into this story, and I was completely here for it.

Wren’s connection to Tolkien through her father could have felt unusual at first, but it actually added so much depth to their relationship and helped shape who she was.

Wren is a character who has spent much of her life feeling lost. When a young girl disappears from the camp where Wren helps her father, she begins asking questions she has avoided for years.

Then come the creepy dolls, strange discoveries, unsettling clues, and secrets hidden in the past. The mystery becomes about much more than finding a missing child. Wren must discover the truth about what happened, who she really is, and what her purpose is moving forward.

Overall Thoughts

This story perfectly blends mystery, suspense, faith, redemption, and just enough creepiness to keep you turning pages.

If you only read one Jaime Jo Wright book, make it this one. But be warned, once you read it, you will probably want to read everything she has written.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Cozy Sip Pairing

Lost Lake Blackberry Sage Spritzer

For this book, I wanted something that felt a little different, just like the story itself. The blackberry and sage combination gives this drink a unique twist, and the sparkle makes it feel fun and refreshing. It’s the perfect sip while diving into a creepy mystery filled with secrets.

Posted in Ghost Stories

Reckoning at Gossamer Pond

Posted on by Vikki Lynn Sorensen

Written by Jaime Jo Wright
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Major Themes

Faith and deception – Exploring the difference between genuine faith and religious hype, and the importance of seeking truth.
Forgiveness – Learning to accept forgiveness from God while also finding the ability to forgive yourself.
Generational consequences – How the choices of those before us can impact future generations, but how those patterns can be changed through our own choices.

What It’s About:

The Reckoning at Gossamer Pond is a captivating dual timeline mystery that follows two women living a century apart whose lives become connected through the hidden history of the same small town.

In the present day, Annalise Forsythe unexpectedly inherits a rundown trailer after the mysterious death of its owner. Inside, she discovers a collection of old photographs, vintage obituaries, and revival posters. What seems like a collection of forgotten items quickly becomes a doorway into secrets that have been buried for generations.

A hundred years earlier, Libby Sheffield is working at her father’s newspaper when she receives an obituary for a respected church deacon before he has even died. As Libby and the deacon’s son investigate the disturbing mystery, they uncover a series of events connected to the arrival of charismatic revivalists whose influence has divided the town. As the two timelines unfold, the connections between Annalise’s discoveries and Libby’s investigation become clearer, leading to a story filled with faith, deception, redemption, and the truth that refuses to remain hidden.

My Thoughts:

Of the four books I’ve read by Jaime Jo Wright, I have to admit this one wasn’t my favorite. The pacing moved a little slower than I prefer, although it’s possible that my impatient reader side was showing. The creepy atmosphere was definitely there, but it didn’t quite reach the same level of unease as some of her other stories.

That being said, one thing Jaime Jo Wright does incredibly well is weaving the past and present together in a way that feels seamless. It truly feels like one of her greatest strengths as an author.

The Past:

Libby Sheffield is a woman ahead of her time. Working alongside her father at the newspaper, she notices details and connections that others might overlook. When she discovers an obituary for a man who is still alive, she finds herself pulled into a mystery that challenges everything she believes.

The arrival of the charismatic revivalist twins only adds to the uncertainty. One fills her with fear and suspicion, while the other causes her to question her own heart, her judgment, and even her sanity. Add in a dark secret from her own past, and Libby’s journey becomes one filled with danger, difficult choices, and painful truths.

I have to admit, I did figure out the big twist this time, which is unusual for me. I’m blaming the countless hours I’ve spent watching British murder mysteries! 😂 Even so, Jaime Jo Wright is still a master at delivering shocking revelations. The ending of Tempest at Annabel’s Lighthouse is proof of that because I truly did not see that twist coming.

The Present:

Annalise is also carrying the weight of her own past, and it follows her into the present simply because of where she lives and the people connected to her. When the town loner dies and leaves behind a trailer filled with strange items and countless pictures of Annalise, the secrets she thought were buried begin to resurface.

As she searches for answers, she finds herself surrounded by danger and questions she never expected to ask. Thankfully, Annalise is far from helpless, and once again, Wright delivers a conclusion filled with twists I didn’t see coming.

Overall Thoughts

One of my favorite things about this book is the way the female characters are written. There are no helpless damsels in distress, even though both women find themselves in situations where they need help. Their vulnerability never takes away from their strength. The danger feels real without making them feel powerless.

The same can be said about the male characters. They are strong, but they are also human. There is no unnecessary man versus woman dynamic. Instead, Wright creates characters who are flawed, emotional, and authentic. I appreciate that the men are allowed to have depth and feelings while the women are portrayed with resilience, courage, and strength. That balance makes the characters feel real and is something I truly value in her storytelling.

Cozy Sip Pairing: Maple Cinnamon Latte

For The Reckoning at Gossamer Pond, I’m pairing this story with a cozy Maple Cinnamon Latte. This drink feels like the perfect companion for a dual timeline mystery filled with small town secrets, old photographs, and rainy afternoons spent uncovering the truth. It has that warm, comforting autumn feel that pairs beautifully with a suspenseful read.

Maple Cinnamon Latte Recipe:
1 cup strong brewed coffee or 2 shots espresso
¾ cup milk of your choice
1 to 2 tablespoons maple syrup (adjust to your sweetness preference)
¼ teaspoon cinnamon
Optional: whipped cream and an extra sprinkle of cinnamon

Warm your milk and whisk in the maple syrup and cinnamon. Pour over your coffee or espresso, stir well, and top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired. Grab your favorite blanket, settle into a cozy chair, and enjoy a little mystery with your latte.

Posted in Ghost Stories

Tempest at Annabel’s Lighthouse

Posted on by Vikki Lynn Sorensen

By Jaime Jo Wright

This marks my third Jaime Jo Wright novel, and once again, she delivers a story that completely holds its ground. Each book builds that same signature blend of mystery, faith threads, and gothic tension—but this one might be my favorite yet. If you haven’t read her work, don’t wait. Go find one now and settle in for a moody, atmospheric ride.

Tropes

  • Town secrets with deep roots
  • Strained, failing marriage
  • Dual timeline storytelling
  • Haunted/tormented presence
  • Isolated, atmospheric setting

Themes

  • Self-serving love vs. committed love
  • Echoes of history shaping the present
  • Greed, betrayal, and consequences
  • Healing from brokenness and grief

Synopsis

A writer arrives at a secluded lighthouse to research local hauntings. What she expects as inspiration turns into a spiral of buried truths, violent history, and a town that refuses to forget.

In the 1800s timeline, Rebecca wakes up injured and disoriented on a gravestone near a lighthouse. She has no memory of who she is or why someone attacked her. The lighthouse keeper and his circle take her in, but danger lingers just beyond the shoreline as her past slowly resurfaces.

In the present day, Shae arrives at the same lighthouse to investigate its ghost stories and write a book. She leaves behind a struggling marriage with her husband, Pete, believing space will heal her. Instead, she uncovers an unsolved murder, a haunting legacy, and secrets strong enough to fracture an entire town.

My Thoughts

This story works because of the strength of the characters. They’re not just people in a story but rather they’re its whole emotional undertone for the book. This is mastery writing by the author. 

Rebecca’s arc grips from the start. Her vulnerability never weakens her story; it deepens it. As she pieces together her identity, the tension never lets up.

Niina brings warmth into the cold isolation of the lighthouse. She feels like a steady presence, comforting, nurturing, and deeply human. At one point, Rebecca remarks that her scent is made up of “warm, freshly-baked bread”. 

Edgar unfolds like a living mystery. His story doesn’t feel told; it feels discovered. His reveal ties directly into the moral weight of “saving” Annabel and the ripple effects across generations.

Abel stands as quiet heroism in grief. He protects fiercely, especially when it comes to Rebecca.

Mercer and Bear bring the menace. They don’t just oppose the characters, they press against every corner of safety in the story.

In the present timeline, Shae feels raw and conflicted. She frustrates at times, but she also feels real. Pete grounds the story with steady reliability, and their marriage becomes one of the most honest emotional threads in the book.

Annabel’s chapters cut deepest. Her voice lingers in tragic, haunting, and beautifully restrained tones.

One of my absolute favorite things the author does is reference a previous book. It feels like a special nod to loyal readers, the kind that makes you sit up a little straighter and think, “I recognize that story!”

Cozy Vibe Check

Even with its darker edges, the atmosphere pulls you in like a fog rolling off cold water.

Atmosphere: Gothic coastal tension meets historic weight. The lighthouse and surrounding lake shape the emotional tone of every scene.

Emotional Core: Redemption and grace carry the heart of the story. The fractured marriage storyline adds a grounded, deeply human layer.

Setting: Silvertown feels like a near-abandoned mining town wrapped in memory. Isolation isn’t just described; it’s felt.

Favorite Quote

“Sometimes steady was comforting. Sometimes mundane was reliable. Sometimes always-there was the most romantic thing anyone could ever be for someone.”

Pair It With

A warm cup of Earl Grey tea with a splash of milk in a well-loved teacup and saucer, ideally one with history, gentle wear, or sentimental meaning.

Settle into a cozy chair tucked into a quiet corner on a dark evening. Keep the lighting soft with a single warm lamp and light a vanilla scented candle for a gentle glow. Play soft string music in the background to deepen the atmosphere. Wrap yourself in your favorite blanket and settle in.

You are in for a long night because you will not want to put this one down.

Final Rating

Rating: 5 out of 5.