Tag: clean reads

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 Cozy Mysteries and 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.
Posted in Bookshelf Favorites

My Current Favorite Authors 

Posted on by Vikki Lynn Sorensen

There are several books on my shelves and even more on my Kindle, but every once in a while a handful of authors completely capture my attention. They’re the ones I recommend over and over again because I know exactly what I’m getting every time I open one of their books.

As someone who prefers clean fiction, I don’t want to spend my reading time skipping pages or wondering if a story is going to head in a direction I’d rather avoid. I want compelling characters, beautiful writing, memorable settings, and stories that stay with me long after I’ve turned the last page.

These five authors continue to deliver exactly that. If you’re looking for books without the spice but packed with atmosphere, mystery, heart, and unforgettable characters, here’s where I’d start.

Jaime Jo Wright

Jaime Jo Wright has become my absolute favorite author.

Her stories combine everything I love about fiction. They feel mysterious without crossing into anything occult. The ghostly elements create suspense, history, and emotion rather than horror, and every novel points back to hope and faith.

That’s a combination I don’t find very often.

Her books explore brokenness, healing, forgiveness, and God’s faithfulness in ways that never feel preachy. Instead, faith grows naturally from the characters’ journeys, making every ending feel earned.

Then there’s the atmosphere.

No one creates an eerie old house, abandoned asylum, forgotten cemetery, or isolated estate quite like Jaime Jo Wright. I don’t simply read her books but rather I step inside them.

Every time she announces a new release, I don’t even read the description anymore.

I just preorder it.

Read Jaime Jo Wright if you love:

  • Faith-filled fiction
  • Gothic atmosphere
  • Family secrets
  • Dual timelines
  • Ghost stories that aren’t occult
  • Beautiful writing that lingers long after the last page

Angie Fox

Sometimes you need a mystery that’s just plain fun.

That’s exactly what Angie Fox delivers.

Her Southern Ghost Hunter Mysteries have become one of my favorite comfort series because they balance mystery, humor, quirky characters, and just enough ghostly fun to keep the pages turning.

There’s no faith thread running through these books, but that has never bothered me because the stories know exactly what they are.

They’re charming.

They’re funny.

And somehow they always make me crave sweet tea.

The small-town Southern setting almost becomes another character. Add in memorable personalities, plenty of laughs, and satisfying mysteries, and you’ve got books that are incredibly easy to binge.

If you’ve been looking for paranormal mysteries that stay lighthearted without becoming silly, this series deserves a place on your reading list.

Read Angie Fox if you love:

  • Southern charm
  • Small-town mysteries
  • Funny dialogue
  • Lovable characters
  • Ghosts with personality
  • Cozy paranormal mysteries

Lily Mirren

Not every memorable story needs ghosts (although I recoil a little at saying that). Sometimes all it takes is a group of women who genuinely care about one another.

That’s exactly why I keep returning to Lily Mirren.

Her books celebrate friendship, resilience, healing, and the kind of wisdom that only comes from living through life’s hardest seasons. Every time I finish one of her novels, I wish I could pull up a chair, pour a cup of coffee, and spend the afternoon listening to these women share their stories.

Their conversations feel real.

Their struggles feel familiar.

Their victories feel personal.

In a world that often pits women against one another, Lily Mirren reminds us how beautiful female friendships can be. Her stories leave me encouraged every single time.

Read Lily Mirren if you love:

  • Women’s fiction
  • Strong female friendships
  • Emotional healing
  • Family relationships
  • Small-town charm
  • Characters that feel like friends

Erin Craig

If a summer thunderstorm rolls in and you’re looking for the perfect book to match the mood, reach for Erin Craig.

Her novels feel haunting in the very best way. Every setting drips with atmosphere, every family carries dark secrets, and every chapter pulls you deeper into the mystery. Her writing feels almost cinematic.

You can hear the wind.

You can feel the rain.

You can practically smell the old houses and forgotten forests.

Although her books remain clean, I should mention that they can become emotionally intense. Some scenes carry genuine tension and darker themes, but they’re always there to serve the story rather than shock the reader.

I’ll happily read anything Erin Craig writes because I know I’m about to disappear into another unforgettable world.

Read Erin Craig if you love:

  • Gothic fantasy
  • Atmospheric fiction
  • Family curses
  • Fairy-tale retellings
  • Dark mysteries
  • Beautiful prose

Jessica Thorne

Some authors hook you with one book.

Jessica Thorne did exactly that.

The moment I finished The Bookbinder’s Daughter, I knew I’d found another auto-buy author. Her stories blend fantasy, mystery, history, and rich world-building into books that completely absorb me.

I love authors who trust readers enough to let the story unfold naturally, and Jessica Thorne does that beautifully. She doesn’t rush the mystery or overexplain every detail. Instead, she lets you settle into the world and discover its secrets alongside the characters.

That kind of storytelling keeps me turning pages far later than I intended.

If you’ve never picked up one of her books, The Bookbinder’s Daughter remains my favorite place to start.

Read Jessica Thorne if you love:

  • Fantasy
  • Historical mysteries
  • Magical libraries
  • Ancient secrets
  • Beautiful world-building
  • Atmospheric adventures

Why I Keep Coming Back to These Authors

When I find an author I trust, I stay loyal. That doesn’t mean every book becomes a five-star read. It means I know the experience will be worth my time.

Each of these authors creates stories that value character development over shock value. They build memorable worlds instead of relying on spice to keep readers interested. Most importantly, they remind me that clean fiction doesn’t have to be boring.

Far from it.

These books prove that mystery, suspense, emotion, friendship, faith, and unforgettable storytelling can carry an entire novel without explicit content.

If you’re trying to build a library filled with clean or low-spice reads, you really can’t go wrong with any of these authors.

And if you’re wondering where I’d tell you to start?

Jaime Jo Wright currently still sits firmly at the top of my list.

Posted in Cozy Mysteries and Ghost Stories

The House on Foster Hill

Posted on by Vikki Lynn Sorensen

By Jaime Jo Wright

Have you ever tried to outrun your past, only to realize it doesn’t stay behind you… it follows you in ways you never expected? And sometimes it doesn’t even show up as the past at all – it shows up as your present, and maybe even your future.

This book sits right in that space.

Tropes

Let’s start with the basics:

  • Dual timeline
  • Haunted / “living” house
  • Cold case mystery
  • Gothic small-town setting

Themes

This story leans into some heavy, meaningful ground:

  • Grief
  • Trauma recovery
  • Female resilience and strength in hardship

Synopsis

Two women, separated by a century, find themselves connected through one place: Foster Hill.

In the early 1900s, Ivy Thorpe carries deep grief after the loss of her brother and the betrayal of someone she trusted. When a body turns up near a local estate, she steps straight into a mystery filled with buried secrets and long-hidden truths.

In the present day, Kaine Prescott runs from a life she can no longer face in San Diego. She buys the rundown Foster Hill with the hope of restoring it in honor of her late husband. Instead, she finds a house that refuses to stay quiet. What she uncovers ties directly into the danger she thought she left behind.

As past and present begin to collide, both women move toward one conclusion – one that exposes secrets that never should have stayed buried.

My Thoughts

Jaime Jo Wright does it again.

I found this book even more haunting and intense than The Bookshop of 99 Doors. I had to set it down more than once just to clear my head. The haunting never crosses into horror – it stays eerie, atmospheric, and deeply unsettling in the best way.

The house absolutely acts like a character. I love when authors do that. Foster Hill holds layers of secrets, and each one peels back like an onion. Every reveal pulls you deeper into the story until you realize how far in you’ve gone.

Both Ivy and Kaine feel fully developed. As they untangle the mystery, they also confront parts of themselves they’ve avoided. Their growth feels natural and earned.

The romance stays closed-door and clean, with no spice or language, which fits the tone of the story well.

Faith threads through the book in a grounded way. It never feels forced. Instead, it shows up in the real, messy moments – grief, anger, questioning, and that very human tension of trying to trust God in the middle of loss.

And the pacing? Excellent. I read this in under 48 hours because I kept telling myself, “just one more chapter,” until suddenly I was too far in to stop.

I love finding stories like this – haunted, atmospheric fiction with a strong faith undercurrent done well.

Cozy Vibes Check

Atmosphere:
Gothic, eerie, and wrapped in quiet tension from beginning to end.

Pacing:
The story builds both timelines carefully, letting each layer of the mystery unfold at its own pace.

Emotional Tone:
Reflective, somber, and unsettling at times, but threaded with quiet hope.

Reading Experience:
It felt like peeling back old wallpaper in a forgotten house and finding something hidden underneath that was never meant to be seen.

Favorite Quote

“Sometimes the past doesn’t stay buried… it waits for someone brave enough to listen.”

Pair It With

Drink: Hot chai tea – something warm that carries both comfort and quiet courage in the same cup.

Vibe: A steady Sunday morning rain with the windows cracked just enough to let the sound in – the kind that becomes part of the story. Percy at my side, a light summer blanket pulled close, and that quiet feeling that the house outside your window feels a little too still.

Rating

Rating: 5 out of 5.
Posted in Bookshelf Favorites

Why I Choose to Read No-Spice Books

Posted on by Vikki Lynn Sorensen

Can I be honest with you?

I didn’t always read clean books.

For years, I enjoyed spicy romance novels. I loved the excitement, the chemistry, and the emotional intensity. At the time, I didn’t think much about how those stories were shaping my expectations.

Then I got married.

What I quickly discovered was that real life rarely looks like fiction. Real relationships aren’t built on perfectly timed grand gestures, flawless communication, or endless romantic moments. They’re built on ordinary days, imperfect people, and the choice to love each other anyway.

At first, I kept reading those books. I even wrote some of that content myself. Looking back, though, I can see that the stories I consumed slowly became a measuring stick for my own life.

Without realizing it, I started comparing.

Why doesn’t my relationship feel like that?

Why isn’t romance easier?

Why don’t I feel what the characters feel?

The more I compared, the more dissatisfied I became.

My husband made efforts to show love in his own way, but I often overlooked them because they didn’t match the version of romance I had built in my mind. Instead of appreciating what was real, I focused on what was missing.

And comparison rarely stays in one area of life.

Soon, I wasn’t just comparing my marriage. I compared myself.

I didn’t look like the women in the books. I wasn’t as confident, glamorous, fashionable, or outgoing as the characters I read about. Little by little, my self-confidence eroded.

The problem wasn’t the books themselves.

The problem was what I allowed them to become in my heart.

Scripture reminds us:

“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” — Proverbs 4:23

For me, that verse became deeply personal.

I began to realize that what I read was influencing how I viewed myself, my relationships, and even my contentment. The stories I consumed fed expectations that no real person could consistently meet and encouraged comparisons that slowly stole my ability to appreciate what was right in front of me.

Years later, my marriage ended.

To this day, I would never blame books for my divorce. Marriages end for complicated reasons, and mine was no exception.

But healing has a way of giving us perspective.

Looking back, I can see that some of the stories I consumed encouraged comparisons and expectations that made it harder for me to appreciate the good that existed in my real life. They weren’t the cause, but they certainly weren’t helping.

I don’t share that because I’m interested in creating rules for other people. I share it because I’ve lived with the consequences of comparison, and I know how quietly it can take root.

Today, I still love books just as much as I always have.

But I’ve become more intentional about what I read.

I choose stories that leave me feeling encouraged instead of dissatisfied. I look for romance built on connection, kindness, sacrifice, friendship, and emotional intimacy. I’ve discovered that some of the most beautiful love stories happen in a glance across a room, a hand held during a difficult season, or two people choosing each other again and again.

That’s one of the reasons Clean Reads & Cozy Sips exists.

Not because I think everyone has to read exactly what I read.

Not because I’m interested in judging anyone else’s choices.

But because I’ve experienced firsthand how powerful stories can be.

Books shape us. They influence our thoughts, our expectations, and sometimes even the way we see ourselves.

These days, I choose books that bring peace, hope, and joy into my life.

And honestly?

I’ve never enjoyed reading more.

A Question for You

Have you ever noticed a book, movie, or television show influencing your expectations of relationships, life, or even yourself?

I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.

Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash

Posted in Bookshelf Favorites

Ten Cozy Mysteries for Summer Reading

Posted on by Vikki Lynn Sorensen

As someone who is still getting her reading mojo back, I’m going to cheat a little on this one. Don’t worry – I’ll probably revisit this topic more than once.

I don’t have a list of my top ten cozy mysteries for summer. What I do have is a list of my top ten cozy paranormal mysteries for summer.

All by the same author.

How’s that for efficiency?

My sister and niece introduced me to the Southern Ghost Hunter series, and they absolutely nailed my reading vibe. I love mysteries. I love ghost stories. And if you stick around here long enough, you’ll probably hear me talk about both quite a bit.

Now, you may be thinking, “Ghost stories? Aren’t those better suited for fall?”

Honestly, you’re not wrong. I may very well revisit this list when Halloween rolls around.

For now, though, these are my favorite cozy summer ghost stories. Why summer? Because every one of them takes place in the South, where the weather is hot, the sweet tea is cold, the pecan pie is plentiful, and somebody is always firing up a barbecue.

These are listed in no particular order of favorites.

1. Southern Spirits

This is where it all begins. The story takes place in a fictional Georgia town known for peaches and pecans—which, when combined and topped with ice cream, make a dessert worthy of its own book review. But I digress. We’re here for books, not pie.

Southern Spirits introduces Verity Long, who inherits her grandmother’s house and accidentally traps a 1920s gangster ghost on the property. One accidental ghost imprisonment later, Verity can suddenly see and talk to spirits. Naturally, chaos follows.

2. The Skeleton in the Closet

The second book doesn’t disappoint. This time, Verity and Frankie investigate a murder that takes place in the town library. Because apparently even libraries can’t escape murder mysteries.

3. The Haunted Heist

Verity tries to focus on something other than ghosts for a change. Unfortunately, her boss ends up dead, and a gangster ghost may have information about the crime. Before long, Verity and Frankie plunge headfirst into another mystery and plenty of chaos.

4. Deader Homes and Gardens

Next, Verity takes a job at the creepiest mansion in town. She plans to identify the murderer and exorcise the resident ghosts.

The ghosts, however, have their own plans.

5. Sweet Tea and Spirits

When a prestigious local society invites Verity to join, she thinks she’s finally moving up in the world. Then someone discovers a dead body at the society’s headquarters.

As usual, Verity drags Frankie along while she untangles the mystery.

6. Murder on the Sugarland Express

Verity and her boyfriend plan a romantic train trip through the Tennessee mountains. Unfortunately, the train comes with a haunted history.

It doesn’t take long before the past crashes into the present and derails what should have been a romantic weekend.

7. The Mint Julep Murders

This time, Frankie needs Verity’s help. Together, they assist a gangster ghost with a colorful past that leads them straight to a haunted asylum.

As the body count rises, Verity’s simple plan – help the ghost and get out – becomes considerably more complicated.

8. Southern Bread and Dead

Verity volunteers at a church charity event, expecting a fairly normal day.

Instead, a longtime family friend turns up dead.

As old secrets begin surfacing, Verity discovers that some members of the congregation have worked very hard to keep the past buried.

9. Give Up the Ghost

High school reunions already have a reputation for dredging up old memories.

This reunion takes things a step further.

When ghosts from the past start pulling the living into decades-old conflicts, Verity and Frankie race to uncover the truth.

You may never look at a class reunion the same way again.

10. Death at the Drive-In

Finally, a seventy-year-old cold case returns to the spotlight when new evidence emerges in the death of a young girl.

While the police follow the physical evidence, Verity and Frankie consult the ghostly witnesses. Together, they help solve a murder that has remained unsolved for decades.

Final Thoughts

These books fall around a Level 2 on the intimacy scale and contain only mild swearing. Some of the hauntings get intense, but the stories never venture into anything occult or dark. They’re simply fun ghost stories wrapped around engaging murder mysteries.

One of the things I appreciate most about Angie Fox’s writing is her commitment to character development. She builds a cast you genuinely enjoy spending time with while delivering mysteries that keep the pages turning. Most importantly, she never forgets to make the stories fun.

Of course, this list only covers paranormal mysteries. The next time I put together a summer mystery recommendation list, I may actually include books that don’t involve ghosts.

Although, let’s be honest.

That seems highly unlikely.

Posted in Cozy Mysteries and Ghost Stories

The Bookshop of 99 Doors

Posted on by Vikki Lynn Sorensen

By Jaime Jo Wright

You had me at “bookshop” and kept me with the haunted mansion and century-old secrets. I stayed up way past my bedtime reading this one.

Rating

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Synopsis

I picked this one up for the bookshop and Gothic mansion vibes and wound up staying for the mystery.

The story follows two women living more than a hundred years apart, both connected to the same estate and the secrets hidden within its walls. As the past and present begin to collide, long-buried truths come to light. Packed with suspense, family drama, and faith, this story kept me guessing until the very end.

Cozy Vibes Check

Atmosphere: Dark, emotional, tense, and haunting

Pacing: Steady from start to finish. Not a single lag.

Emotional Tone: Heavy at times but ultimately hopeful. Expect grief, mystery, and plenty of deliciously spooky moments.

Tropes You’ll Find

  • Dual Timeline
  • Haunted Mansion
  • Historical Mystery
  • Family Secrets
  • Books About Books

Clean Reads Rating

Romance/Intimacy: Level 2 – Sweet & Slightly Swoony

Language: Level 2 – Mild “Oops I Said Dang” Energy

Faith Content: Strong

Cozy Factor:
More eerie Gothic mystery than cozy mystery, but the bookshop setting adds a cozy touch.

Suspense Level:
Expect plenty of twists, tension, and late-night reading.

My Thoughts

This book was a wild ride.

Imagine meeting someone at the pool. You chat for a few minutes, feel completely comfortable, and then they shove you into the deep end and walk away while you figure out how to swim. That was my reading experience.

At first, I wasn’t sure this book was for me. Not because it moved slowly—it absolutely didn’t. The pacing was excellent from page one. I just struggled to settle into the mood of the story. Then chapter three arrived, and suddenly I couldn’t stop reading.

Let’s start with the hauntings.

They were atmospheric, creepy, and incredibly well done. Jaime Jo Wright doesn’t rely on terrifying horror moments. Instead, she leans into whispers, tapping sounds, creaking floors, passing shadows, and those unsettling glimpses from the corner of your eye. The kind of spooky that keeps you turning pages instead of hiding under a blanket.

Then there are the secrets.

Both timelines revolve around women trying to uncover the truth while surrounded by people who seem determined to keep it hidden. Every answer leads to another question, and every revelation uncovers something deeper. Just when I thought I had things figured out, the story threw another twist my way.

And then there’s the manor.

The house isn’t just a setting.

It’s a character.

I love stories where the house feels alive, where every hallway, staircase, and locked room carries its own history. This manor holds its secrets close and reveals them only when it’s ready. Around every corner, inside every room, and behind every door waits another clue. That’s exactly the kind of Gothic mystery I love.

Finally, let’s talk about the faith element.

The theme of faith over fear runs throughout the story, but it never feels preachy. Instead, it feels authentic. The characters question. They wonder. They search. And through it all, they wrestle with what is true and where hope can be found. I especially appreciated how both women sought God while navigating the strange and seemingly supernatural events surrounding the house.

My Official Pairing

Setting: A cozy corner on a rainy evening with a lamp glowing nearby and the rest of the house just a little darker than usual. I actually read the last fourth of this book during a thunderstorm at night—nature really provided the perfect setting. 

Drink: A salted caramel mocha or dark chocolate hot cocoa.

Favorite Quote

“You are promised by God himself that if you search for Him, the truth will set you free.”

Read This If You Love

Rebecca – for the sprawling estate, haunting atmosphere, and secrets lurking beneath the surface.

Jane Eyre – for the dark, foreboding house and the mysteries hidden within its walls.

The Haunting of Hill House – because the house itself feels like a living presence that influences everyone around it.

The Lost Apothecary – for dual timelines, determined women, and long-buried secrets finally coming to light.

Final Thoughts

If Rebecca and a cozy bookshop had a faith-filled Gothic mystery baby, it would probably look a lot like The Bookshop of 99 Doors.

Come for the bookshop.

Stay for the secrets.

And don’t expect much sleep.

Posted in Christian Fiction

Where Do I Go?

Posted on by Vikki Lynn Sorensen

By Neta Jackson

There are some books that pull you in slowly, while others grab hold of you from the very first page. This one landed somewhere in the middle for me. Honestly, at first, I wasn’t even sure I wanted to finish it. But by the end, I was incredibly glad that I did.

Rating

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

First Impressions

I’m always searching for stories with strong female characters—women who feel real and relatable. So when this book popped up in my BookBub email as a freebie, I decided to take a chance on it.

After reading the synopsis, I felt sure I was going to love it before I even turned the first page. At the same time, I’m usually hesitant when it comes to book series. If I don’t connect with the first book, there’s still an entire unfinished story waiting in the remaining books, and that can feel overwhelming.

Still, something about this series made me immediately purchase the rest of the books before I had even finished the first one. Looking back now, I’m so glad I trusted that instinct.

What the Story Is About

(Spoiler Free)

Gabriela “Gabby” Fairfield has just moved to Chicago with her husband, who is determined to get his business off the ground. Living in a luxurious high-rise overlooking the city, Gabby’s life appears polished and comfortable from the outside.

But everything begins to shift after she encounters a homeless woman while walking along the lakeshore.

That single moment starts unraveling parts of Gabby’s life she can no longer ignore. As she begins hearing the call of God more clearly, she finds herself questioning everything—her marriage, her identity, her comfort, and the life she thought she wanted. The deeper she leans into that calling, the more she wonders what it may ultimately cost her.

What I Loved

This was not a cozy read for me. In many ways, it was the opposite.

Gabby’s relationship with her husband stirred up difficult memories from my own marriage. The emotional tension, the feeling of constantly trying to keep everything together while quietly falling apart inside—it all felt painfully familiar.

To me, that speaks to Neta Jackson’s gift as a writer. She captures the emotional exhaustion of a life slowly spinning out of control with honesty and depth. Gabby is a woman with so much to lose, and you can feel the crushing weight of trying to hold every piece of her world together.

What impacted me most, though, was the spiritual layer woven throughout the story. This book beautifully explores how God breaks down the walls we build around ourselves—the walls of comfort, control, and safety. Once He begins calling us into something deeper, those barriers start crumbling whether we’re ready or not.

At first, I worried the story would feel predictable. In some ways, it did follow familiar emotional beats. But emotionally, it surprised me more than once.

By the end of the book, I found myself crying not only for Gabby, but honestly, for myself too. It reminded me of seasons in my own life where God used painful circumstances to strip away my comfort and teach me to rely fully on Him.

The supporting characters also felt incredibly authentic. None of them came across as flat or overly polished. They were messy, emotional, sincere, and deeply human.

This is one of those stories that lingers long after you finish the final chapter.

The Cozy Vibes Check ☕📚

Read this one with a calming cup of chamomile tea. Trust me—you’re going to want both the warmth and the calm.

Keep a Bible nearby as well. Neta Jackson clearly knows Scripture deeply, and it naturally flows throughout the story without ever feeling forced.

This also feels like the kind of book that calls for:

  • your favorite chair
  • an emotional support blanket
  • a box of tissues
  • and a little quiet time afterward to process everything you just read

Would I Recommend It?

Absolutely.

I would recommend this book to readers who enjoy:

  • clean Christian fiction
  • emotionally layered stories
  • strong character development
  • faith-centered journeys
  • stories about healing, identity, and spiritual growth

Content Notes

If you have experienced emotional or verbal abuse within a relationship, parts of this story may feel triggering. At the same time, I believe it is a deeply worthwhile read because of the hope, healing, and spiritual truth woven throughout the story.

Final Thoughts

Overall, this is the kind of book that stays with you.

Gabby became the kind of character I wanted to reach through the pages and sit beside. In many ways, I understood her heartbreak, confusion, and unraveling far more than I expected to.

This story handles pain, faith, and transformation with emotional honesty, and I’m genuinely looking forward to continuing the rest of the series.

Favorite Quote

“Come to me.” — God to Gabby