Tuesday, April 28, 2026

A GIFT IN TIME by Shaen Layle, Reviewed by Paula #ReleaseDay

PAULA'S REVIEW:
A charming cozy mystery about a music box with historical significance. Could it have been owned by Thomas Edison?
Sarah has acquired the music box for her new shop Heavenly Presents. The quest for answers took many detours but Sarah needs to prove the journey the box has traveled to get to her shop. Several people want the box and will not take no or wait for an answer. 

I liked the way the author crafts her characters and writes twists and turns into an intriguing story. She gives Sarah good friends, neighbors and family but throws in an obstacle or two to keep it interesting. Another nice touch is the addition of a story told in 1862 by the original owner of the music box. It was thought provoking to see how the clues came together and the suspects were ruled out. 

An overall theme was that God was working in the character’s lives and wanted what was best for them. No matter what the present circumstances, the eventual outcome was preferable. 

Another great cozy when you want something light to read.
* A complimentary print copy of this book was provided by Guideposts and via NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*4.5 stars and a solid faith thread 


BackCover Blurb:
A Gift in Time is book 1 in Guideposts’ Gift Shop Mysteries fiction series.

It’s opening day of Sarah Morgan’s gifts and curiosities shop, Heavenly Presents. Not only are her family and friends there to support her new business, but a local television crew is on-site to interview her. Sarah decides her latest acquisition, an antique music box that supposedly belonged to Thomas Edison, is the perfect item to show off on television. They’ve only heard a few notes in the strange melody when an onlooker claims her great-grandmother used to play that same tune on the piano but was secretive about its origins.

When Sarah discovers a hidden drawer on the box that requires a key to open, she is determined to unlock the box’s secrets.

Meanwhile, someone in the Port Huron community is also determined…to see Sarah’s business fail.

Can Sarah find out who is behind the troublemaking, or will she be forced to close the doors on her dream forever?

About the Gift Shop Mysteries Series

Every gift tells a story…and some bring mysteries!

Get ready for a faith-filled mystery like no other! The excitement begins when Sarah Morgan returns to her picturesque hometown along the shore of Lake Huron to open a gift and curiosities shop, which she calls Heavenly Presents. As she reconnects with family and friends and grows in her faith, Sarah feels her shop becoming more than just a place to browse or buy. It’s turning into a cozy haven, where tucked among the handmade keepsakes and one-of-a-kind wonders are clues to long-buried secrets and surprising truths. Sarah soon discovers that solving small-town mysteries might just be the most meaningful gift she can offer.

Why You’ll Love the Gift Shop Mysteries Series

If you’re looking for a mystery series that’s equal parts heartwarming and intriguing, Gift Shop Mysteries is your perfect next read. Set in a charming lakeside town with a faith-filled shop owner as your guide, each book offers:Captivating mysteries that keep you guessing—but never keep you up at night
A cast of relatable, endearing characters who feel like old friends
A cozy, small-town atmosphere you’ll want to escape to again and again
Faith-filled encouragement and hope, gently woven through every story
Themes of redemption, reconnection, and second chances—with God, family, and community

Plus, each book includes delightful extras:A recipe inspired by the story
A personal letter from the author
“Behind the Counter” insights into the real-life history or inspiration
Book club-ready discussion questions

Whether you’re drawn to uplifting mysteries, enjoy uncovering meaningful secrets, or simply want a soul-soothing read with depth, heart, and a touch of suspense—this series was made for you.

GUIDEPOSTS Publishing, April, 2026
Available in digital ebook and paperback. Buy A GIFT IN TIME at Amazon, or Christianbook


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