Kristin's Bookshelf

The Mystic and the Missing Girl
by Vikki VanSickle
🎧 Narrated by Veronica Hortiguela
📅 Release Date: September 8, 2026

⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ (4.5)

This book was an absolute delight. While it’s a slower-paced mystery, I found it incredibly enjoyable and very different from what I was expecting.

I think it technically falls into the cozy mystery genre, but it carries more tension than many cozies, as Drew sets out to uncover what really happened to a girl who disappeared years ago in a cold case that destroyed her aunt Hannah’s reputation before her death.

The stakes aren’t world-ending, and that’s actually one of the book’s strengths. Instead of relying on constant danger, the story gives us room to enjoy the investigation, watch Drew discover who she is and what she wants, and see her build meaningful friendships. There is a hint of romance, but it’s very much in the background, letting the relationships and mystery take center stage.

Overall, this delivers all the satisfying amateur sleuthing of a cozy mystery without the heavy darkness that so many mysteries lean into these days. It was refreshing, heartfelt, and a pleasure to read.

Highly recommend!