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Just a Fika
Family.
They're always meddling in your love life...
Even after they're dead.
Brooklynite-and genealogist-Ingrid Ekstrom accepts a surprise request from her typically estranged family: to become the live-in caretaker of their shared historic house in the sleepy Jersey Shore town of Aegir Haven. A fun-loving cousin is quick to introduce Ingrid to the local handyman and bluegrass musician. As he fixes up the place, Ingrid digs into the house's past and learns about the family she barely knows. And then Mormor-her long-dead grandmother-shows up, acting as though not being in the spirit realm is perfectly normal. Ingrid's always yearned for stronger family connections, and it's nice having Mormor around. Mormor tries to set her up with a young real estate attorney who's closer to her more thunderous, god-like personal standards than the musician with keen senses Ingrid is falling for. As lore and legends mingle with real life, she's torn. Mormor's fantastical family sagas can't actually be true, right?
They're always meddling in your love life...
Even after they're dead.
Brooklynite-and genealogist-Ingrid Ekstrom accepts a surprise request from her typically estranged family: to become the live-in caretaker of their shared historic house in the sleepy Jersey Shore town of Aegir Haven. A fun-loving cousin is quick to introduce Ingrid to the local handyman and bluegrass musician. As he fixes up the place, Ingrid digs into the house's past and learns about the family she barely knows. And then Mormor-her long-dead grandmother-shows up, acting as though not being in the spirit realm is perfectly normal. Ingrid's always yearned for stronger family connections, and it's nice having Mormor around. Mormor tries to set her up with a young real estate attorney who's closer to her more thunderous, god-like personal standards than the musician with keen senses Ingrid is falling for. As lore and legends mingle with real life, she's torn. Mormor's fantastical family sagas can't actually be true, right?
- GenresRomanceParanormal
309 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 3, 2023
4 people are currently reading
82 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
July 20, 2023
*I received an arc via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thanks for the free book.*
I'm sorry to say that this book was not for me and annoyed me immensely. Not all of it is bad per se, but I disliked so many things that I had to force myself to finish it.
Let me start with what I actually enjoyed: the Swedish connection, matchmaking ancestors, ghosts, reconnecting with the past and one's heritage. Even the small town stuff was nice, relatives meddling everywhere, etc. Good premise, I'd say.
Sadly I disliked the protagonist immensely, not because of her flaws but because of her blandness and generic romcom protagonist vibe: oops, I'm so clumsy, oh no, I don't have any plans, oh no, I kissed him, oh I have no agency and I'm just pushed around by events. Annoying.
I also Hate TM love triangles. Especially if it's brothers. Like honestly wtf? And while the ghost ancestors idea was so cool, their only plan was to push our protagonist into a relationship? And of course all the dudes are so hot and there's miscommunication and a happy end because it needs to end in a heterosexual relationship in the place where the ancestors want her to be. Wow. What??? None of the relationships felt real, the characters felt like stick figures and the plot was uninteresting and annoyed me.
Maybe I wasn't in the right mood for this, but I was so annoyed, I was glad I did not buy the book...
2 stars
I'm sorry to say that this book was not for me and annoyed me immensely. Not all of it is bad per se, but I disliked so many things that I had to force myself to finish it.
Let me start with what I actually enjoyed: the Swedish connection, matchmaking ancestors, ghosts, reconnecting with the past and one's heritage. Even the small town stuff was nice, relatives meddling everywhere, etc. Good premise, I'd say.
Sadly I disliked the protagonist immensely, not because of her flaws but because of her blandness and generic romcom protagonist vibe: oops, I'm so clumsy, oh no, I don't have any plans, oh no, I kissed him, oh I have no agency and I'm just pushed around by events. Annoying.
I also Hate TM love triangles. Especially if it's brothers. Like honestly wtf? And while the ghost ancestors idea was so cool, their only plan was to push our protagonist into a relationship? And of course all the dudes are so hot and there's miscommunication and a happy end because it needs to end in a heterosexual relationship in the place where the ancestors want her to be. Wow. What??? None of the relationships felt real, the characters felt like stick figures and the plot was uninteresting and annoyed me.
Maybe I wasn't in the right mood for this, but I was so annoyed, I was glad I did not buy the book...
2 stars
June 25, 2023
Just a Fika is a warm, fun, beverage-filled hug of a book.
Ingrid (Indie) has sparse memories of her mother's Swedish-American side of the family. But her time on the Jersey Shore at the seaside town of Aegir Haven is about to immerse her in more family, alive and dead, than she expects.
Beck Erixson creates an unforgettable town in Aegir Haven, a close-knit community that knows how to come together to celebrate and support each other. I adored the historic, beachy feel of this town and how we explored it through Indie's history-loving eyes. Indie is lovably awkward, and her ghost grandmother, Mormor, is feisty but well-intentioned. Their interactions, along with Indie and Svea's, give this book a strong foundation of family connectedness.
It's odd to say my favorite part was during the hurricane, but you can't beat all of the shenanigans during that storm!
At the core of this book, I felt like the message was about resilience - the resilience of the town, the house, the women of Indie's family. And all of these things teach Indie how she can be more resilient to life's ups and downs.
Just a Fika is filled with wonderful, surprise moments that made me laugh and raise my beverage-of-choice in a toast. I could happily return to this seaside town for more adventures if Beck Erixson writes them.
Ingrid (Indie) has sparse memories of her mother's Swedish-American side of the family. But her time on the Jersey Shore at the seaside town of Aegir Haven is about to immerse her in more family, alive and dead, than she expects.
Beck Erixson creates an unforgettable town in Aegir Haven, a close-knit community that knows how to come together to celebrate and support each other. I adored the historic, beachy feel of this town and how we explored it through Indie's history-loving eyes. Indie is lovably awkward, and her ghost grandmother, Mormor, is feisty but well-intentioned. Their interactions, along with Indie and Svea's, give this book a strong foundation of family connectedness.
It's odd to say my favorite part was during the hurricane, but you can't beat all of the shenanigans during that storm!
At the core of this book, I felt like the message was about resilience - the resilience of the town, the house, the women of Indie's family. And all of these things teach Indie how she can be more resilient to life's ups and downs.
Just a Fika is filled with wonderful, surprise moments that made me laugh and raise my beverage-of-choice in a toast. I could happily return to this seaside town for more adventures if Beck Erixson writes them.
July 27, 2023
While reading Just a Fika, I enjoyed the small town atmosphere and the little tidbits of lore like the origins of the town. However, the writing is choppy and disjointed at times, and many components of the story are not fully developed. There is a lot of potential in the premise of the novel, but unfortunately, this was not an enjoyable read for me.
Thank you to Beck Erixson, Aegir Haven, and NetGalley for giving me an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to Beck Erixson, Aegir Haven, and NetGalley for giving me an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
May 19, 2023
I really struggled with this. The story was all over the place and the writing did not work for me. The premise sounded good but the execution didn’t work out.
July 3, 2024
I was very excited for book focused on Fika and Swedish heritage. I thought a matchmaking ghost Mormor (grandmother) would be fun. Add in the Norse mythology angle and I was all in.
I was left with more and more questions as I read the book. What happened to the mom? Was this the third book in a trilogy? It feels like there was similar matchmaking in the family house to two cousins earlier. Also, are Beata and Mormor sisters? Because sometimes Beata is referred to as a sister, but then Mormor has 4 sisters and Beata isn't one of them. Are Montana and Yale siblings?
And then my big question is, are Loki and Thor in present day? And if so, which one is Thor because there are lots of mentions of hammers.
I think with some reworking this book could be terrific. Maybe a new title too because Just a Fika really doesn't play much into the actual story.
I would love to see illustrations of the coffee shop because it sounds amazing.
Thank you to Aegir Haven and NetGalley for the advanced reader copy of this book. I am required by federal law to disclose this.
I was left with more and more questions as I read the book. What happened to the mom? Was this the third book in a trilogy? It feels like there was similar matchmaking in the family house to two cousins earlier. Also, are Beata and Mormor sisters? Because sometimes Beata is referred to as a sister, but then Mormor has 4 sisters and Beata isn't one of them. Are Montana and Yale siblings?
And then my big question is, are Loki and Thor in present day? And if so, which one is Thor because there are lots of mentions of hammers.
I think with some reworking this book could be terrific. Maybe a new title too because Just a Fika really doesn't play much into the actual story.
I would love to see illustrations of the coffee shop because it sounds amazing.
Thank you to Aegir Haven and NetGalley for the advanced reader copy of this book. I am required by federal law to disclose this.
September 30, 2023
4.5 upped to 5
I wanted to read this book as I found the plot interesting, there were paranormal elements and I love ghost stories. I also wanted to read it because I know what Fika means in Italian, don’t aks, but not what it is in Sweden.
It’s a cute and compelling story that made me smile and reading. There’s a couple of strong female characters, Ingrid and Mormor, there’s an intriguing setting, and two well rounded love interest. I’m not a fan of love triangle but this played an important role in the plot.
The author did a good job in describing the sedate life in Aegir Haven, the ancient house. I laughed, rooted for the characters, and had a good time.
It’s the first story I read by this author and won’t surely be the last.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Rachel’s Random Resources for this ARC, all opinions are mine
I wanted to read this book as I found the plot interesting, there were paranormal elements and I love ghost stories. I also wanted to read it because I know what Fika means in Italian, don’t aks, but not what it is in Sweden.
It’s a cute and compelling story that made me smile and reading. There’s a couple of strong female characters, Ingrid and Mormor, there’s an intriguing setting, and two well rounded love interest. I’m not a fan of love triangle but this played an important role in the plot.
The author did a good job in describing the sedate life in Aegir Haven, the ancient house. I laughed, rooted for the characters, and had a good time.
It’s the first story I read by this author and won’t surely be the last.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Rachel’s Random Resources for this ARC, all opinions are mine
May 14, 2023
I absolutely LOVED “Just a Fika” by Beck Erixson! It was the perfect blend of heartwarming, magical and cozy! Centered around family, history, small towns, eccentric ghosts, love and loss - this is a book that will stick with me for awhile!
Thank you so much to Beck Erixson for the advanced copy!
Merged review:
I absolutely LOVED “Just a Fika” by Beck Erixson! It was the perfect blend of heartwarming, magical and cozy! Centered around family, connection, history, coffee, small towns, eccentric ghosts, love and loss - this is a book that will stick with me for awhile!
Thank you so much to Beck Erixson for the gifted copy!
Thank you so much to Beck Erixson for the advanced copy!
Merged review:
I absolutely LOVED “Just a Fika” by Beck Erixson! It was the perfect blend of heartwarming, magical and cozy! Centered around family, connection, history, coffee, small towns, eccentric ghosts, love and loss - this is a book that will stick with me for awhile!
Thank you so much to Beck Erixson for the gifted copy!
September 30, 2023
This was a charming premise of a book, but one that could have perhaps had a bit more critical eye in the writing & editing process (and perhaps it will before it goes to print, as I read an e-Arc). It is a solid 2.75 - 3.00 stars for me.
I thought the setting, town, and people in the town were great. The exposition made me feel like I was part of the town, and I could picture it in my mind. The insights into Swedish culture, particularly around Fika, was something I would love to incorporate into my own life. I liked brothers, Kurt and Yale, and enjoyed that triangle dynamic (although there could have been a bit more tension between the brothers).
Some critiques:
I liked her, but I never felt, even by the end of the book, that Ingrid ever really had any personal agency, or why she was like the way she was (because there wasn't anything in particular about her, or indications about the way she was raised, to suggest why she would be like that).
The grandmother ghost (a.k.a. Mormor) was a bit irritating and not as warm for someone who is a grandmother; if she was just a random ghost, then it might have been okay, but I would expect someone less...demanding/irritating/warmer than one would for a grandmother. Her cousin Svea was great, but, again, I didn't really gain any insight as to why the family was the way they were beyond "that's just the way the family is." Maybe it's a Swedish family dynamic that I am just not getting, and I am willing to entertain that as my problem.
This might be because I am a fast reader, but there were times when I had to go back and read dialogue exchanges and/or paragraphs again (or even three times) because I wasn't exactly comprehending what was going on or being said. I generally don't experience that as a reader though.
In the end, it all came together in a way I was satisfied, but it was a bit of a meandering journey to get there. I do want to disclaim that sometimes I also have to be in the mood for certain stories, and that if it isn't hitting that mood, I can be more critical. So other's higher-rated opinions might be a better gauge than my own.
Thank you to Beck Erixson, Aegir Haven, and NetGalley for giving me an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
I thought the setting, town, and people in the town were great. The exposition made me feel like I was part of the town, and I could picture it in my mind. The insights into Swedish culture, particularly around Fika, was something I would love to incorporate into my own life. I liked brothers, Kurt and Yale, and enjoyed that triangle dynamic (although there could have been a bit more tension between the brothers).
Some critiques:
I liked her, but I never felt, even by the end of the book, that Ingrid ever really had any personal agency, or why she was like the way she was (because there wasn't anything in particular about her, or indications about the way she was raised, to suggest why she would be like that).
The grandmother ghost (a.k.a. Mormor) was a bit irritating and not as warm for someone who is a grandmother; if she was just a random ghost, then it might have been okay, but I would expect someone less...demanding/irritating/warmer than one would for a grandmother. Her cousin Svea was great, but, again, I didn't really gain any insight as to why the family was the way they were beyond "that's just the way the family is." Maybe it's a Swedish family dynamic that I am just not getting, and I am willing to entertain that as my problem.
This might be because I am a fast reader, but there were times when I had to go back and read dialogue exchanges and/or paragraphs again (or even three times) because I wasn't exactly comprehending what was going on or being said. I generally don't experience that as a reader though.
In the end, it all came together in a way I was satisfied, but it was a bit of a meandering journey to get there. I do want to disclaim that sometimes I also have to be in the mood for certain stories, and that if it isn't hitting that mood, I can be more critical. So other's higher-rated opinions might be a better gauge than my own.
Thank you to Beck Erixson, Aegir Haven, and NetGalley for giving me an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
August 18, 2023
I received an eARC of this through NetGalley in exchange for an honest opinion.
The premise of this book was a 5, but unfortunately, the writing was not.
I requested this as I work in the US for a Swedish company, where we have frequent fikas. It is a term I never hear outside of work, so when I saw the title and read the description I was immediately drawn in. I love the idea of someone who has sort of moved on, moving back to a family community and getting to know that family. Family saga is not my favorite literary genre, but I am always interested when there is a culture different than mine involved as it's a way for us to learn more about others.
I loved the setting - a made up Swedish-populated coastal town in NJ (where I am a native). I did like the cousins, especially Svea, who didn't have much reasoning behind most of her actions beyond this is how it is because we are family. I liked the fact that the two main love interests were brothers, though was hoping for a little more drama added because of this. I also liked the grandmother ghost, who was sassy.
The main character was who I had the most trouble with, and I think this is where the writing didn't vibe for me. Her feelings and opinions seemed all over the place for me and it was hard to pinpoint where she ever was, emotionally. For instance, she talks constantly about not having the current capacity for a relationship, but then will also think how badly she wants someone to be in a relationship with. Her dialogue was also very disjointed.
I think with another rewrite this could be a great novel. I would just have loved to see more solid characters with clearer intentions which could definitely be solved with another round of rewrites. I think it may also need another round of editing as there were some errors - this is a first person POV from the point of Ingrid, but in one scene she is with Svea but refers to her as Ingrid.
The premise of this book was a 5, but unfortunately, the writing was not.
I requested this as I work in the US for a Swedish company, where we have frequent fikas. It is a term I never hear outside of work, so when I saw the title and read the description I was immediately drawn in. I love the idea of someone who has sort of moved on, moving back to a family community and getting to know that family. Family saga is not my favorite literary genre, but I am always interested when there is a culture different than mine involved as it's a way for us to learn more about others.
I loved the setting - a made up Swedish-populated coastal town in NJ (where I am a native). I did like the cousins, especially Svea, who didn't have much reasoning behind most of her actions beyond this is how it is because we are family. I liked the fact that the two main love interests were brothers, though was hoping for a little more drama added because of this. I also liked the grandmother ghost, who was sassy.
The main character was who I had the most trouble with, and I think this is where the writing didn't vibe for me. Her feelings and opinions seemed all over the place for me and it was hard to pinpoint where she ever was, emotionally. For instance, she talks constantly about not having the current capacity for a relationship, but then will also think how badly she wants someone to be in a relationship with. Her dialogue was also very disjointed.
I think with another rewrite this could be a great novel. I would just have loved to see more solid characters with clearer intentions which could definitely be solved with another round of rewrites. I think it may also need another round of editing as there were some errors - this is a first person POV from the point of Ingrid, but in one scene she is with Svea but refers to her as Ingrid.
June 10, 2023
I just knew I had to request this book after reading the title. I mean, ”Just a fika”? It’s like it was written for me. As you guys know I’m swedish and I found it so much fun to read about a swedish-american family and see all the swedish traditions in a new light. Ingrid (Indie) our main character, is so easy to love and relate too. She is just so real and awkward, she’s all of us. The meddling family members (both alive and dead) where such a funny addition and made the book very light hearted and humourus. The book itself feels like a warm hug, a big cup of steaming hot tea on a cold fall day. We also get a cute love triangle (quadruple a one point 😂) and I could see Indie with either of them actually, they both had flaws but also really lovable features. ALSO, my name is in this book! I mean sure, I’m a bike, but still 😂🚲
So yeah, I definitely recommend this book. A very cute and warm feelgood novel. Also if you don’t like supernatural elements to your books, don’t get put off from reading this! The ghost aspects is done very realisticly and it’s very, VERY light on the supernatural aspect. It’s just like, normal and natural if you catch my drift 😅👻
So yeah, I definitely recommend this book. A very cute and warm feelgood novel. Also if you don’t like supernatural elements to your books, don’t get put off from reading this! The ghost aspects is done very realisticly and it’s very, VERY light on the supernatural aspect. It’s just like, normal and natural if you catch my drift 😅👻
November 13, 2023
What an unexpectedly fun read
With a Mormor (grandmother) deciding its help you need
A dead but still matchmaking gran, with definite views
For Ingrid certainly isn't always good news!
Ingrid has returned to research her family
To their historic house on the coast in (the US) Jersey.
She's always felt like she's missing family connections and so
Hopes this research will help those connections to grow.
With cousins to help her and introduce her, too,
Their love for each other always shines through.
As Ingrid discovers more from their past
Maybe those holes will heal at last.
There's also the possibility of a romance - or three!
But who should she trust or should she wait to see?
There's a great sense of this close community
With its Swedish roots in every family.
A very different read, with folklore from the past
And traditions that have proven to last.
The Fika is such a brilliant way to share
And show the family and friends that you care!
If you're looking for a romance with (ghostly) surprises galore
This is a story I think, like me, you'll adore!
For my complementary copy of this book I say thank you
As I share with you this, my honest review.
With a Mormor (grandmother) deciding its help you need
A dead but still matchmaking gran, with definite views
For Ingrid certainly isn't always good news!
Ingrid has returned to research her family
To their historic house on the coast in (the US) Jersey.
She's always felt like she's missing family connections and so
Hopes this research will help those connections to grow.
With cousins to help her and introduce her, too,
Their love for each other always shines through.
As Ingrid discovers more from their past
Maybe those holes will heal at last.
There's also the possibility of a romance - or three!
But who should she trust or should she wait to see?
There's a great sense of this close community
With its Swedish roots in every family.
A very different read, with folklore from the past
And traditions that have proven to last.
The Fika is such a brilliant way to share
And show the family and friends that you care!
If you're looking for a romance with (ghostly) surprises galore
This is a story I think, like me, you'll adore!
For my complementary copy of this book I say thank you
As I share with you this, my honest review.
June 19, 2023
A story of connecting to family and culture. I loved reading about the different aspects of European culture in this book. The main character is a lost soul who is trying to reconnect with her family and find her place. The story has a peaceful flow and goes at a slow pace. I found some parts of the story dragged on too long for me and there were some confusing scenes and sentences.
This story has a love triangle and I have to admit it’s a trope I’m not keen on.
I would have liked some extra info about the folklore and mythology that the story hinted at, a note after the story would have enhanced the reading experience.
Worth a read if you like stories about strong matriarchal families.
Thank you to the author, publisher and Netgalley for this arc in exchange for an unbiased review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This story has a love triangle and I have to admit it’s a trope I’m not keen on.
I would have liked some extra info about the folklore and mythology that the story hinted at, a note after the story would have enhanced the reading experience.
Worth a read if you like stories about strong matriarchal families.
Thank you to the author, publisher and Netgalley for this arc in exchange for an unbiased review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 2, 2023
3 1/2-4 stars
I want to live in Aegir Haven. It seems so amazingly beautiful and the townsfolk seem amazing (if if everyone seems to possibly be related...maybe?).
Ingrid was a little too dramatic for me, but all the cousins, Mormors, and friends really made the book special.
What I wouldn't give to have my grandmother's ghost (or whatever she is) around all the time. Like Ingrid, one side of my family's history is a bit of a mystery to me, so this book really struck a chord with me.
The story itself seemed a little choppy. I often found myself having to re-read or go back and find passages because I constantly felt like I might have missed something, but I never got confused. Kurt and Yale were dreamy to me and I feel like most (or all) of the conflict in this book could've been avoided if Ingrid had just asked a question or spoken to someone (again, dramatic).
The book is worth a read if nothing else because the plot is just fun and I really was chuckling to myself the entire time I was reading it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I want to live in Aegir Haven. It seems so amazingly beautiful and the townsfolk seem amazing (if if everyone seems to possibly be related...maybe?).
Ingrid was a little too dramatic for me, but all the cousins, Mormors, and friends really made the book special.
What I wouldn't give to have my grandmother's ghost (or whatever she is) around all the time. Like Ingrid, one side of my family's history is a bit of a mystery to me, so this book really struck a chord with me.
The story itself seemed a little choppy. I often found myself having to re-read or go back and find passages because I constantly felt like I might have missed something, but I never got confused. Kurt and Yale were dreamy to me and I feel like most (or all) of the conflict in this book could've been avoided if Ingrid had just asked a question or spoken to someone (again, dramatic).
The book is worth a read if nothing else because the plot is just fun and I really was chuckling to myself the entire time I was reading it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 16, 2024
This was so badly written I was surprised to get to the acknowledgements and realize she'd had anyone read it over at all. So many weirdly phrased sentences, oddly placed commas, sentences that seem to contradict each other yet come one after another. The main character, Ingrid, was poorly developed and didn't make any sense. She mostly seems inexplicably angry and annoyed by everything. She's disgusted that her lovely cousin is in love with her fiance and kisses him in public. She meets a good-looking guy that she likes and rather than being excited thinks that this is the last thing she needs (yet she continues to see him). Her long-dead grandmother appears as a ghost and all Ingrid does is grumble at her. Oddly enough, the idea of the ghostly grandmother showing up to influence Ingrid's love life turns out to have no bearing on the story.
July 12, 2023
I enjoyed this light story about family and family history and of course I like the visiting ghost and romance. I found all the characters including the ghost charming and loving and just trying to have a good time. I found the house Ingrid is living in charming and full of wonder and a refuge for many. I love the coffee house with it fun atmosphere and the warm embrace it has for all who visit. I love the brothers Yale and Kurt who both want Ingrid's attention but might have done it in a odd way. There are a lot of this story just makes my heart happy and wish everyone had ancestors like Ingrid's.
Very nice read that makes me feel just wonderful inside.
I want to thank Aegir Haven and NetGalley for this enchanting story.
Very nice read that makes me feel just wonderful inside.
I want to thank Aegir Haven and NetGalley for this enchanting story.
July 18, 2023
I wanted to love this cozy romcom, but unfortunately I did not have a good time with it.
The main character Indie moves back to her mother's home town to care for an old family home and is immediately haunted by her grandmother who wants to set her up with someone even though she's not interested in a relationship. There are two potential love interests and not much chemistry with either.
The fantasy element feels incomplete - Loki gets mentioned a couple of times but it's not explained. Neither is the ghostly element. I loved the idea of Indie reconnecting with her family, but it got bogged down with the ghosts and the house and the love triangle.
Thank you to Netgalley for the advance copy.
The main character Indie moves back to her mother's home town to care for an old family home and is immediately haunted by her grandmother who wants to set her up with someone even though she's not interested in a relationship. There are two potential love interests and not much chemistry with either.
The fantasy element feels incomplete - Loki gets mentioned a couple of times but it's not explained. Neither is the ghostly element. I loved the idea of Indie reconnecting with her family, but it got bogged down with the ghosts and the house and the love triangle.
Thank you to Netgalley for the advance copy.
February 21, 2024
Ingrid is persuaded by her family to become live-in caretaker for the family home on the Jersey shore.
She does genealogy work and can work from anywhere so she agrees. It's nice being near family, even though her cousin introduces her to a musician and handyman to fix up the house and her dead grandmother, Mormor is trying to fix her up with a local attorney. A fun easy read. I always like friendly a ghost helping out and grandma seems happy to guide her granddaughter.
She does genealogy work and can work from anywhere so she agrees. It's nice being near family, even though her cousin introduces her to a musician and handyman to fix up the house and her dead grandmother, Mormor is trying to fix her up with a local attorney. A fun easy read. I always like friendly a ghost helping out and grandma seems happy to guide her granddaughter.
July 25, 2024
Very enjoyable! I enjoyed reading about a culture I know nothing about, mixed with the Jersey Shore, which I adore! This story gave me a warm feeling. I love the small town, shore atmosphere. A medaling ghost grandmother, two handsome successful men, lots of cousins, friends, good music and foods, and so much summer fun times! Throw in a hurricane, a little family mystery, some romance and you have a great storyline with memorable characters.
October 9, 2023
Thank you Beck Erixson for sending me an Arc of this book in exchange of an honest review.
This was the perfect fall read, a book that was heartwarming with a sprinkle of magic. I really like the dynamic between the characters and the Swedish heritage coming into play in the book. Would highly recommend to anyone who wants a quirkly book with a contemporary romance that has a mischevious grandma that can pop up when you least want it.
This was the perfect fall read, a book that was heartwarming with a sprinkle of magic. I really like the dynamic between the characters and the Swedish heritage coming into play in the book. Would highly recommend to anyone who wants a quirkly book with a contemporary romance that has a mischevious grandma that can pop up when you least want it.
August 26, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.
Sadly this was just not for me. The premise sounded so interesting but the writing was choppy and the dialogues felt weird. I was really struggling with this one even if it was very short. It just wasn't keeping my attention.
Sadly this was just not for me. The premise sounded so interesting but the writing was choppy and the dialogues felt weird. I was really struggling with this one even if it was very short. It just wasn't keeping my attention.
October 9, 2023
So fun. I wish I were Swedish
Ingrid is so endearing in her self-effacing headlong rush to judgment in her relationships. She made me laugh but she also made me think.
The lovely depiction of her extended family (especially Mormon) was heartwarming.
Thoroughly enjoyable
Ingrid is so endearing in her self-effacing headlong rush to judgment in her relationships. She made me laugh but she also made me think.
The lovely depiction of her extended family (especially Mormon) was heartwarming.
Thoroughly enjoyable
June 17, 2024
I really loved this little book. It was easy to read and I really love the little ghost story that was involved in it. While I really didn't get into it until about like the middle of the book, I find that the last part of the book was the most special. Read it!
June 21, 2023
such a great idea that was abandoned. i mean yes the ghost thing played a massive role and it was a thing but the book focused on her love life more.
December 29, 2023
Love the is light and easy beachy read. Full of romance, magic, and family. A huge fan of this story
July 5, 2025
Such a cute book!
October 16, 2023
Thank you NetGalley and publisher for this ARC publication for an honest review.
This book had an interesting premise and parts I really enjoyed. Swedish ancestry, ghostly family who meddle/matchmake, small town living, quirky characters. However, some parts were confusing and disjointed and the love triangle (with brothers!) just wasn't a plus for me even though it ended with who I was routing for. Overall, an okay book...
3 stars
This book had an interesting premise and parts I really enjoyed. Swedish ancestry, ghostly family who meddle/matchmake, small town living, quirky characters. However, some parts were confusing and disjointed and the love triangle (with brothers!) just wasn't a plus for me even though it ended with who I was routing for. Overall, an okay book...
3 stars
March 7, 2025
A Swedish inspired contemporary romance that has a fun paranormal twist.
Disclaimer: I read this novel via ebook that I purchased myself. All opinions are my own. This is my honest and voluntary review.
This was a fun and quirky coffee shop, Lakeside based contemporary romance. It involves a love triangle and paranormal aspects. I really enjoyed reading some of the Swedish content that surrounded their typical traditions.
The paranormal additions were really fun. I really liked the grandma and the other relatives and women that were involved in the story. I found them to be refreshing fun out of a really personal aspect to the story.
The main female character was hit and miss for me. I felt like she talked down on herself a little too much, even though there was ample evidence to the contrary that she wasn't as plain and boring as she made out to be. I wish she had had more self-confidence, especially by the end of the story.
I absolutely pulled towards one side of the love triangle more than the other. One of the male love interests really grinds my gears and I just did not care for him very much. I picked my team early for who I wanted to end up as the winner of the love triangle.
I really enjoyed the small town feel and the wholesomeness that involved the community. I also really enjoyed the house and its interactions with the main character as well as the paranormal aspects.
Overall, it was a fun read, but I don't think anything will be a long lasting for me in the way of constantly thinking about this book. A fun at the time easily digestible story but nothing I'll think about for an extended period.
Disclaimer: I read this novel via ebook that I purchased myself. All opinions are my own. This is my honest and voluntary review.
This was a fun and quirky coffee shop, Lakeside based contemporary romance. It involves a love triangle and paranormal aspects. I really enjoyed reading some of the Swedish content that surrounded their typical traditions.
The paranormal additions were really fun. I really liked the grandma and the other relatives and women that were involved in the story. I found them to be refreshing fun out of a really personal aspect to the story.
The main female character was hit and miss for me. I felt like she talked down on herself a little too much, even though there was ample evidence to the contrary that she wasn't as plain and boring as she made out to be. I wish she had had more self-confidence, especially by the end of the story.
I absolutely pulled towards one side of the love triangle more than the other. One of the male love interests really grinds my gears and I just did not care for him very much. I picked my team early for who I wanted to end up as the winner of the love triangle.
I really enjoyed the small town feel and the wholesomeness that involved the community. I also really enjoyed the house and its interactions with the main character as well as the paranormal aspects.
Overall, it was a fun read, but I don't think anything will be a long lasting for me in the way of constantly thinking about this book. A fun at the time easily digestible story but nothing I'll think about for an extended period.
October 6, 2023
This book was interesting in parts and a little confusing in other parts. I enjoyed the aspect of researching family history, as I enjoy doing that too. There were a few spots that I started reading and at first I was confused about the storyline but as I read on it was cleared up.
May 13, 2023
A Heartwarming Blend of Family, Romance, and the Supernatural
Just a Fika: Coffee, Connection, and a Matchmaking Ghost Grandmother by Beck Erixson is a delightful and heartwarming story that skillfully combines elements of family, romance, and the supernatural. This enchanting tale explores the importance of family connections, even after death, and the unexpected ways in which love can enter our lives.
The story follows Ingrid Ekstrom, a genealogist from Brooklyn, who finds herself accepting an unusual request from her estranged family: to become the caretaker of their ancestral home in the sleepy town of Aegir Haven. As Ingrid begins her journey of discovery, she not only unravels the secrets of the house’s past but also encounters her long-deceased grandmother, Mormor, who inexplicably appears in the physical realm.
One of the book’s greatest strengths is its well-developed and relatable characters. Ingrid is a strong and determined protagonist, searching for stronger family connections and a place to belong. The author beautifully portrays her internal struggle as she finds herself torn between the affections of a young real estate attorney and a charming bluegrass musician. Ingrid’s longing for familial love and the dilemma she faces when confronted with Mormor’s matchmaking efforts create a compelling emotional arc.
Beck Erixson’s writing style is engaging and evocative, effortlessly immersing the reader in the sleepy Jersey Shore town of Aegir Haven. The atmospheric descriptions of the historic house and its surroundings add depth and richness to the story, making the setting feel almost like a character in its own right. Erixson’s seamless blending of lore, legends, and real-life elements adds a touch of enchantment to the narrative, keeping the reader guessing about the true nature of Mormor’s fantastical family sagas.
While the story progresses at a steady pace, there are moments when the plot feels predictable, and some of the twists and turns may be anticipated by astute readers. However, Erixson’s skillful storytelling and the genuine warmth infused into the relationships between characters more than make up for any predictable elements.
Overall, Just a Fika is a captivating read that will appeal to fans of contemporary romance with a touch of the supernatural. It serves as a reminder of the enduring power of family connections and the magic that can be found in unexpected places. If you’re looking for a heartwarming and enchanting story to curl up with, this book is a perfect choice.
Just a Fika: Coffee, Connection, and a Matchmaking Ghost Grandmother by Beck Erixson is a delightful and heartwarming story that skillfully combines elements of family, romance, and the supernatural. This enchanting tale explores the importance of family connections, even after death, and the unexpected ways in which love can enter our lives.
The story follows Ingrid Ekstrom, a genealogist from Brooklyn, who finds herself accepting an unusual request from her estranged family: to become the caretaker of their ancestral home in the sleepy town of Aegir Haven. As Ingrid begins her journey of discovery, she not only unravels the secrets of the house’s past but also encounters her long-deceased grandmother, Mormor, who inexplicably appears in the physical realm.
One of the book’s greatest strengths is its well-developed and relatable characters. Ingrid is a strong and determined protagonist, searching for stronger family connections and a place to belong. The author beautifully portrays her internal struggle as she finds herself torn between the affections of a young real estate attorney and a charming bluegrass musician. Ingrid’s longing for familial love and the dilemma she faces when confronted with Mormor’s matchmaking efforts create a compelling emotional arc.
Beck Erixson’s writing style is engaging and evocative, effortlessly immersing the reader in the sleepy Jersey Shore town of Aegir Haven. The atmospheric descriptions of the historic house and its surroundings add depth and richness to the story, making the setting feel almost like a character in its own right. Erixson’s seamless blending of lore, legends, and real-life elements adds a touch of enchantment to the narrative, keeping the reader guessing about the true nature of Mormor’s fantastical family sagas.
While the story progresses at a steady pace, there are moments when the plot feels predictable, and some of the twists and turns may be anticipated by astute readers. However, Erixson’s skillful storytelling and the genuine warmth infused into the relationships between characters more than make up for any predictable elements.
Overall, Just a Fika is a captivating read that will appeal to fans of contemporary romance with a touch of the supernatural. It serves as a reminder of the enduring power of family connections and the magic that can be found in unexpected places. If you’re looking for a heartwarming and enchanting story to curl up with, this book is a perfect choice.
October 13, 2023
I thought Just a Fika sounded good, because of the Swedish setting and culture, which I don't know anything about. I love ghost stories, small-town settings and discovering things about families.
Ingrid Ekstrom finds herself in Aegir Haven, a town where not much happens. There's a historic house in the family....and Mormor, her grandmother.
It's true that the setting was good and detailed, but the writing was overly wordy and hard to follow.
I didn't find the characters easy to like. Mormor was unfriendly and Ingrid did not show character growth and had a ay of expressing herself I didn't like, that was self-centered and critical of everything, nitpicky.
Sadly, the book didn't live up to the expectations of the premise, and was a DNF for me. didn't find the characters easy to like. Mormor was unfriendly and Ingrid did not show character growth.
Thanks to Beck Erixson, Rachel's Random Resources for my eARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
3 stars
Merged review:
I thought Just a Fika sounded good, because of the Swedish setting and culture, which I don’t know anything about. I love ghost stories, small-town settings and discovering things about families.
Ingrid Ekstrom finds herself in Aegir Haven, a town where not much happens. There’s a historic house in the family….and Mormor, her grandmother.
It’s true that the setting was good and detailed, but the writing was overly wordy and hard to follow.
I didn’t find the characters easy to like. Mormor was unfriendly and Ingrid did not show character growth and had a ay of expressing herself I didn’t like, that was self-centered and critical of everything, nitpicky.
Sadly, the book didn’t live up to the expectations of the premise, and was a DNF for me.
Thanks to Beck Erixson, Rachel’s Random Resources for my eARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
3 stars
Ingrid Ekstrom finds herself in Aegir Haven, a town where not much happens. There's a historic house in the family....and Mormor, her grandmother.
It's true that the setting was good and detailed, but the writing was overly wordy and hard to follow.
I didn't find the characters easy to like. Mormor was unfriendly and Ingrid did not show character growth and had a ay of expressing herself I didn't like, that was self-centered and critical of everything, nitpicky.
Sadly, the book didn't live up to the expectations of the premise, and was a DNF for me. didn't find the characters easy to like. Mormor was unfriendly and Ingrid did not show character growth.
Thanks to Beck Erixson, Rachel's Random Resources for my eARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
3 stars
Merged review:
I thought Just a Fika sounded good, because of the Swedish setting and culture, which I don’t know anything about. I love ghost stories, small-town settings and discovering things about families.
Ingrid Ekstrom finds herself in Aegir Haven, a town where not much happens. There’s a historic house in the family….and Mormor, her grandmother.
It’s true that the setting was good and detailed, but the writing was overly wordy and hard to follow.
I didn’t find the characters easy to like. Mormor was unfriendly and Ingrid did not show character growth and had a ay of expressing herself I didn’t like, that was self-centered and critical of everything, nitpicky.
Sadly, the book didn’t live up to the expectations of the premise, and was a DNF for me.
Thanks to Beck Erixson, Rachel’s Random Resources for my eARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
3 stars
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