A Gift in Time

Gift Shop Mysteries #1

by Shaen Layle

Genres: Mystery, Cozy Mystery, Christian Fiction, Cozy, Fiction

Paperback

Published April 28, 2026

Reviews

[Nancy]

An uplifting story that reminds us that God gives good gifts to his children. Sarah is finally living her dream of opening a gift shop, but unfortunately some skewed reporting and a determined potential buyer have put her dream on shaky ground.

I really enjoyed this story. There were a number of smaller mysteries that arise throughout that draw you in from start to finish. Plus, the dual storylines keep things engaging, and it all wraps up with a satisfying ending.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Staci · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great start to a new cozy mystery series!

Sarah returns to her hometown in Michigan to open a gift shop called Heavenly Presents. Rather quickly multiple problems arise and Sarah is at a loss on why. She questions if she should have left Chicago to make a go at owning her own business.

An expensive item in Sarah's inventory is a music box that was possibly owned by Thomas Edison. It was fun to go on the journey with her to figure out more details about the music box. This included a thread in the 1800s.

It was a fun and engaging story and I look forward to continuing the series. My gratitude to the author for a complimentary e-copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.

[Deena Peterson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shaen Layle’s mystery has a very unique flavor to it. Some call them split time novels, but I prefer story within a story.

And this story is a real treat! Sarah has returned home to open a small business, one that features a true find in the antique world…

…a music box once owned by Thomas Alva Edison. Or is it?

Providence is the least of Sarah’s worries. A competition with another antique store owner turns ugly, leaving Sarah mystified. A local tv news reporter turns an interview into a hit piece.

Within the story is the tale of Edison’s early years, a story of love and discovery, and the truth about the music box in question.

It’s an engaging mystery and I’m looking forward to more from this new to me author!

I received an advance copy of the book from the publisher. I’m under no obligation and my review has not been solicited. Recommend!

[Leanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Gift in Time is one of those charming, quietly engaging mysteries that feels like stepping into a small town where every shop window glows and every neighbour has a story tucked just out of sight. Sarah Morgan’s opening day at Heavenly Presents should be all excitement and possibility, yet there’s a lovely undercurrent of intrigue from the moment that antique music box begins to play its strange, half‑remembered tune.

Sarah is instantly likeable — warm, curious, and determined to make her dream shop succeed despite the nerves and the inevitable small‑town scrutiny. The music box itself is a perfect catalyst: a beautiful little object with a whisper of history, a hidden drawer, and a melody that seems to tug at the past. When someone recognises the tune and hints at secrets long kept, the story slips into that cozy‑mystery rhythm where every clue feels like a breadcrumb leading somewhere unexpected.

What gives the book its heart is the sense of community around Sarah. Friends, family, and customers drift in and out of the shop, each adding a touch of warmth or tension as she tries to uncover the truth behind the music box — and the person determined to see her business fail. The sabotage adds a gentle thread of suspense, never overwhelming the story but giving it just enough bite to keep the pages turning.

Port Huron itself feels inviting, the kind of place where gossip travels fast and kindness sits side by side with mischief. The blend of small‑town charm, historical curiosity, and light mystery makes this a lovely series opener, setting the stage for more secrets, more treasures, and more of Sarah’s quiet resilience.

Warm, engaging, and sprinkled with just the right amount of intrigue, A Gift in Time is a delightful start to a cozy mystery series that promises plenty of charm and heart.

with thanks to Shaen Layle, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC

[Cassandra]

So this is a Christian Cozy Mystery which is not how it was advertised on Netgalley. I knew that it was going to be atypical as no murder would happen but I was excited for that. How many people can die in small town America. This was set in Port Huron, which is across from Sarnia in Ontario. I grew up in South East Michigan but had family that lived in villages outside of Port Huron so I was excited to read this book. I do have to say it painted Port Huron as if it was a village, I know its not Detroit, but its about 30K people which is about where I lived for several years, Plymouth Township. Also its a working class town but was very idyllic in this story. Which are all fine. I like my cozy mystery settings cozy. But I didn't like the mystery that much, I would argue that this really was more slice of life. And this feels very much like a Christian Woman's novel, if that is your thing. You might like it. This dealt more with solving old hard feelings and starting her business with a little bit of historical mystery and a little bit of crime that doesn't really make sense. I think I would have liked this more if this was just about digging into the history of the antique piece.

As I mentioned, this is very Christian. There is some side book you can download with scriptures to read as you go through the book (I did not). Because of this angle, it makes the story a little dull to me.

2/6 stars

[Kelly O’Donnell · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (3.5 stars)

ARC coming out 4/28.

This one felt like curling up in a cozy little shop by the water—warm, welcoming, and full of heart. I loved the small-town atmosphere where everyone knows each other and genuinely shows up for one another.

The story follows Sarah as she returns home to open her dream gift shop, and you can really feel how much this means to her. There’s a strong sense of history woven throughout—old friendships, past connections, and a clear purpose behind everything she does. I especially appreciated her commitment to authenticity and doing things the right way, even when it isn’t easy.

The mystery surrounding the antique music box, along with the interesting tie to Thomas Edison, made for a unique and engaging premise. The dual timelines were handled really well—each chapter added just enough to keep the story moving without losing momentum.

There are also light themes of faith throughout the book. They’re present but not overwhelming, offering a gentle thread about trusting your path, your community, and something greater during difficult moments.

I did find myself wishing for a bit more depth from some of the side characters, but I’m hopeful we’ll get to know them better as the series continues.

Overall, this was a sweet and uplifting start to a cozy mystery series, perfect for readers who enjoy small-town settings, light historical elements, and character-driven stories.

[Claudia · Rating 3 out of 5]

The idea behind the plot of A Gift in Time is very interesting: A hometown girl returns to open a shop selling curated antiques and art, multiple people have reasons to sabotage her efforts, and much hinges on the provenance of an antique music box linked to a famous historical inventor. The underlying theme of God's bringing good from all things is well developed in both the current day and the historical storylines. The two protagonists show readers that it is possible to see this good whether or not things work out the way we initially wanted them to. Sometimes one sees the good in hindsight. Other times, if one believes in God's goodness and is willing to be open to seeing the good, they are blessed to recognize the good along the way.

Now, I need to make it clear that I read an advanced reader's copy of A Gift in Time, so the one concern I had as I read this book likely has been corrected before the book went to print. My concern was that there were some contradictions in the text, not enough to alter the overall meaning of the story, but enough to be slightly annoying.

I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of A Gift in Time from Guideposts via NetGalley without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.

[Potato reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

“A Gift in Time” by Shaen Layle is such a cozy, small-town mystery with a slightly sentimental touch.

The whole gift shop concept is really charming. Heavenly Presents feels like one of those places you’d actually want to walk into, full of little trinkets and stories behind every item. The antique music box was what pulled me in most, especially with the hidden drawer and the mystery behind the melody. It gave the story that little extra intrigue beyond just the usual small-town drama.

I also liked how the story weaves in Sarah’s relationships and her journey settling back into her hometown. There’s a strong focus on community and faith, which gives it a more wholesome, comforting vibe compared to typical mysteries.

The mystery itself is interesting, though not super intense. It’s more of a gentle unraveling than a high-stakes thriller, and some parts can feel a bit predictable. But honestly, it fits the tone of the book.

Overall, it’s an easy, cozy read with a bit of mystery, a bit of heart, and a setting that makes you want to stay awhile. Perfect if you’re in the mood for something light, comforting, and slightly nostalgic.

[Anne · Rating 3 out of 5]

It only ocurred to me a couple hours after finishing the book that there was no dead body. So, if you like a cleaner cozy this is for you.

I found it refreshing that the book has a 40ish female main character who isn't coming home after a bad break up (I don't recall any mention of her past romantic life at all) and who also shows no sign of wanting to get into a romance. There's no explanation why other than the fact she wants to focus on her new business which makes sense.

The mystery takes place in current times, but details are revealed by a secondary historical storyline set in the 1860's. Personally, I am not a fan of secondary storylines, but it was effective.

The book was short at 268 pages, a few more pages to further develop Sarah's life (how did she get the money to open a store and pay 2 staff, what did she do before coming home)and show what happens to a couple of the characters for their actions at the end.

I would definitely be interested in reading the next book to see how the author presents that story and Sarah. I received my copy from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.

[Joy Burke · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have always loved suspense stories but there is something about cozy mysteries that I have fell in love with. This author is new to me and I am looking forward to reading more of her books. In this story you get the suspense and mystery surrounding a small town without murder. Sarah Morgan has come back to her hometown and opened up a gift shop called Heavenly Presents. She is happy to be home but it seems like some of the residents aren't to happy that she is home. The local news station even does a spotlight on her shop but twists it into bad publicity for her. Throw in an antique that may or may not have been in Thomas Edison's hands at one time and different people are either laying claim to it or trying to steal it. Along with the dual time line, it all adds up to a wonderful read that will leave you wanting more. At the end of the book, I was happy to read that this is the start of a new series , which has me looking forward to the entire series. I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author but was not required to leave a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are what I thought of the book.

[Paula Shreckhise · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.*

[Teodora · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review of advance copy received from Netgalley

Honestly, this is a perfect read for anyone currently stuck in a reading slump. You’ll probably read it in one sitting. It’s a cozy, small town mystery, no dark and heavy themes (just a little heartbreak).

The story revolves around an antique shop and its owner, Sarah Morgan. She found herself in possession of a music box, which was presumably owned by Thomas Edison. While she’s trying to prove origins of said music box, mysteries unravel throughout Port Huron.

My honest rating is 3.5⭐️ But only because of a few things: personally, I’m more inclined to read darker mysteries and thrillers, so this was a bit out of my comfort zone. It’s my fault for expecting a dead body to appear. Also, Thomas Edison, blah. Not a fan. And it got some religious moments which, to be fair, weren’t out of a blue and misplaced, I’m just not that person.

I would sincerely recommend this to anyone looking for a Hallmark type of mystery read, with time jumps to late 19th century. You’ll love it!

[Rini Budihartati · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you Netgalley and Guidepost for this copy of A Gift in Time in an exchange for an honest review.

I think this was a nice, gentle read. The story is simple, warm, and easy to follow. It doesn’t try to be overly emotional or dramatic. But, it also feels a bit too safe. I kept waiting for something deeper or more memorable things to happen, but it never fully went there.

At some point, the simplicity starts to feel a little flat, like the story is holding back when it could have said more. The emotional moments are sweet, but they don’t quite linger the way I wanted them to.

I did like how it tried to weave in the idea of Thomas Alva Edison personal life. It added a slightly thoughtful touch to the story. A little more deeper touch could have been better.

The themes about timing and connection are there, but they could have been explored with more depth. Because of that, it feels pleasant while reading, but fades a bit quickly once it’s over.

Overall, it’s an easy and comforting read if you’re in the mood for something light.

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I always love a good cozy mystery. Even better when it's set in a charming town, and offers a dual timeline of sorts as the mystery unfolds. This is just such a book.
I really liked the setting and characters of this story. They made me want to go visit Port Huron myself so I could see all the adorable shops within this town, and meet all the characters involved. The mystery aspect of this story kept me guessing. The author did a good job throwing in enough suspects with motives that I wasn't really sure of the real culprit prior to the big reveal.
Getting to see into the world of antiques and how the people that buy/sell them work was really fascinating. I especially enjoyed the chapters that took place in the 1800's, that showed who the music box belonged to and what happened to the people it belonged to at that time. Throw in a historical figure that Thomas Edison, a little dash of romance, and it made for a perfect read to delve into.
*I read an early ARC copy from the author/publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Mihaela · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Netgalley and Guideposts for this ARC.

'A gift in time' is a cozy, small town mystery, easy read. It's perfect to get you out of a reading slump or when you need something simple, no heavy themes hitting you left or right.

Its simplicity is charming, though at times too much when what you see is what you get. The characters are a bit too stuck in one trait of the shown personality, but as it is the first book in a series, maybe they will get better developed further down the road.

The setting is nice, a gifts and antique shop, and a music box with great history, only if they find proof of that history. We get some conflict along the way, we find out the story behind the music box and its owners. There are no high-stakes conflicts, or life and death situations, which brings out the cozy in this story. No rush to get to that finish line, just trust that the characters will bring you alongside them on their adventure.

[Karen Stallman · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

"A Gift In Time by Shaen Layle” the first instalment in A Gift Shop Mystery series by Shaen Layle set in the Port Huron. What a great start to a new series. This is a new to me author and I will definitely be reading more from her. A Gift in Time by Shaen Layle is a charming cozy mystery with a pleasant, steady pace. Unlike many cozies, there’s no murder here. Instead, it weaves together a historical mystery with a modern-day one.

The plot centers on Sarah buying a music box that may have belonged to Thomas Edison, and trying to prove its origin. Chapters set in the past help fill in the music box’s backstory.

I enjoyed the author’s writing style and liked main character Sarah Morgan as she opens Heavenly Presents in her hometown of Port Huron.

I requested and received an advance readers copy from NetGalley and the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Lela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sarah Morgan is so happy to be back home in Port Huron and for her grand opening of Heavenly Presents, an antique store. Little does she know when she shows off her latest find, a music box that allegedly belonged to Thomas Edison, that a customer would recognize the tune coming from the little box as a song her great grandma used to play on the piano. However her great grandma would never give any details to how she came to know the song. As Sarah investigates to verify the origin of the box and that it did indeed belong to Mr. Edison before she sells it, she discovers a small hidden locked drawer on the box and just knows if she can find the key then it may have the information she needs. However, she's not the only one wanting this box. This was a great book that I didn't want to put down. Highly recommend! Great job Shaen!

[Becky Lewis · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Why would God open the doors to this dream, only to let her hopes be crushed? God gave good gifts, didn’t He? And He brought good out of bad situations for those who loved and followed Him—so where was that silver lining now?”

What do you get when you mix a dual timeline, historical figure, former friends, and a second antiques shop in a touristy seaside town? A great, inspirational cozy, of course! A Gift in Time ( Guideposts Gift Shop Mysteries #1) by Shane Layle details the return of Sarah Morgan to Port Huron to start up her own shop- her lifelong dream. Surprisingly bad publicity, plus ill will from people whom she once counted close friends confounds Sarah. An old, unproven treasure in Sarah’s possession becomes a focal point of gossip, conjecture, and worse. What is the real history behind that treasure? How will the true story, if unearthed, soothe ruffled feathers and save some soured relationships?

Mr. MacKenzie is my fave secondary character from the historical timeline. His indulgence and encouragement in one of his news butchers strongly influenced who young Al became in later life. “Mr. MacKenzie sees the potential in people. He sees past the flaws and foibles to what might be someday.” Would that we could all find someone around us to encourage in that way! Charity is my fave secondary character from the present time. Her influence prods Sarah on to find the valuable information she needs, as well as she is able to share important resources.

I was happy to find that the culprit wasn’t as easy to ferret out as I suspected. And I loved the twist in the historical thread and the life perspective that Granny Lorena comes to adopt.

I received a copy of the book from the author and publisher. I also purchased my own ebook. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.

Notable Quotables:
“Our greatest weakness lies in giving up.” - Al

“…every time I fail, I’ve actually succeeded.” - Al

“Mr. MacKenzie sees the potential in people. He sees past the flaws and foibles to what might be someday.”- Al

“God brought good out of what she deemed bad, every single time.”- (Lorena)

[Aga · Rating 3 out of 5]

thank you Guideposts and Netgalley for this ARC.

I love cozy mysteries and the premise was interesting. I really enjoyed the Dual timeline.

what did not work for me::

- this is book 1 in the series and we get no backstory of Sarah, why did she come back and open the shop

- how did she have money for inventory and stuff

- the characters were not deep enough

- it feels like we dived into an established series

- the high school beef which is still ongoing (that was childish)

what worked for me:

- the characters are mid 40s with life baggage

- cozy mystery aspect without the need to throw romance into it

- the dual timeline and some historical aspects.

Overall it was an ok read for me, I am sure some readers will love it.

for me it was 2.5 stars rounded to (very generously) to 3

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Gift in Time by Shaen Layle is a charming cozy mystery. I appreciated the author’s writing style, and the story unfolded at a pleasant, steady pace. I liked the main character, Sarah Morgan who is opening Heavenly Presents in her hometown. There is a nice cast of secondary characters along with a bad egg or two. Port Huron sounds like a lovely town (I would not mind living there). Sarah purchased a music box that may have belonged to Thomas Edison. The trick is proving its origin. Chapters set in the past help us learn more about this special music box. A Gift in Time can be read in a couple of hours (260 pages). I am looking forward to reading the next A Gift Shop Mystery. A Gift in Time offered a comforting pause from reality.

[Jennifer Reynolds · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of the book from the author. I am under no obligation to give it any particular star rating, just an honest review of what I thought of the book.
This book is a cute romance of what could have been with a famous figure, Thomas Edison, when he was a teenager. It also connects in the future to the descendants of his possible girlfriend, thru a fictional music box. Its a a very great concept, as we do not know everything of his time as a teenager in Port Huron, nor do we know what exactly inspired his phonograph. Could it have been a music box?
I enjoyed where Shaen Layle took is, as we moved along with what might have been. Its always nice to see how a story could have played out, but since we don't know we let our imagination fill in blanks. And she did a fine job.

[Jeanette · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a new author to me but I truly enjoyed this story. It was well written with characters I thoroughly enjoyed. The story takes place in small town where the main character, Sarah Morgan, just opened a new gift and antique store. Sarah had purchased an antique music box that may have ties to Thomas Edison. While Sarah is trying to determine the music box’s origin, the music box has gained quite a bit attention due to an interview Sarah gave. The story has duel timelines as Sarah searches the history of the music box that will take you through the mystery of its origin and through the drama of present time. The story has several themes, such as faith, grace and perseverance as well as family, friendship and forgiveness. If you love a mystery, this story definitely checks that box.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sarah Morgan has returned home to open the shop of her dreams. Heavenly Presents is an upscale antique and curiosity store. Unfortunately things go wrong from the start. Not only is she thrust into proving the authenticity of a prized piece at the shop, but someone is determined to sabotage her store. Thus begins our story within a story. As Sarah navigates discovering the origins of the music box, she also finds out that maybe her hometown isn't quite as welcoming as she thought. I love how the plot unfolds with characters who are fun, quirky and easy to connect. Will Sarah be able to not only her store but more importantly her reputation? I received an Advanced Reader Copy through Netgalley. A review was not required.

[Priscilla Tyson]

This is a very good suspense story. This talented author is new to me, and I am eagerly anticipating diving into more of her works. In the quaint narrative, suspense and intrigue elegantly emerge in a breathtakingly picturesque small town. Sarah Morgan has gloriously returned to her roots, infusing her new gift shop with revitalized passion and energy, spreading inspiration. However, not everyone shares her vision, and a local news feature takes an unanticipated turn, casting spotlight on untold truths. This skillfully crafted tale masterfully builds up a narrative that leaves one spellbound and yearning for more. The thrilling conclusion reveals this is merely the beginning of a new series, and I am overjoyed and looking forward to what is next

[Sandy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sarah returns to her hometown of Port Huron and opens a gift and antique shop, Heavenly Presents. She’s thrilled when a local reporter interviews her for a local new segment until he edits her words from a music box may have belonged to Thomas Edison to it did belong to Thomas Edison. Suddenly her search to establish the music box’s provenance becomes more urgent.

This cozy, small town mystery was a bit of a slow read for me, and the mystery almost seemed a bit secondary. I did enjoy the present day search into the history of the music box. However, the sections of the book that were set in the past kept pulling me out of the story.

[Lorraine · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is about a woman who has returned to her home town to open an antiques store. She has recently bought a music box that is rumoured to have belonged to Thomas Edison. There's a lot of interest in the music box, but jealous citizens are passing comments that Sarah sells fake antiques. An astute docent at the Thomas Edison museum finds a hidden keyhole, but no key can be found. A few chapters describe the previous owner of the music box who is in love with Edison and indeed he has hidden something in the secret drawer of the box.

This was a short read, but better than I was expecting. I would read more in this series. Many thanks to NetGalley for an advance copy.

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book#1 in the Gift Shop Mysteries series.

This is a new to me author and I wasn't disappointed. Looking forward to reading more by her.

Sarah moves back to Port Huron and opens up an antique shop called Heavenly Presents. A music box that allegedly belonged to Thomas Edison causes a lot if issues for Sarah.

There is some history about Thomas Edison and part of the storyline is set in the past to get to the bottom of this mystery surrounding the music box.

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. The review expressed here is my honest opinion.

[Melmo2610 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love a good Guideposts cozy and this new series is off to a nice start with "A Gift in Time." I really enjoyed the setup and premise for the series, Port Huron is a lovely setting and Sarah opening a new antique store in her hometown is fun. The mystery for this story was intriguing and I liked that it included Thomas Edison. It also introduced a thread that I assume will play out through future installments and I am interested to see how that plays out. All in all, a solid start to a new series that I am eager to read!

I received a copy of this book through the author and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.

[Diana Parson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The beginning of the book led me to think that this was a cutesy cozy.... cute shop names, cute town. But that quickly changed as the characters developed and the plot took a few curves. The mystery had me guessing along as to "who-dunnit", and I guessed wrong. The book evolved into a solidly written mystery, with a denouement worthy of Earl Stanley Gardner.

I especially liked the budding romance between the Lorena and Edison, and was utterly dismayed as to what happened to them. It was a bit of gritty realism.

This was a quick read for me, and I endorse this book!

[Abbey Jahath · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC for my honest review.
I thoroughly enjoyed Layle’s A Gift in Time. The author weaves intricate stories that intersect with each other. Periodically she takes us back in time throughout the chapters making the lives of characters appear so real I was tempted to google search one of them! I had to keep reminding myself this is a work of fiction because the plot, stories and characters were so real. The main character lives out her faith in subtle ways until the end when Who was directing it all is revealed.