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Bookstrings #3
CrossWords
285 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 9, 2026
About the author
Chautona Havig
278 books1,855 followers**fingers skittle across the keyboard. Stop. Eyelids blink over the top**
Oh, was this bio day? Oops! I forgot. I was lost in my latest manuscript. Umm... bio. Yeah.
Hi! I’m Chautona Havig. (for those who care, that’s Shuh-TONE-uh HAVE-ig). Yeah. Just work with me here. I should have used a pseudonym, but when you grow up with a name like Chautona, it kind of sticks.
Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful; and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near. ~ Hebrews 10: 23–25
Those aren’t just words on a page for me–they’re why I write. I write to encourage my brothers and sisters in Christ. The stories I create are to make people laugh, cry, question, consider.
They’re for you.
When the world screams for hope, I try to point you to the true Source of hope–Jesus.
Sometimes life in the church no longer seems a refuge from the pain of a self-serving world around us, but through my stories, I try to point you to the only Refuge that can truly help–the Father’s Everlasting Arms.
And sometimes we just need an escape from the monotony, the emptiness we see around us. We need joy, laughter–what I like to call “just the write escape.”
Christian fiction without apology or pretense–lived, not preached.
What does that even mean?
It means I care–about you. About your walk with Jesus. I care about the words you put before your eyes, the mental pictures those words conjure. It’s difficult to express just how much I love my brothers and sisters in Christ. It’s difficult to share just how much I love you.
But I do.
And I write for you. I sit in my little house in California’s Mojave Desert and I write to show you why one sister believes one thing, why a brother believes another. I write to show you how some Christians handle trials or triumphs–for you. So when you’re faced with something–good or bad, it doesn’t matter–maybe it’ll spark a memory. Maybe that memory will smolder until you pull out your Bible and see what the Lord said about it–about His great love for you. For YOU!
And maybe, just maybe, you’ll share that love with another hurting, confused, or blessed-with-more-than-she-knows-what-to-do-with soul.
I just happen to think that’s the most blessed giving anyone could hope to receive.
Oh, was this bio day? Oops! I forgot. I was lost in my latest manuscript. Umm... bio. Yeah.
Hi! I’m Chautona Havig. (for those who care, that’s Shuh-TONE-uh HAVE-ig). Yeah. Just work with me here. I should have used a pseudonym, but when you grow up with a name like Chautona, it kind of sticks.
Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful; and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near. ~ Hebrews 10: 23–25
Those aren’t just words on a page for me–they’re why I write. I write to encourage my brothers and sisters in Christ. The stories I create are to make people laugh, cry, question, consider.
They’re for you.
When the world screams for hope, I try to point you to the true Source of hope–Jesus.
Sometimes life in the church no longer seems a refuge from the pain of a self-serving world around us, but through my stories, I try to point you to the only Refuge that can truly help–the Father’s Everlasting Arms.
And sometimes we just need an escape from the monotony, the emptiness we see around us. We need joy, laughter–what I like to call “just the write escape.”
Christian fiction without apology or pretense–lived, not preached.
What does that even mean?
It means I care–about you. About your walk with Jesus. I care about the words you put before your eyes, the mental pictures those words conjure. It’s difficult to express just how much I love my brothers and sisters in Christ. It’s difficult to share just how much I love you.
But I do.
And I write for you. I sit in my little house in California’s Mojave Desert and I write to show you why one sister believes one thing, why a brother believes another. I write to show you how some Christians handle trials or triumphs–for you. So when you’re faced with something–good or bad, it doesn’t matter–maybe it’ll spark a memory. Maybe that memory will smolder until you pull out your Bible and see what the Lord said about it–about His great love for you. For YOU!
And maybe, just maybe, you’ll share that love with another hurting, confused, or blessed-with-more-than-she-knows-what-to-do-with soul.
I just happen to think that’s the most blessed giving anyone could hope to receive.
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
March 26, 2026
I am really enjoying the Bookstring series and was super excited for this book. While Cross Words could be read as a standalone novel, I highly recommend reading the other books first, since this book mentions characters/situations from previous books.
I liked the book, but I didn't love it. I got lost several times at the beginning, but I stuck with it because I do love this series, and I am glad I did. So, if you start reading, get lost, keep going, it is worth it in the end.
One of the reasons I got lost is that a lot is going on in this book. There are a lot of characters introduced in the first few chapters (and that ALWAYS confuses me), and there are several locations, as Milton travels around.
I loved all the bookish references and even found books that I want to read (or loved the nod to books I had read!). Judah is one of the main characters, and he is super annoying most of the book, but his character growth almost makes you forget how annoying he was.
I suspect from the ending that there will be more books in the Bookstrings series (and I hope so!!), I am here for them. I want to see more of Milton, and I wonder if he ever settles down in one place.
I liked the book, but I didn't love it. I got lost several times at the beginning, but I stuck with it because I do love this series, and I am glad I did. So, if you start reading, get lost, keep going, it is worth it in the end.
One of the reasons I got lost is that a lot is going on in this book. There are a lot of characters introduced in the first few chapters (and that ALWAYS confuses me), and there are several locations, as Milton travels around.
I loved all the bookish references and even found books that I want to read (or loved the nod to books I had read!). Judah is one of the main characters, and he is super annoying most of the book, but his character growth almost makes you forget how annoying he was.
I suspect from the ending that there will be more books in the Bookstrings series (and I hope so!!), I am here for them. I want to see more of Milton, and I wonder if he ever settles down in one place.
March 13, 2026
Bookstore Books
If you are a book lover, and enjoy bookstores you can't go wrong with the Bookstrings series. I was so excited to see a new book was coming out i could hardly wait. Fortunately, it was a short wait. Milton is one of my favorite characters. His Aunt Callie is a treat!
Cross words is actually different the crossword (puzzles) and it took me a bit to recognize it.
If you are a book lover, and enjoy bookstores you can't go wrong with the Bookstrings series. I was so excited to see a new book was coming out i could hardly wait. Fortunately, it was a short wait. Milton is one of my favorite characters. His Aunt Callie is a treat!
Cross words is actually different the crossword (puzzles) and it took me a bit to recognize it.
March 11, 2026
Wow!
Another home run by Chautona. She deals with a complicated issue in a realistic way, and writes that kid so well I wanted to shake him! 💕
Another home run by Chautona. She deals with a complicated issue in a realistic way, and writes that kid so well I wanted to shake him! 💕
March 17, 2026
a delightful trip to another bookshop
“CrossWords” by Chautona Havig takes readers on another memorable and touching trip with Milton Coleridge to the real town of Greenville, TN. The Bookstrings series is a favorite of mine, because Milton is such a wise and comfortable character. He seems like a man who would be able to relate well with almost anyone. I enjoy reading his insights into the people and situations he encounters in his business trips to help companies succeed and thrive. This particular book is filled with references to current Christian books, which then makes me want to check out a few of them based on the mentioning this book. I also enjoyed getting another peek into Milton’s life as he goes home to Maine to help his aunt after an injury. As always, Milton’s parrotlet, Atticus (not Finch), adds some delightful fun to the story.
Other characters in this book are wonderful as well. Milton is just the thread that runs through all of the Bookstrings books. For one, the owner of CrossWords Christian Books and Gifts is a lovely woman named Shiloh. She and her husband have a nephew named Judah who plays a large role in this book, so the reader follows Judah in his belief and unbelief journey. Shiloh is the warm, welcoming, and caring sort of person whom everyone turns to in moments of distress or discouragement. She is the spiritual and emotional encourager that people seek out regularly, which is just a joy to read about.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It is like reading an account of real people who might live in your town. It is thought provoking and faith building to read of Judah’s struggles and his journey, and to then look into your own heart and see areas you might need to work on. It is also just plain fun and a great literary escape. Read it. You won’t regret it. You might even enjoy it more if you read the other Bookstrings books so you can get to know Milton better, too!
“CrossWords” by Chautona Havig takes readers on another memorable and touching trip with Milton Coleridge to the real town of Greenville, TN. The Bookstrings series is a favorite of mine, because Milton is such a wise and comfortable character. He seems like a man who would be able to relate well with almost anyone. I enjoy reading his insights into the people and situations he encounters in his business trips to help companies succeed and thrive. This particular book is filled with references to current Christian books, which then makes me want to check out a few of them based on the mentioning this book. I also enjoyed getting another peek into Milton’s life as he goes home to Maine to help his aunt after an injury. As always, Milton’s parrotlet, Atticus (not Finch), adds some delightful fun to the story.
Other characters in this book are wonderful as well. Milton is just the thread that runs through all of the Bookstrings books. For one, the owner of CrossWords Christian Books and Gifts is a lovely woman named Shiloh. She and her husband have a nephew named Judah who plays a large role in this book, so the reader follows Judah in his belief and unbelief journey. Shiloh is the warm, welcoming, and caring sort of person whom everyone turns to in moments of distress or discouragement. She is the spiritual and emotional encourager that people seek out regularly, which is just a joy to read about.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It is like reading an account of real people who might live in your town. It is thought provoking and faith building to read of Judah’s struggles and his journey, and to then look into your own heart and see areas you might need to work on. It is also just plain fun and a great literary escape. Read it. You won’t regret it. You might even enjoy it more if you read the other Bookstrings books so you can get to know Milton better, too!
March 15, 2026
I really enjoy the Bookstrings series! What a delight when a new one comes out. I thoroughly enjoyed CrossWords, probably more than any of the other books in the series so far. All the others have featured Milton working to bring a couple together; that didn’t happen in this book. The main focus of this book was helping Judah to find his faith in God. Along the way, there was a lot of drama with Panda Marie (how does Chautona come up with these names?), as well as drama with alpacas. Maybe I didn’t want to know so much about their mating habits…. And, don’t miss the scene featuring Saint Joseph.
I also loved watching Milton care for his elderly aunt. I love Milton and Atticus! It was great fun to watch Milton trying to talk his aunt into doing what she needed to do, without letting her know that he was attempting to direct her.
One feature of this book, which just adds interest and fun, is the headings at the beginning of each chapter. Some are quotes from classics, and some are “Overheard in Greenville.” Those are funny! Another thing I love is the list of books mentioned in the story, found at the end of the book.
One thing I always love about Chautona’s books is the way she shows realistic people living out their faith, making mistakes, and learning from them, as well as repenting where needed. This book is no exception. Read it to be encouraged as well as entertained. (I read a large chunk of it while in a doctor’s waiting room, and actually laughed out loud a few times.) It is also educational; I learned the definition of a dare, and that Christian fiction is just writing lies about God. Good to know!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author, and these are my honest thoughts about it.
I also loved watching Milton care for his elderly aunt. I love Milton and Atticus! It was great fun to watch Milton trying to talk his aunt into doing what she needed to do, without letting her know that he was attempting to direct her.
One feature of this book, which just adds interest and fun, is the headings at the beginning of each chapter. Some are quotes from classics, and some are “Overheard in Greenville.” Those are funny! Another thing I love is the list of books mentioned in the story, found at the end of the book.
One thing I always love about Chautona’s books is the way she shows realistic people living out their faith, making mistakes, and learning from them, as well as repenting where needed. This book is no exception. Read it to be encouraged as well as entertained. (I read a large chunk of it while in a doctor’s waiting room, and actually laughed out loud a few times.) It is also educational; I learned the definition of a dare, and that Christian fiction is just writing lies about God. Good to know!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author, and these are my honest thoughts about it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Meet my new favorite book! (well, one of my favorites, anyway!) This is one of my favorite series, and each book gets better and better! This book was an absolute delight of bookstores, books, wonderful characters, charming parrotlets, hilarious dialogue, and heart-wrenching trouble. I laughed aloud more times than I can count, probably annoyed my daughter with constantly reading her my favorite snippets, and cheered for the epic awesomeness of the characters (including the bird). But when Judah turned away from his family’s faith – ouch. That hurt. It hurt a lot. But don’t worry – the ending is happy! Oh, and while this book part of a series, the story stands on its own. It's still best if you read the books in order, but you won't be completely lost or get any major spoilers if you read this one without reading the others first. Just know that Milton and his bird have been helping various bookstores around the country and you'll be set. ;)
This is a book you will want on your bookshelf, not just on your kindle! I’m already excited for the next book! I want more of Milton and Atticus!
This is a book you will want on your bookshelf, not just on your kindle! I’m already excited for the next book! I want more of Milton and Atticus!
March 22, 2026
4.25 stars
Completed: Mar. 17/26
Series: Bookstrings, #3
Format: e-book (Kindle)
Book #24 of 2026: I love this series! I mean, how can a reader not like a book about bookstores, books, and other readers?! I enjoy all the book titles and authors that Chautona Havig names in her novels/novellas. I recognize almost all of them. And I always relate to her sense of humor!
I particularly appreciate the character of Judah, even though he frustrates me. It is because he represents the movement of leaving Jesus because of imperfect people and peer pressure. That hits close to home. Judah had a big growth ARC in a few areas. The whole aspect of “performative Christianity” in this book is so important.
I enjoy the adventures of Milton and his parrotlet, Atticus (not Finch!). Every character serves a purpose in each of the stories.
This author has a great way with words and can get things across in many different ways. Please see the various passages that I highlighted. I had to refrain myself from highlighting a very large chunk of Chapter 28! So many good nuggets. Don’t miss out on this series! Start with the two novellas, then books 1-3.
Completed: Mar. 17/26
Series: Bookstrings, #3
Format: e-book (Kindle)
Book #24 of 2026: I love this series! I mean, how can a reader not like a book about bookstores, books, and other readers?! I enjoy all the book titles and authors that Chautona Havig names in her novels/novellas. I recognize almost all of them. And I always relate to her sense of humor!
I particularly appreciate the character of Judah, even though he frustrates me. It is because he represents the movement of leaving Jesus because of imperfect people and peer pressure. That hits close to home. Judah had a big growth ARC in a few areas. The whole aspect of “performative Christianity” in this book is so important.
I enjoy the adventures of Milton and his parrotlet, Atticus (not Finch!). Every character serves a purpose in each of the stories.
This author has a great way with words and can get things across in many different ways. Please see the various passages that I highlighted. I had to refrain myself from highlighting a very large chunk of Chapter 28! So many good nuggets. Don’t miss out on this series! Start with the two novellas, then books 1-3.
March 25, 2026
I almost couldn’t finish this book. Judah was an extremely annoying character, so immature. His immaturity was exacerbated by how his parents treated him.
As one of Chautona’s loyal Catholic readers, I really didn’t appreciate the “superstitious Catholic” trope. No faithful Catholic buries Saint Joseph upside down in their yard—ask him to pray for us, of course.
As one of Chautona’s loyal Catholic readers, I really didn’t appreciate the “superstitious Catholic” trope. No faithful Catholic buries Saint Joseph upside down in their yard—ask him to pray for us, of course.
April 22, 2026
Great write (read, audio book). There are so many references to books, it could be used to recommend books based on preferences, if you had a bookstore or were a librarian at a lending library. Enjoyed it greatly, like many of her books.
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews