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The Hidden Bookshop #1
An Invitation for Imogen
There’s nothing Imogen loves more than hunting down the truth behind mysterious secrets, until she realizes the most dangerous secret of all may well be right under her nose.
Imogen Tewksbury leads a calm and well-ordered life. The eldest of five sisters, she is trustworthy, responsible, and spends most of her time working at the family bookshop; however, she’s always harbored a secret wish to become a detective. When she receives an invitation to meet her favorite mystery author at a neighbor’s dinner party, she is overjoyed. Swept off her feet by the author’s charm and good looks, she’s instantly enamored, but when his life is threatened, she vows to do whatever she can to bring the perpetrator to justice.
Detective Harvey Price has known author Sturgis Cleveland for most of his life, and he isn’t swayed by either his fame or large bank account. Certain the author is hiding something which led to the attempt on his life, Harvey reluctantly agrees to allow Imogen to help with the investigation.
Imogen quickly learns that solving mysteries is much more difficult than it appears in the novels she loves so much. As the case grows more complicated, she’s dismayed to discover the existence of secrets much closer to home, secrets that threaten her relationships with those she loves most. And as she and Detective Price grow closer, she begins to realize that love doesn’t need to be flashy or extravagant to be real. Honesty, loyalty, and steadfast faith may be the foundation of a love beyond anything she’s ever dreamed.
Welcome to the first book of the Hidden Bookshop, a world filled with stories, adventure, romance, intrigue, and quirky, loveable characters.
Imogen Tewksbury leads a calm and well-ordered life. The eldest of five sisters, she is trustworthy, responsible, and spends most of her time working at the family bookshop; however, she’s always harbored a secret wish to become a detective. When she receives an invitation to meet her favorite mystery author at a neighbor’s dinner party, she is overjoyed. Swept off her feet by the author’s charm and good looks, she’s instantly enamored, but when his life is threatened, she vows to do whatever she can to bring the perpetrator to justice.
Detective Harvey Price has known author Sturgis Cleveland for most of his life, and he isn’t swayed by either his fame or large bank account. Certain the author is hiding something which led to the attempt on his life, Harvey reluctantly agrees to allow Imogen to help with the investigation.
Imogen quickly learns that solving mysteries is much more difficult than it appears in the novels she loves so much. As the case grows more complicated, she’s dismayed to discover the existence of secrets much closer to home, secrets that threaten her relationships with those she loves most. And as she and Detective Price grow closer, she begins to realize that love doesn’t need to be flashy or extravagant to be real. Honesty, loyalty, and steadfast faith may be the foundation of a love beyond anything she’s ever dreamed.
Welcome to the first book of the Hidden Bookshop, a world filled with stories, adventure, romance, intrigue, and quirky, loveable characters.
- GenresMystery
Paperback
Published July 21, 2026
About the author
Kristie Self
10 books69 followersKristie Self has always had a love for books and has been writing since she was a child. She combines her love of history and romance to write faith-filled love stories with memorable characters and intriguing plots. A banker by day, she spends most of her nights and weekends focused on writing. She enjoys traveling, watching movies, and curling up with a good book. An avid lover of music, she plays several instruments and also teaches piano. She is a graduate of Howard Payne University and lives in Lott, Texas, with her cat, Arlo.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
July 9, 2026
I loved this story! It was really well done! Imogen is a great character! She works at a bookshop, loves mysteries and gets herself involved in a real one. Detective Harvey Price doesn’t want her involved but soon allows it. I loved watching their relationship change over the course of the book! This book has a large cast of characters so there are lots of povs so give it time to get familiar with them all. I loved all the characters and their side stories. I can’t wait to read more about them in future books! Imogen and her sisters are quite odd, crazy and unique and I love it! The mystery was great! I did NOT see who the villain was coming! I loved the ending! Good Christian content! I definitely recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Content: attempted murder
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Content: attempted murder
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
October 31, 2026
It seemed like 3/4th of the novel was basically a clean, well written, secular novel. Then there were 2 or 3 brief mentions of God, wondering if He was real etc. Finally near the end there was some real Christian content. So for those readers who praise so called Christian authors who are not 'preachy', this would most likely be a novel for them. I enjoyed it, but really was hoping for more Scriptures, prayers, and Christian content, and yes even preaching in abundance throughout the story, . I may try reading another novel by the author, in hopes they will be more of Christ, and Christianity ...in her Christian novel. She is a good author so I pray that will be the case. As you might know or have guessed, I am not a reader who praises CHRISTIAN novels for not being 'preachy'. Just exactly where am I to read fiction novels with good scriptures, prayers, Christian content etc. in a novel...if not in a Christian novel??? Why don't those who don't like a lot of prayers, scriptures woven into the story, just read super clean SECULAR novels?
August 9, 2026
I absolutely loved the quirky, endearing cast of characters in this book! This is such a fun combination of cozy mystery, clean romance, family dynamics, and laugh-out-loud moments, with just enough mystery to keep the pages turning.
Imogen Tewksbury was a wonderful heroine. She’s genuine, sensible, smart, observant, and—most importantly for me—a book lover who has always dreamed of being a detective. As the eldest of five orphaned sisters, she feels responsible for being the strong one her younger siblings can depend on, but she also has a wonderful sense of adventure that comes to life when she is invited to a dinner honoring her favorite mystery author. What begins as a dream come true quickly turns into a suspenseful adventure when the author’s life is threatened.
I really enjoyed watching Imogen grow throughout the story. She proves to be much stronger, more determined, and even more daring than she initially realizes.
And then there’s Harvey. He may not be the most handsome man ever, but he’s honorable, down-to-earth, responsible, and has a heart of gold. Unfortunately for him, Imogen is completely dazzled by famous author Sturgis Cleveland, while Harvey sees exactly what Imogen refuses to see. Sturgis may be charming, handsome, but also arrogant, egoistic, and accustomed to being admired—and I wanted to shake Imogen more than once and tell her to LOOK AT THE MAN STANDING RIGHT IN FRONT OF HER!
The contrast between the flashy, temporary attraction Imogen feels toward Sturgis and the quiet, steadfast qualities Harvey possesses was beautifully done. It reinforces the idea that real love doesn’t have to be dazzling or extravagant to be valuable; honesty, loyalty, and faithfulness matter far more.
But the characters don’t stop there. Uncle Theo and Wren were another source of entertainment. Both are stubborn, strong-willed, and carrying the weight of the past, and their arguments were hilarious. Their inability to give an inch made it difficult for them to understand each other, but it also made their scenes incredibly fun to read.
Uncle Tagg was probbly my favorite uncle, even though his appearance in the story was relatively brief. And the Tewksbury sisters! I loved their bond and the way they supported one another. Finola was my favorite—her sassy, outspoken personality and fascination with all things slightly shady had me laughing out loud more than once. Who plays funeral with her dolls?! Essie was absolutely adorable in her awkward sweetness, and I’m already looking forward to her story. Diana and Athena, the twins who couldn’t be more different in personality, were also so much fun.
The mystery surroundng the attempted murder of Sturgis kept me engaged, and I really didn’t anticipate all the twists and turns toward the end. I loved following the story not only through Imogen and Harvey’s eyes, but also through the perspectives and secrets of Sturgis, Theo, Wren, Essie, and even the unknown villain. It made the story feel like there was always another layer waiting to be uncovered. The mystery about the Hidden Bookshop made the story even more intriguing.
The faith thread was inspiring, especially towards the end when Imogen learns how God is present even through the hardest of circumstances, and is always steering us towards what is best of us. And how it’s humanly to question God sometimes, but still trust Him.
If you’re looking for a lighthearted mystery with plenty of humor, family, romance, intriguing twists, and lovable characters, this is definitely one to add to your reading list!
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author but wasn’t required to post a positive review. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.
Imogen Tewksbury was a wonderful heroine. She’s genuine, sensible, smart, observant, and—most importantly for me—a book lover who has always dreamed of being a detective. As the eldest of five orphaned sisters, she feels responsible for being the strong one her younger siblings can depend on, but she also has a wonderful sense of adventure that comes to life when she is invited to a dinner honoring her favorite mystery author. What begins as a dream come true quickly turns into a suspenseful adventure when the author’s life is threatened.
I really enjoyed watching Imogen grow throughout the story. She proves to be much stronger, more determined, and even more daring than she initially realizes.
And then there’s Harvey. He may not be the most handsome man ever, but he’s honorable, down-to-earth, responsible, and has a heart of gold. Unfortunately for him, Imogen is completely dazzled by famous author Sturgis Cleveland, while Harvey sees exactly what Imogen refuses to see. Sturgis may be charming, handsome, but also arrogant, egoistic, and accustomed to being admired—and I wanted to shake Imogen more than once and tell her to LOOK AT THE MAN STANDING RIGHT IN FRONT OF HER!
The contrast between the flashy, temporary attraction Imogen feels toward Sturgis and the quiet, steadfast qualities Harvey possesses was beautifully done. It reinforces the idea that real love doesn’t have to be dazzling or extravagant to be valuable; honesty, loyalty, and faithfulness matter far more.
But the characters don’t stop there. Uncle Theo and Wren were another source of entertainment. Both are stubborn, strong-willed, and carrying the weight of the past, and their arguments were hilarious. Their inability to give an inch made it difficult for them to understand each other, but it also made their scenes incredibly fun to read.
Uncle Tagg was probbly my favorite uncle, even though his appearance in the story was relatively brief. And the Tewksbury sisters! I loved their bond and the way they supported one another. Finola was my favorite—her sassy, outspoken personality and fascination with all things slightly shady had me laughing out loud more than once. Who plays funeral with her dolls?! Essie was absolutely adorable in her awkward sweetness, and I’m already looking forward to her story. Diana and Athena, the twins who couldn’t be more different in personality, were also so much fun.
The mystery surroundng the attempted murder of Sturgis kept me engaged, and I really didn’t anticipate all the twists and turns toward the end. I loved following the story not only through Imogen and Harvey’s eyes, but also through the perspectives and secrets of Sturgis, Theo, Wren, Essie, and even the unknown villain. It made the story feel like there was always another layer waiting to be uncovered. The mystery about the Hidden Bookshop made the story even more intriguing.
The faith thread was inspiring, especially towards the end when Imogen learns how God is present even through the hardest of circumstances, and is always steering us towards what is best of us. And how it’s humanly to question God sometimes, but still trust Him.
If you’re looking for a lighthearted mystery with plenty of humor, family, romance, intriguing twists, and lovable characters, this is definitely one to add to your reading list!
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author but wasn’t required to post a positive review. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.
August 11, 2026
I'm not even quite sure how this book came to my attention, probably an algorithm on instagram, and considering that I am in the audiobook portion of publishing, and read books all day for a living, I almost passed this title by, primarily for my own personal time constraints.
But something about it just called to me, and I'm so glad that I made the time to read it, because while the cover intrigued me, as did the back copy description, what was between those pages absolutely charmed me!
As I said, I read manuscripts for a living all week long, so I feel like I've seen it all, and that doesn't mean that I don't like certain repetitive plot lines or story elements, but it is absolutely marvelous to find something so refreshingly different, and I just fell head over heels!
From the magical realism of an unusual plot line to the characters that are so sweetly imperfect, I just found myself looking forward to reading this for my own enjoyment each evening, even after a long day at work reading fiction manuscripts!
I loved the sweetness of the clean romance, the intelligent and strong character of Imogen and how darling Harvey is, even the fact that he's not described as this swoony breathtaking ruggedly handsome stereotypical fiction hero but rather he quite likes his biscuits (cookies for us Americans).
The secondary characters and their interconnected plot lines were also absolutely fantastic and I never saw the Epilogue coming, but it is the perfect setup for more books in the series and I hope that they are in the works because I absolutely want to find out what happens with so many of the characters!
More, please!
But something about it just called to me, and I'm so glad that I made the time to read it, because while the cover intrigued me, as did the back copy description, what was between those pages absolutely charmed me!
As I said, I read manuscripts for a living all week long, so I feel like I've seen it all, and that doesn't mean that I don't like certain repetitive plot lines or story elements, but it is absolutely marvelous to find something so refreshingly different, and I just fell head over heels!
From the magical realism of an unusual plot line to the characters that are so sweetly imperfect, I just found myself looking forward to reading this for my own enjoyment each evening, even after a long day at work reading fiction manuscripts!
I loved the sweetness of the clean romance, the intelligent and strong character of Imogen and how darling Harvey is, even the fact that he's not described as this swoony breathtaking ruggedly handsome stereotypical fiction hero but rather he quite likes his biscuits (cookies for us Americans).
The secondary characters and their interconnected plot lines were also absolutely fantastic and I never saw the Epilogue coming, but it is the perfect setup for more books in the series and I hope that they are in the works because I absolutely want to find out what happens with so many of the characters!
More, please!
Review of advance copy received from Author
1882 England
After adoring the many characters in The Ladies of Roderick Glen, it's a new cast to love in The Hidden Bookshop. Readers are only given a small glimpse into what is involved with the hidden bookshop so look forward to learning more as the series continues.
Oldest sister Imogen carries a lot of weight on her young shoulders after the death of her parents. Fortunately, her two bachelor uncles have provided a home for them. I can hardly wait for the youngest Finny to get her own novel. It's sure to be fun filled just like her.
Detective Harvey Price and Imogen Tewksbury are both great leading characters. This was a wonderful introduction to the series and I look forward to reading more.
My gratitude to the author for a complimentary copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
After adoring the many characters in The Ladies of Roderick Glen, it's a new cast to love in The Hidden Bookshop. Readers are only given a small glimpse into what is involved with the hidden bookshop so look forward to learning more as the series continues.
Oldest sister Imogen carries a lot of weight on her young shoulders after the death of her parents. Fortunately, her two bachelor uncles have provided a home for them. I can hardly wait for the youngest Finny to get her own novel. It's sure to be fun filled just like her.
Detective Harvey Price and Imogen Tewksbury are both great leading characters. This was a wonderful introduction to the series and I look forward to reading more.
My gratitude to the author for a complimentary copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Imogen has a job that I’d love- working in a bookstore. It’s even better because it’s family owned! When one of her beloved mystery authors comes to town, secrets, deception, and danger follow.
I enjoyed Imogen’s sisters and their loyalty and willingness to help her with a rescue. You’ll love the developing relationship between Uncle Theo and the new bookstore partner, Wren, who have a past that I hope we’ll learn more about in a future book.
This is the beginning of The Hidden Bookstore series, which has a kisses-only romance. Readers from teens through adults will enjoy this book.
I received a copy of the book from the author with no obligation to write a positive review.
I enjoyed Imogen’s sisters and their loyalty and willingness to help her with a rescue. You’ll love the developing relationship between Uncle Theo and the new bookstore partner, Wren, who have a past that I hope we’ll learn more about in a future book.
This is the beginning of The Hidden Bookstore series, which has a kisses-only romance. Readers from teens through adults will enjoy this book.
I received a copy of the book from the author with no obligation to write a positive review.
Review of advance copy
Mysteries to solve and the introduction to a whole new community of characters. An Invitation for Imogen takes the reader into a fully developed cast of characters that I will be excited to learn more about as the series continues. They are likable and quirky and quick witted. We follow multiple characters through this first book including glimpses at 5 sisters and their two uncles and all the side characters and possible partners they may encounter down the line. We also have the first glimpses into the hidden bookshop and its elderly leader. Lovely story appropriate for teens and above with very quiet romance and glimpses of Christian faith included.
July 21, 2026
Such an amazing book! Kristie Self is such a talented storyteller! I love her books! This is a great start to a new series! If you love mysteries and romance this is the book for you. The characters are all so fun and quirky. They provide great entertainment as well as intrigue.
I can’t wait for the next books! I’m so invested in these characters. And I need to find out the answers to some questions.
This is a clean, kisses only story. It does have an attempted murder, but no gory details. You will enjoy the suspense. There is an element of faith that is refreshing, but not overbearing. A wonderful book, I highly recommend!
I can’t wait for the next books! I’m so invested in these characters. And I need to find out the answers to some questions.
This is a clean, kisses only story. It does have an attempted murder, but no gory details. You will enjoy the suspense. There is an element of faith that is refreshing, but not overbearing. A wonderful book, I highly recommend!
Review of advance copy received from Author
An Invitation for Imogen by Kristie Self was such a clever and exciting start to her new series, The Hidden Bookshop. There was mystery and danger, hilarity and family life, romance and a faith connection. I was so taken again by this author’s talent for storytelling. And…I’m clamoring for book 2!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. The opinions expressed are completely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. The opinions expressed are completely my own.
July 18, 2026
I really enjoyed this book! The Tweksbury family is so charming and endearing. Imogen is the perfect FMC for those of us who love books and a mystery to solve. I also really liked Harvey. He is kind, compassionate, smart, and quick thinking. I loved watching their relationship grow.
This book has a couple of mysteries in it. There is the mystery of the crime that Imogen and Harvey are trying to solve. Then there is the mystery of the Hidden Bookshop. While the author provides closure to the mystery Imogen and Harvey set out to solve, there is still more to learn about the Hidden Bookshop. There is also more to learn about the additional Tewksbury sisters as well as a few of the other characters. This book is a great launch to a new series and look forward to what is to come in this series.
I received an advanced readers copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
This book has a couple of mysteries in it. There is the mystery of the crime that Imogen and Harvey are trying to solve. Then there is the mystery of the Hidden Bookshop. While the author provides closure to the mystery Imogen and Harvey set out to solve, there is still more to learn about the Hidden Bookshop. There is also more to learn about the additional Tewksbury sisters as well as a few of the other characters. This book is a great launch to a new series and look forward to what is to come in this series.
I received an advanced readers copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
Wonderful story! Worth your time!
July 24, 2026
I have been reading this authors books for a while and absolutely love her previous series but I thoroughly enjoyed the mystery component of this series so much!! I cannot wait to read the next book because I need to know more.
Immediately you are immersed into this quirky cast of characters. They are endearing and you cannot help but love Imogen, her sisters and her uncles. As a main character Imogen is sensible, sweet and very stubborn to be a detective of sorts. She loves to solve puzzles and gets involved with Harvey to solve a crime. Harvey is not your typical man, we read in stories but he is real and I loved that about this. He's down to earth and honorable which are qualities that go so much deeper than superficial aspects.
The story was truly delightful and I could not quite put my finger on who the true culprit was so its perfection to me. In true style of this author's writing there is a lot happening in the story with the different characters but its never hard to follow which is one of the things I love about her. The books are never dull because there is so much going on!
I cannot wait for the second book!
I received a copy of this book for review. All views are my own.
Immediately you are immersed into this quirky cast of characters. They are endearing and you cannot help but love Imogen, her sisters and her uncles. As a main character Imogen is sensible, sweet and very stubborn to be a detective of sorts. She loves to solve puzzles and gets involved with Harvey to solve a crime. Harvey is not your typical man, we read in stories but he is real and I loved that about this. He's down to earth and honorable which are qualities that go so much deeper than superficial aspects.
The story was truly delightful and I could not quite put my finger on who the true culprit was so its perfection to me. In true style of this author's writing there is a lot happening in the story with the different characters but its never hard to follow which is one of the things I love about her. The books are never dull because there is so much going on!
I cannot wait for the second book!
I received a copy of this book for review. All views are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 17, 2026I have read and loved all of Kristie Self's previous books so I was very excited when I found out about this one and it did not disappoint! With plenty of intriguing characters, mystery, and romance, An Invitation for Imogen is a delightful start to The Hidden Bookshop series. I already can't wait for the next one!
I received a complimentary copy from the author and all opinions are my own.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and all opinions are my own.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews