CrossWords

Two believers and one skeptic walk into a Christian bookstore. Words ensue—including cross ones.

CrossWords has thrived for over fifty years, and Shiloh Scott runs it with equal parts Scripture, encouragement, and wholehearted hugs. So when she moves the store to a new location, she expects shelving chaos.

She does not expect to learn her nephew is done with Jesus.

Judah Hensley isn’t rebelling. He isn’t doubting. He’s never really believed. The last thing he needs is a spring break spent hauling Bibles—or a summer of cheerful “blessed days.”

Unfortunately for him, Panda Marie—sunshine with a beta fish named Sushi—has questions. And opinions. And a stubborn refusal to let him hide behind sarcasm. Their banter crackles. Their arguments dig deeper. And somewhere between cinnamon roll diplomacy and alphabetizing devotionals, Judah’s certainty begins to wobble.

Meanwhile, Milton Coleridge heads to Maine to wrangle an injured, sharp-tongued aunt with strong opinions about everything—including him. But he won’t stay away long. Even successful CrossWords might just need his help after all.

Especially since his parrotlet, Atticus (not Finch), has decided he’s hopelessly devoted to a fish.

It may take love, laughter, and a little holy nudge to steady CrossWords again.

Because sometimes faith isn’t something you lose.

It’s something you discover when you finally stop winging it alone.

© 2026 Havilah Press Publications (Audiobook): 9780466120955

Release date

Audiobook: 15 July 2026