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.

Ingrid moves to her family home on the Jersey shore and finds that she’s not living alone. Her dearly departed Mormor is with her and soon she finds that all he women of her family have a part in telling their family story. As a genealogist, Ingrid is tasked with collecting and telling her family’s story, but she gains so much more in the process.

Love, both passionate of family, relationships and roots are all part of this one and I found it both enjoyable and comforting in equal measure. I wish it were a series with Mormor and the other female members of the family taking part in shenanigans and other aspects of life moving forward. If it’s not clear, I LOVED this book!

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!