Friday Finds - April 24, 2026
This week's finds came together in a way I always love-stories that feel very different on the surface, but all leave a lasting impression in their own way. From layered fantasy and emotional memoir to true crime intrigue and a reminder of what home really means, there's a little something here for every kind of reader.
If you've been looking for your next read-or just a quiet moment to browse-settle in and explore this week's picks.
Featured Finds of the Week
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Rübezahl by M. Laszlo A beautifully layered fantasy with lyrical prose and meaningful depth. This is the kind of story that invites you to slow down, think, and fully immerse yourself in its world-perfect for readers who enjoy fantasy with something more to say. |
Throwing the Hammer by Gary J. Kirchner Emotional, honest, and deeply personal, this memoir offers both heartbreak and resilience. It's a story that stays with you, reminding us of the strength it takes to keep moving forward. |
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Delaware: Behaving Badly by Dave Tabler If true crime catches your attention, this one delivers. A fascinating look at lesser-known cases, it's an engaging mix of history and intrigue that makes for an easy but compelling read. |
Home Is Where Our Story Begins by Dr. Omomaro Okekaro, PhD Warm, reflective, and heartfelt, this story leans into the meaning of home, family, and connection. A quieter read that feels especially fitting if you're in the mood for something comforting. |
🌟 Indie Author of the Week - Ivan Scott
Ivan Scott
This week's Indie Author of the Week is Ivan Scott, an author whose books blend clean romance, light mystery, and a generous dose of humor. His stories are a good fit for readers who enjoy feel-good fiction with engaging characters, gentle intrigue, and a little romantic spark.
I've had the chance to read several of his redhead romantic mysteries, and they're always easy to recommend when someone wants something entertaining without being too heavy. They have that comfortable mix of charm, mystery, and heart that makes them especially nice between more intense reads.
I also appreciate authors who stay connected with the readers and bloggers sharing their work. Ivan has been kind enough to repost and tag my reviews on Instagram lately, which made this week feel like a natural time to highlight his books again.
📚 Featured Book: The Redhead and the Fountain Pen
If you're new to his work, The Redhead and the Fountain Pen is a fun place to start. It brings together romance, mystery, and Ivan's easygoing humor in a way that feels light, clean, and engaging.
✨ Indie Author of the Week highlights an author whose work has been featured on the blog and stood out to me or my readers.
Tip of the Week: Create a Calm Corner
If your days have been feeling a little rushed lately, try creating a small "calm corner" in your home-even if it's just a chair, a side table, or a quiet spot by a window.
Add one or two simple touches that make you feel relaxed-a soft light, a favorite scent, or something you enjoy working on with your hands. The goal isn't to create something perfect, just a space that invites you to slow down for a few minutes when you need it.
This section rotates between healthy tips, recipes, patterns, and crafts, so if this week's tip doesn't quite fit where you are right now, there is always something different coming up in future Friday Finds.
⭐ Gina's Featured Friday Finds - April 24, 2026
Reader Extras
This week's picks lean into calm, thoughtful moments-the kind that pair perfectly with a good book and a little time to unwind.
Wooden Flower Bouquet Craft Kit This was one of those thoughtful finds that immediately stood out this week. A hands-on craft that results in something beautiful and lasting, perfect as a quiet solo project or a meaningful gift. |
Book Lover Tumbler With warmer days ahead, this felt like the perfect seasonal find. The soft floral design and lidded top make it easy to take your reading time outdoors without interruption. |
Calming Essential Oil Roller I've used rollers like this before, and they're surprisingly effective for creating a quick moment of calm-perfect for settling in with a book or resetting during the day. |
This post may contain affiliate links. If you choose to make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only share items that feel like a natural fit for a calm, thoughtful reading life.
💬 Reader Contest Question of the Week
I'd love to hear from you!
⭐ Join the conversation: What kind of book are you most in the mood for right now-something cozy and comforting, or something fast-paced and unputdownable? Bonus point if you actually have the book on hand!
🗓️ Contest closes April 30, 2026 at noon CST.
If your entry arrives after the deadline, I'll add it to next month's contest jar.
🌿 Closing Notes
Thanks for spending part of your day with me. I hope you found something here to add to your reading list-or at least a moment of inspiration for your next quiet break.
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I feel like reading something vaguely mysterious and something that gets me out into the countryside. I have just started a book called Bear Game by New Hampshire author D.C. Monaghan which, so far at least, has the right elements. By the way, big thanks for including Throwing the Hammer among your Featured Finds.
That sounds like such a perfect reading mood—something a little mysterious with that countryside feel is hard to beat.
I’d love to hear how Bear Game turns out for you—it’s always fun when a book matches exactly what you're in the mood for.
And you’re so welcome—I really enjoyed featuring Throwing the Hammer. I always appreciate you taking the time to stop by and share your thoughts here 😊
I just want to read about ways to calm the nervous system to help my daughter.
Aww. I'm sorry she's having trouble. Is there anything in particular you are looking for in related books?
The book I am most in the mood for is the book of Proverbs in the Bible. Yes, I do have it.
Reader Contest Question: What book am I interested in reading now? I'm a mood reader so whatever I'm in mood for
You are the best at finding bookish merch! 📚🙌