In online bookstores, readers often discover new books by browsing the bestselling titles in their desired genre. However, popularity does not always equate to quality. Countless hidden gems may not receive as much promotion but offer incredible stories that deserve recognition and readership.
Watch this short video.
Lorraine Carey and Erika M Szabo discuss how readers' preferences have changed since the internet provides a wide variety of entertainment.
About The Seven Cozy Shorts
Cozy bedtime stories for grownups
Erika said, "I categorize these stories as cozy because the reader can finish a
story in one sitting, usually, it takes from an hour to an hour and a half
to read a story. When you have a family to take care of and a job to get up
early, these shorter novellas are perfect to cozy up in bed with and finish a
story before falling asleep. The stories are not overwhelmingly long, and the
readers are introduced to fewer characters and places than in long novels, so
you don’t need to memorize so many names. The scenes and characters are not
described in minute details, just enough to create a quick mental picture of the people
and place where things happen."
The stories in the book:
Ancient ghost:
Thousands of years ago Tanakhmet cursed Prince Akhmose to never enter the heavenly paradise. But after Layla breaks the curse, does he really want to?
Mysterious omen:
Lauren has everything she’d ever wished for. When her Raven spirit guide warns her of impending danger, she knows her life is in danger. Who wants her dead and why?
Jealous acolyte:
A potion made with haste out of jealousy puts Dorian into a coma. The rare orchid that could save his life is fiercely guarded by werewolves in the forbidden forest. Will they succeed in saving his life?
Christmas magic:
Elana’s life was a revolving door of shattered hopes and disappointments. Until she met Luca. Allowing them only a short time of happiness, cruel fate tore them apart. Will they meet again?
Small town mystery:
The snobbish new owner of the Couture mansion brings a worthless painting into Danielle’s antique shop and the town’s future is threatened by the plans of the ruthless, rich owner. Is the painting truly worth nothing or...
Soulmates across time:
Caleb lost his soulmate, Valerie. Can he find her in a parallel universe? If his father succeeds in opening the portal, will he find the same person or a stranger in the alternate universe?
Love conquers fear:
People are not perfect, and we all come with baggage. They might show a picture-perfect family life but hide the struggles, heartache, compromises, and sacrifices they made to get there.
Beautiful stories perfectly narrated I enjoyed each of the stories. Erika created believable characters and situations. Pat Mahoney's narration was excellent. I was impressed by his range as he change his voice between characters. His music also enhanced the listening experience without detracting from the stories themselves. 5 out of 5 stars
Great audiobook! I enjoyed this audiobook very much. The stories by Erika Szabo were well written and engaging. The narration by Pat Mahoney brought all the characters to life. The music added to the enjoyment of the stories. Highly recommended! 5 out of 5 stars
Intense Cozy Shorts These cozy mysteries went from absolutely creepy to seriously intense and I loved every moment of it. The stories are well written, entertaining and full of intricate twist that make you want to keep listening. The cozy shorts are different and some are quite unique. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves mysteries that range from the paranormal to second chances. This is my honest unbiased review.
Fantastic stories I loved listening to this audiobook. The stories were great and the narrator did a wonderful job. He is very talented and the music and voices he did made this a fantastic listen.
Erika loves to dance to her own tunes and follow her dreams, introducing her story-writing skills and her books that are based on creative imagination with themes such as magical realism, alternate history, urban fantasy, cozy mystery, sweet romance, and supernatural stories. Her children’s stories are informative, and educational, and deliver moral values in a non-preachy way.