It began with a Google search.
I (Jen) needed a book that would help my oldest son live his faith through tough circumstances, not just learn about it. Something with fiction and fun to draw kids (and grown-ups) into deeper conversation.
I searched Amazon. Scoured shelves. Nothing fit.
Too preachy. Too historical. Too focused on morals instead of who God is. Or set in fantasy worlds that made faith seem easier than in real life. Lots of good books, but not the type I’d hoped to find.
Where was the story that wove tangible discipleship into real-world adventure?
The book didn't exist—so I'd have to write it.
I reached out to Gayle, a children’s writer from my critique group.
Over soup at Panera, I laid out the idea.
Gayle's eyes lit up. She was in.
We started praying.
And then came the God moment…
Mysteries.
That genre wasn't even on our radar, but it made total sense.
That sparked dozens of Zoom calls. Drafts. Laughs. Late-night breakthroughs. Edits. (So. Many. Edits.) And a lot more God-moments.
Now our Kid Detectives are ready to launch their first case. But this isn't just about solving a century-old mystery. It's about helping kids discover how to talk to God, listen for His voice, and follow Him when it matters most.
Just like we’re doing as we write this series. And trust us, God shows up.
The best part? This is just the beginning. More mysteries await. Deeper secrets are stirring.
Stay tuned, sleuths.