When most people think about reading, they picture sinking into a full-length novel that takes days (or weeks) to finish. But short stories offer their own unique kind of magic—bite-sized adventures that fit perfectly into a busy life. If you’ve never given short stories a try, here are five reasons to start (and why my Lady Gold Investigates series might be just the place to begin!).
1. They Fit Into Any Schedule
Life is busy, and sometimes you just want a story you can finish in a single sitting. Short stories are perfect for a coffee break, a train ride, or winding down before bed. Each Lady Gold Investigates mystery is designed to be enjoyed in about an hour or two—just long enough to sink into Ginger Gold’s world without feeling pressed for time.
2. They Pack a Punch
Short stories don’t have the luxury of hundreds of pages. Every clue, every red herring, every witty line of dialogue has to count. That makes them sharp, focused, and often even more impactful. In Lady Gold Investigates, Ginger faces mysteries that may not involve murder but still carry plenty of intrigue, clever twists, and the occasional laugh-out-loud moment.
3. They’re Gateways to Favorite Characters
If you already know Ginger Gold from the full-length novels, the short stories are a wonderful way to spend more time with her, Basil, Boss, and the rest of her world. If you’re new to the series, short stories are the perfect entry point—giving you a taste of 1920s London, cozy sleuthing, and a heroine who’s as stylish as she is sharp.
4. They Showcase Creativity
Short fiction often allows authors to play. In Lady Gold Investigates, I get to explore mysteries outside the framework of murder—missing persons, stolen treasures, or secrets hidden in plain sight. These lighter, sometimes quirkier puzzles offer a fresh twist on the cozy mystery genre and let Ginger’s resourcefulness shine in new ways.
5. They’re Immensely Satisfying
There’s something delightful about reaching the end of a story in one sitting. You get the full arc—setup, investigation, and clever resolution—without waiting days to know how it ends. Each Lady Gold Investigates tale is a self-contained mystery, so you can dip in whenever you need a quick escape to Jazz Age London.
There's a new Lady Gold Investigates 2-story volume!
Number 7!
