Misty Mercier and The MomCo Book Club
The Book Club That Became So Much More
When Misty Mercier started The MomCo Online Book Club, she wasn’t sure what to expect. Would anyone show up? Would meaningful connection really happen through a screen? Could an online gathering become a place where moms genuinely felt seen and supported?
A year later, the answer is a resounding yes.
What began as Misty’s love of reading has grown into a thriving online community of over 270 MomCo members who gather from across the globe to discuss stories, share life, encourage one another, and grow in faith together.
We sat down with Misty, leader of The MomCo Book Club, to hear what inspired her to start, what she’s learned along the way, and what she’d say to another mom who’s considering trying something new.
What inspired you to start The MomCo Online Book Club, and what need did you hope it would meet for moms?
Misty: I’ve always loved reading, and I know many moms are looking for healthy ways to relax, escape, and recharge. There’s something special about discovering a great book and then getting to share that experience with other women who are just as excited to talk about it.
As my own children have become more involved in activities, I’ve found that online gatherings fit naturally into this season of life. There’s something cozy about getting the kids settled for the evening, curling up with a cup of tea, and connecting with other women who are not only searching for their next favorite book, but also looking for the deeper truths and encouragement God may reveal through its pages.
What challenges have you encountered, and how have you worked through them?
Misty: The biggest challenge has been letting go of expectations about what a meetup “should” look like.
I still remember worrying at the beginning of the season about what would happen if hundreds of members joined a Zoom call! Over time, I’ve learned that life is busy. Not everyone will attend every meeting, and not every member will love every book selection.
Now, instead of focusing on making everything perfectly polished, I focus on the people who show up. Meaningful conversations matter far more than perfect slides or handouts.
Every meeting is different, and that’s part of what makes it so special. We’ve had authors join us, lively debates about who should play characters in movie adaptations, moments of laughter, and moments of tears. What started as a book discussion has become something much deeper — a place for community, encouragement, and genuine connection.
What are some of the unexpected joys you’ve experienced through the book club?
Misty: Some of the most meaningful moments have come from conversations that move far beyond the books themselves.
A discussion about a character’s journey often becomes a conversation about faith, grief, hope, or God’s goodness. When a story doesn’t end the way we hoped, we find ourselves wrestling together with questions about disappointment and trust. When a book touches on loss, moms share their own experiences and discuss how we can better support those who are hurting.
We’ve even had guest authors join us and vulnerably share their own struggles, illnesses, and heartbreaks. Those conversations often lead us to pause and pray together.
What I’ve come to love most is watching women feel seen, understood, and less alone. Through shared stories — and sometimes shared tears — we’re reminded that God can use books, conversations, and community in powerful ways. Even across miles and time zones, genuine friendships can grow.
What would you say to a MomCo leader or member who’s been thinking about starting a book club — or another new meetup — but isn’t sure where to begin?
Misty: First, ask yourself whether you have the time and heart space to invest in others well. Leadership doesn’t require perfection, but it does require presence, consistency, and a genuine desire to connect with people where they are.
The good news is that there are countless ways to serve moms. If you choose something you’re genuinely passionate about, it won’t simply feel like another commitment on your calendar. It becomes life-giving — for both you and the women you’re serving.
Leading this meetup has reminded me that small acts of consistency can have a lasting impact. A monthly gathering, an encouraging message, or a simple conversation can help a mom feel less alone. In this busy season of life, that kind of connection is invaluable.
A Small Step Can Create Something Meaningful
One of the most encouraging parts of Misty’s story is that it started with a simple idea and a willingness to try.
Not every new initiative begins with a detailed plan or guaranteed success. Sometimes it starts with a passion, an open door, and the courage to take one small step.
Maybe for you, that looks like starting a book club. Maybe it’s leading a meetup around a hobby you love, hosting a walking group, organizing a playdate, or creating a space online where moms can connect.
You don’t have to have everything figured out before you begin.
You simply need to be willing to say yes to the opportunity in front of you. You never know how God might use your interests, your gifts, and your willingness to create community to help another mom feel seen, supported, and connected.
Today, over 270 MomCo members are part of the The MomCo Book Club — but it all started with one mom, one idea, and the willingness to try something new. That’s often how community begins.