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Featured Book
(mild romance, no explicit sex, little swearing, and minor supernatural violence)
AUTHOR JANNA RUTH
GHOSTS OF THE CATACOMBS (BOOK 1)
I'm a ghost whisperer, not a catacomb crawler. But when you live in Paris, sometimes you end up being both.
Hi, I’m Alix. During the day, I’m a history student at the time-honoured Sorbonne University. After class, I hang out with the ghosts of the revolution, the many undead misunderstood Parisian artists, and adventurous scientists that glow in the dark. None of them are alive, but they come to me to solve their problems with the living.
When a recently deceased catacomb tour guide asks me to retrieve a mysterious personal item from the underground, things take a turn for the weird. Suddenly, I find myself in a city of ghosts, hunted by murderous cave crawlers, and stumbling across haunting secrets.
If I’m not careful now, I might end up a ghost myself.
Urban Fantasy with a French twist. If you like cave-crawling adventures, hopeless romantics, and ghosts, you'll enjoy Ghosts of the Catacomb, the first instalment of the Parisian Ghosts series. Travel to Paris today to embark on your catacomb adventure.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Parisian Ghosts and the rest of Janna Ruth’s series can be a wonderful choice for readers who love stories that blend history, mystery, and a touch of the paranormal without being weighed down by heavy or graphic content. The setting in Paris, with its famous landmarks, catacombs, and old opera houses, adds an enchanting backdrop to the ghostly encounters. The romance is gentle and understated, never moving beyond flirting, soft affection, or the occasional kiss, which makes it approachable for those who enjoy romance without steamy scenes. The violence that does appear tends to come in the form of supernatural peril, attempted murders, or eerie mysteries, but it is written in a way that feels suspenseful rather than gory. Families who enjoy reading together or who are looking for fantasy that leans cozy rather than dark may find this series a great fit. On the other hand, it may not be the best choice for every family. Readers who prefer their books entirely free of danger or emotional tension might find the supernatural threats—such as ghostly attacks or sinister schemes—a little too intense, even if they are not graphically described. There are also a few moments of mild swearing and hints of darker backstories that could feel out of place for those who prefer their stories squeaky clean. The light romance, while sweet, could also be distracting for readers who don’t want any romantic subplots at all. Overall, while the series avoids explicit sexual content and keeps things relatively mild in both language and violence, whether it’s a good match depends on the family’s comfort level with ghostly suspense, light peril, and soft romantic elements woven into the story.
(violence and alcohol abuse)
AUTHOR JESSICA L. RANDALL
THE OBITUARY SOCIETY (BOOK 1)
When Lila Moore inherits her grandfather's house, she finds herself in a small Midwestern town where margarine is never an acceptable substitution for butter, a coveted family recipe can serve as currency, and the friend who will take your darkest secrets to the grave will still never give you the secret to her prize-winning begonias.
Lila is charmed by the people of Auburn, from the blue-eyed lawyer with the southern drawl to the little old lady who unceasingly tries to set Lila up with her grandson. But when strange things begin to happen, Lila realizes some of her new friends are guarding a secret like its a precious family heirloom. It's a dangerous secret, and it has come back to haunt them. Lila is caught in the middle, and her life may depend on uncovering it. But even if she can, can she stay in Auburn when not everyone is what they seem, and even the house wants her gone?
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Jessica L. Randall’s The Obituary Society and its series are a charming mix of cozy mystery, light paranormal elements, and sweet romance, all wrapped in small-town warmth. The story follows Lila, a city girl who inherits her grandmother’s old house in a quirky little town with more than a few secrets—including ghosts and a mysterious society. With its gentle humor, lovable characters, and heartwarming sense of community, this series is a great pick for readers who enjoy clean, feel-good mysteries with a supernatural twist. It’s especially ideal for families looking for something fun and spooky without being scary. Content-wise, The Obituary Society is very clean and family-friendly. There is a touch of romance throughout the series, but it’s sweet and wholesome with no sexual content or anything graphic. The focus stays on character relationships, small-town charm, and light mystery, making it suitable for both teens and adults. If your family enjoys ghost stories that lean more toward cozy and comforting than dark and intense, this series would be a delightful addition to your reading list.
(young character's first kiss, swearing and scary scenes)
AUTHOR MADELEINE ROUX
ASYLUM (BOOK 1)
Madeleine Roux's New York Times bestselling Asylum is a thrilling and creepy photo-illustrated novel that Publishers Weekly called "a strong YA debut that reveals the enduring impact of buried trauma on a place." Featuring found photographs from real asylums and filled with chilling mystery and page-turning suspense, Asylum is a horror story that treads the line between genius and insanity, perfect for fans of Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children.
For sixteen-year-old Dan Crawford, the New Hampshire College Prep program is the chance of a lifetime. Except that when Dan arrives, he finds that the usual summer housing has been closed, forcing students to stay in the crumbling Brookline Dorm—formerly a psychiatric hospital. As Dan and his new friends Abby and Jordan start exploring Brookline's twisty halls and hidden basement, they uncover disturbing secrets about what really went on here . . . secrets that link Dan and his friends to the asylum's dark past. Because Brookline was no ordinary mental hospital, and there are some secrets that refuse to stay buried.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Madeleine Roux’s Asylum series is a gripping choice for readers who love spine-tingling suspense mixed with history and psychological thrills. Set in a former asylum-turned-college dorm, the story follows Dan Crawford and his new friends as they uncover dark secrets linked to the asylum’s past—and their own. With eerie photos sprinkled throughout the pages and plenty of twists, this series keeps readers hooked with its immersive, haunting atmosphere. It’s especially appealing to teens who enjoy books like Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children or Lockwood & Co. As far as content goes, Asylum is targeted at a young adult audience and contains some creepiness, mild language, and occasional intense scenes that might unsettle younger readers—but there’s no sexual content. Romance is minimal and clean, and the focus stays firmly on the mystery and psychological horror. For families with teens who are into ghost stories, haunted places, and solving dark puzzles, this series offers the perfect amount of thrill without pushing boundaries too far.
(mild romance, no explicit sex, little swearing, and minor supernatural violence)
AUTHOR JANNA RUTH
GHOSTS OF THE CATACOMBS (BOOK 1)
I'm a ghost whisperer, not a catacomb crawler. But when you live in Paris, sometimes you end up being both.
Hi, I’m Alix. During the day, I’m a history student at the time-honoured Sorbonne University. After class, I hang out with the ghosts of the revolution, the many undead misunderstood Parisian artists, and adventurous scientists that glow in the dark. None of them are alive, but they come to me to solve their problems with the living.
When a recently deceased catacomb tour guide asks me to retrieve a mysterious personal item from the underground, things take a turn for the weird. Suddenly, I find myself in a city of ghosts, hunted by murderous cave crawlers, and stumbling across haunting secrets.
If I’m not careful now, I might end up a ghost myself.
Urban Fantasy with a French twist. If you like cave-crawling adventures, hopeless romantics, and ghosts, you'll enjoy Ghosts of the Catacomb, the first instalment of the Parisian Ghosts series. Travel to Paris today to embark on your catacomb adventure.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Parisian Ghosts and the rest of Janna Ruth’s series can be a wonderful choice for readers who love stories that blend history, mystery, and a touch of the paranormal without being weighed down by heavy or graphic content. The setting in Paris, with its famous landmarks, catacombs, and old opera houses, adds an enchanting backdrop to the ghostly encounters. The romance is gentle and understated, never moving beyond flirting, soft affection, or the occasional kiss, which makes it approachable for those who enjoy romance without steamy scenes. The violence that does appear tends to come in the form of supernatural peril, attempted murders, or eerie mysteries, but it is written in a way that feels suspenseful rather than gory. Families who enjoy reading together or who are looking for fantasy that leans cozy rather than dark may find this series a great fit. On the other hand, it may not be the best choice for every family. Readers who prefer their books entirely free of danger or emotional tension might find the supernatural threats—such as ghostly attacks or sinister schemes—a little too intense, even if they are not graphically described. There are also a few moments of mild swearing and hints of darker backstories that could feel out of place for those who prefer their stories squeaky clean. The light romance, while sweet, could also be distracting for readers who don’t want any romantic subplots at all. Overall, while the series avoids explicit sexual content and keeps things relatively mild in both language and violence, whether it’s a good match depends on the family’s comfort level with ghostly suspense, light peril, and soft romantic elements woven into the story.
(ghostly encounters, mild suspense, dark themes, and supernatural elements)
AUTHOR VICTORIA SCHWAB
CITY OF GHOSTS
Ever since Cass almost drowned (okay, she did drown, but she doesn't like to think about it), she can pull back the Veil that separates the living from the dead . . . and enter the world of spirits. Her best friend is even a ghost.
So things are already pretty strange. But they're about to get much stranger.
When Cass's parents start hosting a TV show about the world's most haunted places, the family heads off to Edinburgh, Scotland. Here, graveyards, castles, and secret passageways teem with restless phantoms. And when Cass meets a girl who shares her "gift," she realizes how much she still has to learn about the Veil -- and herself.
And she'll have to learn fast. The city of ghosts is more dangerous than she ever imagined.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Victoria Schwab’s City of Ghosts is a captivating middle-grade novel that blends spooky adventure with heartfelt themes, making it an excellent choice for readers who enjoy ghost stories without excessive fright. The story follows Cassidy Blake, a girl who can see beyond the "Veil" separating the living from the dead, as she travels to haunted locations with her ghost-hunting parents. Set against the atmospheric backdrop of Edinburgh, Scotland, the narrative introduces readers to local legends and history, all while emphasizing friendship, bravery, and self-discovery. The book is praised for its engaging plot and relatable characters, offering a balance of chills and charm suitable for a broad audience. Sneak Peek Books In terms of content, City of Ghosts maintains a family-friendly tone. There is no sexual content or strong language, and the romantic elements are minimal and age-appropriate. The story does contain some scenes of peril and references to historical deaths, such as a boy dying in a school fire and grave robbing, but these are presented in a way that is not overly graphic or disturbing. The book's emphasis on courage, empathy, and the importance of facing one's fears makes it a suitable read for families seeking an entertaining and clean story with a touch of the supernatural.
(contains mild romance, moderate violence, some implied sexual content, and occasional swearing)
AUTHOR GENA SHOWALTER
FIRSTLIFE (BOOK 1)
From the author of the New York Times bestselling White Rabbit Chronicles series comes book 1 of a brand new series in which life as we know it is merely a dress rehearsal, and real life begins after death.
Tenley "Ten" Lockwood is an average seventeen-year-old girl…who has spent the past thirteen months locked inside the Prynne Asylum. The reason? Not her obsession with numbers, but her refusal to let her parents choose where she'll live—after she dies.
There is an eternal truth most of the world has come to accept: Firstlife is merely a dress rehearsal, and real life begins after death.
In the Everlife, two realms are in power: Troika and Myriad, longtime enemies and deadly rivals. Both will do anything to recruit Ten, including sending their top Laborers to lure her to their side. Soon, Ten finds herself on the run, caught in a wild tug-of-war between the two realms who will do anything to win the right to her soul. Who can she trust? And what if the realm she's drawn to isn't where the boy she's falling for lives? She just has to stay alive long enough to make a decision…
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Gena Showalter’s Firstlife series is a captivating choice for readers who enjoy fast-paced, dystopian fantasy with a strong, independent heroine. The series is set in a world where souls are sent to one of two realms after death, and Tenley “Ten” Lockwood, the protagonist, finds herself torn between these worlds. The high stakes, emotional depth, and exploration of free will versus destiny make this series an engaging read, especially for older teens and young adults. With themes of survival, personal choice, and love, Firstlife keeps readers hooked from start to finish with its intricate world-building and suspenseful plot. Regarding content, Firstlife contains some violence and darker themes, particularly involving death, the afterlife, and the choices characters must make between warring factions. There is some romance in the series, but it remains relatively tame—though there are some steamy moments and emotional tension, there is no explicit sexual content. The romantic elements focus more on the emotional connections between the characters than on physical intimacy. Families with older teens who are ready for a more mature but still appropriate story involving complex characters, high-stakes decisions, and intense action will find Firstlife to be an exciting and thought-provoking choice.
(themes of death, the afterlife, kissing, and teenage relationships, but no explicit content)
AUTHOR JERI SMITH-READY
SHADE (BOOK 1)
Love ties them together. Death can't tear them apart.
Best. Birthday. Ever. At least, it was supposed to be. With Logan's band playing a critical gig and Aura's plans for an intimate after-party, Aura knows it will be the most memorable night of her boyfriend's life. She never thought it would be his last.
Logan's sudden death leaves Aura devastated. He's gone.
Well, sort of.
Like everyone born after the Shift, Aura can see and hear ghosts. This mysterious ability has always been annoying, and Aura had wanted nothing more than to figure out why the Shift happened so she can undo it. But not with Logan's violet-hued spirit still hanging around. Because dead Logan is almost as real as ever. Almost.
It doesn't help that Aura's new friend Zachary is so understanding--and so very alive. His support means more to Aura than she cares to admit.
As Aura's relationships with the dead and the living grow ever complicated, so do her feelings for Logan and Zachary. Each holds a piece of Aura's heart...and clues to the secret of the Shift.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Jeri Smith-Ready’s Shade series is an excellent choice for readers who enjoy a blend of paranormal mystery and romance with a fresh twist. Set in a world where only some people can see ghosts, the story follows Aura, a teen who has the ability to communicate with the deceased. When a tragedy strikes, Aura is pulled into a world of mystery, grief, and the supernatural as she navigates life after loss while also dealing with her complicated emotions surrounding love. The series is engaging and thoughtful, offering a unique perspective on the afterlife and the connections that transcend death, making it an intriguing and heartfelt read for teens and young adults. Content-wise, Shade is a great pick for readers looking for a paranormal romance with minimal graphic content. The romance in the series is emotional and intense, but it is mostly focused on feelings and relationships rather than explicit physicality. There is some mild language and emotional tension, but no explicit sexual content is present. The book deals with complex themes like love, loss, and coping with grief, which can resonate with older teens, making it a thoughtful read without pushing any boundaries. With its intriguing supernatural elements and deep emotional core, Shade offers a captivating, age-appropriate choice for teens and their families.
(ghostly encounters, suspenseful scenes, mild violence, and darker supernatural themes)
AUTHOR JONATHAN STROUD
LOCKWOOD & CO. (BOOK 1)
*NOW A NETFLIX SERIES*
A sinister Problem has occurred in London: all nature of ghosts, haunts, spirits, and specters are appearing throughout the city, and they aren't exactly friendly. Only young people have the psychic abilities required to see and eradicate these supernatural foes. Many different Psychic Detection Agencies have cropped up to handle the dangerous work, and they are in fierce competition for business.
In The Screaming Staircase, the plucky and talented Lucy Carlyle teams up with Anthony Lockwood, the charismatic leader of Lockwood & Co, a small agency that runs independent of any adult supervision. After an assignment leads to both a grisly discovery and a disastrous end, Lucy, Anthony, and their sarcastic colleague, George, are forced to take part in the perilous investigation of Combe Carey Hall, one of the most haunted houses in England. Will Lockwood & Co. survive the Hall's legendary Screaming Staircase and Red Room to see another day?
Readers who enjoyed the action, suspense, and humor in Jonathan Stroud's internationally best-selling Bartimaeus books will be delighted to find the same ingredients, combined with deliciously creepy scares, in his thrilling and chilling Lockwood & Co. series.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Jonathan Stroud’s Lockwood & Co. series is an ideal choice for families looking for an exciting, action-packed adventure with a touch of the supernatural. Set in an alternate version of London where ghosts and spirits haunt the living, the series follows three young ghost hunters—Lucy, George, and Anthony—who work for the small, independent agency Lockwood & Co. As they battle dangerous spirits and unravel complex mysteries, the books deliver suspense, humor, and clever plot twists that will captivate readers of all ages. The strong friendship between the characters and the thrilling ghost-hunting scenarios make it a compelling choice for readers who enjoy a mix of mystery, adventure, and the supernatural. In terms of content, the Lockwood & Co. series is suitable for older middle-grade readers and young adults. While the series includes some spooky moments and occasional perilous situations with ghosts, the content is appropriate for younger audiences. There are no explicit sexual scenes, and the romance is subtle and non-intrusive, with more emphasis placed on the relationships between the characters and their personal growth. The books focus on teamwork, bravery, and facing one’s fears, making them a great choice for readers looking for a fun and slightly eerie series without heavy or graphic content. With its blend of adventure, friendship, and supernatural thrills, this series is an excellent pick for families seeking a captivating, age-appropriate read.
(contains mild romance, some violence, implied sexual content, and minimal swearing)
AUTHOR NOVA REN SUMA
THE WALLS AROUND US
The Walls Around Us is a ghostly story of suspense told in two voices--one still living and one dead. On the outside, there’s Violet, an eighteen-year-old ballerina days away from the life of her dreams when something threatens to expose the shocking truth of her achievement. On the inside, within the walls of a girls’ juvenile detention center, there’s Amber, locked up for so long she can’t imagine freedom. Tying these two worlds together is Orianna, who holds the key to unlocking all the girls’ darkest mysteries: What really happened on the night Orianna stepped between Violet and her tormentors? What really happened on two strange nights at Aurora Hills? Will Amber and Violet and Orianna ever get the justice they deserve--in this life or in another one?
PRAISE FOR THE WALLS AROUND US: “A gorgeously written, spellbinding ghost story.” —Chicago Tribune
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Nova Ren Suma’s The Walls Around Us is a powerful and thought-provoking choice for readers who enjoy emotionally complex narratives with elements of mystery and the supernatural. The story follows two characters—Amber, a former ballerina in a juvenile detention center, and Violet, a privileged girl who becomes entangled in Amber’s dark past. Through alternating perspectives, the book weaves a haunting tale of guilt, revenge, and the search for redemption. The writing is beautifully atmospheric, creating a sense of unease that keeps readers engaged from start to finish. This book would appeal to readers who enjoy psychological thrillers with a touch of the supernatural and are looking for something that dives deep into character development and themes of justice and consequence. In terms of content, The Walls Around Us is appropriate for older teens and young adults. The story contains some darker themes, including incarceration, guilt, and the consequences of crime, but it handles these topics thoughtfully and with nuance. While there is a romantic subplot, it is subtle and does not focus on explicit sexual content—relationships in the book are more about emotional connections than physical intimacy. The book’s eerie atmosphere and exploration of darker themes like guilt and punishment make it a good choice for readers looking for something with depth and emotional complexity, without relying on graphic or explicit content. It’s an excellent pick for families with teens who are ready to explore more mature, thought-provoking stories that delve into
(contains mild romantic elements, minimal sensual content, moderate fantasy violence, and occasional strong language)
AUTHOR L. J. THOMAS
THE BLOODY KEY
Fifteen-year-old Anne tends goats while daydreaming of fairy tales—until the day she finds herself in one. When a wealthy nobleman marries her older sister, they’re both swept off to his castle deep in the woods. Upon entering this world of finery, lush gardens, and nightly balls with dashing suitors, Anne believes her own happily-ever-after is just around the corner. She has almost forgotten the rumors surrounding the estate—tales of the castle’s tragic history and whispers of ghosts—when her sister falls mysteriously ill.
To save her, Anne must uncover the shadowy pasts of those who share her new home. Her sister’s husband refuses to speak of the disappearance of his last wife (or possibly wives), the domineering housekeeper hides her own secrets in a forbidden garden, and the handsome, enigmatic gardener urges Anne to escape the castle and leave her sister behind. There are signs, too, that something dark and supernatural haunts the estate.
If Anne misplaces her trust or fails to discover where the real danger lies, she’ll forfeit her sister’s life—and her own.
Told through the diaries and letters of those who live within the castle, this reimagining of the Bluebeard fairy tale is perfect for fans of Crimson Peak, Erin A. Craig’s House of Salt and Sorrows, Lyndall Clipstone's Lakesedge, or classic Gothic horror.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
The Bloody Key by L.J. Thomas could be a great pick for families who enjoy dark fantasy or gothic-inspired stories with a touch of mystery and light romance. The book delivers an immersive setting filled with magic, secrets, and danger—perfect for readers who like a bit of eerie atmosphere without being overwhelmed by gore or explicit content. While there are romantic threads woven through the story, they remain fairly mild and don’t veer into explicit territory. The emotional stakes and character relationships are more focused on connection and tension rather than physical intimacy, making it approachable for mature teens who enjoy stories with just a hint of romance. That said, this book might not be the best fit for younger or more sensitive readers. The tone is moody and intense, and while the violence isn’t overly graphic, it includes moments of murder and magical assault that might be unsettling. There's also some occasional strong language and darker themes tied to power, manipulation, and danger—elements that are in keeping with the gothic fantasy genre but could be too mature for middle-grade readers. Overall, The Bloody Key is best suited for readers who enjoy layered storytelling, light romantic intrigue, and a darker magical world.
(moderate swearing, sensual kissing, violence)
AUTHOR SHANNON THOMPSON
MINUTES BEFORE SUNSET (TIMELY DEATH TRILOGY BOOK 1)
Two destinies. One death.
"Her kiss could kill us, and my consent signed our death certificates."
Eric Welborn isn't completely human, but he isn't the only shade in the small Midwest town of Hayworth. With one year left before his eighteenth birthday, Eric is destined to win a long-raging war for his kind. But then she happens. In the middle of the night, Eric meets a nameless shade, and she's powerful—too powerful—and his beliefs are altered. The Dark has lied to him, and he's determined to figure out exactly what lies were told, even if the secrets protect his survival.
Jessica Taylor moves to Hayworth, and her only goal is to find more information on her deceased biological family. Her adoptive parents agree to help on one condition: perfect grades. And Jessica is distraught when she's assigned as Eric's class partner. He won't help, let alone talk to her, but she's determined to change him—even if it means revealing everything he's strived to hide.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Shannon Thompson’s Minutes Before Sunset and its series offer a thrilling blend of fantasy, mystery, and romance, making it an excellent choice for readers who enjoy supernatural stories with compelling characters. The story follows Eric, a young man who discovers that he is caught in a war between light and darkness, while also uncovering his own mysterious powers. The book combines suspense, action, and emotional depth, particularly as it explores themes of fate, identity, and the battle between good and evil. The unique world-building and fast-paced plot will captivate readers, especially those who enjoy paranormal romance and coming-of-age stories that include a touch of magic and adventure. Regarding content, Minutes Before Sunset is appropriate for young adult readers and older teens. The romance in the story is engaging but not overtly sexual; it focuses more on emotional connection and the development of relationships rather than physical intimacy. There is mild violence, as the characters are involved in a supernatural conflict, but it is not graphic or overly intense. The themes of personal discovery, loyalty, and the struggle between light and darkness provide a thoughtful and mature narrative that can resonate with readers who appreciate deeper themes without explicit content. The book is a great choice for families looking for a supernatural series that blends romance, action, and reflection on identity in a way that is engaging but not inappropriate.
(contains mild romance, some violence, no sexual content, and minimal swearing)
Author E. B. WHEELER
WISHWOOD
Kate agrees to an arranged marriage with the mysterious Thomas Westwood to save her family’s estate, but not everyone welcomes her at Wishwood, her husband’s crumbling manor. The family members talk about a curse, lights move through the ruins at night, and Kate’s maid won’t spend the night in the house. Thomas is hiding something from Kate as well, but as she grows closer to him, a series of accidents makes her suspect that someone is willing to kill to keep Wishwood’s secrets buried in the past.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
E.B. Wheeler’s Wishwood and its series are a wonderful choice for families looking for an enchanting blend of fantasy, adventure, and themes of self-discovery. The story follows the protagonist, Liora, who discovers her unique ability to weave wishes into reality, but with it comes the responsibility of dealing with the consequences. As she embarks on a journey of self-awareness and magic, the book weaves a rich narrative that touches on important values like bravery, friendship, and the ethical use of power. The world-building is captivating, offering readers an immersive experience filled with magical creatures, dilemmas, and a sense of wonder that will appeal to fans of fantastical tales. In terms of content, Wishwood is well-suited for middle-grade readers and young teens. There are no explicit sexual themes in the book, as the focus is more on personal growth, adventure, and relationships. The story may involve some light peril or conflict, but it is generally appropriate for younger readers and does not contain graphic violence or distressing situations. The themes of responsibility, kindness, and making difficult choices are explored in a way that is engaging yet thoughtful, making the book a great option for families seeking an uplifting, magical adventure. It is an ideal choice for readers who enjoy fantasy stories that combine action, magic, and positive life lessons without introducing inappropriate content.
(light flirtation and implied romance, minimal swearing, mild violence linked to ghostly suspense, and non‑graphic murder)
AUTHOR KAREN WHITE
THE HOUSE ON TRADD STREET (BOOK 1)
The brilliant, chilling debut of Karen White's New York Times bestselling Tradd Street series, featuring a Charleston real estate agent who loves old houses—and the secret histories inside them.
Practical Melanie Middleton hates to admit she can see ghosts. But she's going to have to accept it. An old man she recently met has died, leaving her his historic Tradd Street home, complete with housekeeper, dog—and a family of ghosts anxious to tell her their secrets.
Enter Jack Trenholm, a gorgeous writer obsessed with unsolved mysteries. He has reason to believe that diamonds from the Confederate Treasury are hidden in the house. So he turns the charm on with Melanie, only to discover he's the smitten one...
It turns out Jack's search has caught the attention of a malevolent ghost. Now, Jack and Melanie must unravel a mystery of passion, heartbreak—and even murder.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
The House on Tradd Street by Karen White could be a great pick for families or readers who enjoy atmospheric mysteries with a light supernatural twist. The story blends ghostly intrigue, historical secrets, and a slow-burn romantic subplot, all while staying fairly clean in terms of content. There's no explicit sexual content—just some flirtation and romantic tension between characters—making it approachable for those who prefer romance to stay on the mild side. The mystery elements and Southern gothic charm also make it appealing for readers looking for a cozy yet suspenseful read. However, some families might find the ghost-related themes and mild violence—such as off-page murder or eerie encounters—a little too intense, especially for those who are sensitive to paranormal elements. There's also occasional mild language, though it’s not pervasive. Readers looking for fast-paced action, darker content, or high romantic drama may find the story slower or more restrained than they’d like. Overall, it's a good choice for those who enjoy gentle suspense with limited objectionable material.