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GHOSTS
Authors A - E
At a Glance
(contains mild romance, some violence, no sexual content, and minimal swearing)
AUTHOR JEWEL ALLEN
GHOST MOON NIGHT
A Secret to Save Them All . . .
It was whispered years ago that when a pirate cursed a Philippine village with langbuan, or flying undead, a boy received a secret that would protect him from certain death. But even armed with a secret, can anyone survive the undead for long?
Seventeen-year-old Antonio Pulido has never known a time when the langbuan didn’t roam the streets every Ghost Moon Night, killing anyone in their path. He works hard to protect his family and the girl he loves from the deadly attacks, but he wants them stopped once and for all. Can Antonio uncover the decades-old secret and will it help him defeat the langbuan? Or will Ghost Moon Night come again and take someone he truly cares about? It falls on Antonio to save his village, but time is running out. The next Ghost Moon Night is nearly here and Antonio knows this is his last chance to destroy the undead and end their reign of terror -- or die trying.
“Spooky mystery and young love at its best! Allen creates an adventure for the redemption of a small village through deeply flawed characters you can't help but love!" -Jacob Cooper Award-Winning Bestselling Author of Circle of Reign
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Ghost Moon Night by Jewel Allen is a gripping and atmospheric YA historical fantasy that blends Filipino folklore with supernatural adventure, making it an intriguing and culturally rich read. Set in a small town in the Philippines during the Spanish colonial era, the story follows a brave young girl named Marisol who must confront terrifying supernatural forces threatening her village. With its strong themes of courage, loyalty, and family, this book offers meaningful lessons and a captivating plot that can spark thoughtful discussions among readers of all ages. The setting and cultural elements also provide a fresh and enriching perspective, which can be especially valuable for families looking to broaden their literary horizons or explore stories from diverse backgrounds. In terms of content, Ghost Moon Night is a clean read, making it an excellent choice for younger teens and families who prefer books without explicit material. There is no sexual content in the story—romantic elements are subtle and appropriate for a young audience. Instead, the focus stays on the eerie supernatural tension, character growth, and the deep emotional ties between the characters. Parents can feel comfortable recommending this book to their kids, and readers who enjoy spooky, myth-based tales with strong heroines and rich cultural storytelling will find this series both exciting and age-appropriate.
(contains mild romance, some scary scenes, some violence, no sexual content, and occasional swearing)
AUTHOR KATIE ALENDER
BAD GIRLS DON'T DIE (BOOK 1)
When Alexis's little sister Kasey becomes obsessed with an antique doll, Alexis thinks she is just being her usual weird self. Things get weirder, though, when their house starts changing. Doors open and close by themselves; water boils on the unlit stove; and an unplugged air conditioner blasts cold air. Kasey is changing, too. Her blue eyes go green, she starts using old-fashioned language, and she forgets chunks of time
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Bad Girls Don’t Die by Katie Alender is a suspenseful, spine-tingling read that blends paranormal mystery with a touch of teenage drama, making it a hit for readers who enjoy a good ghost story without diving into overly dark or graphic territory. The story follows Alexis, a smart and slightly rebellious teen, as she begins to suspect that something isn’t quite right with her younger sister—and soon uncovers a chilling supernatural force at play. With its fast-paced plot, eerie atmosphere, and strong emotional undertones, this book hooks readers from the start. It’s a great choice for families who enjoy stories that are both thrilling and thoughtful, with themes of sisterhood, personal growth, and standing up for what’s right. In terms of content, the series is generally clean and appropriate for teens and young adults. There are some creepy and suspenseful scenes, but the horror is more psychological than graphic. Romance is present but light—there are no explicit sexual scenes, and any romantic interactions are mild and age-appropriate. The book avoids heavy profanity and steers clear of any inappropriate content, making it a safe and enjoyable choice for families or readers who want the excitement of a ghost story without worrying about mature material. Overall, Bad Girls Don’t Die offers just the right blend of spooky fun and emotional depth.
(contains mild romance, some violence, no sexual content, and occasional swearing)
AUTHOR APRYL BAKER
THE GHOST FILES (VOLUME 1)
Cherry blossom lipstick: check
Smokey eyes: check
Skinny jeans: check
Dead kid in the mirror: check
For sixteen year old Mattie Hathaway, this is her normal everyday routine. She’s been able to see ghosts since her mother tried to murder her when she was five years old. No way does she want anyone to know she can talk to spooks. Being a foster kid is hard enough without being labeled a freak too.
Normally, she just ignores the ghosts and they go away. That is until she see’s the ghost of her foster sister… Sally.
Everyone thinks Sally’s just another runaway, but Mattie knows the truth—she’s dead. Murdered. Mattie feels like she has to help Sally, but she can’t do it alone. Against her better judgment, she teams up with a young policeman, Officer Dan, and together they set out to discover the real truth behind Sally’s disappearance.
Only to find out she’s dealing with a much bigger problem, a serial killer, and she may be the next victim…
Will Mattie be able to find out the truth before the killer finds her?
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Apryl Baker’s The Ghost Files series is a thrilling paranormal ride that combines mystery, suspense, and a tough-yet-vulnerable teen heroine who can see the dead. The story follows Mattie Hathaway, a foster kid with a tragic past and a sharp tongue, as she’s pulled into dangerous investigations involving restless spirits and real-world threats. This series appeals to readers who enjoy ghost stories with emotional depth, strong character development, and a fast-moving plot. It’s especially engaging for older teens who like a mix of horror, drama, and a dash of romance, all wrapped up in a compelling supernatural mystery. In terms of content, The Ghost Files leans a bit more mature than some YA series. It touches on serious themes like trauma, abuse, and death, and while it doesn’t include explicit sexual content, there are a few intense romantic moments and references that make it best suited for older teens. Any sensual content is limited and handled with discretion—nothing graphic or overly detailed. Families with older teens who are ready for slightly edgier material will appreciate the series’ gripping plot, emotional honesty, and empowering message about resilience and finding strength even in the darkest moments.
(dark magic, mild horror themes, and occult symbols)
AUTHOR JOHN BELLAIRS
A HOUSE WITH A CLOCK IN ITS WALLS (BOOK 1)
A haunting gothic tale by master mysery writer John Bellairs--soon to be a major motion picture starring Cate Blanchett and Jack Black!
"The House With a Clock in Its Walls will cast its spell for a long time."--The New York Times Book Review
When Lewis Barnavelt, an orphan. comes to stay with his uncle Jonathan, he expects to meet an ordinary person. But he is wrong. Uncle Jonathan and his next-door neighbor, Mrs. Zimmermann, are both magicians! Lewis is thrilled. At first, watchng magic is enough. Then Lewis experiments with magic himself and unknowingly resurrects the former owner of the house: a woman named Selenna Izard. It seems that Selenna and her husband built a timepiece into the walls--a clock that could obliterate humankind. And only the Barnavelts can stop it!
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
John Bellairs’s A House with a Clock in Its Walls is a classic gothic mystery that perfectly blends spooky adventure with heartfelt charm, making it a delightful choice for families and younger readers. The story follows Lewis Barnavelt, an awkward and endearing boy who moves in with his eccentric uncle—only to discover that their creaky old house holds magical secrets and a ticking doomsday clock hidden within its walls. With its mix of magic, humor, and just the right amount of eerie suspense, the book strikes a balance between thrilling and age-appropriate. It’s a fantastic introduction to the supernatural genre for middle-grade readers and a nostalgic, cozy read for adults who enjoy timeless storytelling. In terms of content, the series is very family-friendly. There is no sexual content, no profanity, and no graphic violence—just good old-fashioned scares and mysteries wrapped in a richly imaginative world. The spooky elements are more atmospheric than terrifying, making the book a safe but exciting pick for younger readers who want a taste of the creepy without crossing into nightmare territory. With its strong themes of friendship, courage, and self-discovery, A House with a Clock in Its Walls is not only entertaining but also uplifting—a wonderful choice for a family read-aloud or independent reading for kids who love a touch of magic and mystery.
(minimal romance, mild sexual references, moderate violence (blood, murder, ghostly calamity), mild-to-moderate swearing)
AUTHOR OLIVIA BLACKE
A NEW LEASE ON DEATH (BOOK 1)
Death is only the beginning in Olivia Blacke's A New Lease on Death, a darkly funny supernatural mystery that introduces an unlikely crime-solving duo.
An Anthony Award Nominee for Best Paranormal
Ruby Young's new Boston apartment comes with all the usual perks. Windows facing the brick wall of the next-door building. Heat that barely works. A malfunctioning buzzer. Noisy neighbors. A dead body on the sidewalk outside. And of course, a ghost.
Since Cordelia Graves died in her apartment a few months ago, she's kept up her residency, despite being bored out of her (non-tangible) skull and frustrated by her new roommate. When her across-the-hall neighbor, Jake Macintyre, is shot and killed in an apparent mugging gone wrong outside their building, Cordelia is convinced there’s more to it and is determined to bring his killer to justice.
Unfortunately, Cordelia, being dead herself, can't solve the mystery alone. She has to enlist the help of the obnoxiously perky, living tenant of her apartment. Ruby is twenty, annoying, and has never met a houseplant she couldn't kill. But she also can do everything Cordelia can't, from interviewing suspects to researching Jake on the library computers that go up in a puff of smoke if Cordelia gets too close. As the roommates form an unlikely friendship and get closer to the truth about Jake's death, they also start to uncover other dangerous secrets.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Olivia Blacke’s A New Lease on Death is a fun, quirky paranormal mystery that blends ghostly hijinks with small-town charm. It’s a good choice for readers who enjoy lighthearted mysteries with a supernatural twist, without the intensity of graphic violence or heavy themes. The romance in the book is very mild, more on the side of playful chemistry than explicit intimacy, which keeps the focus on the mystery and humor. The ghost roommate concept adds a whimsical element that could appeal to families who enjoy stories with a cozy, slightly spooky edge rather than something dark or disturbing. On the other hand, parents may want to be aware that while the romance is mild, there are a few light sexual references, some swearing sprinkled throughout, and violence tied to murder investigations, including moments that reference blood or danger. These elements aren’t overwhelming, but they could make the book feel less suitable for younger or highly sensitive readers. Families looking for a completely “clean” read may prefer to skip it, but for those comfortable with mild adult themes in a cozy paranormal mystery setting, it can be a delightful and engaging series to dive into.
(contains mild romance, some violence, no sexual content, and minimal swearing)
AUTHOR KASI BLAKE
BAIT (BOOK 1)
After sixteen years on the run, Bay-Lee joins her emotionally distant father at his New Zealand school. On her first night there, he dumps her on the doorstep and walks away. Big surprise. Minutes later, a bag is thrown over her head, and she’s kidnapped for Orientation. The hunter in charge calls her Bait. According to him, that’s all she’s good for, to be used to draw out monsters for experienced hunters to kill.
Before Bay-Lee can move up to the rank of Hunter, she will have to prove herself, battle wraiths, a reaper in disguise, and a stampeding border monster. With the addition of her classes, she’s going to be way too busy for a social life. Falling in love is not on the agenda.
Then, she meets Nick Gallos. With the intimidating rank of Warrior, Nick is gorgeous, arrogant, and just plain rude to her. It’s obvious from their first meeting that Nick is hiding a dark past overflowing with secrets, and her father is right smack in the middle of it. Nick seems to be using her to get even with her father, and she won’t tolerate that. What a jerk.
So, why can’t she stop thinking about him?
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Kasi Blake’s Bait is an exciting start to a paranormal series that blends danger, romance, and a supernatural academy setting, making it a great pick for teens who love fast-paced, suspenseful reads. The story centers on Bay-Lee, a determined teen who enrolls in a secret hunter training school to fulfill her destiny—and maybe get revenge. What follows is a thrilling mix of werewolves, secrets, and high-stakes action that keeps readers turning pages. The strong female lead, intriguing world-building, and emotional growth throughout the series make it appealing to both teen readers and families looking for engaging, clean-ish supernatural fiction. In terms of content, Bait includes some romantic elements and light sensuality—there’s kissing and emotional tension—but it stops well short of anything graphic. The romance is handled with restraint, making it suitable for older middle school and high school readers. There’s also some intense action and life-or-death moments, but nothing overly violent or disturbing. For families looking for an adventurous series with heart, danger, and just the right touch of teen romance, Bait and the Order of the Spirit Realm series are a solid, age-appropriate choice.
(swearing, violence/gore, teen drinking, and ghostly romance but no sex)
Editor's
Favorite
AUTHOR KENDARE BLAKE
ANNA DRESSED IN BLOOD (BOOK 1)
From Kendare Blake, the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Three Dark Crowns, a beautiful and haunting ghost story
Cas Lowood has inherited an unusual vocation: He kills the dead.
When he arrives in a new town in search of a ghost the locals call Anna Dressed in Blood, Cas doesn't expect anything outside of the ordinary: track, hunt, kill. What he finds instead is a girl entangled in curses and rage, a ghost like he's never faced before. She still wears the dress she wore on the day of her brutal murder in 1958: once white, now stained red and dripping with blood. Since her death, Anna has killed any and every person who has dared to step into the deserted Victorian she used to call home.
But she, for whatever reason, spares Cas's life.
“It's the old boy meets girl story, if the boy is a wry, self-destructive ghost-hunter bent on avenging his father and the girl is a homicidal ghost trapped in a house full of everyone she's ever murdered. Needless to say, Cas and Anna are my new favorite twosome. When I got to the last page, I flipped back to the first.”—Holly Black, New York Times bestselling author of The Cruel Prince.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Kendare Blake’s Anna Dressed in Blood is a chilling, fast-paced paranormal thriller that offers a unique twist on the classic ghost story, making it a compelling choice for older teens and fans of supernatural fiction. The story follows Cas Lowood, a teenage ghost hunter who travels the country putting vengeful spirits to rest—until he meets Anna, a terrifying ghost with a tragic past and unexpected depth. With its sharp writing, intense atmosphere, and layered characters, this book goes beyond just scares to explore grief, love, and the blurred lines between right and wrong. It’s perfect for readers who enjoy a mix of horror, mystery, and emotional storytelling. In terms of content, Anna Dressed in Blood is best suited for older teens. There’s some violence and graphic imagery related to ghostly encounters, but it fits within the horror genre and isn't gratuitous. Romantic elements are present, including a budding relationship between Cas and Anna, but there’s no explicit sexual content—just light romantic tension and a few emotionally charged moments. The language is mild and appropriate for a teen audience. Families looking for a hauntingly good read with heart and just the right amount of creepy will find this series a thrilling and thoughtful pick.
(violence, occult themes, supernatural horror, alcohol use, sexual innuendos, and darker themes)
AUTHOR LIBBA BRAY
THE DIVINERS (BOOK 1)
A young woman discovers her mysterious powers could help catch a killer in the first book of The Diviners series--a stunning supernatural historical mystery set in 1920s New York City, from Printz Award-winning and New York Times bestselling author Libba Bray.
Evangeline O'Neill has been exiled from her boring old hometown and sent off to the bustling streets of New York City–and she is ecstatic. It's 1926, and New York is filled with speakeasies, Ziegfeld girls, and rakish pickpockets. The only catch is that she has to live with her uncle Will and his unhealthy obsession with the occult. Evie worries he'll discover her darkest secret: a supernatural power that has only brought her trouble so far.
When the police find a murdered girl branded with a cryptic symbol and Will is called to the scene, Evie realizes her gift could help catch a serial killer. As Evie jumps headlong into a dance with a murderer, other stories unfurl in the city that never sleeps. And unknown to all, something dark and evil has awakened....
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Libba Bray’s The Diviners is a richly layered, atmospheric historical fantasy that combines supernatural mystery with a dazzling 1920s New York City backdrop. The story follows Evie O’Neill, a bold and spirited teen with a secret psychic ability, who becomes entangled in a series of occult murders. With a diverse cast of characters, deeply researched historical details, and chilling supernatural elements, this series delivers an immersive experience that’s perfect for readers who love both history and the paranormal. Its themes of friendship, identity, and confronting evil make it especially engaging for older teens and adults alike, offering plenty to discuss and reflect on. In terms of content, The Diviners is best suited for mature teens due to its darker themes and occasional mature scenes. There is some sexual content—references to intimacy, discussions of sexuality, and brief romantic encounters—but nothing graphic or explicit. The story also addresses issues such as racism, trauma, mental health, and societal inequality, which add depth and realism to the fantasy elements. Families with older teens who enjoy complex characters, thoughtful storytelling, and a touch of the eerie will find The Diviners series both entertaining and meaningful, with just the right amount of edge for more mature young readers.
(violence, occult themes, supernatural horror, alcohol use, sexual innuendos, and darker themes)
AUTHOR MEG CABOT
SHADOWLAND: THE MEDIATOR
Shadowland is the first book in the thrilling, romantic Mediator series, from the New York Times bestselling author of the Princess Diaries, Meg Cabot.
Suze is a mediator—a liaison between the living and the dead. In other words, she sees dead people. And they won't leave her alone until she helps them resolve their unfinished business with the living.
But Jesse, the hot ghost haunting her bedroom, doesn't seem to need her help. Which is a relief, because Suze has just moved to sunny California and plans to start fresh, with trips to the mall instead of the cemetery, and surfing instead of spectral visitations. But the very first day at her new school, Suze realizes it's not that easy.
There's a ghost with revenge on her mind...and Suze happens to be in the way.
Don't miss the delightfully funny supernatural Mediator series, from New York Times bestselling author Meg Cabot.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Meg Cabot’s Shadowland, the first book in The Mediator series, is a fun, fast-paced paranormal romance that blends ghostly encounters with witty humor and a relatable teen heroine. The story follows Suze Simon, a high schooler who can see and communicate with ghosts—a gift (or curse) she’s been dealing with her whole life. When she moves to a new town and discovers her bedroom is haunted by a charming 19th-century ghost named Jesse, her life gets a lot more complicated. With Cabot’s signature blend of sass, heart, and supernatural intrigue, this series is a great pick for teens who love a little romance mixed with their ghost stories. Content-wise, The Mediator series is clean and age-appropriate, making it a safe and enjoyable choice for both teens and their families. There’s some romantic tension between Suze and Jesse, but any sensual content is mild—limited to flirting, kissing, and the occasional swoon-worthy moment. The focus stays on Suze’s growth, her ghost-busting adventures, and the mystery behind Jesse’s death, keeping the series exciting without crossing into mature territory. Families looking for a smart, funny, and slightly spooky series with strong characters and wholesome romance will find The Mediator a delightful and safe choice.
(contains mild romantic elements, some dark supernatural themes, and brief references to opium use)
AUTHOR YANGSZE CHOO
THE GHOST BRIDE
Now a Netflix original drama!
From the New York Times bestselling author of The Night Tiger, a Reese’s Book Club pick, Yangsze Choo’s stunning debut, The Ghost Bride, is a startlingly original novel infused with Chinese folklore, romantic intrigue, and unexpected supernatural twists.
Li Lan, the daughter of a respectable Chinese family in colonial Malaysia, hopes for a favorable marriage, but her father has lost his fortune, and she has few suitors. Instead, the wealthy Lim family urges her to become a “ghost bride” for their son, who has recently died under mysterious circumstances. Rarely practiced, a traditional ghost marriage is used to placate a restless spirit. Such a union would guarantee Li Lan a home for the rest of her days, but at what price?
Night after night, Li Lan is drawn into the shadowy parallel world of the Chinese afterlife, where she must uncover the Lim family’s darkest secrets—and the truth about her own family.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
The Ghost Bride by Yangsze Choo could be a wonderful choice for readers who enjoy historical fantasy with a touch of romance and mystery, set against a richly detailed cultural backdrop. The novel takes place in 1890s colonial Malaya and follows Li Lan, a young woman who receives a marriage proposal—from the ghost of a wealthy family's deceased son. What follows is a beautifully woven journey through the Chinese afterlife, complete with spirit realms, family secrets, and a strong, thoughtful heroine. For families or readers seeking something different from typical Western fantasy, this book offers a unique blend of history, myth, and gentle suspense without being overly graphic or intense. From a content perspective, The Ghost Bride is fairly mild, making it a good option for older teens and adults. There is some romantic tension and the hint of a love triangle, but no explicit sexual content. The book includes dark supernatural elements—ghosts, death, and the underworld—but they are handled with restraint and elegance rather than horror. There's very little swearing and only light references to substances like opium, which are contextually tied to the historical setting. Overall, it's a thoughtful, atmospheric read that balances emotional depth with accessible content, making it a safe and enriching choice for many families.
(No swearing, some violence)
AUTHOR TIFANI CLARK
SHADOW OF A LIFE (SOUL SAVER BOOK 1)
Jamie Peters plans to spend the summer before her junior year with her nose stuck in a book—not saving lost souls. Usually the girl that blends into the crowd, Jamie’s world is turned upside down when a mysterious ghost begins to follow her.
But Sophia isn’t just any ghost.
A hundred years earlier, Sophia’s disappearance sparked a national unsolved mystery. Jamie knew the legends surrounding Sophia’s disappearance, but never dreamed she'd find out what really happened . . . or that her family had something to do with Sophia’s disappearance.
Determined to set Sophia free, Jamie blows the dust off her family’s past and unearths clues to save Sophia’s soul. She enlists the help of childhood friend—and secret crush—Peter Ashby as she sets off on a dangerous quest to find a missing map. Spending the night in a graveyard, crawling through a dilapidated barn, and staring down the barrel of a gun aren’t enough to deter Jamie. But can she find the answers she needs before another ghost gets revenge on her and Sophia?
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Tifani Clark’s Shadow of a Life, the first book in the Soul Saver series, is a clean and captivating paranormal mystery that’s perfect for families and readers who enjoy a blend of ghostly suspense, light romance, and heartwarming moments. The story follows ghost-hunter-in-training Jaci, who helps earthbound spirits find peace while navigating her own life, friendships, and a budding romance. With its mix of gentle supernatural intrigue, endearing characters, and wholesome storytelling, the series offers just the right balance of excitement and comfort—ideal for teens and adults looking for something uplifting with a spooky twist. When it comes to content, Shadow of a Life is refreshingly clean. There’s no sexual content or graphic scenes, making it a safe pick for younger teens and readers who prefer stories without mature material. The romance remains sweet and age-appropriate, with focus placed more on emotional connection than physical interaction. Families looking for a feel-good paranormal series with positive themes like compassion, courage, and self-discovery will find this book a wonderful choice for individual reading or even as a series to enjoy together.
(contains mild romance, minimal sexual content, eerie violence, disturbing deaths, and occasional swearing)
Editor's
Favorite
AUTHOR ERIN A. CRAIG
HOUSE OF SALT AND SORROWS (SISTERS OF THE SALT BOOK 1)
NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • Get swept away by this “haunting” (Bustle) novel about twelve beautiful sisters living on an isolated island estate who begin to mysteriously die one by one.
"Step inside a fairy tale." —Stephanie Garber, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Caraval
In a manor by the sea, twelve sisters are cursed.
Annaleigh lives a sheltered life at Highmoor with her sisters and their father and stepmother. Once there were twelve, but loneliness fills the grand halls now that four of the girls' lives have been cut short. Each death was more tragic than the last--the plague, a plummeting fall, a drowning, a slippery plunge--and there are whispers throughout the surrounding villages that the family is cursed by the gods.
Disturbed by a series of ghostly visions, Annaleigh becomes increasingly suspicious that her sister's deaths were no accidents. The girls have been sneaking out every night to attend glittering balls, dancing until dawn in silk gowns and shimmering slippers, and Annaleigh isn't sure whether to try to stop them or to join their forbidden trysts. Because who--or what--are they really dancing with?
When Annaleigh's involvement with a mysterious stranger who has secrets of his own intensifies, it's a race to unravel the darkness that has fallen over her family--before it claims her next. House of Salt and Sorrows is a spellbinding novel filled with magic and the rustle of gossamer skirts down long, dark hallways. Be careful who you dance with...
And don't miss Erin A. Craig's newest novel, The Thirteenth Child, a haunting and romantic novel about the impossible choices we make in the name of love.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
House of Salt and Sorrows by Erin A. Craig is a mesmerizing gothic fairy tale that blends mystery, romance, and eerie supernatural elements. Inspired by The Twelve Dancing Princesses, the novel follows Annaleigh, one of twelve sisters who begins to suspect a sinister force behind their family’s string of tragic deaths. The story is rich with atmospheric writing, creating an immersive world filled with lavish ballrooms, crumbling manor halls, and haunting visions that keep readers on edge. While romance plays a role, it remains sweet and restrained, with only brief moments of kissing and attraction, making it an appropriate read for those who enjoy a slow-burn love story without explicit content. The novel does lean into its gothic horror roots, featuring eerie imagery, ghostly apparitions, and some unsettling scenes of death and violence, which may be intense for sensitive readers. However, these elements are balanced by a strong sense of family, perseverance, and the protagonist’s determination to uncover the truth. Swearing is minimal, keeping the language appropriate for a broad audience. House of Salt and Sorrows is an excellent choice for families looking for a dark, atmospheric tale that delivers thrills without crossing into overly graphic content, making it a great pick for those who love eerie, suspenseful fantasy.
(suicide, emotional torment of MC by previous sexual abuse, kissing, and drug use)
AUTHOR MELISSA J. CUNNINGHAM
RELUCTANT GUARDIAN (BOOK 1 IN THE RANSOMED SOULS SERIES)
Guarding Brecken Shaefer-a dark and dangerous rebel-is harder than it looks.
Death was nothing like sixteen-year-old Alisa Callahan thought it would be. Resting on pink, fluffy clouds for eternity with her gram and best friend sounded like a dream come true. After all, enduring one torturous experience after another in her short life deserved some kind of reward, right? Unfortunately, eternal rewards aren’t given out so freely when you take your own life.
Required to pay the debt for committing suicide, Alisa must become a guardian. It sounds easy enough, but not when the boy she is forced to protect has a dangerous secret and wants absolutely nothing to do with her. Brecken Shaefer isn’t any normal teenager. He has special gifts that are sure to make Alisa’s afterlife miserable. When feelings develop between them, everything spins out of control. Not only must Alisa face her own demons- but to protect Brecken, she must face an evil so heinous that it threatens to destroy their souls completely.
Alisa is tired of hiding from her past. When the easiest thing to do is run, can Brecken give her the strength to stay?
Readers' Favorite Book Award Winner!
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Melissa J. Cunningham’s Reluctant Guardian is a gripping, action-packed fantasy that blends magic, adventure, and a dash of romance in a way that’s both engaging and age-appropriate for teens and families. The story follows Sera, a young woman who unexpectedly becomes the protector of a powerful being, finding herself caught in a dangerous world of political intrigue, magic, and dark forces. With its well-developed characters, intense plot, and themes of personal growth, courage, and responsibility, this book is ideal for readers who enjoy fast-paced, character-driven fantasy with a touch of romance and a lot of heart. When it comes to content, Reluctant Guardian is a clean read that keeps the focus on adventure and emotional depth. There is mild romantic tension, with a few light kisses and emotional moments, but nothing explicit or graphic. The action is intense, with some violence related to the battles and dark forces the characters face, but it is appropriate for older teens. For families looking for a fantasy series that offers an engaging mix of suspense, magic, and moral lessons without crossing into mature content, Reluctant Guardian is a fantastic and safe choice. It provides just the right amount of excitement and emotional depth for young readers while still being family-friendly.
(contains light romance, no explicit sexual content, moderate violence, and occasional strong language)
AUTHOR J. R. ERICKSON
DARKNESS STIRRING (BOOK 1)
A stand-alone paranormal murder mystery inspired by an eerie true story.
Lorraine Hicks is fourteen-years-old when she watches her best friend, Beverly climb into a tree in the forest and never come back down. The eerie mystery seeped into every corner of their small town, leaving Lorraine grappling with unanswered questions that lingered for years.
Now, fifteen years later, Lori is a woman haunted by her past, striving to bury memories of that fateful day. Reluctantly joining a camping trip, she confronts her deep-seated fear of the woods. Around a crackling bonfire, a stranger recounts a chilling tale of two young friends who entered the Manistee National Forest, but only one emerged.
The parallels between this tale and Lori's own past are unnerving, propelling her on a quest to uncover the truth behind the disappearances. As she delves deeper, she unearths unsettling connections and confronts a malevolence that challenges her beliefs about the nature of evil itself.
Prepare for a spine-tingling journey through dark forests and darker secrets in this gripping paranormal murder mystery that will keep you guessing until the very end.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Darkness Stirring by J.R. Erickson could be a great choice for families or readers who enjoy atmospheric mysteries with a supernatural edge. The story blends ghostly encounters, eerie settings, and a touch of romance into a suspenseful narrative that keeps readers engaged without leaning heavily on graphic content. While there are some darker themes—including death, loss, and emotional trauma—they’re handled thoughtfully, making the story compelling without being gratuitously violent or explicit. There’s no graphic sexual content, just subtle romantic tension that adds depth without dominating the plot, which may appeal to mature teens and adults alike. However, the book may not be the best fit for younger readers or families sensitive to themes of death or the paranormal. The story involves disturbing elements like child endangerment and haunting flashbacks tied to abuse and grief, which, while not overly graphic, could be emotionally intense for some. Additionally, occasional strong language and the overall somber tone might not align with all families’ preferences. That said, for those who appreciate a good ghost story with psychological depth and a haunting atmosphere, Darkness Stirring offers an intriguing, emotionally resonant experience.