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GHOSTS
Authors K - Q
At a Glance
(dark themes, violence, supernatural elements, and mild romance)
AUTHOR KIMBERLY LOTH
CIRCUS OF THE DEAD (BOOK 1)
There are many ways to die at the Circus of the Dead.
You’re invited to witness them all.
Mom sent me all the way across the country to the Louisiana bayou to join the circus and help my uncle for the summer.
Except there is something not quite right on this swampy cursed island, and after having my fortune told, I can’t leave.
I try to escape, but Benny, an all too charming ghost gangster tries to kill me by feeding me to a tiger.
Thankfully I’m rescued by Samuel, the incredibly hot ringmaster who can’t be a day over twenty. Can he?
In addition to avoiding the human scorpion, staying away from the big cats, and having trouble figuring out who’s dead and who’s alive, I have to find a way to escape this horror show. Will I get out of the circus alive or will I join their army of ghosts and become a murderer myself?
Welcome to the Circus of the Dead.
Fans of Leia Stone, Jaymin Eve, Bianca Scardoni and Laura Thalassa will devouor this tale. If you loved Anna Dressed in Blood or the Night Circus, you'll adore Circus of the Dead.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Kimberly Loth’s Circus of the Dead is a thrilling, spooky adventure perfect for readers who love a mix of mystery, magic, and the supernatural. Set in a creepy traveling circus filled with secrets and danger, the story follows a teenage girl named Clare who gets drawn into a world where the dead don’t always stay buried. With its eerie setting, suspenseful plot, and engaging characters, this book is a great pick for teens and families who enjoy a good ghost story without going too far into horror territory. The pacing is quick, the story is imaginative, and there’s just the right amount of creepiness to keep readers hooked without overwhelming them. When it comes to content, Circus of the Dead is appropriate for most teen readers. There’s a bit of romantic tension and some mild references to relationships, but there’s no graphic or explicit sexual content. The focus stays firmly on the suspense, the circus’s dark secrets, and Clare’s personal growth as she navigates this strange and dangerous world. The series maintains a balance between spooky fun and heartfelt emotion, making it a great choice for families looking for a supernatural series that’s entertaining, age-appropriate, and just a little chilling.
(features murder scenes and mild romance without explicit scenes)
AUTHOR DAWN MERRIMAN
THE SPIRIT GIRLS (BOOK 1)
Shortly after her sixteenth birthday, Sunshine Griffith and her mother Kat move from sunny Austin, Texas, to the rain-drenched town of Ridgemont, Washington. Though Sunshine is adopted, she and her mother have always been close, sharing a special bond filled with laughter and inside jokes. But from the moment they arrive, Sunshine feels her world darken with an eeriness she cannot place. And even if Kat doesn't recognize it, Sunshine knows that something about their new house is just ... creepy.
In the days that follow, things only get stranger. Sunshine is followed around the house by an icy breeze, phantom wind slams her bedroom door shut, and eventually, the laughter Sunshine hears on her first night evolves into sobs. She can hardly believe it, but as the spirits haunting her house become more frightening—and it becomes clear that Kat is in danger—Sunshine must accept what she is, pass the test before her, and save her mother from a fate worse than death.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
The Spirit Girls by Dawn Merriman is a compelling choice for readers who enjoy paranormal mysteries with a strong, relatable female protagonist and a mix of suspense and supernatural intrigue. The story’s focus on solving a murder mystery alongside ghostly elements creates a captivating atmosphere that appeals to fans of thrillers and dark fantasy. The romance is gentle and never crosses into explicit content, making it suitable for those who prefer emotional connections without graphic scenes. Families who appreciate engaging mysteries with a supernatural twist and well-developed characters will likely find this series enjoyable. However, this book might not be ideal for families or readers who are uncomfortable with themes involving murder or paranormal violence, even though the content is handled with restraint and is not graphic. The story includes some dark moments that could feel intense for very sensitive readers. The language is very mild, with little to no strong swearing, which makes it more accessible for readers who prefer cleaner books. Overall, The Spirit Girls suits mature teens and adults who enjoy a thoughtful mystery with supernatural elements but might require some consideration for younger or more sensitive readers.
(mild violence, supernatural themes, and no explicit content)
AUTHOR PAGE MCKENZIE
THE HAUNTING OF SUNSHINE GIRL (BOOK 1)
Shortly after her sixteenth birthday, Sunshine Griffith and her mother Kat move from sunny Austin, Texas, to the rain-drenched town of Ridgemont, Washington. Though Sunshine is adopted, she and her mother have always been close, sharing a special bond filled with laughter and inside jokes. But from the moment they arrive, Sunshine feels her world darken with an eeriness she cannot place. And even if Kat doesn't recognize it, Sunshine knows that something about their new house is just ... creepy.
In the days that follow, things only get stranger. Sunshine is followed around the house by an icy breeze, phantom wind slams her bedroom door shut, and eventually, the laughter Sunshine hears on her first night evolves into sobs. She can hardly believe it, but as the spirits haunting her house become more frightening—and it becomes clear that Kat is in danger—Sunshine must accept what she is, pass the test before her, and save her mother from a fate worse than death.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Paige McKenzie’s The Haunting of Sunshine Girl is a fun, spooky, and accessible read that’s perfect for teens and families who enjoy ghost stories with heart. The series begins with sixteen-year-old Sunshine moving into a new house that just might be haunted. With eerie events, a strong mother-daughter relationship, and a touch of mystery, the book strikes a great balance between creepy and charming. It’s easy to get hooked on Sunshine’s quirky voice and brave, curious nature as she uncovers the truth behind the spirits haunting her home. The story unfolds in a way that’s suspenseful but not too intense, making it a great introduction to paranormal fiction for younger teen readers. Content-wise, The Haunting of Sunshine Girl is very clean and appropriate for a wide range of ages. There is a sweet, slow-burn romantic thread throughout the series, but there’s no explicit or sexual content—just a few innocent, age-appropriate moments of attraction and affection. The focus stays on the supernatural mystery and Sunshine’s growth as she embraces her identity and purpose. Families looking for an engaging, slightly spooky series that can be enjoyed by teens without concern for mature content will find this one a great, safe, and entertaining choice.
(mild romantic elements, supernatural themes, and some violence)
AUTHOR HEATHER B. MOORE
HEART OF THE OCEAN
A USA TODAY BEST SELLER AND WHITNEY AWARD FINALIST!
A dark secret . . . a grieving ghost . . . a handsome stranger . . . What more could Eliza Robinson want?
Except for maybe her life.
In Heather B. Moore’s enthralling 1840’s historical romance, Heart of the Ocean, Eliza Robinson has turned down the very pretentious Mr. Thomas Beesley’s marriage proposal. As a business partner of Eliza’s father, Thomas quickly discredits the family and brings disgrace to the Robinson name.
While her father scrambles to restore his good name in New York City, Eliza flees to the remote Puritan town of Maybrook to stay with her Aunt Maeve. Maybrook is the last existing Puritan town, having survived centuries of outside influence. Although relieved to be away from all- things-male and unforgiving gossip columns, odd things start to happen to Eliza, and she is plagued by a ghostly voice. Her aunt’s explanation? That Eliza is being haunted by a woman who died of a broken heart twenty years ago.
After Aunt Maeve is tragically killed, Eliza's life is put in danger as she tries to uncover the mystery of her aunt's death. She encounters Jonathan Porter in Maybrook, whose presence in the town seems suspicious, yet she finds herself drawn to him. When she discovers that Jonathan’s dark secrets may be the link between the dead woman who haunts her and her aunt’s murderer, Eliza realizes that Jonathan is the one man she should never trust.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Heather B. Moore’s Heart of the Ocean is a captivating blend of historical mystery, romance, and a touch of the supernatural, making it a great choice for readers who enjoy clean, atmospheric stories with depth. Set in the 1800s in a sleepy New England town, the story follows a young woman who becomes entangled in the unsolved mystery of a shipwreck and a ghost said to haunt the coastline. With its engaging plot and gentle suspense, this novel offers a compelling experience that’s perfect for teens and adults alike. It’s especially appealing for families who appreciate well-researched historical fiction with strong female leads and wholesome romantic elements. When it comes to content, Heart of the Ocean is refreshingly clean and family-friendly. There is romance woven throughout the story, but it is sweet and respectful, without any explicit or sensual scenes. The focus remains on emotional connection and character development rather than physical intimacy. The book’s tone is thoughtful and uplifting, with just enough mystery to keep readers turning pages. Overall, it's an ideal pick for families looking for an enjoyable, age-appropriate read that combines romance, history, and a hint of ghostly intrigue.
(mild violence, voodoo practices, ghostly hauntings, and some romance)
AUTHOR PAULA MORRIS
RUINED (BOOK 1)
A gripping supernatural mystery and romance set in post-Katrina New Orleans.
Rebecca couldn't feel more out of place in New Orleans. She's staying in a creepy house with her aunt, who reads tarot cards. And at the snooty prep school, a pack of filthy-rich girls treat Rebecca like she's invisible. Only gorgeous, unavailable Anton Grey gives Rebecca the time of day, but she wonders if he's got a hidden agenda. Then one night, among the oak trees in Lafayette Cemetery, Rebecca makes a friend. Sweet, mysterious Lisette is eager to show Rebecca the nooks and crannies of New Orleans. There's just one catch.Lisette is a ghost.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Paula Morris’s Ruined is a richly atmospheric ghost story set in the heart of New Orleans, blending mystery, history, and the supernatural into a compelling read. The story follows Rebecca, a teenager sent to live with distant relatives who stumbles upon a long-buried family secret and the ghost of a girl tied to a centuries-old curse. With its intriguing blend of Southern gothic vibes, relatable teen emotions, and a strong female protagonist, Ruined is a fantastic choice for readers who enjoy ghost stories that are more about uncovering the past than about horror. It’s especially great for teens who love suspenseful stories rooted in real historical places. Content-wise, Ruined remains clean and appropriate for most teen readers and family discussions. There’s a light romantic subplot, but it’s sweet and subtle, with no sexual content or anything overly suggestive. The focus is primarily on Rebecca’s discovery of the ghostly mystery and her efforts to right a historical wrong. The book explores themes of friendship, courage, and cultural heritage, making it both entertaining and thoughtful. Families looking for a spooky yet meaningful read will appreciate the balance of eerie tension and emotional depth in this engaging series.
(clean story with tension but very little swearing or graphic content)
AUTHOR ALYSON NOËL
FATED (BOOK 1)
From the #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Immortals, Alyson Noël, comes Fated—a breathtaking new saga brimming with magic, mystery, and an intoxicating love story that will steal your heart away. Meet The Soul Seekers.
Strange things are happening to Daire Santos. Crows mock her, glowing people stalk her, time stops without warning, and a beautiful boy with unearthly blue eyes haunts all her dreams. Fearing for her daughter's sanity, Daire's mother sends her to live with the grandmother she's never met. A woman who recognizes the visions for what they truly are—the call to her destiny as a Soul Seeker—one who can navigate the worlds between the living and dead.
There on the dusty plains of Enchantment, New Mexico, Daire sets out to harness her mystical powers. But it's when she meets Dace, the boy from her dreams, that her whole world is shaken to its core. Now Daire is forced to discover if Dace is the one guy she's meant to be with...or if he's allied with the enemy she's destined to destroy.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Alyson Noël’s Fated and its series are a great choice for readers who enjoy paranormal fantasy with a blend of romance, suspense, and self-discovery. The story follows the protagonist, Ever Bloom, who, after a tragic accident, gains psychic abilities and is drawn into a world of immortals, love, and fate. With its fast-paced plot and intriguing supernatural elements, Fated offers an exciting and accessible introduction to the world of paranormal fiction. It’s especially suitable for teens and young adults who appreciate a strong heroine and enjoy exploring themes of destiny, personal growth, and the supernatural. In terms of content, Fated is a relatively clean read, with no explicit sexual content, making it an appropriate choice for older teens and young adults. The romantic elements are a central part of the story, with Ever’s connection to her love interest, Damen, being a key aspect of the plot. While the romance is intense and emotional, it remains within the bounds of a sweet, slow-burn relationship, with no graphic or explicit scenes. The themes of fate, love, and the supernatural are explored thoughtfully, and the book is more focused on the characters’ emotional journeys and the mystery of Ever’s abilities. Families looking for a paranormal series that combines romance with adventure and a focus on character development will find Fated an engaging and age-appropriate choice.
(clean story with tension but very little swearing or graphic content)
AUTHOR ELLEN OH
SPIRIT HUNTERS (BOOK 1)
“This mystery thriller infused with diverse characters and intriguing themes will appeal to horror fans and to reluctant readers who enjoy a good scare.” —School Library Journal
We Need Diverse Books founder Ellen Oh returns with Spirit Hunters, a high-stakes middle grade mystery series about Harper Raine, the new seventh grader in town who must face down the dangerous ghosts haunting her younger brother.
A riveting ghost story and captivating adventure, this tale will have you guessing at every turn!
Harper doesn’t trust her new home from the moment she steps inside, and the rumors are that the Raine family’s new house is haunted. Harper isn’t sure she believes those rumors, until her younger brother, Michael, starts acting strangely.
The whole atmosphere gives Harper a sense of déjà vu, but she can’t remember why. She knows that the memories she’s blocking will help make sense of her brother’s behavior and the strange and threatening sensations she feels in this house, but will she be able to put the pieces together in time?
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Ellen Oh’s Spirit Hunters series is a fantastic choice for middle-grade readers and families who love spooky stories with heart. The series centers on Harper, a brave and determined girl who discovers she can see and communicate with ghosts. As she tries to uncover the truth behind hauntings—especially when her own brother becomes the target of a malevolent spirit—Harper learns about her heritage, her strengths, and the importance of family and friendship. With a fast-paced plot, diverse characters, and just the right amount of creepiness, Spirit Hunters delivers chills without crossing the line into nightmare territory, making it perfect for younger readers who enjoy a good ghost story. In terms of content, Spirit Hunters is very clean and age-appropriate. There’s no sexual content at all, and the focus remains on family, friendship, and Harper’s growing courage as she faces supernatural threats. The story includes cultural elements drawn from Korean traditions, adding depth and educational value while broadening readers’ understanding of different belief systems. The books are both fun and empowering, making them a great pick for families looking for engaging, meaningful, and spooky reads that spark imagination without raising content concerns.
(some mild swearing, no romance or sexual content, and only a little violence)
AUTHOR SARAH PINSKER
HAUNT SWEET HOME
On the set of a kitschy reality TV show, staged scares transform into unnerving reality in this spooky ghost story from multiple Hugo and Nebula Award-winning author Sarah Pinsker.
A Most Anticipated Pick for Library Journal | Polygon | CrimeReads | Screen Rant | Book Riot | Gizmodo
“Don’t talk to day about what we do at night.”
When aimless twenty-something Mara lands a job as the night-shift production assistant on her cousin’s ghost hunting/home makeover reality TV show Haunt Sweet Home, she quickly determines her new role will require a healthy attitude toward duplicity. But as she hides fog machines in the woods and improvises scares to spook new homeowners, a series of unnerving incidents on set and a creepy new coworker force Mara to confront whether the person she's truly been deceiving and hiding from all along—is herself.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Haunt Sweet Home by Sarah Pinsker is a great pick for readers who love eerie, thought-provoking stories without excessive violence or mature content. The book blends supernatural elements with deep emotional themes, making it an engaging read for teens and adults alike. Pinsker’s writing has a way of making the strange feel real, drawing readers into a world that’s both unsettling and captivating. Since there’s no romance or sexual content and only mild swearing, it’s a safe choice for families looking for a spooky but age-appropriate book. What makes this book especially appealing is its focus on atmosphere and mystery rather than gore or shock value. It’s the kind of story that sparks conversation, encouraging readers to think about fear, memory, and the idea of home in new ways. With its mix of ghostly intrigue and strong storytelling, Haunt Sweet Home is perfect for teens and adults who enjoy a haunting read that lingers in the mind long after the last page.
(contains mild sensual content, some swearing, themes of grief, and a few suggestive scenes)
AUTHOR ASHLEY POSTON
THE DEAD ROMANTICS
NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • GOOD MORNING AMERICA BOOK CLUB PICK • A disillusioned millennial ghostwriter who, quite literally, has some ghosts of her own, has to find her way back home in this sparkling adult debut from national bestselling author Ashley Poston.
A NEW YORK TIMES NOTABLE BOOK OF 2022
"I LOVED this book! . . . Funny, breathtaking, hopeful, and dreamy.”—Ali Hazelwood, New York Times bestselling author of The Love Hypothesis
Florence Day is the ghostwriter for one of the most prolific romance authors in the industry, and she has a problem—after a terrible breakup, she no longer believes in love. It’s as good as dead.
When her new editor, a too-handsome mountain of a man, won't give her an extension on her book deadline, Florence prepares to kiss her career goodbye. But then she gets a phone call she never wanted to receive, and she must return home for the first time in a decade to help her family bury her beloved father.
For ten years, she's run from the town that never understood her, and even though she misses the sound of a warm Southern night and her eccentric, loving family and their funeral parlor, she can’t bring herself to stay. Even with her father gone, it feels like nothing in this town has changed. And she hates it.
Until she finds a ghost standing at the funeral parlor’s front door, just as broad and infuriatingly handsome as ever, and he’s just as confused about why he’s there as she is.
Romance is most certainly dead . . . but so is her new editor, and his unfinished business will have her second-guessing everything she’s ever known about love stories.
"One of the Summer's Hottest Reads"—Entertainment Weekly
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Ashley Poston’s The Dead Romantics is a delightful blend of romance, grief, humor, and a touch of the supernatural—perfect for readers who enjoy heartfelt stories with quirky charm. The novel follows Florence Day, a ghostwriter for a famous romance author who’s stopped believing in love. When a personal loss sends her back to her small hometown—and she starts seeing the ghost of her new editor—Florence is forced to confront her past, her fears, and what it truly means to love and let go. The story balances emotional depth with lighthearted moments, making it an appealing pick for adults and older teens who appreciate romance with soul. In terms of content, The Dead Romantics is geared more toward older readers due to some mild sensuality and implied romantic intimacy, though nothing is explicit or overly graphic. The romantic scenes are written with warmth and tenderness, keeping the focus on emotional connection rather than physical detail. The novel also handles themes of loss and healing with grace, making it a comforting yet thought-provoking read. For families with mature teens or adult readers looking for a romantic ghost story with both humor and heart, this book offers a satisfying and emotionally resonant experience.