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The Unseen #1
Chasing Your Ghost
Riley has always been a bit different. She inherited that from her father. In school, she was labeled a freak. An outcast. She prefers the term medium.
Seeing ghosts has always been a part of her life, but when death strikes closer to home than ever before, Riley's life changes in ways she isn't prepared for.
Moving in with her estranged mother and stepfamily before starting college was never part of her plan, but when Riley meets the ghost of her stepbrother's friend, she knows she needs to stay and help him move on. Only Asher isn't your typical ghost. Something about him is different, and the two of them will need to work together to find out what sets him apart before he inevitably moves on, as all ghosts must.
But the more time Riley spends with him, the harder it becomes to imagine saying goodbye. She should have followed her dad's rules and never let her feelings get involved because she can only see it ending one way: with a broken heart.
Seeing ghosts has always been a part of her life, but when death strikes closer to home than ever before, Riley's life changes in ways she isn't prepared for.
Moving in with her estranged mother and stepfamily before starting college was never part of her plan, but when Riley meets the ghost of her stepbrother's friend, she knows she needs to stay and help him move on. Only Asher isn't your typical ghost. Something about him is different, and the two of them will need to work together to find out what sets him apart before he inevitably moves on, as all ghosts must.
But the more time Riley spends with him, the harder it becomes to imagine saying goodbye. She should have followed her dad's rules and never let her feelings get involved because she can only see it ending one way: with a broken heart.
439 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 27, 2023
276 people are currently reading
1126 people want to read
About the author
Maggie I. Fields
6 books20 followersMaggie I. Fields lives in South Africa, but her heart remains in the US, where she spent time as an au pair. When she’s not writing, she’s usually reading, reading, or, alternatively, reading. She also occasionally does other things like spending time with her family and friends, listening to Taylor Swift on repeat, and investing in yet another bookshelf. But mostly, she’s reading.
To find out more, visit www.maggieifields.co.za or follow @maggieifields on Instagram and TikTok.
To find out more, visit www.maggieifields.co.za or follow @maggieifields on Instagram and TikTok.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
April 24, 2023
Not really my speed, most of it felt very YA and juvenile. I was expecting something darker and more haunting. The first half dealt with the hs family issues more than anything ghost and occult related. The last half just had too many characters and too many POVs. It became more about Ella than it did the H and h. I mean, wtf, Ella and Noah have an on page sex scene before our MCs do? Idk, it was just odd and having the book switch focus so quickly was jarring. There were some good scenes though.
May 16, 2023
Get it here:
Amazon US * Amazon UK
I thought this was an intriguing story. It was a little slow at times if I'm being honest and there were a few too many instances where the characters were just living their life with nothing interesting going on. And parts where no one seemed to be trying to find out what happened with Asher which I found odd. But overall the story had me captivated and I was excited to turn every page and find out just what was going to happen.
Amazon US * Amazon UK
I thought this was an intriguing story. It was a little slow at times if I'm being honest and there were a few too many instances where the characters were just living their life with nothing interesting going on. And parts where no one seemed to be trying to find out what happened with Asher which I found odd. But overall the story had me captivated and I was excited to turn every page and find out just what was going to happen.
July 3, 2024
4 ⭐️- Very juvenile. Very pick-me, wattpad energy. Loved every second of it!
April 18, 2023
Meh
This wasn’t as good as I’d hoped. I wasn’t invested in the plot, the beginning was good and then I just lost interest.
This wasn’t as good as I’d hoped. I wasn’t invested in the plot, the beginning was good and then I just lost interest.
September 11, 2023
3.5 stars
This book had the vibes I was looking for and was mostly super sweet. I will be recommending this in the future to people looking for ghost romances. There is drama, some angst, lots of cute moments between Riley and Archer, and the beginnings of a good friend group.
But... man, a lot of this dragged. It gave time for the romantic relationship to build and some of the real life issues/drama, but mostly I wished they could do something besides research. I also feel absolutely horrible for Ella and think she was wronged so much in this book. I want to read the next book, just to see her happy, but 100% do not want her with Noah. Unless, I hear there is a ton, and I honestly mean ridiculous amounts, of groveling and him worshipping the ground she walks on.
This book had the vibes I was looking for and was mostly super sweet. I will be recommending this in the future to people looking for ghost romances. There is drama, some angst, lots of cute moments between Riley and Archer, and the beginnings of a good friend group.
But... man, a lot of this dragged. It gave time for the romantic relationship to build and some of the real life issues/drama, but mostly I wished they could do something besides research. I also feel absolutely horrible for Ella and think she was wronged so much in this book. I want to read the next book, just to see her happy, but 100% do not want her with Noah. Unless, I hear there is a ton, and I honestly mean ridiculous amounts, of groveling and him worshipping the ground she walks on.
October 8, 2023
It was ok until they started asking Ella constantly this one thing and then Noah goes talk to her and they end up in bed that’s where it started going down hill. It’s like the author didn’t know what else to write and she had a dead line so she just started writing without give 2 F’s
November 1, 2023
Very interesting.. I liked it! 😌
October 16, 2024
I really liked this book it had an amazing plot. And it wasn’t a cheesy love story about a woman and a ghost. There is a happy ending if you are wondering. The smut is about a 2 out 10🤷🏻♀️
June 12, 2023
Favorite tropes in the book include - Slow burn and forbidden/impossible romance.
Spice - 2/5, SLOW burn, not a fade to black, but quick. Scene between secondary characters.
I love urban paranormal romances, and this hit the spot. It gave me Ghost Whisperer vibes, and Charmed (Dead Man Dating episode) vibes, and I need more books that give me those vibes specifically.
I agree with a lot of the reviews about the book feeling more New Adult or mature Young Adult. The characters are fresh out of high school, like graduated a few days ago fresh. It made the book a light read, nothing too deep or dark, kind of cheesy. There wasn't a lot of world building, until the end when the author tried to expand the supernatural world - and that turned the story to be more about the secondary characters and giving them the spotlight, and made the story less about Riley and Asher. I get that book 2 will be about these secondary characters, but I would of liked the story to stay focused on Riley and Asher, they're the ones who have my heart. I'm hoping Riley and Asher will be prominent characters in book 2 - I'm want to see more of their story and the supernatural world building the author is trying to do.
I really enjoy Fields writing style a lot, it was very descript, engaging, and easy to follow along. I enjoyed the character interactions, it seemed natural and flowed nicely, and it made relating to the characters feel real. I personally loved all the pop culture references, understanding most of them! They helped make it more fun and witty.
The spice is lacking until the literal very end (It's a really slow burn), unless you want to include a random sex scene between two side characters. Scenes are not fade to black, and they last a little over a page to about 3 pages each.
(The following paragraph may contain vague spoilers, but I tried to keep language neutral): I considered taking a star because of the shift to the secondary characters rather than the main characters. I also thought the interaction with the villain was comical. It felt a bit rushed, forced, and like they weren't a big, bad, scary. Their language wasn't as strong as the characters, and almost felt like a villain in a kids Saturday morning cartoon show explaining everything and just going along with the heroes plan because why not? I also don't get how the heroes just, literally, walked into the house without talking about it, preparing, bringing self defense.... anything? Like, the villain literally has a dead body in their house, and nobody thought to bring a knife?
Aside from those complaints, it was enjoyable and I stayed up until 4:30am devouring it. I love Asher and Riley, and with forbidden romance being my favorite trope, I couldn't put it down. I hope book 2 has more of these two. I wouldn't mind a sub-series (full novels or novellas) following Riley as she helps other ghosts in the world, I love books containing ghosts and I'd like to see her explore her powers more and what she can do with them.
Spice - 2/5, SLOW burn, not a fade to black, but quick. Scene between secondary characters.
I love urban paranormal romances, and this hit the spot. It gave me Ghost Whisperer vibes, and Charmed (Dead Man Dating episode) vibes, and I need more books that give me those vibes specifically.
I agree with a lot of the reviews about the book feeling more New Adult or mature Young Adult. The characters are fresh out of high school, like graduated a few days ago fresh. It made the book a light read, nothing too deep or dark, kind of cheesy. There wasn't a lot of world building, until the end when the author tried to expand the supernatural world - and that turned the story to be more about the secondary characters and giving them the spotlight, and made the story less about Riley and Asher. I get that book 2 will be about these secondary characters, but I would of liked the story to stay focused on Riley and Asher, they're the ones who have my heart. I'm hoping Riley and Asher will be prominent characters in book 2 - I'm want to see more of their story and the supernatural world building the author is trying to do.
I really enjoy Fields writing style a lot, it was very descript, engaging, and easy to follow along. I enjoyed the character interactions, it seemed natural and flowed nicely, and it made relating to the characters feel real. I personally loved all the pop culture references, understanding most of them! They helped make it more fun and witty.
The spice is lacking until the literal very end (It's a really slow burn), unless you want to include a random sex scene between two side characters. Scenes are not fade to black, and they last a little over a page to about 3 pages each.
(The following paragraph may contain vague spoilers, but I tried to keep language neutral): I considered taking a star because of the shift to the secondary characters rather than the main characters. I also thought the interaction with the villain was comical. It felt a bit rushed, forced, and like they weren't a big, bad, scary. Their language wasn't as strong as the characters, and almost felt like a villain in a kids Saturday morning cartoon show explaining everything and just going along with the heroes plan because why not? I also don't get how the heroes just, literally, walked into the house without talking about it, preparing, bringing self defense.... anything? Like, the villain literally has a dead body in their house, and nobody thought to bring a knife?
Aside from those complaints, it was enjoyable and I stayed up until 4:30am devouring it. I love Asher and Riley, and with forbidden romance being my favorite trope, I couldn't put it down. I hope book 2 has more of these two. I wouldn't mind a sub-series (full novels or novellas) following Riley as she helps other ghosts in the world, I love books containing ghosts and I'd like to see her explore her powers more and what she can do with them.
July 6, 2023
It's been so long since I added a book to "my precious" list.
To say I loved it would be an understatement.
Found it from TikTok, I must say I'm surprised.
With the main concept of ghosts and death, the book could have become creepy, but the author chose the young-adult version.
It has some language and the devil's tango scenes (I think 2) but I quickly skipped through those. So it can't be considered young-adult.
This is the first time saying this, but maybe it would be better if it faded to black.
Anyway, as I was saying, the book wasn't creepy. Maybe it had some mysterious atmospheric moments, but it wasn't scary.
I had one screenshot scene. It was nice.
I didn't like how they forced Ella. And how Noah treated her.
They are supposed to be enemies to lovers, but Noah literally hates her and forced her to hate him too.
He is very out of character with her. It doesn't seem realistic that he would act in that awful way to someone he liked. Even if she had done some questionable things. He treated her worse than trash, even before Asher's disappearance.
The main character was perfect - in the way that she was the ideal person. She was funny, smart, kind, fearless, and knew the right thing to say every time. Just with a bit more sarcasm.
I like her. But I love Asher. Love.
Another thing that was on my mind while reading, is the third person pov. The book was written in third person, and for me it got confusing on multiple points.
I have never had that problem before. Maybe if I read it again it will be fine, maybe I was tired. But many times, I didn't understand who was talking to who, or who was thinking what.
If it happens again in the future, when I reread it, I will note it here.
Last thing, I would like for her to have seen another ghost. It seems unlikely to have spent almost 2 months there and not seen another ghost.
Ah and before I forget, the book made me cry in the beginning. RIP.
I will definitely read this again.
To say I loved it would be an understatement.
Found it from TikTok, I must say I'm surprised.
With the main concept of ghosts and death, the book could have become creepy, but the author chose the young-adult version.
It has some language and the devil's tango scenes (I think 2) but I quickly skipped through those. So it can't be considered young-adult.
This is the first time saying this, but maybe it would be better if it faded to black.
Anyway, as I was saying, the book wasn't creepy. Maybe it had some mysterious atmospheric moments, but it wasn't scary.
I had one screenshot scene. It was nice.
I didn't like how they forced Ella. And how Noah treated her.
They are supposed to be enemies to lovers, but Noah literally hates her and forced her to hate him too.
He is very out of character with her. It doesn't seem realistic that he would act in that awful way to someone he liked. Even if she had done some questionable things. He treated her worse than trash, even before Asher's disappearance.
The main character was perfect - in the way that she was the ideal person. She was funny, smart, kind, fearless, and knew the right thing to say every time. Just with a bit more sarcasm.
I like her. But I love Asher. Love.
Another thing that was on my mind while reading, is the third person pov. The book was written in third person, and for me it got confusing on multiple points.
I have never had that problem before. Maybe if I read it again it will be fine, maybe I was tired. But many times, I didn't understand who was talking to who, or who was thinking what.
If it happens again in the future, when I reread it, I will note it here.
Last thing, I would like for her to have seen another ghost. It seems unlikely to have spent almost 2 months there and not seen another ghost.
Ah and before I forget, the book made me cry in the beginning. RIP.
I will definitely read this again.
June 20, 2023
Paranormal Romance
Forbidden (Ghost/Medium)
Slow Burn
Suspense
Plot 4.5 ✨
Spice 2 🔥
Riley has had the ability to see ghost her whole life. It has caused her more pain than her or her father ever thought possible. After a tragedy Riley has reluctantly agreed to move into the house of the woman who abandoned her as a baby.
Riley didn't expect to see the ghost of her new stepbrother's best friend on her first day there. Now she is tasked with finding out what happened to Asher and help him move one. But the more time they spend together the more Riley doesn't want him to leave her.
A ghost and a medium, that could never work, right?
Do not let my 4.5 star rating trick you I loved this book. The plot of what happened to Asher sucked me in and I had to find out what happened. Like most girls that grew up in the 90's I loved the movie Casper, and this book reminded me of that love but added a bit of spice. I was absolutely rooting for Riley and Asher to not only get answers but to get what they wanted, each other. I loved how the whole plot wasn't just about their relationship. I loved seeing the growth of Riley with others in her life. I can't wait for the second book.
The only issues I had with this book was that sadly it was written in third person. For myself I find it hard to read but once I got about 40% of the way through, I was able to ignore it. Also since the Pov does change a few times during the book, chapter headers of whose Pov we are in would be good. But overall, the story was on point.
Forbidden (Ghost/Medium)
Slow Burn
Suspense
Plot 4.5 ✨
Spice 2 🔥
Riley has had the ability to see ghost her whole life. It has caused her more pain than her or her father ever thought possible. After a tragedy Riley has reluctantly agreed to move into the house of the woman who abandoned her as a baby.
Riley didn't expect to see the ghost of her new stepbrother's best friend on her first day there. Now she is tasked with finding out what happened to Asher and help him move one. But the more time they spend together the more Riley doesn't want him to leave her.
A ghost and a medium, that could never work, right?
Do not let my 4.5 star rating trick you I loved this book. The plot of what happened to Asher sucked me in and I had to find out what happened. Like most girls that grew up in the 90's I loved the movie Casper, and this book reminded me of that love but added a bit of spice. I was absolutely rooting for Riley and Asher to not only get answers but to get what they wanted, each other. I loved how the whole plot wasn't just about their relationship. I loved seeing the growth of Riley with others in her life. I can't wait for the second book.
The only issues I had with this book was that sadly it was written in third person. For myself I find it hard to read but once I got about 40% of the way through, I was able to ignore it. Also since the Pov does change a few times during the book, chapter headers of whose Pov we are in would be good. But overall, the story was on point.
December 6, 2023
Fantastic
This book was unbelievable. Couldn’t put it down, be careful what time of day you start this because the hours will just disappear and it’s 3am and you have to finish it in one sitting before you know it.
I loved everything about this book. I was crying from like 10 pages in. It was heartbreaking and unique and probably one of my favourite and top 5 books of the year easily.
The FMC Riley is a medium. She’s always been able to speak to ghosts. Something that passed from her father to her. When her life is turned upside down and she has to go and live with her estranged mother and her new family she’s barely holding it together, especially when she’s not allowed to let anyone know what she can do.
Her stepbrother is struggling with his own loss, his best friend is missing with no leads. Until she seems him. Which isn’t good for what that means.
The MMC Asher is confused that someone can finally see him, he can’t remember what happened to him, only that Riley is his last link to the life he had.
This book is heartbreakingly sad when Riley knows she shouldn’t get attached to Asher but can’t help herself, while hiding that she knows what has happened to him while watching her stepbrother suffer with not knowing where his best friend is.
This was supernaturally spooky, completely addictive, I literally couldn’t put this book down.
5⭐️2🌶️
This book was unbelievable. Couldn’t put it down, be careful what time of day you start this because the hours will just disappear and it’s 3am and you have to finish it in one sitting before you know it.
I loved everything about this book. I was crying from like 10 pages in. It was heartbreaking and unique and probably one of my favourite and top 5 books of the year easily.
The FMC Riley is a medium. She’s always been able to speak to ghosts. Something that passed from her father to her. When her life is turned upside down and she has to go and live with her estranged mother and her new family she’s barely holding it together, especially when she’s not allowed to let anyone know what she can do.
Her stepbrother is struggling with his own loss, his best friend is missing with no leads. Until she seems him. Which isn’t good for what that means.
The MMC Asher is confused that someone can finally see him, he can’t remember what happened to him, only that Riley is his last link to the life he had.
This book is heartbreakingly sad when Riley knows she shouldn’t get attached to Asher but can’t help herself, while hiding that she knows what has happened to him while watching her stepbrother suffer with not knowing where his best friend is.
This was supernaturally spooky, completely addictive, I literally couldn’t put this book down.
5⭐️2🌶️
June 5, 2023
I was a little wary of where exactly this book was going in regards to Asher and Riley, but I'm so glad I stuck with it. Books about ghosts and mediums are so common, but the author made it a tad different. She added so many elements that I wasn't expecting. It was a bit of a thriller, paranormal, romance, with angst and family drama sprinkled in. For most of this book, I hated Rileys mom, Edith. I could not understand why her mom was such a bitch. I hurt for Riley as she tried to navigate life without her dad, her new circumstances, her abilities, and her relationship with Asher and her family. At first, I thought the bad guy may have been Ella. And then possibly Edith because of how much she hated Rileys ability, but after Ella's story, I thought maybe he had found her. But then I dismissed it, thinking that's far-fetched. This story definitely had me at the edge of my seat. I love that Riley isn't alone with her abilities, though Ella's are different. But it scares me with Brett. Im terrified of what's going to happen in the next book. I am glad that through everything, Asher was saved, and Riley is happy and settled.
September 10, 2023
I came across this book on TikTok and was immediately intrigued, although slightly worried because booktok has led me astray on more than one occasion!
However, as soon as I started reading I couldn’t put this book down! I finished it in one sitting! I honestly loved everything about this story, it’s not really the genre that I usually read (I usually use trigger warnings as a shopping list lol 😂), but I found myself really enjoying this book so much! It was a breath of fresh air and very different to my usual reads, but I loved it all the same!
I thoroughly enjoyed the plot, and the relationship that develops between Riley and Asher. I also like that there is definitely a pretty sinister and dark undercurrent with the whole Brett situation. He gives me the absolute creeps, and I’m itching to see how everything plays out in the next book! I need more!!!
I also saw that the author lives in the same city as me, which honestly just made me love the book even more because I very seldom find books I like written by authors here!
I will definitely be reading the next one!
However, as soon as I started reading I couldn’t put this book down! I finished it in one sitting! I honestly loved everything about this story, it’s not really the genre that I usually read (I usually use trigger warnings as a shopping list lol 😂), but I found myself really enjoying this book so much! It was a breath of fresh air and very different to my usual reads, but I loved it all the same!
I thoroughly enjoyed the plot, and the relationship that develops between Riley and Asher. I also like that there is definitely a pretty sinister and dark undercurrent with the whole Brett situation. He gives me the absolute creeps, and I’m itching to see how everything plays out in the next book! I need more!!!
I also saw that the author lives in the same city as me, which honestly just made me love the book even more because I very seldom find books I like written by authors here!
I will definitely be reading the next one!
September 11, 2023
Tiktok brought me here, and like every book rec on tiktok- you can only hope and pray that the book is actually decent and not the one scene that the 15-second clip shows.
And boy, did this book exceed expectations.
I will say this is EXACTLY the type of book I was looking for when I picked it up. Coming of age with ghost. Love it.
Spice scale is super low. The plot is so well thought I didn't mind... even when the author starts going into the smaller details of how FMC and supporting character powers work- I didn't find myself getting lost.
Very, very, very excited to read the sequel! Overall, a great book that's easy to zip right through in one sitting.
I'd recommend it for anyone looking for a break from heavier books or anyone looking forward to spooky season.
And boy, did this book exceed expectations.
I will say this is EXACTLY the type of book I was looking for when I picked it up. Coming of age with ghost. Love it.
Spice scale is super low. The plot is so well thought I didn't mind... even when the author starts going into the smaller details of how FMC and supporting character powers work- I didn't find myself getting lost.
Very, very, very excited to read the sequel! Overall, a great book that's easy to zip right through in one sitting.
I'd recommend it for anyone looking for a break from heavier books or anyone looking forward to spooky season.
May 14, 2023
I really loved Asher’s character and enjoyed Riley and Asher’s story. I saw the first plot twist coming but was happy about it. The second surprised me. I was a huge fan of the Mediator series by Meg Cabot back in high school which is probably why I enjoyed this read so much. It did remind me a bit of those YA books but had some spice in it towards the end. The only thing that threw me in this book was the chapter(s) thrown in from Noah and Ella’s POV towards the end of the book that didn’t quite seem to flow with the rest of the book. Regardless though, I’m excited to read book 2 once it’s out!
May 24, 2023
There was nothing outstanding about this book to make is good or bad, however the characters made it seem very juvenile and I felt that they were too old to be acting like they were. This story line had a lot of potential and I just feel like it didn’t quite reach it.
October 23, 2023
3.7⭐ 2.5/5 🌶️
I've read some reviews that have stated this book is written at a YA level and where the plot is, there are some steamy scenes that would not be in a YA novel.
Summary: (less Spoilery)
Riley has the ability to see ghosts. Throughout her life, Riley and her father have helped ghosts cross over and help with any unfinished business. Before the start of college Riley moves in with her estranged mother, stepfather, and step-siblings. As she moves in she sees a ghost lingering behind a tree. It isnt until she meets her stepbrother Noah, that she finds out his friend Asher has been missing. His car abandoned on the side of the road... Can Riley, Noah, and Ella find Asher?
Content Warnings ⚠️:
Graphic:
•Kidnapping, Religious bigotry, Abandonment
Moderate:
•Sexual content, Blood, Sexual assault
First Person or Present tense: First Person
Character driven or plot driven: Plot driven with character development.
Overall mood: mysterious and emotional with feel good elements.
***SPOILERS AHEAD***
What I liked:
Riley as a character:
The author really flushed out Riley's personality. She had a set of morals and likes and dislikes. I feel like we would be bff's. I like her so much I made a playlist of songs that were mentioned in the book. She's cool and guarded then begins to open up more to the audience.
Riley and Asher's development:
I honestly didn't like how the plot dragged in the middle and didn't seem to progress but it think it was necessary to develop Asher and Rileys relationship which was really sweet. My only criticism is I wish Asher was a bit more playful in his personality. Given the fact that he's missing I get why the author chose to make him the way he was.
Noah and Ella's developming romance:
If you were to compare the main romance (Riley and Asher) and the secondary romance (Noah and Ella) I'd say that Noah and Ella are fiery and passionate 🌶️ Riley and Ashers relationship is just sweet and innocent in some ways.
The mystery of where Asher is:
The mystery of where Asher was and if he was alive was really what had me the most invested in the book. I loved the camaraderie of the friend group looking for Asher. I wish we had more time with the friend group and less time with the family drama.
The ending:
Loved the ending! Did not expect the person who kidnapped Asher at all and usually I am good at predicting plot. I like how the end was set up for another book that I will definitely read.
What I didn't like:
Needs editing:
Though I love the plot, I feel like the dialogue needed more editing. I understand this is Maggie I Field's first novel but I wish it had more time to be looked at. The dialogue is awkward at times and the descriptions needed restructuring and more editing.
The plot stalls at about 35%:
If it weren't for the fact that we were looking for Asher I'd probably DNF the book at 35% because there is not plot development besides Riley's family misunderstandings with her mom which was pretty annoying. The arguments weren't really believable.
Honestly why is Chris here? There's no backstory to Chris...:
While I appreciate there is a bigger friend group, I feel like we don't really know who Chris is. There's not a lot of backstory and I feel like that was a missing piece in the book.
The predictably that Asher is still alive...: I write a lot so maybe it's just me but I was able to figure out that Asher was alive the second time he got "pulled away". I will say, that I did not see the ending coming.
The ending:
I feel like the sex scenes between Riley and Asher was just thrown in there at the end and felt kinda sloppy. I liked the sex scene placement of Ella and Noah more because it felt more organic with the story.
This review is not meant to bring down the author. I loved the book and I'm excited to follow the authors career and novels in the future.
I've read some reviews that have stated this book is written at a YA level and where the plot is, there are some steamy scenes that would not be in a YA novel.
Summary: (less Spoilery)
Riley has the ability to see ghosts. Throughout her life, Riley and her father have helped ghosts cross over and help with any unfinished business. Before the start of college Riley moves in with her estranged mother, stepfather, and step-siblings. As she moves in she sees a ghost lingering behind a tree. It isnt until she meets her stepbrother Noah, that she finds out his friend Asher has been missing. His car abandoned on the side of the road... Can Riley, Noah, and Ella find Asher?
Content Warnings ⚠️:
Graphic:
•Kidnapping, Religious bigotry, Abandonment
Moderate:
•Sexual content, Blood, Sexual assault
First Person or Present tense: First Person
Character driven or plot driven: Plot driven with character development.
Overall mood: mysterious and emotional with feel good elements.
***SPOILERS AHEAD***
What I liked:
Riley as a character:
The author really flushed out Riley's personality. She had a set of morals and likes and dislikes. I feel like we would be bff's. I like her so much I made a playlist of songs that were mentioned in the book. She's cool and guarded then begins to open up more to the audience.
Riley and Asher's development:
I honestly didn't like how the plot dragged in the middle and didn't seem to progress but it think it was necessary to develop Asher and Rileys relationship which was really sweet. My only criticism is I wish Asher was a bit more playful in his personality. Given the fact that he's missing I get why the author chose to make him the way he was.
Noah and Ella's developming romance:
If you were to compare the main romance (Riley and Asher) and the secondary romance (Noah and Ella) I'd say that Noah and Ella are fiery and passionate 🌶️ Riley and Ashers relationship is just sweet and innocent in some ways.
The mystery of where Asher is:
The mystery of where Asher was and if he was alive was really what had me the most invested in the book. I loved the camaraderie of the friend group looking for Asher. I wish we had more time with the friend group and less time with the family drama.
The ending:
Loved the ending! Did not expect the person who kidnapped Asher at all and usually I am good at predicting plot. I like how the end was set up for another book that I will definitely read.
What I didn't like:
Needs editing:
Though I love the plot, I feel like the dialogue needed more editing. I understand this is Maggie I Field's first novel but I wish it had more time to be looked at. The dialogue is awkward at times and the descriptions needed restructuring and more editing.
The plot stalls at about 35%:
If it weren't for the fact that we were looking for Asher I'd probably DNF the book at 35% because there is not plot development besides Riley's family misunderstandings with her mom which was pretty annoying. The arguments weren't really believable.
Honestly why is Chris here? There's no backstory to Chris...:
While I appreciate there is a bigger friend group, I feel like we don't really know who Chris is. There's not a lot of backstory and I feel like that was a missing piece in the book.
The predictably that Asher is still alive...: I write a lot so maybe it's just me but I was able to figure out that Asher was alive the second time he got "pulled away". I will say, that I did not see the ending coming.
The ending:
I feel like the sex scenes between Riley and Asher was just thrown in there at the end and felt kinda sloppy. I liked the sex scene placement of Ella and Noah more because it felt more organic with the story.
This review is not meant to bring down the author. I loved the book and I'm excited to follow the authors career and novels in the future.
May 9, 2023
This was paranormal romance with a Stranger Things meets after school special kind of feel. The mystery at the core of the plot kept me interested and compelled me to finish the book. I think this would rate higher for younger readers because it really is an interesting premise, I just personally had issues with some of the writing choices.
Most of the book is in Riley's point of view, a few times in Asher's, and then 70% of the way through you get a chapter from a third character's perspective (and then a fourth). I think had we gotten chapters from everyone more frequently it would have worked really well, but new perspectives 70% of the way into the book was jarring.
There are a lot of very specific pop culture references that I think will quickly become outdated.
Overall the tone of the book feels young. I kept forgetting that some of these people are in college which made the sex scenes (despite everyone being of age) uncomfortable.
And without spoiling anything, the mechanics of the paranormal part of the story were so basic that when something supernatural happened at the climax of the plot, I found it unbelievable.
I think I would have loved this in high school but it's not something I'm planning on recommending or rereading.
Most of the book is in Riley's point of view, a few times in Asher's, and then 70% of the way through you get a chapter from a third character's perspective (and then a fourth). I think had we gotten chapters from everyone more frequently it would have worked really well, but new perspectives 70% of the way into the book was jarring.
There are a lot of very specific pop culture references that I think will quickly become outdated.
Overall the tone of the book feels young. I kept forgetting that some of these people are in college which made the sex scenes (despite everyone being of age) uncomfortable.
And without spoiling anything, the mechanics of the paranormal part of the story were so basic that when something supernatural happened at the climax of the plot, I found it unbelievable.
I think I would have loved this in high school but it's not something I'm planning on recommending or rereading.
May 13, 2023
This was okay. I was super interested in the premise and the characters, and it started off super strong. I really felt for Riley and her situation. I was so angry on her behalf at how her mother treated her, and there were so many times, had I been in her shoes, I would have just left. I also really enjoyed the relationship that Riley had with her step brother. They were so funny together!
There were things that were a little but predictable, but maybe that's because I've watched and read so many supernatural things. The one thing that WASN'T predictable was the fact that I for SURE did not call that.
Will definitely be reading the next one to see what happens.
There were things that were a little but predictable, but maybe that's because I've watched and read so many supernatural things. The one thing that WASN'T predictable was the fact that I for SURE did not call that.
Will definitely be reading the next one to see what happens.
October 20, 2024
⭐️3.75
Really enjoyed this story! I felt like it was unique in its elements of the paranormal. It was a bit of a slow start for me though with too much family drama.
Riley and Asher’s relationship was so sweet. I like to think that if they had met under other circumstances they still would have fallen for each other.
I’m looking forward to the next book and hopefully more of an explanation in to why Brett seems to have so much power. Part of me thought that maybe Riley would end up having some other powers too aside from seeing spirits 🫤
I will say at times I grew frustrated with Riley and how she treated her mother. Edith was really trying and Riley was just so nasty towards her in spite of Edith not even hesitating to allow her to move in.
Really enjoyed this story! I felt like it was unique in its elements of the paranormal. It was a bit of a slow start for me though with too much family drama.
Riley and Asher’s relationship was so sweet. I like to think that if they had met under other circumstances they still would have fallen for each other.
I’m looking forward to the next book and hopefully more of an explanation in to why Brett seems to have so much power. Part of me thought that maybe Riley would end up having some other powers too aside from seeing spirits 🫤
I will say at times I grew frustrated with Riley and how she treated her mother. Edith was really trying and Riley was just so nasty towards her in spite of Edith not even hesitating to allow her to move in.
November 1, 2023
Chasing Your Ghost was quite a good paranormal romance read. I like that it started straight off the bat, and didn't take long to get into the story. Though some parts in the middle were slow, and felt a little bit dragged on, Maggie l. Fields still wrote a heart-warming book with a bit of mystery to it. I liked that there was just enough hints for you to piece the pieces together, without giving away the ending of the story if you looked close enough. I also enjoyed the found family trope that the story held. Do check trigger warnings, as though things don't go into too much detail, it's still always good to know what you're getting into.
March 26, 2024
Loved it
This was everything I wanted and more. I loved the thrill of guessing what was going to happen next to trying to put together who took Asher. I can happily say my suspicion was correct.
I loved the character development and plot. It did seem to be a bit long in some spots, but it was needed to build the dynamic between characters.
I absolutely loved that some chapters gave us a look into different characters' perspectives.
I did notice that in some chapters, the writing would change styles, for example, first person to narrative.
Overall, it's a really great read and I highly recommend it. Cannot wait for book 2.
This was everything I wanted and more. I loved the thrill of guessing what was going to happen next to trying to put together who took Asher. I can happily say my suspicion was correct.
I loved the character development and plot. It did seem to be a bit long in some spots, but it was needed to build the dynamic between characters.
I absolutely loved that some chapters gave us a look into different characters' perspectives.
I did notice that in some chapters, the writing would change styles, for example, first person to narrative.
Overall, it's a really great read and I highly recommend it. Cannot wait for book 2.
May 28, 2023
2.25 ⭐️
I liked the premise of the book just not the characters. The only character I actually liked is Ella. Her own friends kept calling her selfish and even when she apologised and gave them a very VALID reason for her actions, they still felt like they needed to forgive her. Frankly, they were selfish and judgmental and Ella was not and it made me furious. Hers was the only character that got me going and she is the only reason why I am looking forward to book 2.
There was not much paranormal stuff in this book like I had expected. It felt more like YA.
I liked the premise of the book just not the characters. The only character I actually liked is Ella. Her own friends kept calling her selfish and even when she apologised and gave them a very VALID reason for her actions, they still felt like they needed to forgive her. Frankly, they were selfish and judgmental and Ella was not and it made me furious. Hers was the only character that got me going and she is the only reason why I am looking forward to book 2.
There was not much paranormal stuff in this book like I had expected. It felt more like YA.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 28, 2025
There were times that I felt this book was a bit contrite, and then there were times where I was actually very much enjoying what was happening in the chapter. I would have given this overall three stars, however, the characters favorite movie was Gladiator so… You know. I felt that a lot of the family dynamics should’ve been saved for a book that was about family drama, and not a paranormal romance. And maybe it was just my expectations when picking up the book, it was much more YA and much more formula than I was expecting.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 4, 2023
The plot was quite interesting and the writing was really good, but almost every character in this book was annoying and unlikable. I felt nothing for them... they just felt like horrible people to be around. Their love was conditional and they were too quick to judge and disown... the way they treated Ella was horrible. It broke my heart. I liked Asher but there was no chemistry between the leads.
But I’m invested in this mystery and Ella-Noah’s story.
But I’m invested in this mystery and Ella-Noah’s story.
May 8, 2023
Stayed up to read
I really enjoyed this book i find it so hard to find a good book with the ghost aspect to it. Fell im love with Asher and love how protective he is. There was a really good balance between things going wrong and things going right. Finally my biggest and most important aspect is the realistic relationships and time lines nothing felt rushed or too fast which is my must have.
I really enjoyed this book i find it so hard to find a good book with the ghost aspect to it. Fell im love with Asher and love how protective he is. There was a really good balance between things going wrong and things going right. Finally my biggest and most important aspect is the realistic relationships and time lines nothing felt rushed or too fast which is my must have.
May 28, 2023
Fabulous!
I loved, loved, loved this book. Riley and Asher are incredible characters who drive the story amazingly well. An unexpected ending with a surprise twist and an HEA with some great steam meant I had to finish this book, even though it was after midnight. I can’t wait for the second. Please, please release it soon. I’m so looking forward to Noah and Ella’s story. Thank you, Maggie!
I loved, loved, loved this book. Riley and Asher are incredible characters who drive the story amazingly well. An unexpected ending with a surprise twist and an HEA with some great steam meant I had to finish this book, even though it was after midnight. I can’t wait for the second. Please, please release it soon. I’m so looking forward to Noah and Ella’s story. Thank you, Maggie!
June 19, 2024
I really enjoyed this book. I thought it was gonna be nothing but paranormal smut with no plot and poorly written like other Paranormal books I’ve read but I was pleasantly surprised. The characters had lots of depth, and the writing was really good. It reminded me of a supernatural episode where there was some very heavy topics but lots of comedic relief through out. Overall I did very much enjoy this book and will be reading Ella and Noah’s book!
April 4, 2025
2.5 stars
Once Ella arrived, I feel like the story shifted away from the main characters of the book. I understand the author was simply trying to introduce the protagonist of the next book of the series, but I don’t think the way to do that is by having that character take over the first book, too. Just weird.
I enjoyed the book well enough before this change (although the pacing was a bit slow at times, regarding the mystery about Asher and what happened to him)z
Once Ella arrived, I feel like the story shifted away from the main characters of the book. I understand the author was simply trying to introduce the protagonist of the next book of the series, but I don’t think the way to do that is by having that character take over the first book, too. Just weird.
I enjoyed the book well enough before this change (although the pacing was a bit slow at times, regarding the mystery about Asher and what happened to him)z
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