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Ghostly
High school has never been effortless for social misfit Juice Zander and her sophomore year is proving to be no exception. Having a new boy in homeroom actually pay attention to her might be a start to all that changing. But there are some big issues brewing. That fact that Shane Elliot has revealed himself to be a ghost isn’t her biggest problem. Neither is the fact that he wants her to help him find a “host body” so he can be a real teenager again. It’s not even that when she does find a possible donor for her supercute ghost, it’s another so-not-ugly guy who for some unprecedented reason likes her. No, her real problem is that after years of platonic friendship, she discovers one of her best buddies has feelings for her, and she’s afraid those feelings might be mutual.
Enlisting the help of her tight group of best friends, Juice sets out to 1) find the perfect host for her ghost, 2) figure out her surprising new relationship with her longtime friend and 3) maybe discover she’s not such a social misfit after all.
Enlisting the help of her tight group of best friends, Juice sets out to 1) find the perfect host for her ghost, 2) figure out her surprising new relationship with her longtime friend and 3) maybe discover she’s not such a social misfit after all.
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First published September 21, 2011
1 person is currently reading
40 people want to read
About the author
Samantha Combs
11 books78 followersSamantha Combs is a multi-published, young adult/middle grade author living in Southern California. The award-winning author of nine books, five are young adult paranormals: Spellbound, Everspell, Ghostly, Waterdancer, and The Deadlies; one is a middle grade horror novel: The Detention Demon; and three are adult horror collections: Teeth and Talons, Way Past Midnight, and Helloween. Samantha has two other completed manuscripts and and so many others planned, she hopes to release in the near future. She publishes with three houses: Astraea Press, Musa Publishing and Sweet Cravings Publishing. 2013 looks even more amazing than 2012 did with three planned releases
When she is not writing or reading voraciously, Samantha enjoys bloggers, the Food Network Channel, reality television and wandering around the aisles at Target. She recently conquered Facebook and is learning how to use Twitter. She is sure she can handle any situation if she has the right shoes and has a mad passion for totally inappropriate earrings. Samantha believes the movement toward technology is the most exciting thing to happen to publishing and can’t wait to see what the industry is going to do next. Anything that makes kids want to read can’t be a bad thing.
When she is not writing or reading voraciously, Samantha enjoys bloggers, the Food Network Channel, reality television and wandering around the aisles at Target. She recently conquered Facebook and is learning how to use Twitter. She is sure she can handle any situation if she has the right shoes and has a mad passion for totally inappropriate earrings. Samantha believes the movement toward technology is the most exciting thing to happen to publishing and can’t wait to see what the industry is going to do next. Anything that makes kids want to read can’t be a bad thing.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
January 13, 2012
Such a sweet good natured book full of emotion. I loved it! Check out my full review at sassybooklovers.blogspot.com
December 11, 2011
I have been a fan of Samantha Combs’ work since reading her debut novel, Spellbound. So it suffices to say that I had high expectations for her second published work, Ghostly. Ghostly is the tale of a high school freshman, lovingly nicknamed Juice by her small group of friends. After meeting Shane, a teenage ghost stuck in our world, her life completely changes. But only the story can tell whether the changes in Juice’s life are for better or for worse.
I think it is safe to say that I loved Ghostly just as much as I loved Spellbound, if not more. Samantha Combs’ writing style is somewhat indescribable, but it would be wrong of me not to try. I could see her sitting at the kitchen table or on a comfortable sofa, slowly thinking up and telling her romantic paranormal tales for teens with a captivated audience soaking in her every word. The way she writes is recognizable and refreshing. She seems to have created a niche for herself and she is solid with the way she chooses to portray her characters. During the time I spent reading the galley Samantha so graciously provided to me, I was torn between who was right for Juice. But as I delved further into the story, the right person for her became evident to me.
The addition of her unique group of friends was awesome. The story slowly progressed and Samantha managed to put the climax closer to the end, which ultimately worked brilliantly. As I read of the events occurring, my heart leaped out of my chest. At one point, I was holding back tears, and as I finished reading I felt that tingly sensation that only occurs in me in three instances. The first instance being after I try a ride at an amusement park, which is not often due to my fear of heights. The second being after I’ve gone through a tidal wave of different emotions. And finally, the third occurs after I’ve read an amazing and emotional book. I have to applaud Miss Combs on her ability to entrance me with her writing and her characters. I would love to have friends like Jett, Sixx, Creepshow, and even Shane, and the story had an absolutely powerful and perfect ending.
Point blank: Samantha Combs is an author that you should definitely look out for. Ghostly, as well as her first book Spellbound (which is to be the first in a trilogy), is a great read I would recommend to anyone, but especially to tweens, teens, and young adults.
You won’t regret reading it. Her stories are like a refreshing walk in the park. Even if you’re tired or sleepy, you wish her words would go on.
If you haven't done so yet, check out my interview with the fabulous author just a few posts below!
Also, look out for the sequel to Spellbound entitled Everspell in January, and her fourth work Waterdancer at the end of summer 2012!
I think it is safe to say that I loved Ghostly just as much as I loved Spellbound, if not more. Samantha Combs’ writing style is somewhat indescribable, but it would be wrong of me not to try. I could see her sitting at the kitchen table or on a comfortable sofa, slowly thinking up and telling her romantic paranormal tales for teens with a captivated audience soaking in her every word. The way she writes is recognizable and refreshing. She seems to have created a niche for herself and she is solid with the way she chooses to portray her characters. During the time I spent reading the galley Samantha so graciously provided to me, I was torn between who was right for Juice. But as I delved further into the story, the right person for her became evident to me.
The addition of her unique group of friends was awesome. The story slowly progressed and Samantha managed to put the climax closer to the end, which ultimately worked brilliantly. As I read of the events occurring, my heart leaped out of my chest. At one point, I was holding back tears, and as I finished reading I felt that tingly sensation that only occurs in me in three instances. The first instance being after I try a ride at an amusement park, which is not often due to my fear of heights. The second being after I’ve gone through a tidal wave of different emotions. And finally, the third occurs after I’ve read an amazing and emotional book. I have to applaud Miss Combs on her ability to entrance me with her writing and her characters. I would love to have friends like Jett, Sixx, Creepshow, and even Shane, and the story had an absolutely powerful and perfect ending.
Point blank: Samantha Combs is an author that you should definitely look out for. Ghostly, as well as her first book Spellbound (which is to be the first in a trilogy), is a great read I would recommend to anyone, but especially to tweens, teens, and young adults.
You won’t regret reading it. Her stories are like a refreshing walk in the park. Even if you’re tired or sleepy, you wish her words would go on.
If you haven't done so yet, check out my interview with the fabulous author just a few posts below!
Also, look out for the sequel to Spellbound entitled Everspell in January, and her fourth work Waterdancer at the end of summer 2012!
February 16, 2012
I need to thank the author & Books4Tomorrow for giving me a copy of the book to read for a review! Let's talk about ghosts... do you believe??? *think of spooky music and scary laughter in the background* HA ok, with that... this has to be one of the cutest stories ever! It's just precious. Now, it's a YA paranormal (kinda) romance, but I would definitely say it's great for younger, young adults. I think the early teenage years will fit perfect into this reading frame... with that said, I'm in my later 20's and still loved it. It's great, clean, fresh, wholesome fun.
The misfit group of high school sophmore class is on a mission to find a body for a ghost who appears to the main character Juice. Her real name is Lucy, but she so fits Juice :) Her friends Sixx, Jett, & Creepshow are gunna help her no matter what! (Can I just say I LOVE THE NICKNAMES) and their reasons for being given had me giggling!) Shane (said ghost) appears to Juice one day in class and she promises to help him right away. The journey for this promise is so much fun. It's a great story that helps you learn that it's ok to be who you are, and you think worse of yourself than most others do! Even outcasts and loners need someone, and this group is the perfect friendship! The writing is done really well. It's a quick read. It's a whole lot of fun... & you know there is always a twist... the end had me in fluster-mode :) so all in all, I think you should read this one. :)
The misfit group of high school sophmore class is on a mission to find a body for a ghost who appears to the main character Juice. Her real name is Lucy, but she so fits Juice :) Her friends Sixx, Jett, & Creepshow are gunna help her no matter what! (Can I just say I LOVE THE NICKNAMES) and their reasons for being given had me giggling!) Shane (said ghost) appears to Juice one day in class and she promises to help him right away. The journey for this promise is so much fun. It's a great story that helps you learn that it's ok to be who you are, and you think worse of yourself than most others do! Even outcasts and loners need someone, and this group is the perfect friendship! The writing is done really well. It's a quick read. It's a whole lot of fun... & you know there is always a twist... the end had me in fluster-mode :) so all in all, I think you should read this one. :)
September 27, 2011
I went into reading this knowing Samantha writing after reading Spellbound. I was looking forward to another wonderful story.Ghostly is a story of a teenager named Juicy as every knows her and on her 16th birthday she meets a boy & he is just not any boy he is a Ghost. Shane our friendly Ghost chooses Juicy and she is not only shock to have a boy look at her but also his request to help him. Juicy is very sweet and is faithful to her 3 friends who are true friends in every way shape & form and do not question at all in helping Juicy & Shane. As the friends work together to help Shane true feelings are discovered which I thought was so cute and innocent , Juicy is coming into her own with all 16 year olds they feel weird and akward She is realizing that is no longer applies to her. Ghostly was a really quick read and it was funny and I could not put it down and as I finshed it I wanted more of the Juicy & her friends and hope there maybe a part 2 of it.. Ghostly is a easy read and enjoyed each character and laughed at how Juicy best friend Sixx reminded her of me at that age. Every person that did not hang out with the in crowd will also feel a kindship with Juicy and her friends.
September 26, 2011
This is the first book by author Samantha Combs that I have had the pleasure to read.
Her earlier book Spellbound, which was released in June this year received great reviews and I will be sure to check it out after reading Ghostly.
It was a delight to read an achingly sweet story about a diverse group of teenagers that did NOT smoke, drink or do drugs, have sex, or have unrealistic 'normal' lives.
There is a supernatural element to this story but for the most part it centers around Juice and her metamorphosis from average girl to desirable average girl, all the while fighting her way through the pitfalls and traps of growing up.
I really enjoyed the honesty of this story, and the lead characters ability to stay true to herself.
The fact that Juice surrounds herself with true friends that build her up rather than pull her down was great too.
Many teenage books that I have come across have the obligitory 'downer' or 'whiney' friend, but not here-how refreshing.
Samantha Combs should be extremey proud of herself, this truly is a beautifully written coming of age story that I think all teenage girls could learn from.
An outstanding 4 Star read.
Her earlier book Spellbound, which was released in June this year received great reviews and I will be sure to check it out after reading Ghostly.
It was a delight to read an achingly sweet story about a diverse group of teenagers that did NOT smoke, drink or do drugs, have sex, or have unrealistic 'normal' lives.
There is a supernatural element to this story but for the most part it centers around Juice and her metamorphosis from average girl to desirable average girl, all the while fighting her way through the pitfalls and traps of growing up.
I really enjoyed the honesty of this story, and the lead characters ability to stay true to herself.
The fact that Juice surrounds herself with true friends that build her up rather than pull her down was great too.
Many teenage books that I have come across have the obligitory 'downer' or 'whiney' friend, but not here-how refreshing.
Samantha Combs should be extremey proud of herself, this truly is a beautifully written coming of age story that I think all teenage girls could learn from.
An outstanding 4 Star read.
December 22, 2011
Ghostly is one of the better quick reads I have read. The story line is different as there are not that many 'Ghost' Stories out there.
When reading a book I always look for that 'not wanting to put it down' factor which I think every reader looks for. Although it did take a couple of chapters I did eventually feel that with this book
You wouldn't think that 120 pages could have a a good story but this one is. It has the love story you come to expect and the happy ending for everyone aswell. And even though I do get frustrated and annoyed when there is alot of love interests for the characters it did pull together nicely because in the end you needed all those characters for the story to work.
As this is the first book I have read by Samantha I wasn't sure if I would like her style of writing but I can gladly say I look forward to reading more written by her in the future.GhostlySamantha Combs
When reading a book I always look for that 'not wanting to put it down' factor which I think every reader looks for. Although it did take a couple of chapters I did eventually feel that with this book
You wouldn't think that 120 pages could have a a good story but this one is. It has the love story you come to expect and the happy ending for everyone aswell. And even though I do get frustrated and annoyed when there is alot of love interests for the characters it did pull together nicely because in the end you needed all those characters for the story to work.
As this is the first book I have read by Samantha I wasn't sure if I would like her style of writing but I can gladly say I look forward to reading more written by her in the future.GhostlySamantha Combs
February 6, 2013
Ghostly by Samantha Combs
Rating 4****
Reviewed by Michelle McQueen
YATR Review Panel
This book was provided from the author in exchange for honest literary review.
Juice has a good life for a teen. She has a great group of friends who are real and genuine. She stays off the radar from those "mean kids" at school, so she spent face too much ridicule. Overall life is good for a high school student.
Once she begins to make friends with a certain ghost, everything begins to spin out of control. How can she and her motley group of friends ever get back to the simple easy flow they used to have?
This is an awesome quick read. Juice is a strong, resilient young lady. The playful conversations between her and Sixx were a highlight of the book for me. The ploy itself flows well and I didn't notice and choppiness or breaks. I think this would be an awesome book for the ya crowd, especially girls 13-17. My best description is like this...It's just one of those books that leaves you with a definite smile.on your face. Overall a very solid novel that will hold a readers attention and put a smile on their face
Rating 4****
Reviewed by Michelle McQueen
YATR Review Panel
This book was provided from the author in exchange for honest literary review.
Juice has a good life for a teen. She has a great group of friends who are real and genuine. She stays off the radar from those "mean kids" at school, so she spent face too much ridicule. Overall life is good for a high school student.
Once she begins to make friends with a certain ghost, everything begins to spin out of control. How can she and her motley group of friends ever get back to the simple easy flow they used to have?
This is an awesome quick read. Juice is a strong, resilient young lady. The playful conversations between her and Sixx were a highlight of the book for me. The ploy itself flows well and I didn't notice and choppiness or breaks. I think this would be an awesome book for the ya crowd, especially girls 13-17. My best description is like this...It's just one of those books that leaves you with a definite smile.on your face. Overall a very solid novel that will hold a readers attention and put a smile on their face
December 3, 2011
REVIEW: I think this is another great YA book from Samantha Combs. This book is full of friendship and romance. Juice, Sixx, Jett, and Creepshow are four friends who stick together and stick up for each other no matter what. This is especially true after Juice tell her friends about Shane. Shane is a ghost, and has chosen Juice to help him find a host body. Her friends are very supportive, and agree to help her and Shane find a body. As the adventure to find Shane a host body begins, Juice finds herself having feelings for one of her close friends. With all these new developments, Juice realizes that maybe she isn't as invisible to everyone as she once thought. This book has a great message about realizing who you are, and being honest. I can't imagine a better book for young adult readers.
January 4, 2012
I am a fan of Samantha Combs and was excited to get Ghostly. It was refreshing to read a true YA book with paranormal elements. So many YA books lately have been really pushing the envelop of what is YA to attract a slightly older audience. What I loved about this story is that I would feel comfortable recommending it to a teen, while I enjoyed reading it myself. Parts of the story arc were a bit predictable, but I did not find that to be a bad things.
The story, while revolving around helping the ghost of a young man, was really mostly about friendship and (I know this sounds cliche) coming of age. It had elements of suspense, but it was not a horror story. I found it quite an enjoyable read. Without giving away too much, it was not your typical "ghost needs to fix something so they can move on" story.
The story, while revolving around helping the ghost of a young man, was really mostly about friendship and (I know this sounds cliche) coming of age. It had elements of suspense, but it was not a horror story. I found it quite an enjoyable read. Without giving away too much, it was not your typical "ghost needs to fix something so they can move on" story.
December 18, 2011
This is a good YA book about male/female relationships without sex, drugs and violence. Juice is faced with having 3 boys like her at one time. The girl, who has never had a boyfriend is her life enjoys the popularity but quickly realizes that she must make a decision and she doesn't want to hurt anyone feelings. Does she chose the boy at the concert, her male best friend or the ghost who needs a host body to walk among the living again? Her life "is starting to feel like a cheesy afterschool TV show except for the part about my friend who's a ghost!" I enjoyed following Juice and her close friends as they lead me on their adventures and the ending was not what I expected. The relationships in the book were very realistic (except for the ghost)and I thought the choice of characters was fantastic. A great book.
January 2, 2012
I found this to be really quick at the beginning because Shane was so straight forward to Juice about what he was and how he wanted her to help him. All the main characters seemed to be outcasts and popular at the same time, because of the fact that Juice was naturally gorgeous, Jett and Creepshow are totally sufer hotties, and Six is sexy and outgoing. All in all I thoroughly enjoyed all 119 pages of this book and happy about the way it ended even though it zoomed by at the speed of light.
October 11, 2011
Without a doubt Samantha has captured young love, first love with this book. It's a must read for people of all ages.
April 1, 2014
I LOVE this book! The characters are just so lovable! This book seems too short because I miss Juice and the gang already! Author Samantha Combs is now one of my favorite authors! This story is so heartwarming and definitely a must read!
P.S. I was in tears at the end! So touching!!! I would love to read Shane's story!
P.S. I was in tears at the end! So touching!!! I would love to read Shane's story!
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews