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A Tale as Old as Time

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Some tales as old as time have deep, dark secrets that are never meant to be uncovered. Jackson, a recently separated man, steers clear of women, even his sexy southern co-worker, Kristen. An unlikely friendship between the two begins as they partner up to solve a cold mystery, one dating back to 1871. The seaside pub in which they are both employed becomes a setting of intrigue and danger.

What starts out as an intriguing way to pass the time becomes an obsession of sorts as Jackson bonds with the spirit Mille, an agonized soul who’s seeking closure and true love at a deadly price. This jealous spirit will stop at nothing to see that Kristen is no longer a threat in her manipulative plan.

Add to the plot a beautiful, mysterious stranger named Emily, who captures Jackson’s heart but leaves him wanting more. Jackson’s got his hands full of women with issues. Will Mille find that true love is more than meets the eye or is she destined to spend eternity trapped in a house filled with heartache?

356 pages, Paperback

Published December 23, 2022

11 people are currently reading
142 people want to read

About the author

Mya O'Malley

27 books103 followers
Mya O’Malley


Mya O’Malley was born and raised in the suburbs of New York City, where she currently lives with her husband, daughter and three step-daughters. The family also consists of two boxers; Destiny and Dolce and a ragdoll cat named Colby. Mya earned an undergraduate degree in special education and a graduate degree in reading and literacy. She works as a special education teacher and enjoys making a difference in the lives of her students.
Mya’s passion is writing; she has been creating stories and poetry since she was a child. Mya spends her free time reading just about anything she can get her hands on. She is a romantic at heart and loves to create stories with unforgettable characters. Mya likes to travel; she has visited several Caribbean Islands, Mexico and Costa Rica. Mya is currently working on her fifth novel.

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5 stars
41 (56%)
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20 (27%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
Profile Image for Traceys.
1,480 reviews71 followers
June 29, 2020
I enjoyed this one. It's a mix of lots of genres into one page turning story. We have romance, mystery, history, a ghost and a whiff of danger.....

I really liked Jackson his an easy going guy that is slowly rebuilding his life after his soon to be ex-wife cheated on him! He certainly had some nerve that's for sure, I'd have run a mile from there and got another job!!

Kristen, is Jackson's workmate and joint ghost detective, they have a constantly changing relationship and I'm glad she didn't have as much nerve as Jackson as it wasn't exactly safe for her there, and made me feel uneasy. I scare easily lol.

Millie, what to say about her, she's bitter and cross and she had a tale and a half to tell.

I enjoyed both the past and present stories that are intertwined in this book and had no idea which way it would go!

An intriguing story. Now to try to sleep after finishing a ghost story.....

4.5 bump in the night stars
Profile Image for Kerry.
175 reviews
August 5, 2016
Tale As Old As Time By Mya O’Malley
4 Stars ****

Tale As Old As Time is a ghost story of love, revenge and putting an end to a sad event.
Jackson’s life changes when he comes home to find his wife Maria in bed with Gary, his best friend.
He decides to take on a second job to take his mind off Maria and his messy divorce.
Little does he realise that he soon becomes entwined in the history of Millie’s, the bar that he starts working at.
Millie’s has a resident ghost that needs help in finding peace...but she doesn’t care if certain people gets hurt. She needs to put things to rest and to become one with her true love.
Throughout the story Mya O’Malley writes from Jackson’s perspective and reverts back and forth to Millie’s past so that you get an insight as to what happened to Millie.
Millie’s version of events takes you back into the 1800s and as events unfold you really become involved in the tragedies of Millie.
I give this book 4 stars due to the many twists and turns in the book and it’s a real page turner. The story is full of suspense to keep you on your seat and at times makes you realise you are holding your breathe at times!
Due to the content I feel that the story would suit both YA and horror fans alike. The story has many short chapters which may suit certain readers. I read the book I’m one sitting as I was determined to find out the truth about Millie and see where the characters relationships lead them.
Looking forward to reading more from Mya O’Malley, as if they are as good as this story then they are bound to keep me on the edge of my seat wanting more!
Profile Image for Rebecca Rogers.
151 reviews16 followers
January 27, 2016
What an intriguing story of love lost and found and mystery that spans several decades. As we meet Jackson and Kristen my heart aches for them and the hands they have been dealt. As they discover the supernatural and try to unravel the mysteries from the beyond feelings develop between them, is it safe for this to happen? Who is out for Kristen, who is determined to separate them? This is a must read, that has so many twists and turn I never knew which was was truly up!! The characters have depth and bring out emotional responses, and this book has so many FEELS, I loved this latest work my Mya O'Malley.
Profile Image for Cyndi.
6 reviews
February 9, 2018
Nice

Nice story
Seemed interesting the twist of a ghost was different
Male character needed more work he was all liver the place
33 reviews
May 22, 2020
If you believe in ghosts, this book will take it to the next level. Love, history, spirits, intrigue, and a thousand other things thrown in. Loved this book!
Profile Image for Ditte Winkler.
74 reviews
July 27, 2022
*AO3 “Tale as Old as Time” by @emilyevanston. 253 pages *
Since I can’t add the book myself anymore (*sigh*) I had to do it this way.
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The perfect end to a really good series 🌶
Profile Image for Kelli.
583 reviews19 followers
August 5, 2016
Book Review of A Tale as Old as Time

Author Mya O'Malley

FIVE STARS

 

I stepped out of my comfort zone with this book.  Not knowing what to expect and not real sure of the contents of this book.  I was expecting a historical romance and got OH SO much more.  This book is a historical romance as well as modern day romance and has ghosts.  I read this book from start to finish in one sitting and let me just say it was well worth the time.  

We start in this book with Jackson earning a promotion at work all of his hard work and long hours has finally paid off and he is on his way home to surpise his wife with roses and he walks in on her with his best friend.  Heart wrenching moment for Jackson as he was doing all he could to make a better life for himself and his wife.  He left them and never returned.  Jackson starts working  a second job at his friend John's pub as a bartender.  This is where Jackson meets Kristen and a friendship begins blossoming.   One night as he his leaving the pub Jackson notices a "person" in the third story window of the bed and breakfast that is above the bar.  There were rumors that the house was haunted but did Jackson really believe in ghosts?

Kristen and Jackson decide to start tracing the history of the Bed and breakfast and Pub and find that it had actually be rebuilt due to having burned down in a fire in the 1800s.  One person perished in that fire.  A female named Millie.  In their research they find interesting clues about what could have happened.  But when they tried to investigate by going up to the third story of the house that is when things get weird.  Kristen is pushed down the stairs by something unseen.  What is the deal with this ghost and only wanting to hurt Kristen?  

One night as he is closing up the pub Jackson is there alone and beautiful blonde woman comes in to talk to him.   She says her name is Emily and the attraction and draw to her is immediate.  Jackson cannot get her out of his mind.  She only comes to see him at night after everyone else has left and she will not give him her phone number or address.  She will only see him at the pub or on the beach.  Kristen tries to convince Jackson that Emily is no good and is hiding something major.  Jackson doesnt think so.  He just thinks Emily is scared and trying to protect him from her husband that she has told him about.

Kristen comes to the pub to have lunch with Jackson one day and a very large and heavy picture that is hanging on the wall  falls and lands right on Kristens head.  Again the ghost is jealous and trying to get rid of her.

Jackson tells Kristen that she is not to come to the pub anymore because until they figure out what this ghost is up to they cant take anymore chances.  

Emily disappears and Jackson is left heartbroken and hurt.  He cant understand what he did to drive her away.  She claimed that her husband had found her and that she needed to move on again.  So after Emily leaves Jackson does more to try to figure out what Millies (the ghost) issues are and to help her get closure so that she can finally rest in peace.

Millie connects to Jackson in a way that makes him see things through her eyes as things happened to her in the 1800s.  She lets him see all that happened to her.  How she was used and lied to and decieved.  Jackson shares all of his visions with Kristen who is jealous of all the time he gets to spend with Millie connecting with her and learning her story.

At the end they find a way to set Millie free and they discover that Millie isnt the only ghost at the house.  

I have never read a book like this and I must say that I am very glad that I did.  I hope to read more from Mya O'Malley soon.

Profile Image for Kristin Young.
20 reviews1 follower
August 5, 2016
A Tale as Old as Time is a heartwarming story about love, loss, happiness, sorrow, and vengeance which always comes with finding love in the most unexpected ways. This story will have you captivated and believing in soul mates and kindred spirits along with the possibility of ghosts and spirits with unfinished business. This story has a little bit of everything for readers of all sorts. This story is told through two perspectives, Jackson and Millie.
We start the story meeting Jackson, a man who just got a promotion at work and was on his way home to make up for all the time he had missed with his wife due to the job. Instead of being met with forgiveness and joy he was met with betrayal of the worst kind. His best friend. His wife. His bed. Jackson spiraled downward fast, just going through the motions of life trying not to think for if he did the anger would boil right back up. His friend John hands him a lifeline by offering him a job as a bartender in his pub in the evenings after his construction job. It was a good distraction and Kristen the pretty waitress with the southern twang was not hard on the eyes. After what he thought was a ghost sighting, he soon becomes engrossed in the local ghost stories about the town and the pub where he worked, Millie’s Pub. Kristen eager to teach him all that she knows about the local lore quickly teams up with Jackson on finding out as much as they could about this ghost Millie.
Jackson, the good guy who was wronged, vows to never date again. Kristen the lovable, southern girl from next door. They quickly form a deep bond and lasting friendship while spending so much time together trying to find out the truth behind Millie. The more clues and answers they find the further away Kristen is pushed by a ghost who sees her as a threat. Can Kristen help Jackson before she loses Jackson forever? Can Jackson keep Kristen safe? Why is this ghost so drawn to Jackson?
Millie the sad, resentful spirit who has spent countless decades trying to find the one thing that can set her spirit at peace. She didn’t start out so resentful but the years of searching had taken its toll on her spirit. Will she ever find it? Jackson is the answer and she knows it. She just needs to get the pretty blonde out of the way. How far is willing to go? Will Jackson make the ultimate sacrifice for her to set her soul at peace?
Is the answer for peace and closure as simple as true love and finding your soul mate? Or is it more complicated than that? I developed a love for each of the characters my own unique reasons. Jackson is a guy you want to root for from the start. He was hurt in the worst way and I just want the best for him. Kristen is the lovable beauty I aim to be; smart, classy, funny, kind. Millie is just searching for true love and I can certainly relate to that. Nothing compares to the feeling of finding true love and feeling the warmth of his embrace. This story touched my soul and I believe in soul mates more now than I ever did.
Profile Image for Martha.
209 reviews4 followers
August 5, 2016
MYSTICAL, HAUNTING, A MUST READ!!!
Mya O’Malley has spun as tale that is as intriguing and mystical as the ghost in her story. This story truly kept me spellbound. I love the way she wrote from the history of the 1800’s as far as women’s beautiful gowns and accessories, they wore, the balls and dances they attended were truly spectacular. The women and men had impeccable manners and were taught how to display them in public. The family structure was ruled with an iron fist and rules were not made to be broken. I was captivated with how Mya O’Malley intertwined times then and the times we live in.
An old Victorian home was converted into Millie’s pub and bed and breakfast in Cape Florence. As with any old town throughout history there is always spooks, ghost and goblins that haunt every old home. Kristen is the woman who keeps up with all stories about everything that goes bump in the night. She happens to also be a waitress at Millie’s pub. She loves it when people want to know the stories and can spend hours informing them of the histories.
Jackson has been through a terrible time in his life catching his wife in bed with his best friend. He has decided to never trust or love another woman again as long as he lives. His soul is very vulnerable and empty. To take his mind off of things he takes a second job at Millie’s pub to help out an old friend. The job is doing the trick and Jackson starts to feel like some of the weight has been lifted from his shoulders but his soul is still empty. It has made it very attractive for Millie’s ghost to take up temporary residents when he is at the pub. Very quickly he learns that Millie can be very dangerous when she hears and sees that Kristen has strong feelings for Jackson. After several dangerous accidents happen to and around Kristen she and Jackson decide it is time to find out what happened in Millie’s life to make her want to hurt women. They want to know about the tragedies in this poor young woman’s life that make her behave in rage and anger. Jackson is determined to keep a promise to Millie to help her and set her free. Little does he know what the high cost will be.
The stories around town of Millie took me on a journey into the spirit world. All the clues and mystery surrounding this woman will have you turning pages as fast as you can read them. Jackson is deep in with this ghost and she has a hold of his mind and heart. Will he be able to set her free without it costing him his spirit and life? Will Jackson and his best friend Kristen be able to live life normally?
I loved this book. Mya O’Malley captured my attention at the first of this book and still had it at the end. The book is a HEA so you get the whole story in one book. Please Mya O’Malley continue to share your talents for the supernatural with your readers.
141 reviews2 followers
August 5, 2016
Jackson Tompkins is a hard-working, loyal husband and friend. He works long hours to build a better life for him and his wife, Maria. So when he walks in on her with his best friend, his world is shattered. Jackson decides to pick up another part time job at his friend John’s bar to help keep him occupied and his thoughts away from his ruined marriage. John’s bar, called Millie’s Pub and Bed and Breakfast, is full of history and an aggressive ghost who can’t move on if you ask the locals. One night after work, Jackson sees a brief image of a blond woman in the window of the third floor and he decides he wants to know more about the Pub and the mystery surrounding it. His beautiful co-worker Kristen is always trying to tell him stories about the town so he asks her what she knows about the ghost and the two of them start up an investigation into a fire that took place in the 1800’s and burned the original Millie’s to the ground. Kristen has feelings for Jackson, but he doesn’t want to start another relationship so soon after his marriage fell apart. So when Emily walks through the door of Millie’s late one night, Jackson can’t believe his immediate attraction to her. She is a very private and guarded woman who refuses to see him out in public. Strange things keep happening to Kristen as she and Jackson investigate the Bed and Breakfast side of the building, an old Victorian home that was split for the businesses. Can they discover what happened to Millie and help set her free? This story was such a pleasure to read for me. I love mysteries and romance novels and this book perfectly blends the two genres. There was so much more I wanted to say about this book, but I don’t want to give anything away! The story is very detailed and wraps into itself in the most unexpected ways. I absolutely loved how Mya O’Malley brought the story together and how the information is presented to the reader. I did not want to put this one down! It is one of those books that really pull you into the story. Jackson is such an honest, caring man and he is definitely one of my new favorite characters! He has his flaws that he acknowledges and tries to grow from. He can admit when he is wrong and isn’t afraid to show his emotions. I just loved him! Kristen is a patient and fierce friend who clearly would do anything for Jackson. They aren’t your average book couple and I really liked that about them. I really can’t say enough nice things about this book! Being a romance book with no love scenes only added to the beautiful descriptions of the town and characters. I give “Tale as Old as Time” a wholehearted five stars. Hands down, one of my new favorite books!
Profile Image for Jennifer DeCuir.
Author 31 books37 followers
February 25, 2017
Editing is so crucial, and the main reason this book did not earn four stars from me. I loved the premise. By the end, I put my own life on hold in order to finish the book. But the typos every few pages were jarring. It got so I was looking for them, editing the book, instead of reading for pleasure. I'm glad I didn't abandon the story, but it was touch and go for the first half of the book.
Profile Image for Heather Williams.
99 reviews13 followers
August 5, 2016
Usually when a ghost is hanging around they have some unfinished business that are keeping them tied to earth; keeping them from moving on. Over two hundred years after the fire that killed her, Millie definitely has some unfinished business to attend to. And she'll stop at nothing to get what she needs for her "happily ever after."
Jackson just has his heart and life torn to shreds after he finds his wife in bed with his best friend. For obvious reasons he has a hard time trusting people and doesn't see another romantic relationship or falling in love again in his future. To keep his mind off of his turned upside down life, he takes on a second job bartending for his friend - the owner of Millie's Pub and Bed and Breakfast ("in the order" - I loved how the author added this touch) Working at the bar helps. He likes his coworkers and he's made a new friend in the beautiful and sexy pub waitress from the south - Kristen.
Kristen is outspoken, outgoing and is nothing like what Jackson considers his typical type - shy and quiet. She's also known for being really into ghost stories and this New Jersey shore town is full of ghost stories. Which is why Jackson turns to her to investigate the possibility of Millie's having a ghost after he sees someone moving in the old Victorian that houses Millie's Pub and Bed and Breakfast. Someone moving around on what he knows to be an empty third floor. The two decide to partner up and investigate. While spending so much time together, Jackson and Kristen begin to have feelings for each other.
And the possibility of a relationship between Jackson and Kristen is not okay with Millie. Part of her unfinished business is finally finding true love and she's got her ghostly sights set on Jackson. And she will do anything to make sure she gets him. No matter who gets hurt.
But what else could be keeping Millie from moving on? Is it really just true love holding her back or revenge? Was the fire that killed her really an accident? If not, who started it and why? Will Millie ever find the peace she's been searching for?
This story is full of twists and turns. You never see what's coming next. It's a great ghost story, but also a great story about love, loss and what it takes to move on in life (or afterlife).
206 reviews
August 5, 2016
A Supernatural delight


   A Tale as Old as Time by Mya O'Malley was a great supernatural story that I gave 4 stars. A Tale as Old as Time is a story about Jackson a man who is in the mist of a nasty divorce, Kristen a waitress where Jackson works part-time, Millie a ghosts who is haunting Jackson and Kristen's place of work, and Emily a very mysterious women who snatches Jackson's heart as soon as he lays eyes on her. The author takes you on a mystery packed adventure in this book. Jackson and Kristen form a very close friendship as they try to solve the mystery of Millie, the very disgruntled spirt who is out to harm Kristen. While Kristen and Jackson are investigating Millie's death and reasons behind the fact that she's not at peace they become closer and closer every day,  but Jackson is not ready for a relationship as he's still healing from the devastating betrayal from his ex-wife....at least he doesn't believe he's ready for a relationship until Emily walks into the pub after everyone has left for the night except for Jackson. Emily brings Jackson to his knees the very first time he sees her and he falls deeper and deeper for her after every meeting he has with her. Jackson and Kristen soon discover that Millie's story is not the only mystery they need to solve but also they have many unanswered questions about who Emily really is and if Millie is the only soul wandering around the bed and breakfast and pub they work at.


   Through out this book the author keeps throwing more and more mysteries at you, as soon as you think you have the whole story figured out she throws you for a loop by adding a new layer to the adventure. The author will keep you guessing from the very first word to the very last word. 


   I enjoyed this book and was surprised several times throughout the book.  The story is told in third person through alternating points of view and during alternating time periods. The book is well written with a few grammatical errors. I recommend this book to anyone who loves a good mystery that has a sweet love story interwoven into it. I believe this book is suitable for anyone over the age 15. 

  
Profile Image for Laura Furuta.
2,047 reviews28 followers
September 24, 2016
A Tale As Old As Time

By: Mya O’Malley

5 out of 5 stars

The book A Tale As Old As Time is a paranormal romance/mystery. It tells the story of Jackson who is trying for move on from a failed marriage. It is also the story of how he meets Kristen while working at a friend’s bar and also how he meets Emily. Jackson has feelings for both of these women, however his feelings for Emily seem to get stronger each time they meet. Jackson grows closer to Kristen while they research the ghost stories surrounding their place of employment and a ghost by the name of Millie. Then strange things start to happen. Kristen is pushed down a flight of stairs and attacked at their place of work. Emily refuses to meet Jackson anywhere else than the bar, the nearby bed and breakfast or the beach. As Jackson and Kristen continue to research the ghostly legends, more and more things are not adding up. Will they both heed the warnings that they are in danger or will they both become victims of a vengeful ghost?

This is an awesome story. It has the right atmosphere and setting for a paranormal story. The story alternates between present and past. The story is told from the present from Jackson’s POV and in the past and present from the point of Millie. The alternating of the time periods is done seamlessly, making the story flow perfectly. Some stories can be told however the depth of the emotions of the characters is sometimes lacking. Not so with this book. You go from laughing to anger to sadness with each of them as if your soul hurts for them. You may have read paranormal romance/mystery books before however this one stands out as thought provoking and just a wonderful story. Once I picked this story up, I had a hard time putting it down for any length of time. If you love paranormal romance/mystery books with a historical theme and you love it when characters are looking for their true love, this is the story for you. I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Robin Rankin.
1,207 reviews5 followers
August 6, 2016
I am not one who usually enjoys paranormal books and was unsure on how much I was going to enjoy this book before I started reading it. I was captivated from the beginning and found myself thinking about the story and characters in the middle of the night when I could not sleep.
This is a story of Jackson, Kristen and Millie and getting a second chance at love. After finding his wife Maria in bed with one of his best friends Gary, Jackson starts working at Millie’s a local pub his other best friend John runs. It is there he meets Kristen a waitress and Millie the resident ghost.
An experience one evening after the pub closes causes Jackson to start asking Kristen who loves ghost stories for more information on the ghost. She fills him in and they then decide to do some research into Millie’s story and see if they can help her. During their research Jackson and Kristen start to become close much to Millie’s dismay.
One night after the pub closes and Jackson is there alone, a stunningly beautiful woman comes in looking for a job. Her name is Emily and she and Jackson have a whirlwind romance. Jackson needs to know more about Emily but she tells him she is on the run from an abusive ex-husband.
While investigating the Bed and Breakfast that the pub is attached to Jackson and Kristen have a run in with Millie. Kristen ends up hurting her ankle and Jackson takes care of her and they grow even closer. Millie is not pleased with those events.
Though Kristen and Emily never meet they are not fond of one another. Kristen pushes Jackson to get Emily to meet his friends and Emily pushes Jackson to end his friendship with Kristen. Eventually one of the relationships ends….
The story has a happy ending and was not a cliffhanger. It also wasn’t a short story, but I felt myself wishing I could spend a little more time with Jackson, Kristen and Mille. This book is a must read even if you are not into Paranormal and I’m looking forward to reading more by Mya O’Malley.
Profile Image for Marcella.
358 reviews16 followers
August 18, 2016
Let me start off by saying the book cover is absolutely stunning and once you read the book you will understand how perfect it is for this story.

Two worlds come together in this amazing tale of discovering how a beautiful young woman died and why she's haunted a bed and breakfast since the 1870's.

Jackson is a recently single man, who is going through a tough divorce after he discovered his soon to be ex-wife has been having an affair with his best friend. The last thing on his mind is finding love. He is devastated and seems to be struggling with the betrayal. He refuses to talk about what happened with anyone and instead chooses to just not think about it. In order to do that, he needs to keep busy, so he takes a job at his friend's pub, Millie's Pub and Bed and Breakfast.

There he meets Kristen. A beautiful and sassy southern belle who becomes enamored with Jackson. One night when Jackson leaves the bar, he looks up in the window of the bed and breakfast as sees a figure standing at the window. After spending time with Kristen, Jackson discovers that Kristen is very well versed with the history of their town, and most importantly the ghost stories associated with Millie's. Jackson recruits Kristen in finding out the real story of what happened to Millie.

What starts off as simple detective work and research, turns physical and dangerous for them, especially Kristen, who Millie seems to have taken a dislike to.

This was a page turner from start to finish, as I wanted to know more of Millie's story and help her find peace and justice. I loved the budding relationship between Jackson and Kristen. I am not talking romantic relationship, but their friendship. The closeness they developed while on this quest was really something great and rare. And I think as Jackson got to know Millie, he realized that they both needed healing and seeing their relationship heal each other was amazing. I loved every minute of this book.
Profile Image for Danielle.
91 reviews6 followers
August 5, 2016
Tale As Old As Time by Mya O’Malley is a ghost story, a mystery and a love story all wrapped into one. We meet Jackson Tomkins, a good and honest man who's life is an absolute mess. After catching his wife cheating and beginning the horrible divorce, he begins working at his good friends bar to try to take his mind off hit trouble. There he meets and befriends Kristen, a beautiful and spunky waitress with a passion for their small town’s history and local hauntings. Especially “Millie,” the ghost that haunts the very bar where they both work.

Having been brutally murdered and all evidence burned in a building fire back in 1871, it's up to Jackson and Kristen to find poor Millie closure and peace in the afterlife, no matter how much danger Millie may put the our hero and heroine through in the process.

I loved the idea and premise behind this book. Two people in search of their own happy endings, brought together by a passion to solve a centuries old mystery. A ghost that was still holding on to find her own true love, and learn what it means to be loved. The scenes were beautiful, I could picture every beach and Victorian home as though it was painted in front of me. And the honor code that the characters displayed was so heartfelt, I was immediately attached to them. However, as much as I loved Ms. O’Malley’s descriptions and the characters that she built to tell this story, I had a little trouble staying engaged as I read. The writing moved a bit slowly, and the dialogue felt a little forced for the characters of both the present and 1800’s era stories, instead of how they might naturally speak to others. Millie’s story kept me interested, and I was not disappointed in the end to find out how the murder unfolded. Her mystery was full of twists and turns that I could not predict.
Profile Image for Lynn Jones.
320 reviews3 followers
August 5, 2016
Tale as old as Time. By Mya O'Malley. 5 Stars

Some tales have deep dark secrets that are never meant to see the light of day.
Jackson who is recently separated, steers clear of women. After walking in on his wife with another man, someone who he thought was is friend, has made him jaded on all things dealing with love.
Kristen is a sweet southern girl with lots of sass and attitude. After the bar closes at night she spins her tales of ghost stories. The sea side pub where they both work becomes a setting of intrigue and danger. Jackson starts to see things in the upstairs of the old Victorian house and has creepy feelings that make the hair stand up on your neck. So Jackson asks Kristen to tell him about the stories. An unusual friendship happens between them as they partner up to solve a mystery dating back to 1871.
The author draws you into the suspense of the story and has plenty of emotion, intrigue and courage. I found myself laughing out loud one minute and biting my fingers the next.
Mya is such a natural at telling this story. All her character's played parts in this tale.
Jackson was dead set against ever falling in love again, until Emily walked into his life.
Millie is a ghost who is angry and bitter with the way her life ended. She feels cheated out of the life she was supposed to have. With Kristen's help will Jackson be able to help Millie find the peace she longs for. Will Millie find that true love has been in front of her all this time. Or will she be destined to spend eternity trapped in a house filled with heart ache?
I really enjoyed reading this paranormal romance. Her structured plots for her character's were awesome. You feel yourself traveling thru time with them.






















Janna Jones
Profile Image for Audrey Lord.
137 reviews2 followers
August 6, 2016
I would have to give A Tale as Old as Time by Mya O’Malley five out of five stars. This paranormal mystery absolutely floored me. From it's in depth characters, to its captivating story. Even when I stopped reading I was curious and worried about how the story would continue and end.
Jackson last name, comes home early after a long day at work to find his wife having an affair with his best friend. He leaves the house to go see some other friends, who offers him a job at the bar Millie’s to keep his mind off of things now that his other job has slowed down. He accepts half heartedly. While working at the bar he meets a woman named Kristen, who late one night after closing told him all about the mystery that was held inside Millie’s walls, that it was haunted by Millie herself.
They begin a frightening journey to find out more about Millie and what could have happened to her. Their friendship grows as Jackson falls in love with a troubled woman named Emily. Emily is surrounded in mystery as well because she won’t meet any of his friends or see him outside of the bar and the beach. One day Emily tells him she must move on in fear of something horrible happening to the both of them and leaves Jackson heartbroken and even more desperate to figure out the tale of Millie and why she is so angry with the world. Jackson decides he must help Millie in whatever way he can, and he promises her that.
This story is so beautifully written and makes you feel what the characters feel the whole time. I loved it from beginning to end. Especially Kristen's and Millie’s characters, they’re growth throughout the story makes it even more of a better read.
Profile Image for Gail Guerrero.
731 reviews1 follower
August 5, 2016
Mya O'Malley bless you for writing this in the males POV. I love this story. The emotions were high and plenty. There was drama and mystery. Wait and a love quartet like no other. Mya wrote a captivating story that had me devouring every word until the end. What really set this story apart was the characters bonds and connections through time. The compassion and bravery to fight and bring peace and justice to a soul.
The story focuses on Jackson Tomkins our protagonist. He is a hard working man trying to secure a future for his wife and the family he hopes to start. But when he finds out something so shocking his life is turned around. Now he’s going through the motions of remorse, shame, failure and betrayal. He knows it’s partly his fault but doesn’t know how it has turned out this way. Our setting is a small town of Cape Florence. Where Jackson takes a second job helping his childhood friend at his pub called Millie’s.
Then there is Kristen you don’t get much information on her but that she is from Georgia. She is witty and adventurous. I loved her spunk and her willingness to be a friend to Jackson even though she wanted more.
The mystery comes in the form of a ghost? A woman who doesn’t want to meet his friends or go out on dates!
I loved how she let Jackson true emotions shine through. How he was strong but he could shed tears too. He was brave and loyal. I haven’t read many books in the male’s POV but after this book I must give them more a chance. Because there is nothing better than reading a story where you get to witness true emotions from a man. They’re always busy being alphas and macho men that we never see their softer side.
Profile Image for Julie.
282 reviews
August 5, 2016
A Tale as Old as Time is a four star book by Mya O’Malley. Jackson is a fool in love, working hard to receive his promotion and doesn't even notice when his wife starts messing around on him with his best friend until he actually catches them in the act. He leaves immediately and decides to pick up shifts at his other friend’s bar, Millie’s, in order to pass the time. While working the extra shifts, he meets a girl named Kristen. They quickly become best of friends. Jackson has made it clear that he is not ready for a relationship but enjoys her friendship so much that he doesn't want to stay away. Kristen started telling him about the ghosts that hang out in their town. He doesn't know if he believes until he sees what he thinks is one in the window of the bed and breakfast above the bar. After he sees this vision of a woman in the window, he can't get enough of the stories Kristen tells. They decide to do some research on the ghosts, especially what happened with the woman at Millie’s. As they find people to tell them stories and they find old documents, they begin to find theories of her life and how they might be able to help release her. Once they start digging, weird things start happening at Millie’s but only to Kristin. When Jackson realizes her life is in danger if she comes into Millie’s, he forbids Kristen to go there again until they can figure out how to stop the ghost from hurting her again. Then Jackson meets Emily and falls quickly in love. Emily will not come around when anyone is with Jackson. He continues to make excuses for her and why she is afraid to meet any of his friends.
Profile Image for Anna Hirsch.
803 reviews14 followers
August 6, 2016
A Tale as Old as Time by Mya O’Malley
4Stars

This book has an old world feel to it. It takes place in New Jersey Shore during the off season. It is a town full of ghosts and hauntings. Most of the books’ events happen in a beautiful Victorian mansion which has been turned into a bed and breakfast. The local pub Millie’s is located in the basement.
Jackson recently walked in on his wife and best friend having an affair. He’s in the middle of an ugly divorce. His good friend John, owner of Millie’s, suggests that he come bartend part-time. Figuring that it will get his mind off things, Jackson agrees. It’s nice to have some new friends and Kristen, his waitress, is easy on the eyes too. Though Jackson knows Kristen is interested in him, he is definitely not ready for a relationship and keeps them strictly friends.
One night leaving the pub, Jackson notices someone in the window on the third story. He found it strange seeing as that floor is closed for the season. He decides to ask Kristen about the ghost story pertaining to Millie’s. She knows about them all.
The story progresses as they become partners investigating the death of Millie who seems to be haunting the bed and breakfast. The story flips from present day to the 1800’s and back as we learn the story from Millie’s perspective and Jackson’s.
While the love blossoms between Kristen and him, there are many twists and turns to the plot. Some lies and deceptions and a surprise that I had not anticipated. Though I found some parts were dragging a little, they are important to the story. By the end, everything was tied up nicely. A very enjoyable read.
Profile Image for Emily.
Author 1 book42 followers
August 15, 2016
When Jackson takes a job at Mellie’s Pub and Bed and Breakfast he’s doing it to keep his mind off his soon to be ex-wife, not because he wants to spend his evenings behind the bar in the old Victorian mansion. Soon, he finds himself listening to the local legends of haunted houses, including the one in which he works. One night, walking home after a shift, he thinks he sees something in the empty third floor window.

Soon Jackson, along with his co-worker and friend, Kristen, find themselves caught up in the legend of Mellie’s and the supposedly restless soul that still wanders the halls. When Jackson meets the beautiful and mysterious Emily, he finds himself caught up in her spell. Together, they see more of Mellie’s life as Jackson becomes a believer in the supernatural. But, will he find out why Mellie has refused to cross over before it’s too late? Will the angry spirit finally get her vengeance, or will she be released from the hatred and anger that has kept her on this plane? Will Jackson find the love he deserves?

A Tale as Old as Time is a beautifully written story of love, loss and starting over. Author Mya O’Malley creates characters, both living and dead, that leap off the page. You will find yourself wondering who Mellie was, why she died, and why her spirits still haunts the beautiful seaside town Jackson calls home. Jackson, Kristen, Mellie and Emily’s stories weave in and out of each other, finally linking together in unexpected and completely satisfying ways.
Profile Image for Jessica.
452 reviews2 followers
August 12, 2016
Rate: 5 Stars
Title & Author: A Tale As Old As Time By Mya O’Malley
Writing: Great
Violence: None
Sex: Some

Jackson came home one day to find is “best friend” and his “wife” in his bed with one another, and all they could claim was “it’s not what it looks like, and how it’s all his fault for neglecting them”. Who would ever expect their supposedly best friend and wife to betray them like that and then try to place the blame on them. Now that Jackson has extra time on his hand he decides to help out his old friend, by being a bartender. Bartending at the pub is no big deal but dealing with a could be ghost, wanting revenge is a whole other job he did not sign up for.

If you’re looking for a mystery book, with some romance you found the right book. While I’m not a big fan on books that has to deal with ghost, I have to say I enjoy this book. I was upset that I finish this book as quick as I did, especially since it was a long book. But that’s what ends up happening when you’re enjoying a book. I felt extremely bad for Jackson, to walk in to that scene must’ve really killed. But he reacted better than most people would, instead of throwing insult or reacting violently he walked away. But the ghost Millie, her story is sad, but interesting. There’s a twist that I didn’t not expect. At first I was hoping for one thing to happen, but instead something else happen. This is one book that will have your heart racing, and your brain working in over drive trying to figure out.
263 reviews8 followers
August 5, 2016
A TALE AS OLD AS TIME
Author: Myra O'Malley

A TALE AS OLD AS TIME by MYRA O'MALLEY is a stand alone novel. This is the first book I have read of hers, and in a genre that I am not familiar with. She won me over! I loved this story! Her writing flows very easily, her characters intrigued me, and she kept me captivated at all times. A mystery, mixed with the perfect amount of suspense and romance, and a little danger. I look forward to reading more of her books.

I think one of Myra's strengths is her ability to describe people, their clothing and surroundings, and even their emotions. Her incredible descriptions draw you into the story and make you feel like you are right there experiencing everything right along with them.

Do you believe in ghosts? Jackson and Kristen are co-workers in a local pub and find themselves in a very unique situation. They start out as friends but their feelings soon develop into much more. As they set out to solve a mystery that involves spirits, it becomes apparent that Kristen is in danger. The spirit, Mille, appears to be jealous of her and will do anything to remove her from the puzzle.

The story takes on many extremely interesting twists and turns. Just when you think you know what is happening next - you don't. Myra does an excellent job of keeping you in suspense.

Don't let the genre scare you away. I recommend you give Myra the opportunity to win you over. Great book!
Profile Image for Laura Leyman.
171 reviews8 followers
August 5, 2016
4.5 stars out of 5

At first I was apprehensive to read this book because it was quite different to what I usually read. However, I am so glad I read this. I found that as the story progressed, I became more consumed in the words that were in front of me. I literally could not stop reading.
A Tale As Old As Time shows that there are different types of love and soul mates. It shows us that love can be found in unlikely places, with unlikely people and at a time when we least expect it.

‘If there is anything that I learned from this entire experience, it’s that people can love each other, become soul mates, in many different ways. A mother and child, best friends, the list goes on’

There are three main characters in this story; Jackson, Kristen and Millie. We are taken on a journey of their own self-discovery and we see them grow as individual characters.
I am a great believer in things happen for a reason and this book shows that. If Jackson’s wife had not cheated on him, then he would not have met Kristen or Millie.
The story was a puzzle that needed solving. Each chapter solved the puzzle a little bit more. I became so engrossed in finding out everything, before I knew it the story was over. Throughout the whole story I was on Millie’s side, not because I did not like Kristen’s character, I just wanted Millie to have her happy ending.
The ending was not what I was expecting, it was so much better.
Profile Image for Kaley.
11 reviews
August 28, 2016
Heartbreak, suspense, mystery and a little bit of fun all come together in this book. Who doesn't love a good ghost story, especially when the ghost has such an intriguing past. However, this is not an ordinary ghost story. This is a story of loss and love and learning how to move on.

Jackson is a handsome young man who is trying to find a way to mend his broken heart. He finds that solving the mystery of Millie, the ghost that is haunting the local pub he works at, is exactly the way to do that. Kristen is a spunky and sassy character that I instantly loved. Taking things to heart is her specialty, but when it comes to helping Jackson with Millie she soon learns that safety is a bigger concern. A ghost out for vengeance, Millie is heartbroken and searching for the one thing that can set her free, even if that means others may be hurt.

As Jackson and Kristen try to unravel the mysteries of Mille's Pub & Bed and Breakfast it becomes clear to them that there is definitely something they are missing in the story. Who is this infamous Millie, and what happened to her on that fateful night in the ballroom? As Millie's story begins to unravel so do the bandages that are keeping Jackson's heart whole. With twists and turns around every corner O'Malley takes you on a journey you won't soon forget.

Mya O'Malley is a fabulous author and I truly enjoyed reading this book. I look forward to reading more of her books in the future!
Profile Image for Nikki.
56 reviews2 followers
August 5, 2016
A Story Begging To Be Told...
A Tale As Old As Time begins with Jackson getting the shock of his life. He is headed towards divorce and some major life changes. He takes on a new job as a bartender at his friend Johns pub, but none of this stops him from taking on the biggest mystery yet to be solved in the little town of Cape Florence.
Friend and co-worker Kristen is a lover of ghost stories and she can't help but get caught up in the mystery surrounding Millie's Pub and Bed and Breakfast with him. They work tirelessly day and night to find answers.
Jackson is sidetracked by Emily. A beautiful stranger who captures his heart the moment they meet. Love at first sight is in full effect, but is it true love of something else? She adds to the puzzle to be solved in this small town.
All three are caught up in a triangle of old love, new love, love lost and love to be found. This mystery will be solved with the help of the most helpful townspeople you've ever met. There is not a secret to be kept because they want to know the deal just as much as Jackson and Kristen does.
I found this book to be very intriguing, the mystery kept me very interested and looking forward to what happens next. I enjoyed Mya O'Malley's writing style, it was straight forward and to the point. She kept it mysterious without taking me around the world and back again. I look forward to reading more books by her.
Profile Image for Donna Parrott.
458 reviews6 followers
August 5, 2016
Mya O'Malley is a new author to me and let me just say WOW, i absolutely loved this book. I was sad at first, angry, then happy, intriqued, and finally happy. Lets just say i went through so many emotions i lost track. It was a rollercoaster read. After reading this book i went through a moment of wow if that first part of the book didn't happen none of this would have played out like it did. I tried to picture it out the other way but i just couldn't, i loved this book. It isn't your typical romance, it has mystery, fun loving banter, and a ghost.
Now onto the book, Jackson is a newly single man. Because of the way his last relationship ended he dosen't want love, dosen't need it. What he didn't anticipate is Kristen, his co-worker. They have an easy flirtatious banter back and forth and you can easily see a connection. Kritsten is a sassy mouthed woman who dosen't have an evil bone in her body. She is so lucky in love department either and she loves the connection she has with Jackson. Millie is the ghost with ulterior motives. She can't stand anyone who is happy around her.
When Jackson and Kristen figure out there are ghost they try to help and figure out the mystery behind how she died. As there relationship grows a mysterious force is trying to break them up, but they don't know who. Will they be able to find what is trying to tear them apart or will it be to late to fix anything?
Profile Image for Jodie Scott.
236 reviews6 followers
August 1, 2016
Reviewed by 2 Girls Who Love Books Blog
A tale as old as time

I started this book not really knowing what to expect. I got through part of the story and was starting to to think this would be a ‘on again off again’ relationship book…. I kept reading away…. I am so so glad that i did as the story just turned into something so beautiful!
Its a bit of a slow starter but please keep going i promise you it is worth every single word that you will read.
Its a paranormal romance but there's so so much to learn with the turn of the page. Its written in two POV but they are written tastefully and very well. The descriptions, oh the descriptions, even now while im sat here writing this i can see every detail from the rooms to the clothing to the people. The descriptive language is out of this world! I personally love when you can ‘see’ the story unfolding rather than ‘read’ it!
This story is simply flawless and it keeps you hooked all the way through! It's quite lengthy but it's worth the extra pages.
The author is very misleading (in a very good way) as you are certain you know what's going to happen but trust me nothing can prepare you for what comes!
I have thoroughly enjoyed this book! It was a refreshing read and unique!
I rate this story 5 stars. My thanks go to the author for her amazing words!
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