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Duncan Andrews Thrillers #1
Pale as a Ghost by Stephen Osborne
Private detective Duncan Andrews’s best friend Gina is a witch. His dog is a zombie. And his dead boyfriend, Robbie, is a ghost. So it’s hardly any wonder that he uses his connection to the supernatural to help him solve cases. Good thing, too, because Duncan has his hands full. Janice Sanderson, the richest woman in Indianapolis, wants him to find her stripper daughter, Brenda, and another client is having some trouble with a specter haunting her family home. On top of that, Duncan has decided to add dating into the mix, though after Robbie’s death, he’s not sure he’s ready. When Duncan meets Nick while tracking down a lead on Brenda’s boyfriend, he shelves his doubts and agrees to a date. Robbie doesn’t make it easy on him, showing up to spoil his chances, but that is the least of Duncan’s worries—because one of his clients’ husbands is missing and there’s a serial killer on the loose—one Duncan fears isn’t human.
Mass Market Paperback
First published April 15, 2011
19 people are currently reading
783 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 153 reviews
May 29, 2016
This!
I was just saying last weekend that I wished I could find urban fantasy within the m/m genre. It seems that most of the paranormal books out there are filled with so much sex that they lose the story and wouldn't it be great to read a story along the lines of Patricia Briggs or Ilona Andrews but have the main characters be gay? I've searched so long for something like that but, with the exception of Rhys Ford's Black Dog Blues and Cari Z's book that she wrote for me, Ten Simple Tips for Surviving the Apocalypse, I've found virtually nothing.
But then! Then my dearest Jet steered me towards this book and my wait was over! This is exactly what I've been searching for!
This book was exciting! The last 20% had me on the edge of my seat and I was riddled with anxiety over what would happen next. Duncan is an amazing character. What a wonderful person he is!
So full of life and love. The story is so well written I felt as though I was there with them all. All of the characters were fully fleshed (heh) and relatable, even the villain. The world building was above par. The humor:angst ratio was perfect. I can't wait to read the second book!
So, my only question is why haven't I read these sooner? How come this is the first time I've heard of Stephen Osborne? This book has been out for a while. How come more people haven't read this?
Because this is worth reading, folks. Take my word for it. Pick up this book. Get lost in the story.
You won't be sorry you did.
August 28, 2019
3.5 Stars
Well-written, fast-paced, witty as all get-out and jam-packed with plenty of paranormal mystery and suspense, Pale as a Ghost is a fun and intriguing start to an M/M urban fantasy series.
The story follows private detective Duncan Andrews, as he solves cases that have a preternatural spin, with the help of his ghost boyfriend, Robbie, his centuries old witch bestie, Gina, and his zombie dog, Daisy.
The mystery elements of this story were attention-grabbing and well-constructed, keeping me fully engaged throughout. The final act was particularly exciting, with a slasher flick feel to the action and suspense — I daresay it was even a little scary!
I could have done with more in terms of the romantic arc, with Duncan torn between his love for decade-since-dead ghost boyfriend Robbie, and his unexpected, potentially sexual feelings for his new friend Nick. I’m really not one for love triangles, and although dead, my loyalties quickly fell with Robbie, so I found myself getting grumpy whenever Duncan spent time with Nick, as kind and unassuming as the guy was.
I definitely enjoyed this enough to continue with the larger series, I just hope the Robbie/Duncan/Nick situation, or potential situation, doesn’t bug me further.
Well-written, fast-paced, witty as all get-out and jam-packed with plenty of paranormal mystery and suspense, Pale as a Ghost is a fun and intriguing start to an M/M urban fantasy series.
The story follows private detective Duncan Andrews, as he solves cases that have a preternatural spin, with the help of his ghost boyfriend, Robbie, his centuries old witch bestie, Gina, and his zombie dog, Daisy.
The mystery elements of this story were attention-grabbing and well-constructed, keeping me fully engaged throughout. The final act was particularly exciting, with a slasher flick feel to the action and suspense — I daresay it was even a little scary!
I could have done with more in terms of the romantic arc, with Duncan torn between his love for decade-since-dead ghost boyfriend Robbie, and his unexpected, potentially sexual feelings for his new friend Nick. I’m really not one for love triangles, and although dead, my loyalties quickly fell with Robbie, so I found myself getting grumpy whenever Duncan spent time with Nick, as kind and unassuming as the guy was.
I definitely enjoyed this enough to continue with the larger series, I just hope the Robbie/Duncan/Nick situation, or potential situation, doesn’t bug me further.
September 24, 2019
3.5 Stars
Solid urban fantasy full of all the good stuff you like and pretty much guaranteed that more in this world will be further fleshed out as this series continues.
This reads like a classic mystery with just touches of romance - a day in the life of private investigator Duncan Andrews, who has the ability to sense when things are “different’, his knowledge of the paranormal giving him that lucky edge to successfully solve the various cases he comes across.
Add bits of snark, some pretty good action and suspense, and a touching (but frustrating and unfulfilling love connection) with his ghostly dead boyfriend, and you’ve got a solid setup for more adventures for this resourceful PI.
Again, more mystery than romance, I know where to look when I need my whodunnit fix!
Solid urban fantasy full of all the good stuff you like and pretty much guaranteed that more in this world will be further fleshed out as this series continues.
This reads like a classic mystery with just touches of romance - a day in the life of private investigator Duncan Andrews, who has the ability to sense when things are “different’, his knowledge of the paranormal giving him that lucky edge to successfully solve the various cases he comes across.
Add bits of snark, some pretty good action and suspense, and a touching (but frustrating and unfulfilling love connection) with his ghostly dead boyfriend, and you’ve got a solid setup for more adventures for this resourceful PI.
Again, more mystery than romance, I know where to look when I need my whodunnit fix!
November 2, 2020
I really enjoyed this story.
The humour and mystery worked well for me. Gina is one of the rare female leads I don't want to strangle, but Daisy needed a bigger role though lol.
The romance side was sadly bittersweet. Robbie is a lovely, lovable guy, but sadly he is dead, so the romance was based on the past. You do get a feel for Robbie, but I never really got a feel for Robbie and Duncan as a couple. The story does work well and sets the stage for future books that I look forward to reading.
ETA
I'm happy to say that despite not quite remembering how sad this one could be, my opinion hasn't changed. If anything I think my 4 stars was low lol. The mystery/intrigue in this book is really well done. A mix of magical/supernatural with enough realism to be believable.
On second reading I'm upping my rating to the full 5 stars. This book despite being a re read was as entertaining and absorbing as the first time.
ETA So many mixed feelings in one book. Laughing on minute but tearing up the next.
ETA Falling in love all over again with this gang
The humour and mystery worked well for me. Gina is one of the rare female leads I don't want to strangle, but Daisy needed a bigger role though lol.
The romance side was sadly bittersweet. Robbie is a lovely, lovable guy, but sadly he is dead, so the romance was based on the past. You do get a feel for Robbie, but I never really got a feel for Robbie and Duncan as a couple. The story does work well and sets the stage for future books that I look forward to reading.
ETA
I'm happy to say that despite not quite remembering how sad this one could be, my opinion hasn't changed. If anything I think my 4 stars was low lol. The mystery/intrigue in this book is really well done. A mix of magical/supernatural with enough realism to be believable.
On second reading I'm upping my rating to the full 5 stars. This book despite being a re read was as entertaining and absorbing as the first time.
ETA So many mixed feelings in one book. Laughing on minute but tearing up the next.
ETA Falling in love all over again with this gang
June 10, 2012
Very good m/m paranormal romantic suspense about a private investigator who has a zombie dog and a jealous ghostly boyfriend to deal with as he works cases involving a possession and a supernatural serial killer.
September 15, 2019
LOVED this! 4.5 stars bumped to 5. The relationship between Duncan and Nick seems strange. I don't yet fully see what they like about each other because they don't know each other. Other than that, the story was perfect.
The plot, the comedy, the characters. All were great and I know I will be reading all the books in this series. I could totally see this as a tv series.
Sad about the ending for one of the characters. Didn't see that coming. I hope this group continues in the stories. I like them.
Duncan and Robbie, oh that breaks my heart. They were and are so in love but one being a ghost doesn't make for a good relationship. I am so excited to see what happens to them and also Nick.
The plot, the comedy, the characters. All were great and I know I will be reading all the books in this series. I could totally see this as a tv series.
Sad about the ending for one of the characters. Didn't see that coming. I hope this group continues in the stories. I like them.
Duncan and Robbie, oh that breaks my heart. They were and are so in love but one being a ghost doesn't make for a good relationship. I am so excited to see what happens to them and also Nick.
April 23, 2011
This book was a lot of fun to read. Duncan Andrews is far from your average private investigator. His dead boyfriend's ghost hangs out with him, his dog is a zombie and his best friend is a hundreds year old witch. Add to that a small dose of psychic ability and you soon find out why Detective Carson of the Indianapolis police department cringes every time he hears that Duncan is on a case. The book had no sex in it which was a nice change but showed the love between Duncan and his ghost boyfriend, Robbie. I enjoyed the personal relationship between Duncan and Robbie very much. The book is full of one liners and off the cuff jokes that keep it from being dark. I'm looking forward to reading more of Mr. Osborne's unique style in future books.
October 9, 2013
Private Detective Duncan Andrews has a complicated life. He has a ghost for a boyfriend, a witch best friend, a lovable and hungry zombie dog, and he solves unusual crimes on top of that. In this first installment, Duncan has been hired for two separate cases, a blue female ghost haunting a family and finding a missing, rebellious girl. Along the way, he meets Nick, a man that just may convince Duncan to move on from his dead boyfriend and start dating someone human.
OH…OH…OH…how I heart this special, lovely book. It caught me by surprise, as I had never even heard of this author before, and didn’t have any expectations. But it’s everything I could ask for in a story. It made me LAUGH and laugh and laugh some more until I cried. It even caused me to laugh unexpectedly, which are always my most attractive and “barkish” laughs. Morton’s salt and a ghost defending his man. That’s all I can say. But it’s more than just incredible wit. Duncan is smart, patient, devoted, self-deprecating, sarcastic, and relatable. His boyfriend, Robbie, is someone I just want to hug and protect, and he’s so abashedly adorable that I loved him the way Duncan loved him. And the moments where they slowed down their banter and really talked and revealed their sadness at their situation broke my heart. They can’t be intimate because the effort it takes for Robbie to become more human-like weakens him too much. There are a few times where he musters the strength to hold hands with his love or to kiss him, and I felt so much compassion for them both.
But there is more to this book than even Robbie and Duncan. There is Gina, Duncan’s kickass best friend and witch, who is understanding, funny, and I loved all her powers and observations. The zombie dog, Daisy, is hysterical as she chases squirrels to eat. Even the lesser secondary characters held my interest. From Kevin, the teenager who loved the Jonas Brothers, to Brenda, Derek, Caleb and more. Both of the cases Duncan worked on were vastly different, but they were quick. The pace was perfect, and I never felt any of it dragged. Just the RIGHT mix of action, humor, love, gore, and world-building.
I have only two tiny niggles. Nick, the secondary lust interest, whom I found pretty bland. I’m glad he came across that way, though, because not once did I feel any heat between him and Duncan, and it’s like observing a couple that has been slogged in mud versus a shiny diamond with the pairing of Robbie and Duncan. Those two fit and are meant to be together (I hope, I hope…please…please), and Nick was just there. The other thing was the author has a tendency to use the phrase “made a face” too much rather than switch it up, but like I said, tiny niggles.
Highly recommend for a fast-paced, amusing mystery.
OH…OH…OH…how I heart this special, lovely book. It caught me by surprise, as I had never even heard of this author before, and didn’t have any expectations. But it’s everything I could ask for in a story. It made me LAUGH and laugh and laugh some more until I cried. It even caused me to laugh unexpectedly, which are always my most attractive and “barkish” laughs. Morton’s salt and a ghost defending his man. That’s all I can say. But it’s more than just incredible wit. Duncan is smart, patient, devoted, self-deprecating, sarcastic, and relatable. His boyfriend, Robbie, is someone I just want to hug and protect, and he’s so abashedly adorable that I loved him the way Duncan loved him. And the moments where they slowed down their banter and really talked and revealed their sadness at their situation broke my heart. They can’t be intimate because the effort it takes for Robbie to become more human-like weakens him too much. There are a few times where he musters the strength to hold hands with his love or to kiss him, and I felt so much compassion for them both.
But there is more to this book than even Robbie and Duncan. There is Gina, Duncan’s kickass best friend and witch, who is understanding, funny, and I loved all her powers and observations. The zombie dog, Daisy, is hysterical as she chases squirrels to eat. Even the lesser secondary characters held my interest. From Kevin, the teenager who loved the Jonas Brothers, to Brenda, Derek, Caleb and more. Both of the cases Duncan worked on were vastly different, but they were quick. The pace was perfect, and I never felt any of it dragged. Just the RIGHT mix of action, humor, love, gore, and world-building.
I have only two tiny niggles. Nick, the secondary lust interest, whom I found pretty bland. I’m glad he came across that way, though, because not once did I feel any heat between him and Duncan, and it’s like observing a couple that has been slogged in mud versus a shiny diamond with the pairing of Robbie and Duncan. Those two fit and are meant to be together (I hope, I hope…please…please), and Nick was just there. The other thing was the author has a tendency to use the phrase “made a face” too much rather than switch it up, but like I said, tiny niggles.
Highly recommend for a fast-paced, amusing mystery.
October 6, 2017
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! It was funny, quirky, fast-paced and it felt original. A PI with a gift of sensing he paranormal, a ghost for a boyfriend, a zombie for a dog, and a centuries old witch for a bestie. All the while he's trying to solve cases, catch a serial killer, and get laid while his jealous boyfriend hovers about.
Super fun read! I'm looking forward to the next ones--especially since no one has gotten laid yet.
Super fun read! I'm looking forward to the next ones--especially since no one has gotten laid yet.
April 26, 2011
This was a very enjoyable light read for me. The characters were sweet. I really liked Duncan and Robbie. Poor Robbie. He was such a sweetheart. And who wouldn't love to have zombie bulldog who needs to chomp the heads off of squirrels everyday to stay "alive". Gotta love Daisy...so protective of Duncan. I enjoyed the mystery and trying to figure out what "the man" really was even though it was pretty obvious.
There were a few inconsistencies in the plot the bothered me on occasion but it was still a good read. I'm pretty sure I'll read the sequel since the ending was so bittersweet and I'm curious to see what happens.
Keep in mind that this is Fantasy, not Romance. There is a little bit of romance, though.
There were a few inconsistencies in the plot the bothered me on occasion but it was still a good read. I'm pretty sure I'll read the sequel since the ending was so bittersweet and I'm curious to see what happens.
Keep in mind that this is Fantasy, not Romance. There is a little bit of romance, though.
April 16, 2011
Writing reviews isn't something I do very well, and so I'll tell you what I thought. Pale as a Ghost is an excellent read. I recommended it to anyone who likes a solid paranormal mystery with a little romance mixed in for good measure. I loved the humor laced through out the story as well as the bitter-sweet romance with the ghost boyfriend. It's a fun satisfying read which I enjoyed very much.
October 28, 2017
I quite enjoyed this. I thought it was going to be a bit more grim than it was, but for all the slicing and dicing it was a rather light read. Liked that Duncan didn't suddenly go off on a goose chase over the killer, even if that part of the story didn't eventually tie into him. Seemed more real that way. And for all that I would have liked for Robbie to let Duncan and Nick get it on, I like the dynamic between Duncan and Robbie, and maybe we will be lucky to maybe get Nick/Duncan/Robbie in later books? I'm all for unconventional threesomes.
April 24, 2011
A friend (Diane) told me that I would like this because I liked Jim Butcher's and Rob Thurman's stories. She wasn't that far off :)
Excerpt:
“There are a few of us in the world. Most work for big companies. I‟m just a one-man operation.” Okay, one man, a ghost, a zombie dog, and a witch if you want to be technical and list helpers, but he didn‟t need to know that.
Likes:
+ Duncan is not an ordinary P.I., the idea of a ghost boyfriend, a witch best-friend, and a zombie dog is very engaging. I do think that this is a well-written basic of a supernatural series. I love all the characters, even if Robbie can be selfish a bit in my opinion (but hey, he died when he was 20-years old)
+ The case is pretty good too -- I like the idea of a serial killer that appears every 100 years. The villain is scary and lives up the image of a sort-of immortal killer.
+ Some of the one-liners are witty. Duncan might not be in the caliber of Harry Dresden or Cal Leandros, but he charms me :)
Dislikes:
VERY VERY SPOILERY; WARNING!!!!!
+ I'm not fond of the ending; and how Duncan even "suggests" to have Nick's body possessed by Robbie so he might have sex again with his dead boyfriend. I'm sorry, but I think that is RUDE. It's a strange kind of love triangle, and I'm NOT a huge fan of love triangle. I like Nick and I don't want Robbie to walk all over him just because Robbie had Duncan first.
All in all, an entertaining m/m supernatural mystery (note, no sex at all, just a kiss or two), which might be a good start of a series ... but totally need to work on balancing the dead and the (alive) potential boyfriend.
Excerpt:
“There are a few of us in the world. Most work for big companies. I‟m just a one-man operation.” Okay, one man, a ghost, a zombie dog, and a witch if you want to be technical and list helpers, but he didn‟t need to know that.
Likes:
+ Duncan is not an ordinary P.I., the idea of a ghost boyfriend, a witch best-friend, and a zombie dog is very engaging. I do think that this is a well-written basic of a supernatural series. I love all the characters, even if Robbie can be selfish a bit in my opinion (but hey, he died when he was 20-years old)
+ The case is pretty good too -- I like the idea of a serial killer that appears every 100 years. The villain is scary and lives up the image of a sort-of immortal killer.
+ Some of the one-liners are witty. Duncan might not be in the caliber of Harry Dresden or Cal Leandros, but he charms me :)
Dislikes:
VERY VERY SPOILERY; WARNING!!!!!
+ I'm not fond of the ending; and how Duncan even "suggests" to have Nick's body possessed by Robbie so he might have sex again with his dead boyfriend. I'm sorry, but I think that is RUDE. It's a strange kind of love triangle, and I'm NOT a huge fan of love triangle. I like Nick and I don't want Robbie to walk all over him just because Robbie had Duncan first.
All in all, an entertaining m/m supernatural mystery (note, no sex at all, just a kiss or two), which might be a good start of a series ... but totally need to work on balancing the dead and the (alive) potential boyfriend.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 1, 2012
It was very different than I expected. I always sort of expect romance but this was more of a fun private detective/criminal type novel. Not a mystery completely but close. I really enjoyed it although the ghost of a boyfriend seemed a bit too sweet..maybe a little syrupy for me. I tend to like things rough not sweet.
The main character was awesome. Just such a down to earth and funny guy..the kind you can picture as a best friend or buddy no problem. And the Zombie dog and the witch best friend (not girlfriend) were great! I thought the definition of things was interesting - and the explanations plausible. It has the setup to series feel so I would be surprised if we didn't get more for a series.
The main character was awesome. Just such a down to earth and funny guy..the kind you can picture as a best friend or buddy no problem. And the Zombie dog and the witch best friend (not girlfriend) were great! I thought the definition of things was interesting - and the explanations plausible. It has the setup to series feel so I would be surprised if we didn't get more for a series.
January 5, 2016
Wow, what a fantastic story! I absolutely love this book and can't say enough great things about it. The story - fast-paced, interesting, and at times utterly hilarious - sucked me right in and all I could do was keep turning pages. Most impressive is the portrayal of memorable secondary characters including ghosts, witches, ghouls, strippers, zombie dogs, and ordinary humans.
Duncan, the main character, is a paranormal private eye. He has a dead boyfriend (ghost) and a witch for a best friend. His dog is a zombie. Duncan is absolutely adorable. Funny, a tad self-deprecating, and an all around good guy. The author very skillfully weaves pop culture and paranormal lore together to create an almost cinematic, extremely entertaining story. I can envision these characters on a cable TV drama.
I can only hope there are plenty more of books in this series. I adored this first one.
Duncan, the main character, is a paranormal private eye. He has a dead boyfriend (ghost) and a witch for a best friend. His dog is a zombie. Duncan is absolutely adorable. Funny, a tad self-deprecating, and an all around good guy. The author very skillfully weaves pop culture and paranormal lore together to create an almost cinematic, extremely entertaining story. I can envision these characters on a cable TV drama.
I can only hope there are plenty more of books in this series. I adored this first one.
November 18, 2024
I liked it -- I especially loved how different it was from the usual -- but I'm not sure I'm going to continue with the series. I think having the focus evenly split across four different plots -- two different cases plus the two different relationships -- made it hard for me to get invested in anything in particular, so my attention kept wandering. The MC should be the glue that holds the four together, but I was having a hard time getting a feel for his character development, so I was only surface level invested there, too.
It intrigued me enough that I read the blurbs for the rest of the series, and I am *very* curious how the plot with Robbie's going to play out, so I might come back to it some day. Worth a try if you're looking for something different.
It intrigued me enough that I read the blurbs for the rest of the series, and I am *very* curious how the plot with Robbie's going to play out, so I might come back to it some day. Worth a try if you're looking for something different.
October 12, 2019
not sure this is the right fit for me. yes, the story was interesting and the characters too but ... I am not really interested in reading the next one. I think a bit part of that is Robbie ... because he annoyed me.
so we will see
so we will see
August 5, 2016
3.75 stars
Solid beginning to the series. A little slow as new characters are introduced, but I liked them so much I decided to continue on to the second book. Recommended.
Solid beginning to the series. A little slow as new characters are introduced, but I liked them so much I decided to continue on to the second book. Recommended.
June 21, 2016
Title: Pale as a Ghost
Author: Stephen Osborne
Series: Duncan Andrews Thrillers Book 1
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Reviewer: Mollien
Release Date: April 15, 2011
Genre(s): Gay Male Romance, Paranormal
Page Count: 200 pages
Heat Level: 1 flames out of 5
Rating: 5stars out of 5
Blurb:
Review:
How could death and mayhem be so much fun? When you put it together with a gay male couple where one of the partners happens to be a ghost, and they happen to have a dog that is a zombie, I think you can see how. This book, although a little gory, was fun to read. I can’t wait to read the rest of this series. Plot: Duncan Andrews is a private detective. He seems to attract the strangest cases, putting him at the scene of the most horrific crimes. Duncan is not your everyday PI, you see he sees dead people, including his boyfriend Robbie who has been dead for 10 years. They live together and have a fun relationship aside from the fact that since Robbie is a ghost who hasn’t aged in appearance in 10 years and they can’t have sex. They do have a dog that is a zombie and a friend that is a witch. In this first book, Duncan is working on two cases. Finding a missing girl that puts him on the path of a serial killer, and trying to get an evil specter out of a client’s home. There is so much emotional chemistry between Robbie and Duncan. Even though Duncan wants to try a real relationship, he can’t let go of Robbie. This book is action packed and I couldn’t wait to find out how it ended. This book has an intense ending with the promise of more to come. There is some depth to these off the wall characters that make you want to join them as they tackle the strange things that do more than go bump in the night.
SCORES on a scale of 1-5 Stars rate each of the Following 5 Categories
PLOT: 5 Stars
CHEMISTRY: 5 Stars
PACING: 5 Stars
ENDING: 5 Stars
CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT: 5 Stars
Review Copy of Pale as a Ghost provided by the Dreamspinner Press for an honest Review. Reviewed by Mollien from Alpha Book Club
Author: Stephen Osborne
Series: Duncan Andrews Thrillers Book 1
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Reviewer: Mollien
Release Date: April 15, 2011
Genre(s): Gay Male Romance, Paranormal
Page Count: 200 pages
Heat Level: 1 flames out of 5
Rating: 5stars out of 5
Blurb:
A Duncan Andrews Thriller
Private detective Duncan Andrews’s best friend Gina is a witch. His dog is a zombie. And his dead boyfriend, Robbie, is a ghost. So it’s hardly any wonder that he uses his connection to the supernatural to help him solve cases. Good thing, too, because Duncan has his hands full. Janice Sanderson, the richest woman in Indianapolis, wants him to find her stripper daughter, Brenda, and another client is having some trouble with a specter haunting her family home. On top of that, Duncan has decided to add dating into the mix, though after Robbie’s death, he’s not sure he’s ready.
When Duncan meets Nick while tracking down a lead on Brenda’s boyfriend, he shelves his doubts and agrees to a date. Robbie doesn’t make it easy on him, showing up to spoil his chances, but that is the least of Duncan’s worries—because one of his clients’ husbands is missing and there’s a serial killer on the loose—one Duncan fears isn’t human.
Review:
How could death and mayhem be so much fun? When you put it together with a gay male couple where one of the partners happens to be a ghost, and they happen to have a dog that is a zombie, I think you can see how. This book, although a little gory, was fun to read. I can’t wait to read the rest of this series. Plot: Duncan Andrews is a private detective. He seems to attract the strangest cases, putting him at the scene of the most horrific crimes. Duncan is not your everyday PI, you see he sees dead people, including his boyfriend Robbie who has been dead for 10 years. They live together and have a fun relationship aside from the fact that since Robbie is a ghost who hasn’t aged in appearance in 10 years and they can’t have sex. They do have a dog that is a zombie and a friend that is a witch. In this first book, Duncan is working on two cases. Finding a missing girl that puts him on the path of a serial killer, and trying to get an evil specter out of a client’s home. There is so much emotional chemistry between Robbie and Duncan. Even though Duncan wants to try a real relationship, he can’t let go of Robbie. This book is action packed and I couldn’t wait to find out how it ended. This book has an intense ending with the promise of more to come. There is some depth to these off the wall characters that make you want to join them as they tackle the strange things that do more than go bump in the night.
SCORES on a scale of 1-5 Stars rate each of the Following 5 Categories
PLOT: 5 Stars
CHEMISTRY: 5 Stars
PACING: 5 Stars
ENDING: 5 Stars
CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT: 5 Stars
Review Copy of Pale as a Ghost provided by the Dreamspinner Press for an honest Review. Reviewed by Mollien from Alpha Book Club
November 25, 2012
Pale as a Ghost is a solid 4 star read. Very likable main characters and many things that I enjoy - paranormal/urban fantasy, a mystery, a serial killer, a dog and an actual *plot*.
The relationship between the two main characters is sweet, if unconventional (one is a ghost and they can't really touch, let alone have sex) but there is great love between them. It really is very poignant. And the plot keeps the book moving forward at a quick pace. Lots of action and adventure. The secondary characters were good too, if only fleetingly there.
When I chose this book, a friend of mine "warned" me that it had a controversial ending, but that she liked the ending. I didn't think the ending was controversial at all (I liked it too) and I, in fact, called it from reading the blurb. So I was happy with it.
The book did end before quite EVERYTHING was resolved but there is a sequel which I most definitely buy and read very soon. In fact, if the promised series comes into being, I will read every book if they are the quality of this one.
And the pet? A lovely zombie bulldog named Daisy who is rather fond of braaaaaaaiinnnns. Squirrel brains, that is. I had an amusing thought while reading - crossing her with Dug from "Up". "Hello! You are my master and SQUIRREL! . . . braaaaiiiiiiinssssss". Hey, at least I amuse myself :).
October 1, 2017
This was great.
There was humor, and mystery, and paranormal. I originally thought a ghost, a zombie dog, and a witch would be a little much, but it was great. I loved Daisy. I liked all the characters. Idk about Nick yet...but everyone else I got a good feel for. I can't wait for the next one.
~~~~~~~~~~~
This is a nice comfort read.
Nothing to gory or angsty, but still a solid story.
There is a lot of humor.
I'm a sucker for a paranormal PI.
Throw in an adorable zombie dog, I just love that dog.
I just feel good vibes when I read this series.
It's light, and fun...and still keeps my interest. Second time around, and I still never found a dragging portion.
There was humor, and mystery, and paranormal. I originally thought a ghost, a zombie dog, and a witch would be a little much, but it was great. I loved Daisy. I liked all the characters. Idk about Nick yet...but everyone else I got a good feel for. I can't wait for the next one.
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This is a nice comfort read.
Nothing to gory or angsty, but still a solid story.
There is a lot of humor.
I'm a sucker for a paranormal PI.
Throw in an adorable zombie dog, I just love that dog.
I just feel good vibes when I read this series.
It's light, and fun...and still keeps my interest. Second time around, and I still never found a dragging portion.
June 19, 2012
This was a great read. It had humour, paranormal elements and (a little bit of) romance. I loved Duncan's sense of humour which he definitely needed to put up with everything that was going on in his life. His relationship with Robbie was a little bittersweet and I really want to see what happens with Nick in the second book. It made a nice change to have a strong, positive female character in Gina but probably the star of the whole book for me was Daisy, Duncan's zombie dog!
December 5, 2018
I really enjoyed this one! I was very glad to see Robbie will be making an appearance again, he was my favorite character. Don't get me wrong, the story had a number of great characters but for some reason I could just sympathize with Robbie. Can't wait for the next installment on their story.
October 19, 2023
Re-read October 2023
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4.5 stars
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4.5 stars
August 30, 2015
Même si j’adore lire de la bonne romance épicée en MM, je reconnais que depuis un certain j’ai pris goût à ces histoires mi-fantastiques mi-policières, avec des héros atypiques, sans aucune scène de sexe ou alors très soft. Après l’excellent « les infectés » d’Andrea Speed que j’ai fini par lire en VO, ce récit de Stephen Osborne me conforte complètement dans mes choix.
Le premier élément qui m’a plu c’est la relation entre Duncan et Robbie, c’est un vrai régal de voir leurs interactions, c’est plein d’humour, souvent drôle, même si par principe c’est assez triste de vivre avec le fantôme de son petit-ami mort ! Sauf que l’auteur a préféré un autre point de vue et c’est autant de plaisir pour nous, il a su nous transmettre les sentiments des deux hommes pour cette relation si particulière. C’est difficile pour Duncan de vivre avec un homme qu’il aime, mais qu’il ne peut plus toucher (sauf un laps de temps très court), qui ne peut plus l’étreindre et surtout lui faire l’amour. Il s’éloigne doucement de son partenaire et cela Robbie en souffre beaucoup, et lorsqu’un nouvel amant potentiel apparait, notre fiancé fantôme n’apprécie que modérément cette intrusion, jusqu’à ce qu'il envisage une idée ou ce « potentiel » pourrait être utile.
Le second élément ce sont les enquêtes policières que mène Duncan, car oui en dehors de ces prises de bec régulières avec Robbie, il est quand même détective privé, un peu particulier avec un don, mais enquêteur quand même. Et cette trame policière est bien construite, le méchant de l’histoire est vraiment retors et pas tout à fait humain, ce qui conduit Duncan plusieurs fois à la limite de la mort. Autre point positif, notre héros n’est pas un surhomme, loin de là, et lors de ces deux enquêtes il ne va pas être épargné, mais heureusement il peut compter sur les talents de sa sorcière de meilleure amie, un personnage haut en couleur également.
Le style est fluide, très vif, il y a peu de temps morts dans le récit, les passages plus légers alternent avec ceux plus sombres des crimes, d'autant plus que l’auteur entre chaque chapitre, laisse le meurtrier s’exprimer que ce soit sur ce qu’il va faire ou nous dévoiler son passé. En bref, j’ai adoré ce premier volume et je trouve que c’est une excellente idée d’offrir des histoires de ce type aux lectrices de MM, ne serait-ce que pour prouver encore une fois la richesse et la diversité de ce genre qui prend de plus en plus d’ampleur, pour mon plus grand plaisir. Et pour soutenir ce genre justement, n’hésitez pas à acheter directement chez l’éditeur si vous voulez continuer à pouvoir lire en français ce genre.
Le premier élément qui m’a plu c’est la relation entre Duncan et Robbie, c’est un vrai régal de voir leurs interactions, c’est plein d’humour, souvent drôle, même si par principe c’est assez triste de vivre avec le fantôme de son petit-ami mort ! Sauf que l’auteur a préféré un autre point de vue et c’est autant de plaisir pour nous, il a su nous transmettre les sentiments des deux hommes pour cette relation si particulière. C’est difficile pour Duncan de vivre avec un homme qu’il aime, mais qu’il ne peut plus toucher (sauf un laps de temps très court), qui ne peut plus l’étreindre et surtout lui faire l’amour. Il s’éloigne doucement de son partenaire et cela Robbie en souffre beaucoup, et lorsqu’un nouvel amant potentiel apparait, notre fiancé fantôme n’apprécie que modérément cette intrusion, jusqu’à ce qu'il envisage une idée ou ce « potentiel » pourrait être utile.
Le second élément ce sont les enquêtes policières que mène Duncan, car oui en dehors de ces prises de bec régulières avec Robbie, il est quand même détective privé, un peu particulier avec un don, mais enquêteur quand même. Et cette trame policière est bien construite, le méchant de l’histoire est vraiment retors et pas tout à fait humain, ce qui conduit Duncan plusieurs fois à la limite de la mort. Autre point positif, notre héros n’est pas un surhomme, loin de là, et lors de ces deux enquêtes il ne va pas être épargné, mais heureusement il peut compter sur les talents de sa sorcière de meilleure amie, un personnage haut en couleur également.
Le style est fluide, très vif, il y a peu de temps morts dans le récit, les passages plus légers alternent avec ceux plus sombres des crimes, d'autant plus que l’auteur entre chaque chapitre, laisse le meurtrier s’exprimer que ce soit sur ce qu’il va faire ou nous dévoiler son passé. En bref, j’ai adoré ce premier volume et je trouve que c’est une excellente idée d’offrir des histoires de ce type aux lectrices de MM, ne serait-ce que pour prouver encore une fois la richesse et la diversité de ce genre qui prend de plus en plus d’ampleur, pour mon plus grand plaisir. Et pour soutenir ce genre justement, n’hésitez pas à acheter directement chez l’éditeur si vous voulez continuer à pouvoir lire en français ce genre.
April 27, 2011
Private detective Duncan Andrews’s best friend Gina is a witch. His dog is a zombie. And his dead boyfriend, Robbie, is a ghost. So it’s hardly any wonder that he uses his connection to the supernatural to help him solve cases. Good thing, too, because Duncan has his hands full. Janice Sanderson, the richest woman in Indianapolis, wants him to find her stripper daughter, Brenda, and another client is having some trouble with a specter haunting her family home. On top of that, Duncan has decided to add dating into the mix, though after Robbie’s death, he’s not sure he’s ready.
When Duncan meets Nick while tracking down a lead on Brenda’s boyfriend, he shelves his doubts and agrees to a date. Robbie doesn’t make it easy on him, showing up to spoil his chances, but that is the least of Duncan’s worries—because one of his clients’ husbands is missing and there’s a serial killer on the loose—one Duncan fears isn’t human.
When Duncan meets Nick while tracking down a lead on Brenda’s boyfriend, he shelves his doubts and agrees to a date. Robbie doesn’t make it easy on him, showing up to spoil his chances, but that is the least of Duncan’s worries—because one of his clients’ husbands is missing and there’s a serial killer on the loose—one Duncan fears isn’t human.
July 1, 2012
I don't think I have ever read a book that had a ghost for a love interest. The difficulties of such a relationship were well depicted and as it turned out I liked Robbie. That he and Duncan were in love wasn't a question, it was just hard without the physical contact. I found myself rooting for them to find a way for it to work around it. I was hoping that Gina would zap him or something but that would have been too easy.
There is a surprising amount of activity in the plot. Never a dull moment for the PI Duncan Andrews. All three cases he worked were different, fun, and engaging and...I seriously couldn't help but like it more since it is base in Indy.
His dog Daisy was Awesome. Who would not want a zombie dog who needs daily jaunts to the park to eat the heads off of squirrels. I have a soft spot for dogs who are so ugly that they are cute.
I really look forward to reading the next installment which I just happen to have.
There is a surprising amount of activity in the plot. Never a dull moment for the PI Duncan Andrews. All three cases he worked were different, fun, and engaging and...I seriously couldn't help but like it more since it is base in Indy.
His dog Daisy was Awesome. Who would not want a zombie dog who needs daily jaunts to the park to eat the heads off of squirrels. I have a soft spot for dogs who are so ugly that they are cute.
I really look forward to reading the next installment which I just happen to have.
January 16, 2019
4.5 stars - can't decide whether to round up or down. I really did enjoy it but I don't know if I can say it was amazing? I will have to think about it.
I'm just catching up on reviews for books I've read throughout October, so only just got around to reviewing this one. It was a very good UF novel, especially as its the first in the series - a great beginning. I found the characters engaging, there was a great storyline that kept me interested throughout and there's still an element of romance etc, even though this isn't really the main focus. I liked this authors writing style and I found it fun too, some nice humour in there without being over the top.
I'm really keen to carry on this series, with lots of things to discover...
I'm just catching up on reviews for books I've read throughout October, so only just got around to reviewing this one. It was a very good UF novel, especially as its the first in the series - a great beginning. I found the characters engaging, there was a great storyline that kept me interested throughout and there's still an element of romance etc, even though this isn't really the main focus. I liked this authors writing style and I found it fun too, some nice humour in there without being over the top.
I'm really keen to carry on this series, with lots of things to discover...
January 27, 2023
This book is funny, seriously funny; two paragraphs in and I was laughing out loud. Once you pick this one up you will not want to put it down.
Duncan has a lot on his plate with his ghost boyfriend, his zombie dog and his PI business. In the midst of one case involving a serial killer and another case involving a haunting, he has to deal with a jealous boyfriend and his first date in ten years.
The bad guy is seriously creepy and not someone you would want to meet in a dark alley or maybe not even in a well-lit public place. The little peeks into his thinking were interesting and awful all at the same time. Even the minor characters are fleshed out and made interesting.
The rest of this series is definitely going on my tbr list.
Duncan has a lot on his plate with his ghost boyfriend, his zombie dog and his PI business. In the midst of one case involving a serial killer and another case involving a haunting, he has to deal with a jealous boyfriend and his first date in ten years.
The bad guy is seriously creepy and not someone you would want to meet in a dark alley or maybe not even in a well-lit public place. The little peeks into his thinking were interesting and awful all at the same time. Even the minor characters are fleshed out and made interesting.
The rest of this series is definitely going on my tbr list.
June 12, 2015
The world is never a dull place for PI Duncan Andrews. He has a dog that's a zombie, a witch for a best friend and his dead boyfriend ghost lives with him. Add to this a mix, cases that involve other worldly creatures and you have a day in Duncan's life.
This was so much fun. As a kid, I always hoped I would have special abilities like Duncan. Alas, that was not to be, but I can enjoy Duncan's. All the characters are fleshed out, but since this is a series, I expect there will be even more detail later on. A beer, a bag of chips, and this book, great way to spend a day.
This was so much fun. As a kid, I always hoped I would have special abilities like Duncan. Alas, that was not to be, but I can enjoy Duncan's. All the characters are fleshed out, but since this is a series, I expect there will be even more detail later on. A beer, a bag of chips, and this book, great way to spend a day.
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