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Dusty Chronicles #1
Haunting
When sixteen-year-old, Dusty Vermeer, moves to rural Iowa with her dad and sister at the start of her sophomore year, she undergoes major life changes – a new school, new friends, and a popular new boyfriend. But she soon discovers all is not what it appears to be. When Jack Olson, a handsome young soldier, begins to invade her dreams each night, she bears witness to the horrors of war and must determine what is real and what is just a dream. When Jack finally steps out of her dreams in ghostly form, begging for help and struggling to remember his life, Dusty makes it her mission to solve the mystery behind his death. As she draws closer to the truth, she places her own life at risk while struggling to cope with the feelings she develops for the soldier who’s been dead for nearly 60 years.
172 pages, Paperback
First published April 29, 2013
2 people are currently reading
152 people want to read
About the author
B.J. Sheldon
5 books27 followersB.J. Sheldon's love of writing has developed into a passion for creating exciting characters and story lines that she hopes will enthrall and inspire young readers to pick up a book and use their imaginations.
BJ Sheldon is a Young Adult author who has a penchant for the paranormal and supernatural. She is obsessed with strong female characters and the strength and determination that a young adult protagonist can bring to the page. She is the author of The Dusty Chronicles trilogy and The Gibborim Series. She has a B.S. degree in Project Management and a PhD in life. Throughout the years, BJ has found endless inspiration through her childhood in rural Iowa, the mysteries of the paranormal, and her ceaseless need to question everything.
Most days, she can be found in front of her laptop or reading a good book when she isn't trying to keep her dog and 3 cats from taking over the world. Her hobbies include cuticle care, fighting off zombies, and traveling through space and time with a mad man in a blue box. BJ prides herself in being a Whovian, Sherlockian, Potter Head, and an all-around giant nerd.
BJ lives near the Black Hills in South Dakota with her husband, a veteran of the US military, and is the mother to 3 beautiful daughters, 2 of whom are still living at home and making her crazy. She is represented by Italia Gandolfo of the Gandolfo Helin and Fountain Literary Management agency.
BJ Sheldon is a Young Adult author who has a penchant for the paranormal and supernatural. She is obsessed with strong female characters and the strength and determination that a young adult protagonist can bring to the page. She is the author of The Dusty Chronicles trilogy and The Gibborim Series. She has a B.S. degree in Project Management and a PhD in life. Throughout the years, BJ has found endless inspiration through her childhood in rural Iowa, the mysteries of the paranormal, and her ceaseless need to question everything.
Most days, she can be found in front of her laptop or reading a good book when she isn't trying to keep her dog and 3 cats from taking over the world. Her hobbies include cuticle care, fighting off zombies, and traveling through space and time with a mad man in a blue box. BJ prides herself in being a Whovian, Sherlockian, Potter Head, and an all-around giant nerd.
BJ lives near the Black Hills in South Dakota with her husband, a veteran of the US military, and is the mother to 3 beautiful daughters, 2 of whom are still living at home and making her crazy. She is represented by Italia Gandolfo of the Gandolfo Helin and Fountain Literary Management agency.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
December 10, 2013
To see my full review:
http://bookvacations.wordpress.com/20...
This was a great mystery novel. It’s fairly short and to the point, making it a fast paced read that you won’t want to put down. Dusty is a great character that is easy to fall in love with, especially because she’s so innocent and genuine. She really wants to do right by others, and I loved that about her. I easily related to her, though we’re vastly different, and though she’s technically a story-book character, I think we’d be great friends in real life. Finishing the novel was like leaving a friend behind, and I can’t wait for the next installment in this intriguing series.
Though I figured out the truth about Jack Olson much sooner than I’d have liked, Sheldon does a wonderful job keeping the reader interested, especially with its epic conclusion. My heart was definitely in my throat as I read through to the end—I could see it all unfold in slow motion, even though I was tearing through the pages at warp speed by that point.
This is a great read that I think readers from all walks of life will enjoy. I highly suggest picking it up.
http://bookvacations.wordpress.com/20...
This was a great mystery novel. It’s fairly short and to the point, making it a fast paced read that you won’t want to put down. Dusty is a great character that is easy to fall in love with, especially because she’s so innocent and genuine. She really wants to do right by others, and I loved that about her. I easily related to her, though we’re vastly different, and though she’s technically a story-book character, I think we’d be great friends in real life. Finishing the novel was like leaving a friend behind, and I can’t wait for the next installment in this intriguing series.
Though I figured out the truth about Jack Olson much sooner than I’d have liked, Sheldon does a wonderful job keeping the reader interested, especially with its epic conclusion. My heart was definitely in my throat as I read through to the end—I could see it all unfold in slow motion, even though I was tearing through the pages at warp speed by that point.
This is a great read that I think readers from all walks of life will enjoy. I highly suggest picking it up.
February 22, 2018
I have to admit. it took me a little while to get into this one, but that has nothing to do with the author or the book itself.
While I read a lot of YA, a book about a teenage love triangle is hardly my typical book of choice, even if one corner of the triangle does happen to be a ghost. However, being a 40 year-old male, I'm not exactly the book's target audience either. I'm sure if I were a teenage girl, I would have devoured the entire book in a day.
That being said, once I got to the reveal of how Jack became a ghost, I was hooked and couldn't put it down. I honestly wasn't expecting the thriller/mystery aspect and it was very well executed. Now that I'm acclimated to Dusty's world, I can't wait to start on the next one. I'm so glad there are two more in the series.
While I read a lot of YA, a book about a teenage love triangle is hardly my typical book of choice, even if one corner of the triangle does happen to be a ghost. However, being a 40 year-old male, I'm not exactly the book's target audience either. I'm sure if I were a teenage girl, I would have devoured the entire book in a day.
That being said, once I got to the reveal of how Jack became a ghost, I was hooked and couldn't put it down. I honestly wasn't expecting the thriller/mystery aspect and it was very well executed. Now that I'm acclimated to Dusty's world, I can't wait to start on the next one. I'm so glad there are two more in the series.
March 31, 2018
Couldn't put it down
I loved reading this book. Once I started reading it, I was drawn into it. Looking forward to reading more books by this author
I loved reading this book. Once I started reading it, I was drawn into it. Looking forward to reading more books by this author
December 19, 2014
Dusty is a teenage girl, who isn't exactly excited at the idea of moving to a small town farm. Florida was much better. But she doesn't feel sorry for herself long. For the very first chapter, odd things are happening in her bedroom - doors reopening themselves, things being moved around, drawers being opened and closed. Right away, the reader guesses the real problem; there's a ghost involved.
I enjoyed the way this story dives right into the paranormal problem and still leaves a sense of mystery. Dusty freaks as a teenage girl should and needs time to swallow everything. But this isn't the only thing that makes her believable. She is a regular teenager, who is thrilled to slip right into school, find a boyfriend and has small run-ins with normal teenage girl jealousy.
The ghost is a dream guy, and it's easy to watch Dusty's growing relationship with him grow in a perfectly sweet and innocent way. The parallel confusion with other 'real' relationships gives a nice sense of reality, and doesn't let one doubt Dusty's level-headedness.
The tension in the story is nicely paced, and I never had the urge to put the story down. But then, at 170 pages, it's easy to get through.
Summed up, this is a nice paranormal romance with a great touch of adventure and tension. As soon as I finished it, I couldn't wait to bounce on book 2.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed the way this story dives right into the paranormal problem and still leaves a sense of mystery. Dusty freaks as a teenage girl should and needs time to swallow everything. But this isn't the only thing that makes her believable. She is a regular teenager, who is thrilled to slip right into school, find a boyfriend and has small run-ins with normal teenage girl jealousy.
The ghost is a dream guy, and it's easy to watch Dusty's growing relationship with him grow in a perfectly sweet and innocent way. The parallel confusion with other 'real' relationships gives a nice sense of reality, and doesn't let one doubt Dusty's level-headedness.
The tension in the story is nicely paced, and I never had the urge to put the story down. But then, at 170 pages, it's easy to get through.
Summed up, this is a nice paranormal romance with a great touch of adventure and tension. As soon as I finished it, I couldn't wait to bounce on book 2.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 31, 2016
I’m not going to tell what the story is about – you can read the book blurb to find out that information. What I want to tell you is what I thought about it.
Dusty and Jack’s story took me totally by surprise.
I started reading this book thinking it was a war-time story, and wondering if I would find it appealing only because that theme isn’t my normal type of read. Boy was I wrong! So if you pick it up, and think the same thing – Don’t stop reading – keep going. You will not be sorry.
There are so many plot twists that I couldn’t put the book down for long because I wanted to see what happened next. A few scenes made me gasp, and want to beat the character involved.
The dream sequences – one word - Amazing.
There is a love triangle, but I’ve not seen one play out the way this one does. So, if you’re one of those readers that say you’re tired of love triangles – you owe it to yourself to give this one a try.
I highly recommend this book if:
1) You’re looking for a new type of story.
2) You’re looking for an easy read that will keep you turning the pages.
3) You like a mixture of suspense, romance.
Dusty and Jack’s story took me totally by surprise.
I started reading this book thinking it was a war-time story, and wondering if I would find it appealing only because that theme isn’t my normal type of read. Boy was I wrong! So if you pick it up, and think the same thing – Don’t stop reading – keep going. You will not be sorry.
There are so many plot twists that I couldn’t put the book down for long because I wanted to see what happened next. A few scenes made me gasp, and want to beat the character involved.
The dream sequences – one word - Amazing.
There is a love triangle, but I’ve not seen one play out the way this one does. So, if you’re one of those readers that say you’re tired of love triangles – you owe it to yourself to give this one a try.
I highly recommend this book if:
1) You’re looking for a new type of story.
2) You’re looking for an easy read that will keep you turning the pages.
3) You like a mixture of suspense, romance.
February 17, 2016
Besides being a romance, this is also a mystery as Dusty tries to unravel just why Jack is tied to her house and exactly how he died. Everything in this is lovingly brought to life, slowly and leisurely. Though it does have the basic pieces of a teen book with moments of high school, the inevitable hot guy who magnetizes himself to our main Bella-like heroine, with a petty rival/bully, the usual altercations, the best friend (though I did adore her best friend who was chatty and all smiles and loved everyone), the nearly nonexistent parent and sibling. Things did feel very stereotypical in places, such as everyone at school driving trucks since it was set in the mid-west, and the only types of houses around being farm houses. But it is a sweet romance and I did enjoy the time spent with Dusty at her high school and talking to her ghost friend, learning and uncovering the mystery surrounding him, reading the letters to him, playing detective (I even enjoyed it when her best friend got involved in helping to dig up facts), and watching her slowly and inevitably fall in love with the ghost.
December 21, 2014
***I received a free copy for an honest reveiw***
Note: This review contains NO spoilers
Interesting romantic ghost story. Haunting had elements of suspense, mystery, action, and romance. Being of the paranormal theme, the story was fascinating in how the two main characters interacted, especially since one is a ghost. B.J. Sheldon delivered a believable love story between a young girl and a ghost with her well developed and realistic characters and her descriptive rural setting.
I had a hard time putting the book down! I was completely immersed in Dusty and Jack's journey in finding the truth and their growing attraction to each other. Definitely, this was a page turner. Even the elements of a ghostly presence made my skin crawl...as if I was watching a horror movie. Yah...there was no way I was going to continue reading in silence! Haha! It was great! I love the horror genre, and B.J. Sheldon definitely had that element present in this ghost love story!
Movies, Shows & Books
Note: This review contains NO spoilers
Interesting romantic ghost story. Haunting had elements of suspense, mystery, action, and romance. Being of the paranormal theme, the story was fascinating in how the two main characters interacted, especially since one is a ghost. B.J. Sheldon delivered a believable love story between a young girl and a ghost with her well developed and realistic characters and her descriptive rural setting.
I had a hard time putting the book down! I was completely immersed in Dusty and Jack's journey in finding the truth and their growing attraction to each other. Definitely, this was a page turner. Even the elements of a ghostly presence made my skin crawl...as if I was watching a horror movie. Yah...there was no way I was going to continue reading in silence! Haha! It was great! I love the horror genre, and B.J. Sheldon definitely had that element present in this ghost love story!
Movies, Shows & Books
May 15, 2013
It took me longer than usual to read this book because I read it on a kindle... I'm so old school. I really prefer paper books. I go through them faster because I don't have to stare at a screen! ;) Anyway, I love the premise of this story and the idea behind it. A few things bothered me though, honestly... the author switched between past tense and present tense on several occasions, which as an editor, bugs me, no matter how much I love a story. That said, I love the plot twists, some of which I saw coming and some I didn't. There were also long periods of nothing but dialogue, which I wanted to edit and cut down. I can't help it; I'm an editor! But overall, it was a very enjoyable book and I look forward to the next book about Dusty and her ghost boyfriend. :)
October 22, 2015
Although this is a Young Adult book, I thought I'd take a chance on it, and I'm glad I did. BJ Sheldon captured my attention immediately and I found myself saying "One more chapter" until I finished the book. Dusty is a young girl whose widowed father moves her and her sister from FL to Iowa when his brother's family is killed in an auto accident. They move to the family farm, and introverted Dusty is surprised to find herself the center of attention to a high school football star. In addition, she begins having lucid dreams of a young soldier in Korea. When she stumbles upon letters in the attic that were written by the soldier, she involves herself in solving the mystery of his death and disappearance. I am really looking forward to the next installment.
January 5, 2015
This book was a breath of fresh air. A love story that was unique and exciting.
The start of this book was quite creepy, and had me looking over my shoulder on more than one occasion. But as the story developed and some of the unexplained occurrences were brought to light, this story morphed into a beautiful romantic tale, that quite literally stood the test of time.
The characters were interesting and I enjoyed getting to know each of them. There were also a few thrilling surprises that kept me intrigued throughout.
This was a great book and I cannot wait to continue Dusty's journey through love and life.
The start of this book was quite creepy, and had me looking over my shoulder on more than one occasion. But as the story developed and some of the unexplained occurrences were brought to light, this story morphed into a beautiful romantic tale, that quite literally stood the test of time.
The characters were interesting and I enjoyed getting to know each of them. There were also a few thrilling surprises that kept me intrigued throughout.
This was a great book and I cannot wait to continue Dusty's journey through love and life.
February 23, 2017
BJ is a wonderful author, able to construct a wonderful scenario and colorful, relatable characters. Taking a paranormal sotry and turning it askew in order to allow a sense of mystery and romance. Dusty is a girl whom I found to be equally normal and abnormal with her gift. It was refreshing in the sense that the new girl was openly accepted into school instead of having to go through the rigamorale of working her way in or being singled out.
May 15, 2013
I couldn't barely put this book down, and now I'm going crazy wondering when the next book is going to come out! I'm 25, obviously not a young adult, but I enjoyed this book so much. She is such a good writer I could see it all in my mind. I can not wait until the next book comes out, it seriously can't happen soon enough!
April 30, 2014
I love ghost romances, and his one was better than most. Dusty is a pretty normal girl whose dad moves her and her sister to his hometown after her uncle's family is killed in a car accident. She starts having dreams and soon realizes the boy she is dreaming about is a ghost. A murder is revealed, danger looms, and an impossible love begins. I would read more from this author.
June 28, 2014
I absolutely loved this book. The star crossed love story left me haunted (get it hehe) and desperate for more! It had mystery, ghost romance, and everything I ever asked for in a book. Jack is so perfect.. I've always had a thing for old-timey soldiers, and his romance with Dusty was sweet and surprising. Its an amazing book.
September 17, 2015
Ghost book boyfriend
First book I read from author. It was suggested from Facebook as to "what to read" next. It had a steady pace, some unexpected surprises and clean reading. The characters had room to grow and well developed. Definitely a book for YA GOOD CHOICE. Look forward to next installment.
First book I read from author. It was suggested from Facebook as to "what to read" next. It had a steady pace, some unexpected surprises and clean reading. The characters had room to grow and well developed. Definitely a book for YA GOOD CHOICE. Look forward to next installment.
November 4, 2013
I really enjoyed reading this ya paranormal romance. The story was great and well written. The characters were fantastic, and I can't wait to read any follow-up books.
I would definitely read more from this author.
I would definitely read more from this author.
April 21, 2014
I liked this story a lot. The characters were well drawn, and the plot held my attention. There were some well-written dream sequences which worked to further the story and add a greater depth. I don't tend to read YA books, but the paranormal element of this story really appealed to me.
May 8, 2013
A quick easy fun story to read!
May 6, 2013
Wish i could give 4.5 stars!
A very quick read. Sweet and fun, and filled with lovable characters.
Can't wait for the sequel!
A very quick read. Sweet and fun, and filled with lovable characters.
Can't wait for the sequel!
May 13, 2013
4 Stars.
November 3, 2015
Loved it!
I really enjoyed this book. It has paranormal, love, and mystery, what's not to love about it? I look forward to the other two books!
I really enjoyed this book. It has paranormal, love, and mystery, what's not to love about it? I look forward to the other two books!
March 26, 2016
Hauntingly sweet romance of the ghostly kind. Great clean story for teens and up.
May 9, 2013
Sweet and simple paranormal romance. Nice setting and characters.
May 19, 2013
3.75/5 stars
July 26, 2014
4.5 stars, fun fast read that kept me on edge, ready for book 2!
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews