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Tradd Street #4
Return to Tradd Street
Facing her future as a single mother, psychic Realtor Melanie Middleton is determined to be strong and leave her past with writer Jack Trenholm behind her. But history has a tendency of catching up with Melanie, whether she likes it or not.…
Melanie is only going through the motions of living since refusing Jack’s marriage proposal. She misses him desperately, but her broken heart is the least of her problems. Despite an insistence that she can raise their child alone, Melanie is completely unprepared for motherhood, and she struggles to complete renovations on her house on Tradd Street before the baby arrives.
When Melanie is roused one night by the sound of a ghostly infant crying, she chooses to ignore it. She simply does not have the energy to deal with one more crisis. That is, until the remains of a newborn buried in an old christening gown are found hidden in the foundation of her house.
As the hauntings on Tradd Street slowly become more violent, Melanie decides to find out what caused the baby’s untimely death, uncovering the love, loss, and betrayal that color the house’s history—and threaten her claim of ownership. But can she seek Jack’s help without risking her heart? For in revealing the secrets of the past, Melanie also awakens the malevolent presence that has tried to keep the truth hidden for decades.…
Melanie is only going through the motions of living since refusing Jack’s marriage proposal. She misses him desperately, but her broken heart is the least of her problems. Despite an insistence that she can raise their child alone, Melanie is completely unprepared for motherhood, and she struggles to complete renovations on her house on Tradd Street before the baby arrives.
When Melanie is roused one night by the sound of a ghostly infant crying, she chooses to ignore it. She simply does not have the energy to deal with one more crisis. That is, until the remains of a newborn buried in an old christening gown are found hidden in the foundation of her house.
As the hauntings on Tradd Street slowly become more violent, Melanie decides to find out what caused the baby’s untimely death, uncovering the love, loss, and betrayal that color the house’s history—and threaten her claim of ownership. But can she seek Jack’s help without risking her heart? For in revealing the secrets of the past, Melanie also awakens the malevolent presence that has tried to keep the truth hidden for decades.…
338 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 7, 2014
726 people are currently reading
7025 people want to read
About the author
Karen White
42 books7,448 followersWith more than 2 million books in print in fifteen different languages, Karen White is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of 34 novels, including the popular Charleston-set Tradd Street mystery series.
Raised in a house full of brothers, Karen’s love of books and strong female characters first began in the third grade when the local librarian issued her a library card and placed The Secret of the Old Clock, a Nancy Drew Mystery, in her hands.
Karen’s roots run deep in the South where many of her novels are set. Her intricate plot lines and compelling characters charm and captivate readers with just the right mix of family drama, mystery, intrigue and romance.
Not entirely convinced she wanted to be a writer, Karen first pursued a career in business and graduated cum laude with a BS in Management from Tulane University. Ten years later, in a weak moment, she wrote her first book. In the Shadow of the Moon was published in August, 2000. Her books—referred to as “grit lit” (Southern Women’s Fiction)—have since been nominated for numerous national contests including the SIBA (Southeastern Booksellers Alliance) Fiction Book of the Year.
Karen’s next book, THAT LAST CAROLINA SUMMER, will be published by Park Row Books in July, 2025.
When not writing, Karen spends her time reading, scrapbooking, playing piano, and avoiding cooking. Karen and her husband have two grown children and currently live near Atlanta, Georgia with two spoiled Havanese dogs.
- See more at: http://www.karen-white.com/bio.cfm#st...
Raised in a house full of brothers, Karen’s love of books and strong female characters first began in the third grade when the local librarian issued her a library card and placed The Secret of the Old Clock, a Nancy Drew Mystery, in her hands.
Karen’s roots run deep in the South where many of her novels are set. Her intricate plot lines and compelling characters charm and captivate readers with just the right mix of family drama, mystery, intrigue and romance.
Not entirely convinced she wanted to be a writer, Karen first pursued a career in business and graduated cum laude with a BS in Management from Tulane University. Ten years later, in a weak moment, she wrote her first book. In the Shadow of the Moon was published in August, 2000. Her books—referred to as “grit lit” (Southern Women’s Fiction)—have since been nominated for numerous national contests including the SIBA (Southeastern Booksellers Alliance) Fiction Book of the Year.
Karen’s next book, THAT LAST CAROLINA SUMMER, will be published by Park Row Books in July, 2025.
When not writing, Karen spends her time reading, scrapbooking, playing piano, and avoiding cooking. Karen and her husband have two grown children and currently live near Atlanta, Georgia with two spoiled Havanese dogs.
- See more at: http://www.karen-white.com/bio.cfm#st...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 973 reviews
June 19, 2016
Return to Tradd Street by Karen White is a 2014 NAL publication.
As they say, ‘All good things must come to an end’, and so with a heavy heart, I started the last book in the four part Tradd Street series.
I predicted, in a review of a previous book in this series, that Melanie might never regain the control of her very orderly, planned right down to the last detail, organized life again, but I never would have imagined things turning out quite like this.
Personally, I recommend reading this series in order to truly appreciate the character growth and understand how Melanie first came to own the house on Tradd Street, how she met Jack, the reason she loves ABBA, and has OCD tendencies, and of course her inherited psychic gifts.
Melanie is forty years old, pregnant, and unmarried. She and Jack had a falling out, but when she informed him she was expecting his baby, naturally he did the honorable thing and proposed marriage. However, Melanie refuses him, with good reason, but her heart is broken into little pieces.
Exhausted and emotionally drained, Melanie has no patience for ghosts, but when the bones of a baby are found on her property, she is once more mired in an ancient mystery, while coping with a frenzy of media attention, and a shocking announcement from her doctor regarding her pregnancy.
I had never read a novel by Karen White until I started this series, and had no idea what to expect, but I have to confess I never would have thought I'd be this pleased with the series.
I love ghost stories, romance, humor and stories set in southern locations, so I suppose all those elements combined in one story easily won me over.
This last installment gives the series a solid send off as we follow along with Melanie’s pregnancy, her ups and downs with Jack, her run ins with Rebecca, while revealing a tense historical tale that will reveal horrible truths, but set the record straight once and for all.
I loved the way the story ended, which was simply lovely, and I have to say I was very proud of Melanie and how far she has come since first meeting her, and it’s nice to know she is truly happy now.
I am so thankful I found this series and will seek out any other books by this author I can find.
As they say, ‘All good things must come to an end’, and so with a heavy heart, I started the last book in the four part Tradd Street series.
I predicted, in a review of a previous book in this series, that Melanie might never regain the control of her very orderly, planned right down to the last detail, organized life again, but I never would have imagined things turning out quite like this.
Personally, I recommend reading this series in order to truly appreciate the character growth and understand how Melanie first came to own the house on Tradd Street, how she met Jack, the reason she loves ABBA, and has OCD tendencies, and of course her inherited psychic gifts.
Melanie is forty years old, pregnant, and unmarried. She and Jack had a falling out, but when she informed him she was expecting his baby, naturally he did the honorable thing and proposed marriage. However, Melanie refuses him, with good reason, but her heart is broken into little pieces.
Exhausted and emotionally drained, Melanie has no patience for ghosts, but when the bones of a baby are found on her property, she is once more mired in an ancient mystery, while coping with a frenzy of media attention, and a shocking announcement from her doctor regarding her pregnancy.
I had never read a novel by Karen White until I started this series, and had no idea what to expect, but I have to confess I never would have thought I'd be this pleased with the series.
I love ghost stories, romance, humor and stories set in southern locations, so I suppose all those elements combined in one story easily won me over.
This last installment gives the series a solid send off as we follow along with Melanie’s pregnancy, her ups and downs with Jack, her run ins with Rebecca, while revealing a tense historical tale that will reveal horrible truths, but set the record straight once and for all.
I loved the way the story ended, which was simply lovely, and I have to say I was very proud of Melanie and how far she has come since first meeting her, and it’s nice to know she is truly happy now.
I am so thankful I found this series and will seek out any other books by this author I can find.
February 18, 2018
It is such a disappointment when female authors choose to make their female leads weak. Mellie is a strong, confident, capable single woman. But she is reduced to whining, being insecure about her looks and obsessed with food. She had a very difficult upbringing and that is plently of explanation as to why she did not accept Jack's marriage proposal, turning her so weak is an insult to her and those of us that have waited a very long time for our happy ending.
Sadly, it was a disappointing ending. The Gilbert's mystery was the most interesting part of the story and yet the conclusion of their part was too rushed and lacked truth.
I feel as though Karen White only wrote this book for the many people who love Mellie and Jack. And that she is not among us. Mellie was the same character from the first book, never having learned anything about the people she loves nor about herself.
Sadly, it was a disappointing ending. The Gilbert's mystery was the most interesting part of the story and yet the conclusion of their part was too rushed and lacked truth.
I feel as though Karen White only wrote this book for the many people who love Mellie and Jack. And that she is not among us. Mellie was the same character from the first book, never having learned anything about the people she loves nor about herself.
December 5, 2019
I love mysteries about spirits instead of crimes and Karen White also gives us a 40 year-old heroine. I love Melanie, Ginnette Prioleau, and this realistically rounded-out cast. These wonderful spirit and treasure adventures, just right for my age, all received five stars. Melanie and Ginnette handle spirits’ needs and Jack and librarian, Yvonne, sift out pertinent Charleston history. The houses that each story features, supply clues and communication.
The two facets I disliked were disregarded and did not dampen the joy of these adventures. Jack has never romanced Melanie and proposed after she announced her pregnancy. I could not accept such a proposal either and hated seeing characters and readers fault anyone but Jack. It also goes over the top to deny anyone the pleasure of favourite foods. Melanie loves goodies like a normal person and her circle should not overstep an adult’s snacking choices.
“Return To Tradd Street” marked in 2014, the much wanted reprisal of a treasured series that had paused. Melanie, Jack, and her parents settle their relationships and babies are born into their loving fold. Nola is a great Sister and stepdaughter and is making money as a songwriter, like her Mom. The mystery almost did not matter but Mothers and children make poignant stories. Charleston is always described for me, here in Canada, beautifully. I breeze through each novel when I permit myself the luxury of reading one, just stopping to sleep and eat. I am moved and enlightened by an apt quote by Ginnette, on page 208.
“If you wait until everything’s perfect, your differences have been settled, and the stars align, you miss your chance at happiness. Real and enduring love is being able to see past disagreements, so what’s left is the knowledge that you aren’t complete without the other person”.
The two facets I disliked were disregarded and did not dampen the joy of these adventures. Jack has never romanced Melanie and proposed after she announced her pregnancy. I could not accept such a proposal either and hated seeing characters and readers fault anyone but Jack. It also goes over the top to deny anyone the pleasure of favourite foods. Melanie loves goodies like a normal person and her circle should not overstep an adult’s snacking choices.
“Return To Tradd Street” marked in 2014, the much wanted reprisal of a treasured series that had paused. Melanie, Jack, and her parents settle their relationships and babies are born into their loving fold. Nola is a great Sister and stepdaughter and is making money as a songwriter, like her Mom. The mystery almost did not matter but Mothers and children make poignant stories. Charleston is always described for me, here in Canada, beautifully. I breeze through each novel when I permit myself the luxury of reading one, just stopping to sleep and eat. I am moved and enlightened by an apt quote by Ginnette, on page 208.
“If you wait until everything’s perfect, your differences have been settled, and the stars align, you miss your chance at happiness. Real and enduring love is being able to see past disagreements, so what’s left is the knowledge that you aren’t complete without the other person”.
March 12, 2020
I feel like a lot of the story was fast-forwarded... one chapter was before Christmas, and then the next was February. I guess that was to span Melanie's whole pregnancy, but it just felt like we were missing parts of the story.
Still liked it, will definitely keep going with the books, but it was probably my least favorite book in the series so far.
Still liked it, will definitely keep going with the books, but it was probably my least favorite book in the series so far.
July 8, 2019
So fun!
~~~~~~~~~
From the very first page I knew this was gonna be a great read. It’s unique, fun, and a little bit quirky, but that’s what’s great about it.
Definitely not your run-of-the-mill mystery because this one includes ghosts and people that can see ghosts and hear them. Talk to them and feel them. It also includes some wacky family members, a crazy relationship of sorts. Oh, and a pregnancy that was a little unexpected that brings out some interesting problems.
I have a love-hate relationship with Jack myself. So I can understand what know when he was feeling. He tends to be a little overbearing and makes a lot of assumptions and that kind of makes me crazy. But towards the end of the book, I definitely warmed up Jack. He is a sweetie and definitely someone you want to get to know.
The author did a fabulous job with this story. A sweet southern story that brings you the charm of the city, spooky mystery, and a lasting romance that satisfies.
Even though it’s part of a series I really didn’t feel too lost. She’s great at doing some backstory fill in and created a interesting and captivating story that I couldn’t put down. Even my husband asked what I was reading that had me ignoring him. LOL
copy received for review consideration
full review - http://amidlifewife.com/return-to-tra...
~~~~~~~~~
From the very first page I knew this was gonna be a great read. It’s unique, fun, and a little bit quirky, but that’s what’s great about it.
Definitely not your run-of-the-mill mystery because this one includes ghosts and people that can see ghosts and hear them. Talk to them and feel them. It also includes some wacky family members, a crazy relationship of sorts. Oh, and a pregnancy that was a little unexpected that brings out some interesting problems.
I have a love-hate relationship with Jack myself. So I can understand what know when he was feeling. He tends to be a little overbearing and makes a lot of assumptions and that kind of makes me crazy. But towards the end of the book, I definitely warmed up Jack. He is a sweetie and definitely someone you want to get to know.
The author did a fabulous job with this story. A sweet southern story that brings you the charm of the city, spooky mystery, and a lasting romance that satisfies.
Even though it’s part of a series I really didn’t feel too lost. She’s great at doing some backstory fill in and created a interesting and captivating story that I couldn’t put down. Even my husband asked what I was reading that had me ignoring him. LOL
copy received for review consideration
full review - http://amidlifewife.com/return-to-tra...
December 5, 2019
As if I could rate this series any less. Probably my least favorite of the series so far, (just because I wanted Melanie and Jack to solve their issues already), but still such a fun mystery and plot, filled with ghosts as I’ve come to know and love from this series.
This time Melanie hears the cries of a baby, but there’s no one in her home. As always, Jack and Melanie come together to solve the mystery and she and her mother find out what dark presence exists so they can find rest.
This time Melanie hears the cries of a baby, but there’s no one in her home. As always, Jack and Melanie come together to solve the mystery and she and her mother find out what dark presence exists so they can find rest.
January 1, 2014
I won this book in a Goodreads First Reads contest.
It's #4 in a series, but I thought it worked well as a stand-alone book. It was well-written and in the vein of Janet Evanovich and Nora Roberts. I was enjoying it until the end, but even along the way some things bothered me.
SPOILERS BELOW!
I'm not sure it's the author's fault, but what is it with a female character constantly talking about what she's eating and feel guilty about wanting sweets (in this, while pregnant!)? I was so tired reading about Melanie' struggle to resist donuts - even after the babies. Again, more of a social flaw than the author's. I just wish she'd left it out.
I couldn't handle how clueless this supposedly intelligent woman was over Jack's love. Perhaps I should read the other books. I was also annoyed over her refusal to acknowledge her father's issues with the trust money. She seemed like too much of a planner to be surprised by any financial issue.
The ending. A DOUBLE wedding. Who has a double wedding in real life?
And finally, I enjoyed the supernatural elements, mystery, and side characters. But why would a ghost that could communicate with the living (through SPEECH) offer up some terrible riddle instead of explaining what happened?
All in all, this was a good book. I'm happy I won it and will recommend it to others, but these tropes and clichés of the female genre have got to stop! The author seemed to be a better writer than that!
It's #4 in a series, but I thought it worked well as a stand-alone book. It was well-written and in the vein of Janet Evanovich and Nora Roberts. I was enjoying it until the end, but even along the way some things bothered me.
SPOILERS BELOW!
I'm not sure it's the author's fault, but what is it with a female character constantly talking about what she's eating and feel guilty about wanting sweets (in this, while pregnant!)? I was so tired reading about Melanie' struggle to resist donuts - even after the babies. Again, more of a social flaw than the author's. I just wish she'd left it out.
I couldn't handle how clueless this supposedly intelligent woman was over Jack's love. Perhaps I should read the other books. I was also annoyed over her refusal to acknowledge her father's issues with the trust money. She seemed like too much of a planner to be surprised by any financial issue.
The ending. A DOUBLE wedding. Who has a double wedding in real life?
And finally, I enjoyed the supernatural elements, mystery, and side characters. But why would a ghost that could communicate with the living (through SPEECH) offer up some terrible riddle instead of explaining what happened?
All in all, this was a good book. I'm happy I won it and will recommend it to others, but these tropes and clichés of the female genre have got to stop! The author seemed to be a better writer than that!
March 31, 2015
A fun, quirky read with quick wit and a fast pace that kept me intrigued throughout. I quickly became attached to the characters right along with each of their bizarre and funny idiosyncrasies.
Melanie our main character is pregnant and has just turned down a marriage proposal from Jack, the father. She is a head strong gal who thinks he is just asking because of the baby. He on the other hand is in love with her and is hoping she will reconsider. Melanie is a psychic, her mother has the ability to tell the history surrounding objects and they both can see ghosts. The people of Charlotte, NC have their suspisions and there is plenty of gossip, but Melanies family knows how to keep their secrets.
The backdrop for this ghostly story is her inherited historical mansion on Tradd St., of course, and during some renovations that are being done, the remains of a baby are found in the old foundation. While forensics are being performed on the remains, the crying, ghost sightings and a complicated pregnancy, just about have Melanie at her wits end. While she is trying to hold it all together she is also having to deal with her aggressive best friend, her shallow, impolite cousin and a wedding, not her own, that has been thrust upon her.
Aimee Bruneau is the perfect voice for this Southern group and has just enough sarcasm to make the dry wit hit home. This series reviews get better as it goes along so I may read the one right before this one but I am looking forward to continuing on with it as the new books come out. Recommend to those who like cozy ghost stories.
Melanie our main character is pregnant and has just turned down a marriage proposal from Jack, the father. She is a head strong gal who thinks he is just asking because of the baby. He on the other hand is in love with her and is hoping she will reconsider. Melanie is a psychic, her mother has the ability to tell the history surrounding objects and they both can see ghosts. The people of Charlotte, NC have their suspisions and there is plenty of gossip, but Melanies family knows how to keep their secrets.
The backdrop for this ghostly story is her inherited historical mansion on Tradd St., of course, and during some renovations that are being done, the remains of a baby are found in the old foundation. While forensics are being performed on the remains, the crying, ghost sightings and a complicated pregnancy, just about have Melanie at her wits end. While she is trying to hold it all together she is also having to deal with her aggressive best friend, her shallow, impolite cousin and a wedding, not her own, that has been thrust upon her.
Aimee Bruneau is the perfect voice for this Southern group and has just enough sarcasm to make the dry wit hit home. This series reviews get better as it goes along so I may read the one right before this one but I am looking forward to continuing on with it as the new books come out. Recommend to those who like cozy ghost stories.
February 7, 2017
Return to Tradd Street was definitely my favorite in the series as have read them all, among many of Karen White’s books. I purchased from audible.com and the narrator was excellent, capturing the slow southern charm of Charleston, SC. (a hotel consultant, have clients in Charleston; love visiting for work and pleasure. One of my favorite cities in the south).
As usual, loved the witty and humorous characters and lines; this book could be read as a standalone; however, you will want to read them all! I love Melanie (40 yr old) – psychic Realtor, living in this old historical home in Charleston with ghosts given to her by a man (she had only visited the home once before he died and was left the home).
She and writer (and playboy) Jack go back and forth with their love relationship which always keeps you laughing.
Had to finish it quickly- enjoy White’s writing style and her love of the south! Hopefully, we will hear more from this fun couple!
As usual, loved the witty and humorous characters and lines; this book could be read as a standalone; however, you will want to read them all! I love Melanie (40 yr old) – psychic Realtor, living in this old historical home in Charleston with ghosts given to her by a man (she had only visited the home once before he died and was left the home).
She and writer (and playboy) Jack go back and forth with their love relationship which always keeps you laughing.
Had to finish it quickly- enjoy White’s writing style and her love of the south! Hopefully, we will hear more from this fun couple!
November 27, 2013
This is a book that I received from Goodreads and I have to admit that I was a little leery as it was about the paranormal and was also the
4th book in a series that I had not read. I needn't have worried as within a few pages I was caught up in the story and couldn't put it down. The setting is Charleston, South Carolina in a historical old home with its share of ghosts and the main characters are warm and "quirky". There is romance between Melanie and Jack who can't see what is in front of them, the warmth of family who have grown past difficulties and a strength of character which bring peace to a spirit wronged in her youth by the loss of her babies and life. I am looking forward to reading the previous 3 books of the series that led to the "Return to Tradd Street" and recommend this read for anyone who likes a little paranormal, romance and history with their tea.
4th book in a series that I had not read. I needn't have worried as within a few pages I was caught up in the story and couldn't put it down. The setting is Charleston, South Carolina in a historical old home with its share of ghosts and the main characters are warm and "quirky". There is romance between Melanie and Jack who can't see what is in front of them, the warmth of family who have grown past difficulties and a strength of character which bring peace to a spirit wronged in her youth by the loss of her babies and life. I am looking forward to reading the previous 3 books of the series that led to the "Return to Tradd Street" and recommend this read for anyone who likes a little paranormal, romance and history with their tea.
November 17, 2013
Ms White definitely has a winner with "Return to Tradd Street". After the first page, I could not wait to find out what would happen next and I was not disappointed being spellbound until the very end.
As a follow-up to the previous Tradd Street stories, this book is excellent. All of the characters continue to build their relationships. But as with any good sequel, this book could stand on its own. Although I cannot imagine, someone reading it who had not read the other three books not wanting to read the previous stories. I hope this is not the last story of Jack & Melanie and the wonderful stories of Charleston and its ghosts.
As a follow-up to the previous Tradd Street stories, this book is excellent. All of the characters continue to build their relationships. But as with any good sequel, this book could stand on its own. Although I cannot imagine, someone reading it who had not read the other three books not wanting to read the previous stories. I hope this is not the last story of Jack & Melanie and the wonderful stories of Charleston and its ghosts.
February 11, 2014
This latest installment of the Tradd Street ghost stories was not my favorite. To me the entire novel just felt over written and over-wrought. How many times do I have to read about the main character depriving herself of anything delicious because she's pregnant? And how often do we need to read about her obsessive compulsive schedule making? We get it. Melanie likes her doughnuts and spreadsheets- and is that so horrible? Evidently, according to every other character in the book, it is.
If less time was spent on these ridiculous details and more on the actual plot and character development, perhaps the novel wouldn't have left a slightly bitter taste in my mouth. Maybe this needs to be the last book in the series, or perhaps Karen White needs a break from the world of Tradd Street for a while.
If less time was spent on these ridiculous details and more on the actual plot and character development, perhaps the novel wouldn't have left a slightly bitter taste in my mouth. Maybe this needs to be the last book in the series, or perhaps Karen White needs a break from the world of Tradd Street for a while.
December 22, 2015
I loved this series through and through and am eagerly looking forward to the fifth book. Just one bone to pick. There were no death certificates in South Carolina in the 19th century. In fact, there are no 19th vital records in South Caroline: birth, death, marriage certificates. Too many of my family originated in South Carolina, and the lack of marriage records is the bane of my research life. I know this seems like a small thing to get nit-picky about, but for those of us who muck around in old documents, it was a glaring error that Yvonne would not make!
February 15, 2014
Karen White is by far my favorite Southern writer... her stories are always fun & entertaining!!! I've really enjoyed this series...
September 4, 2022
Whoohoo! Now to start book five!! *girl shriek*
February 3, 2014
Overall, I found this a disappointing turn for Karen White. All the quirks that made the character of Melanie Middleton so interesting, particularly in the first book, were just annoying in this one. I found myself wishing she would just shut up and grow up about 20 pages in. The story itself also wasn't as engrossing as the first three in this series. I hope this is the end of that series and hope White has a better effort up her sleeve for her next book.
September 20, 2018
A splendid installment. I'm thrilled to have found this fun, cozy series. I'm sad there's just one more to go.
June 13, 2015
Return to Tradd Street is the fourth book in the series of books about Tradd Street. It pulls the other books together nicely. It is easy to read a book by Karen White. I did find this book a bit slower than the 3 previous ones, but still a good read.
June 2, 2021
Coming back to Tradd Street is akin to coming home for me. Having read all the other books in this series (except the latest The Attic on Queen Street). I admit that I do wish to have read the books, in order, as they tend to build on one another. Having said that, this book, with its well developed characters and perfect setting, was a delight to read. I am drawn to such a setting, having grown up in a house, built in 1870, with its own unique character 
and “ghosts”.
Suffice to say it to say, my return to Tradd Street was, as always, full of mystery, intrigue and much levity, at times. I continue to appreciate these ghostly mysteries with a little magical realism thrown in. I look forward to returning Tradd Street and am hopeful that this series continues for a very long time.
The narrator Aimée Bruneau voices these characters in a wonderful way. Highly recommend the audio versions.
and “ghosts”.Suffice to say it to say, my return to Tradd Street was, as always, full of mystery, intrigue and much levity, at times. I continue to appreciate these ghostly mysteries with a little magical realism thrown in. I look forward to returning Tradd Street and am hopeful that this series continues for a very long time.
The narrator Aimée Bruneau voices these characters in a wonderful way. Highly recommend the audio versions.
January 5, 2022
.
This was not as good as the previous two, at least in my opinion.
Each book escorts the reader through another time zone in the life of those characters the reader has come to know.. Maybe there were just too many changes in the personality of the heroine. I just can't remember exactly.
This is a clean read with a H.E.A.
This was not as good as the previous two, at least in my opinion.
Each book escorts the reader through another time zone in the life of those characters the reader has come to know.. Maybe there were just too many changes in the personality of the heroine. I just can't remember exactly.
This is a clean read with a H.E.A.
September 10, 2019
Return to Tradd Street
4 Stars
Coping with her broken heart and the trials and tribulations of pregnancy, Melanie Middleton doesn't need any more headaches. So when she awakens to the sound of a baby crying, she chooses to ignore it until the remains of an infant are discovered in the foundation of her house on Tradd Street. With an increasingly violent ghost haunting the house, Melanie is determined to uncover the truth even if it means losing the house she has come to love.
This is such a wonderfully atmospheric book and series. Karen White not only makes the city of Charleston come alive on the pages but her descriptions of the house and its inhabitants, both former and current, immerse the reader in the setting and the narrative.
Melanie is as quirky as ever and it is wonderful to see her relationship with Jack finally reach its potential. He is just so gorgeous in his obvious love for Mellie - the man really does have the patience of a saint.
The plot revolving around the baby in the foundation is very intriguing. It was fun following along with the clues and making family trees on the side to work it all out. The eventual revelation is truly heartwrenching yet also satisfying.
All in all, a lovely addition to the series and I am so glad that there will be more installments forthcoming.
4 Stars
Coping with her broken heart and the trials and tribulations of pregnancy, Melanie Middleton doesn't need any more headaches. So when she awakens to the sound of a baby crying, she chooses to ignore it until the remains of an infant are discovered in the foundation of her house on Tradd Street. With an increasingly violent ghost haunting the house, Melanie is determined to uncover the truth even if it means losing the house she has come to love.
This is such a wonderfully atmospheric book and series. Karen White not only makes the city of Charleston come alive on the pages but her descriptions of the house and its inhabitants, both former and current, immerse the reader in the setting and the narrative.
Melanie is as quirky as ever and it is wonderful to see her relationship with Jack finally reach its potential. He is just so gorgeous in his obvious love for Mellie - the man really does have the patience of a saint.
The plot revolving around the baby in the foundation is very intriguing. It was fun following along with the clues and making family trees on the side to work it all out. The eventual revelation is truly heartwrenching yet also satisfying.
All in all, a lovely addition to the series and I am so glad that there will be more installments forthcoming.
August 13, 2014
As the finale to the series, I was disappointed that the ghost story portion didn't pack more wallop, and that the already mushy family & love storyline got even mushier - wrapping up the end of the book in the neatest most nauseating happily ever after bow.
Of the 4 books, the ghost story in this one was the weakest, being dwarfed by the pregnant Melanie plot line and dragging like a Hobbit 3 part movie installment; ie. very little content being stretched thin. The final showdown with the ghost leaves you lacking, but follows that declining 'wow factor' pattern since Book 1.
The final straw for me, other than Karen White's excessive use of "raised eyebrows", is that at the end of the book - after all the bad blood between Melanie & Jack VS Marc & Rebecca..... Is that when Marc offers to buy Tradd street house from under Melanie, that's just "unforgivable." Really??? So him trying to romance diamonds out from under your house, and him stealing a novel plot and therefore money rights from the man you love WASN'T enough?? I found this eye-rolling annoying and totally out of normal behavior realm.
Based on these novels as a set I am trepidatious to try another Karen White book. She writes plots convenient for the characters but outside the scope of reality, and not in a good way. That and if people's expressions are only eyebrows up or down, than clearly Karen needs more in depth character analysis.
Of the 4 books, the ghost story in this one was the weakest, being dwarfed by the pregnant Melanie plot line and dragging like a Hobbit 3 part movie installment; ie. very little content being stretched thin. The final showdown with the ghost leaves you lacking, but follows that declining 'wow factor' pattern since Book 1.
The final straw for me, other than Karen White's excessive use of "raised eyebrows", is that at the end of the book - after all the bad blood between Melanie & Jack VS Marc & Rebecca..... Is that when Marc offers to buy Tradd street house from under Melanie, that's just "unforgivable." Really??? So him trying to romance diamonds out from under your house, and him stealing a novel plot and therefore money rights from the man you love WASN'T enough?? I found this eye-rolling annoying and totally out of normal behavior realm.
Based on these novels as a set I am trepidatious to try another Karen White book. She writes plots convenient for the characters but outside the scope of reality, and not in a good way. That and if people's expressions are only eyebrows up or down, than clearly Karen needs more in depth character analysis.
April 13, 2014
This is a fun series ! Not sure that it is completely finished, but finally, Jack & Mellie are married & have 2 children - twins. I am so glad that I have been to Charleston so I was able to 'picture' all that was going on in the actual setting ! I shall miss my friends in Charleston: Melanie, Jack, Sophie, Chad, Nola,Mellie's parents, Jack's parents, Alston, Cooper,
Thomas, Dr. Wise, and some others, but I shall not miss Marc, Rebecca, or any reporter anywhere. The ghosts, the good guys ( a unisex term for me) - I shall wonder how they are doing. The bad ghosts should stay where Mellie & her mom sent them. Oh, yes, & Yvonne- please stay as young as you are !!
Thomas, Dr. Wise, and some others, but I shall not miss Marc, Rebecca, or any reporter anywhere. The ghosts, the good guys ( a unisex term for me) - I shall wonder how they are doing. The bad ghosts should stay where Mellie & her mom sent them. Oh, yes, & Yvonne- please stay as young as you are !!
June 3, 2016
This book is the 4th one in the Tradd Street series by Karen White. Now I love Karen White. Two of her books are among my favorites. While this series is not that, they are still quite enjoyable. I like the MC, but she has some annoying traits. I love some of the stronger characters as well, because they offer a nice balance against Mellie's weaknesses. The paranormal thread in this one was done well. Some of this was predictable, but I was still pulled in and cared about the outcome, so for that reason, this gets 4 stars.
September 29, 2015
I'm truly hoping this isn't the last book in the series. They have been such a wonderful ride. Ghost stories, romance, bad guys. Cool!
February 15, 2018
This was another fabulous romp in this delightful series. Well written, very funny and sweet, a bit cheesy and predictable, but with a perfect wrap up ending.
January 31, 2014
I have to admit that I’ve been going nuts about this story for a couple of years. I was immediately captivated with the Tradd Street series when the first book debuted in 2008. The idea of Charleston-based real estate agent who specializes in old homes and has the ability to communicate with the spirit world offers a lot of material. Finding out the book was going to be a series excited me more. I thoroughly enjoyed the second book and then whined when I learned it would be two years before the third book came out.
I would have started the fourth book as soon as I finished the third, if I could have. I was miffed when I learned I would have to wait another two years for the final piece of the story.
Karen White did not disappoint is this final installment. I enjoy her other work (On Folly Beach being my favorite title), but the Tradd Street series is definitely her best overall. Watching Melanie’s and Jack’s love-hate relationship over the first three novels makes a reader wonder if they will finally get together. The tension doesn’t stop in this book and it’s a good read. However, watching Melanie deal with during her pregnancy the loss of her gift of communicating with the spirit world brings even more depth to the story.
I highly recommend this book. However, if it’s your first introduction to the series, you might try them in order. You’ll be through all four in a month because you won’t be able to put them down.
And the best part is that you won’t have to wait years to read successive installments.
I would have started the fourth book as soon as I finished the third, if I could have. I was miffed when I learned I would have to wait another two years for the final piece of the story.
Karen White did not disappoint is this final installment. I enjoy her other work (On Folly Beach being my favorite title), but the Tradd Street series is definitely her best overall. Watching Melanie’s and Jack’s love-hate relationship over the first three novels makes a reader wonder if they will finally get together. The tension doesn’t stop in this book and it’s a good read. However, watching Melanie deal with during her pregnancy the loss of her gift of communicating with the spirit world brings even more depth to the story.
I highly recommend this book. However, if it’s your first introduction to the series, you might try them in order. You’ll be through all four in a month because you won’t be able to put them down.
And the best part is that you won’t have to wait years to read successive installments.
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July 14, 2015I have been eyeing these books for quite awhile, but haven't bitten. I'm not sure why because the Tradd Street books seem like they would be terrific stories. I'm glad to be getting this one!
November 24, 2020
Another thoroughly enjoyable narration of a good story. I love the little bits of humour in these books that just give an added enjoyment.
November 5, 2021
More of the same - a ghost story, a love story, and a little bit of mystery. There are some dated references. This one might have been my favorite book of the series so far.
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