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The Bone Whisperer Chronicles #2
The Boy Who Lurks in Shadows
The thrilling sequel and prequel to The Girl Who Talks to Ashes ...
It’s been three years since Lilah Quinn stumbled upon the bones of her biological mother, thereby solving the mystery of Willow’s long-forgotten disappearance. Since then, Lilah has been working off-book as Sheriff Reid’s star detective, solving decades-old cold cases with the help of those closest to the crimes – the victims themselves.
But when Lilah’s newest case hits a dead end, she’s forced to do something she’s never done speak to the murderer himself. Unfortunately, his “ghost” isn’t interested in helping her, nor is he willing to play by her rules. Because, unlike all the others, this ghost is able to exist apart from his bones, untethered even by time.
And now that he’s been freed, he’s got a bone to pick.
It’s been three years since Lilah Quinn stumbled upon the bones of her biological mother, thereby solving the mystery of Willow’s long-forgotten disappearance. Since then, Lilah has been working off-book as Sheriff Reid’s star detective, solving decades-old cold cases with the help of those closest to the crimes – the victims themselves.
But when Lilah’s newest case hits a dead end, she’s forced to do something she’s never done speak to the murderer himself. Unfortunately, his “ghost” isn’t interested in helping her, nor is he willing to play by her rules. Because, unlike all the others, this ghost is able to exist apart from his bones, untethered even by time.
And now that he’s been freed, he’s got a bone to pick.
385 pages, Paperback
First published October 17, 2023
39 people are currently reading
269 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Rener
22 books728 followersRachel Rener is a multi-award-winning, #1 bestselling romantasy author who loves blurring the line between science and magic.
She graduated from the University of Colorado after focusing on Psychology and Neuroscience. Since then, she has lived on three continents and has traveled to nearly 50 countries.
When she's not writing or reading, Rachel enjoys art of all kinds, riding her motorcycle, going to rock shows (both musical and mineralogical), Vulcanology (the lava kind as well as the pointy-eared variety), and hanging out with her readers in her Facebook group, Rachel's Renergades.
She lives in Colorado with her husband and a feisty umbrella cockatoo named Terrance (a.k.a “Jungle Chicken”) that hangs out on her shoulder as she writes – whether invited or not.
*
Find out more about Rachel and her books at: www.RachelRener.com
You can also be regaled with totally inappropriate stories and behind the scenes shenanigans by signing up for her newsletter: https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/form...
@AuthorRachelRener across all socials
She graduated from the University of Colorado after focusing on Psychology and Neuroscience. Since then, she has lived on three continents and has traveled to nearly 50 countries.
When she's not writing or reading, Rachel enjoys art of all kinds, riding her motorcycle, going to rock shows (both musical and mineralogical), Vulcanology (the lava kind as well as the pointy-eared variety), and hanging out with her readers in her Facebook group, Rachel's Renergades.
She lives in Colorado with her husband and a feisty umbrella cockatoo named Terrance (a.k.a “Jungle Chicken”) that hangs out on her shoulder as she writes – whether invited or not.
*
Find out more about Rachel and her books at: www.RachelRener.com
You can also be regaled with totally inappropriate stories and behind the scenes shenanigans by signing up for her newsletter: https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/form...
@AuthorRachelRener across all socials
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
September 20, 2023
Well now. WELL. NOW.
Fresh from the Gilded Blood series, Rachel Rener has returned to the world of Lilah, and not only has she written a sequel to the wonderful 'The Girl Who Talks To Ashes', she's also written a prequel to it. IN THE SAME BOOK!
'The Boy Who Lurks In Shadows' is a compelling contemporary fantasy which can be read as a standalone, as a first entry in this series, or as a welcome sequel to 'The Girl Who Talks To Ashes'. It's cleverly constructed to work in a variety of ways, and this speaks to Rener's vast skill as a writer.
Told in a 3rd person omnipresent POV (a tricky thing to pull off, but Rener does so with aplomb), 'TBWLS' deals with unanswered questions from the original book, while spinning a new tale that sheds new light on Lilah's talents, while bringing new questions about her past and future.
A spooky tale right in time for Halloween (but also not squeamish or too intense), this is a tale that many can get along with. For those who felt Gilded Blood had too much spice and romance, this will be perfect for you. It deals with love, found family, time travel (!), magic and is all underpinned by a solid mystery.
Another super entry into Rener's growing compendium of quality.
Fresh from the Gilded Blood series, Rachel Rener has returned to the world of Lilah, and not only has she written a sequel to the wonderful 'The Girl Who Talks To Ashes', she's also written a prequel to it. IN THE SAME BOOK!
'The Boy Who Lurks In Shadows' is a compelling contemporary fantasy which can be read as a standalone, as a first entry in this series, or as a welcome sequel to 'The Girl Who Talks To Ashes'. It's cleverly constructed to work in a variety of ways, and this speaks to Rener's vast skill as a writer.
Told in a 3rd person omnipresent POV (a tricky thing to pull off, but Rener does so with aplomb), 'TBWLS' deals with unanswered questions from the original book, while spinning a new tale that sheds new light on Lilah's talents, while bringing new questions about her past and future.
A spooky tale right in time for Halloween (but also not squeamish or too intense), this is a tale that many can get along with. For those who felt Gilded Blood had too much spice and romance, this will be perfect for you. It deals with love, found family, time travel (!), magic and is all underpinned by a solid mystery.
Another super entry into Rener's growing compendium of quality.
October 18, 2023
Outstanding follow-up!
3 years have passed. Lilah and Jace and company have continued their work, solving cold cases and giving closure. There is a new one, that surprisingly ties into one already being investigated.
This story shows horrific circumstances that happen and affect everything. The butterfly flapping its wings effect, if you will. Rachel doesn't hold back, though it's not overly gory or anything, but there are some possible triggers. They aren't bad, but I can see how it would upset someone.
I will say though, the story is very well crafted and there is a lot of empathy you will feel. Trust me, don't make judgments while reading. The story is rich and full of love, despite the heartaches. Well worth the read and I do hope more are to come.
3 years have passed. Lilah and Jace and company have continued their work, solving cold cases and giving closure. There is a new one, that surprisingly ties into one already being investigated.
This story shows horrific circumstances that happen and affect everything. The butterfly flapping its wings effect, if you will. Rachel doesn't hold back, though it's not overly gory or anything, but there are some possible triggers. They aren't bad, but I can see how it would upset someone.
I will say though, the story is very well crafted and there is a lot of empathy you will feel. Trust me, don't make judgments while reading. The story is rich and full of love, despite the heartaches. Well worth the read and I do hope more are to come.
October 19, 2023
I don't like ghost stories. Except when Rachel Rener writes them, apparently. Then, I love them.
Perfect for the spooky season, it is no lie when I tell you I've been waiting for four years for this book. Four years! The Girl Who Talks to Ashes was published three years ago, but I first became acquainted with Rachel's writing a year before that, so trust me, the math works.
This book is a masterpiece. I know this duology has a small cult following compared to her other series, but the writing is fantastic, and the story is imaginative beyond belief (and I can imagine a lot)! Additionally, it is horrifying but in a wonderful way that doesn't quite induce nightmares. I loved it!
Also, Lilah is back and as wonderful as ever! And don't want to spoil it by saying much else. Just read it!
I was given an ARC by the author and reviewed it because it deserved to be raved over.
Perfect for the spooky season, it is no lie when I tell you I've been waiting for four years for this book. Four years! The Girl Who Talks to Ashes was published three years ago, but I first became acquainted with Rachel's writing a year before that, so trust me, the math works.
This book is a masterpiece. I know this duology has a small cult following compared to her other series, but the writing is fantastic, and the story is imaginative beyond belief (and I can imagine a lot)! Additionally, it is horrifying but in a wonderful way that doesn't quite induce nightmares. I loved it!
Also, Lilah is back and as wonderful as ever! And don't want to spoil it by saying much else. Just read it!
I was given an ARC by the author and reviewed it because it deserved to be raved over.
October 18, 2024
Okay, okay......okay. I am officially the worst buddy reader. Period. What was supposed to only be four chapters turned into being completed before brunch.
Like, I didn't even have my caffeine today kind of just sucked into it and the next thing I knew it was over.
The POVs and back and forth time lines continue in this one, but dare I say done even smoother than in the first book, to which I thought was seamless to begin with. This book takes two ends of the spectrum...er...timeline....ugh....lifetimes? ANYWAYS, it takes all of these things and pulls them into a tidy little snuggle pile of happy endings and happiness right in the middle. Right where they should be.
Lilah, and crew continue on in life three years later. We're talking secondary school, jobs, so on and so forth - when she takes....literally just takes a case and runs with it. The only thing is - this ghost....well, just might not be who he was made out to be and you're sucked right into following the rabbit trail. Gasping, guessing and cheering along the way. Just wow!
It's got spooky, it has heartwarming, it has good feels and I promise you this does not turn out the way you think it will after reading the beginning of the book. Chefs kiss. The way you learn to love these characters feels so darn good. If you're a fan of found family, time travel/manipulation, supernatural with a sprinkle of mystery and case closing goodness, this duology is something you most certainly need to check out.
Like, I didn't even have my caffeine today kind of just sucked into it and the next thing I knew it was over.
The POVs and back and forth time lines continue in this one, but dare I say done even smoother than in the first book, to which I thought was seamless to begin with. This book takes two ends of the spectrum...er...timeline....ugh....lifetimes? ANYWAYS, it takes all of these things and pulls them into a tidy little snuggle pile of happy endings and happiness right in the middle. Right where they should be.
Lilah, and crew continue on in life three years later. We're talking secondary school, jobs, so on and so forth - when she takes....literally just takes a case and runs with it. The only thing is - this ghost....well, just might not be who he was made out to be and you're sucked right into following the rabbit trail. Gasping, guessing and cheering along the way. Just wow!
It's got spooky, it has heartwarming, it has good feels and I promise you this does not turn out the way you think it will after reading the beginning of the book. Chefs kiss. The way you learn to love these characters feels so darn good. If you're a fan of found family, time travel/manipulation, supernatural with a sprinkle of mystery and case closing goodness, this duology is something you most certainly need to check out.
September 30, 2023
This book grabbed me and wouldn’t let go. I put it down to sleep and that’s about it. It’s dark in places, beautiful in several others and got me thinking about the themes a lot deeper than I meant to.
I will not share spoilers so I feel like I can’t say much more than I loved the characters, was addicted to the story, and was shattered that the book ended and there wasn’t even more to read.
This has taken its very well deserved place among my favorite books ever (several of this author’s books are on that list so I shouldn’t be surprised).
One note, pay attention to the author’s trigger warnings at the beginning of the book. If those things are triggering please take care of yourself and if you chose to read be prepared. Now, having said that, nothing (except maybe the misogyny of a small group of jerks) is graphic, and nothing is handled with anything other than a gentle hand and deft touch of the storyteller.
For example, (no spoiler hopefully )but animal death is mentioned in the TW but it refers to a past incident in one of the characters life and while important is handled beautifully.
All in all I cannot recommend this book enough!
This review is based on ARC copy I received
Reviewed by Chris (Raven and Chris)
I will not share spoilers so I feel like I can’t say much more than I loved the characters, was addicted to the story, and was shattered that the book ended and there wasn’t even more to read.
This has taken its very well deserved place among my favorite books ever (several of this author’s books are on that list so I shouldn’t be surprised).
One note, pay attention to the author’s trigger warnings at the beginning of the book. If those things are triggering please take care of yourself and if you chose to read be prepared. Now, having said that, nothing (except maybe the misogyny of a small group of jerks) is graphic, and nothing is handled with anything other than a gentle hand and deft touch of the storyteller.
For example, (no spoiler hopefully )but animal death is mentioned in the TW but it refers to a past incident in one of the characters life and while important is handled beautifully.
All in all I cannot recommend this book enough!
This review is based on ARC copy I received
Reviewed by Chris (Raven and Chris)
October 18, 2023
This book immediately drops you into the action and had me hooked from the first page. I was eager to revisit Lilah's story and I loved the time hopping of the intertwined narratives of Elliot and Lilah. It’s a complicated, creepy, sometimes sad, but extremely well done story.
The Boy Who Lurks in the Shadows takes place a few years after The Girl Who Talks to Ashes. Having discovered her abilities, Lelah now works as a Junior Detective (aka clerk) in the sheriff’s office solving cold cases. As she’s following up on a lead for one of her cases, she runs into another mystery - this one follows her home. Interspersed with Lilah's story, we also get Elliot's. His story starts with him as an unusual, frightening child at an orphanage (some Sixth Sense vibes here.)
I absolutely loved how the stories came together and there’s a terrific cast of secondary characters -Jace and Stanley from The Girl Who Talks to Ashes along with Libby, Eliot's eventual adoptive mother and June, the girl he loves. And the ending is completely, totally terrific.
October 4, 2023
Rachel Rener! Woman, you’re scary smart. This book took a lot of planning and research to make it believable. The Boy is a great follow up to Lilah’s story and I don’t want to spoil anything for anyone by giving too much information. This book is complex with a rich world(s) that will make you think; and that’s something that is really rare. I read a complimentary Advanced Reader Copy of this book & am voluntarily leaving an honest and unbiased review.
October 20, 2023
Epic story!
I totally loved this book and this two books series of The Bone Whisperer Chronicles! It was such a fascinating series that was hard to put down. Book 2 was just as good as book one, The Girl Who Talks To Ashes. Please, if you have not read it, take the time to do so, you will be pleasantly surprised with how the book ends!
I totally loved this book and this two books series of The Bone Whisperer Chronicles! It was such a fascinating series that was hard to put down. Book 2 was just as good as book one, The Girl Who Talks To Ashes. Please, if you have not read it, take the time to do so, you will be pleasantly surprised with how the book ends!
October 20, 2023
Time flys
Another great book by Rachel Rener!
I can't wait to see what happens next for Lilah, Jace, and everyone else.
Another great book by Rachel Rener!
I can't wait to see what happens next for Lilah, Jace, and everyone else.
October 27, 2024
Rachel has concluded this series with a sappy ending we wish in all our series! My questions were answered and my heart was healed.
I love the intricacies of the time travel theory and the relationships of the characters. This story ends with nothing but love and a vast found family vibe. So worth the buy!
I love the intricacies of the time travel theory and the relationships of the characters. This story ends with nothing but love and a vast found family vibe. So worth the buy!
October 23, 2023
Must Read!
Talk about unexpected twists and turns! Rachel never fails to keep you guessing at the edge of your seat. I love it when I get so immersed in a story that I can laugh and cry, plus feel heart-pounding trepidation at times! Thank you, Rachel, for yet another amazing adventure.
Talk about unexpected twists and turns! Rachel never fails to keep you guessing at the edge of your seat. I love it when I get so immersed in a story that I can laugh and cry, plus feel heart-pounding trepidation at times! Thank you, Rachel, for yet another amazing adventure.
October 22, 2023
Wow!
A time bending mystery novel? Yes, please. It’s a prequel and a sequel wrapped up in a well written story. Rachel works her magic bringing this story to life, literally and fictionally.
A time bending mystery novel? Yes, please. It’s a prequel and a sequel wrapped up in a well written story. Rachel works her magic bringing this story to life, literally and fictionally.
November 4, 2024
Reread in October through a buddy read from the Rachel Renergades.
Even the second time around I absolutely loved this story. It is well written, original, heartbreaking and wholesome.
Original review:
Oh, how my heart broke for the little boy.
I have a strict curfew imposed on myself by myself as I am simply a wreck if I break it. But I did for this book as I didn't want to put it down. I think that's the best review I can give.
Even the second time around I absolutely loved this story. It is well written, original, heartbreaking and wholesome.
Original review:
Oh, how my heart broke for the little boy.
I have a strict curfew imposed on myself by myself as I am simply a wreck if I break it. But I did for this book as I didn't want to put it down. I think that's the best review I can give.
October 8, 2023
LISTEN UP LOVELY READERS! IF YOU HAVE NOT YET READ THE GIRL WHO TALKS TO ASHES…THAT’S JUST CRAZINESS…GO! READ IT! BASK IN THE AWESOMENESS! THAN PREORDER YOURSELF A COPY OF THE BOY WHO LURKS IN SHADOWS!!!!
Honestly, I admit, I had a little trepidation…a little uncertainty…a little bit of anxiety…that The Boy Who Lurks in Shadows would not live up to the awesomeness of The Girl Who Talks to Ashes. I absolutely loved TGWTtA! It is one of my absolute favorite standalone novels ever (well…when it was still a standalone) and part of me rejoiced in the announcement of a prequel/sequel book but another part of me feared that it wouldn’t live up to my (rather lofty) expectations. BUUUUUUUUT…NOT ONLY DID IT MEET THOSE LOFTY EXPECTATIONS BUT IT COMPLETELY BLEW THEM OUT OF THE WATER!
Lilah has spent the last 3 years working as a ”clerk” at the local police department. But her rather unique and mysterious gifts have allowed her to circumvent some of the normal clerical duties for one’s involving interviewing the dead, helping solve unsolved case, and catching the evil that has plaqued Montana and its nearby states. But when she pilfers a file on a dead serial killer who claims to have murdered 12 unknown victims she takes it upon herself to use her unique abilities to speak to him…but…perhaps that wasn’t the best of ideas because he doesn’t seem to have the same limitations as others she’s awakened and now no matter where she goes he seems to be following her…and dare I say, lurking in the shadows. Anyways…can Lilah solve the crimes and discover the truth before the unthinkable happens? YOU JUST MUST READ THIS BOOK! (DO IT!) TO FIND OUT!
This book…this Amazing! Wonderful! Mysterious! A little bit dark! A little bit scary! book is just so beautiful in so many ways! I laughed! I cried (in happiness and sorrow)! I reveled in the amount of detail and scientific research that had to have went into a story such as this (seriously! OMG! I can’t even imagine)! And I left feeling OVERWHELMINGLY BLISSFUL in how the entire story played out. IT REALLY COULDN’T HAVE BEEN MORE PERFECT!
So yeah…GO SECURE YOURSELF A COPY TODAY! The spookiness will draw you in but the story will live forever in your soul!
One last side note… RACHEL! PLEASE! PLEASE! PLEASE WRITE MORE BOOKS IN THIS SERIES! I need to know more!
Honest and true ARC Review!
Honestly, I admit, I had a little trepidation…a little uncertainty…a little bit of anxiety…that The Boy Who Lurks in Shadows would not live up to the awesomeness of The Girl Who Talks to Ashes. I absolutely loved TGWTtA! It is one of my absolute favorite standalone novels ever (well…when it was still a standalone) and part of me rejoiced in the announcement of a prequel/sequel book but another part of me feared that it wouldn’t live up to my (rather lofty) expectations. BUUUUUUUUT…NOT ONLY DID IT MEET THOSE LOFTY EXPECTATIONS BUT IT COMPLETELY BLEW THEM OUT OF THE WATER!
Lilah has spent the last 3 years working as a ”clerk” at the local police department. But her rather unique and mysterious gifts have allowed her to circumvent some of the normal clerical duties for one’s involving interviewing the dead, helping solve unsolved case, and catching the evil that has plaqued Montana and its nearby states. But when she pilfers a file on a dead serial killer who claims to have murdered 12 unknown victims she takes it upon herself to use her unique abilities to speak to him…but…perhaps that wasn’t the best of ideas because he doesn’t seem to have the same limitations as others she’s awakened and now no matter where she goes he seems to be following her…and dare I say, lurking in the shadows. Anyways…can Lilah solve the crimes and discover the truth before the unthinkable happens? YOU JUST MUST READ THIS BOOK! (DO IT!) TO FIND OUT!
This book…this Amazing! Wonderful! Mysterious! A little bit dark! A little bit scary! book is just so beautiful in so many ways! I laughed! I cried (in happiness and sorrow)! I reveled in the amount of detail and scientific research that had to have went into a story such as this (seriously! OMG! I can’t even imagine)! And I left feeling OVERWHELMINGLY BLISSFUL in how the entire story played out. IT REALLY COULDN’T HAVE BEEN MORE PERFECT!
So yeah…GO SECURE YOURSELF A COPY TODAY! The spookiness will draw you in but the story will live forever in your soul!
One last side note… RACHEL! PLEASE! PLEASE! PLEASE WRITE MORE BOOKS IN THIS SERIES! I need to know more!
Honest and true ARC Review!
August 12, 2024
I was intrigued by how this was touted as both prequel and sequel to The Girl Who can talk to Ashes but well, goes to show what I know. This author certainly has a way of twisting our expectations but in a good way.
This one alternates between Elliot, a young boy who sees the dead, and Lilah, our MC from the previous book. It's not just that Elliot can see the dead, others can see them too, which makes the nuns in the Christian orphanage he is in, afraid. They decide he's the devil and decide to get rid of him because their superior doesn't believe them and even chastises them for frightening the child.
Lilah is investigating a disappearance, but can find no leads, when she sees a case file on the police chief's desk which has Elliot's name on it. The file says Elliot killed himself after confessing he's killed a dozen people, but no one has been able to find their remains. Stumped by the case, she's been investigating and frustrated by the lack of leads, Lilah decides to investigate Elliot's case, despite the Chief not having given it to her.
When she tries to change time to talk to Elliot, something unexpected happens. Elliot can leave his grave, something that has been impossible for any of the others, and he appears to be stalking her.
I loved Elliot in this. My heart went out to him and everything he has been through. June is also another character who I loved. I have to admit that it took me way too long to make some of the connections but once I did, I was very excited to see how it all pans out.
As with all of this author's books that I've read till now, the ending was pure perfection. It tied up every loose end and gave the characters what they needed. Awesome.
Having read many books with "happy" endings, which is where the MC and LI end up happy and the other characters not so, this was the kind of happy ending I could get behind where every character got their happiness. There are some things that cannot be changed, but a lot of things had been, and I loved it.
I am sad I couldn't see more of Stacey in this, but not surprised at how he's a father figure to Jace as well in this. Jace is the perfect boyfriend and he and Lilah deserve all the happiness in the world.
I'm eagerly looking forward to reading more books by this author.
October 30, 2023
I only recently read The Girl Who Talks to Ashes (TGWTTA) and immediately fell in love with it. It is just very different from most fantasy books, adding a little element of horror to the mix. The Boy Who Lurks in Shadows (TBWLIS) is sequel and prequel to TGWTTA – that is the kind of magic (or shall I say ‘mayhem’?), Rachel Rener weaves and wreaks as a writer in the real world. Brilliant! And the ending I was niggling about in my review for TGWTTA now makes perfect sense. That was ingenious, a masterstroke. So, you can read TBWLIS as a standalone, before TGWTTA or after and every time it not just works but works out great.
I described TGWTTA as a mixture of ‘Sixth Sense’, ‘Quantum Leap’, ‘Ghost Whisperer’ and ‘Supernatural’, but…more. This is still valid for TBWLIS, but the percentage of ‘Sixth Sense’ and ‘Quantum Leap’ definitely increases. As does the horror-element. TBWLIS is a darker without being bleak, even though there is quite the fill of tragedy.
While The Girl Who Talks to Ashes mainly features Lilah, said ash-talking girl, her stepfather Stanley and her friend Jace, we now have a new main character with Elliot Whitman, while Stan and Jace step into the background. And Elliot is such a wonderful character just of his own that I didn't even mind having less Stanley who was a great character in the first book. But having Elliot in combination with Lilah as main characters is fantastic and works like a charm. I said if before and I say it again: Rachel Rener writes great characters. Great flawed characters. Just like Lilah and Elliot.
I cannot express just how much I enjoyed The Boy Who Lurks in Shadows. It is just SO good. It’s heartwarming, tragical, sad, uplifting,…I guess, ‘emotional’ is the word I am looking for. Probably followed by 'rollercoaster'. And while I already loved the first book, this one is even better (and yes, I am aware that there are no more than five stars, but still…).
The only half-complaint I have this time is that I was hoping for an ongoing series after TGWTTA, but the ending is done so well, that I am happily parting with that hope.
I described TGWTTA as a mixture of ‘Sixth Sense’, ‘Quantum Leap’, ‘Ghost Whisperer’ and ‘Supernatural’, but…more. This is still valid for TBWLIS, but the percentage of ‘Sixth Sense’ and ‘Quantum Leap’ definitely increases. As does the horror-element. TBWLIS is a darker without being bleak, even though there is quite the fill of tragedy.
While The Girl Who Talks to Ashes mainly features Lilah, said ash-talking girl, her stepfather Stanley and her friend Jace, we now have a new main character with Elliot Whitman, while Stan and Jace step into the background. And Elliot is such a wonderful character just of his own that I didn't even mind having less Stanley who was a great character in the first book. But having Elliot in combination with Lilah as main characters is fantastic and works like a charm. I said if before and I say it again: Rachel Rener writes great characters. Great flawed characters. Just like Lilah and Elliot.
I cannot express just how much I enjoyed The Boy Who Lurks in Shadows. It is just SO good. It’s heartwarming, tragical, sad, uplifting,…I guess, ‘emotional’ is the word I am looking for. Probably followed by 'rollercoaster'. And while I already loved the first book, this one is even better (and yes, I am aware that there are no more than five stars, but still…).
The only half-complaint I have this time is that I was hoping for an ongoing series after TGWTTA, but the ending is done so well, that I am happily parting with that hope.
October 21, 2024
This fucking duology man...I already gave my choice words to Rachel for this but here is my official review. I was going read this on schedule like I did the first book...but after accidentally reading to far into the chapter meant for day 2 I gave up on that notion and finished the book on day 2 of the buddy read while everyone else on schedule took the weekend off...
So set 3 years after book one Lilah has been working as an honorary detective using her gifts to solve cold cases and doing quite well while working toward her education to become an actual detective. Jace is away at college on a baseball scholarship. Papa Stan is still chief of the fire department. Love that we get to see a more grown up version of her and Jace.
Lilah literally takes a case and follows it as she does but when the person she needs to talk to is the murderer you'd think she would bail right? But no,the wind blows a different direction (iykyk) and the apparition doesn't return to it's dead state instead she's now being supernaturally stalked by him. All the while you are also reading this guys origin story. This gets really creepy for a while and had me worried. Then everything came together and had me crying and so incredibly angry then crying because I was happy everything came together into a perfect little happy ending.
Rachel created this beautiful story that truly does take us on an adventure right from the beginning of book 1! Everything in book 1, The Girl Who Talks to Ashes is relevant and has a callback in the second book that will have you doing your own detective work. Seamless and flawless and so easy to understand thanks to the stick figures at the end 😉 Thank you Rachel for giving me a YA duo that didn't make me cringe as a person in my late 20's but instead was written beautifully and so wholesome.
So set 3 years after book one Lilah has been working as an honorary detective using her gifts to solve cold cases and doing quite well while working toward her education to become an actual detective. Jace is away at college on a baseball scholarship. Papa Stan is still chief of the fire department. Love that we get to see a more grown up version of her and Jace.
Lilah literally takes a case and follows it as she does but when the person she needs to talk to is the murderer you'd think she would bail right? But no,the wind blows a different direction (iykyk) and the apparition doesn't return to it's dead state instead she's now being supernaturally stalked by him. All the while you are also reading this guys origin story. This gets really creepy for a while and had me worried. Then everything came together and had me crying and so incredibly angry then crying because I was happy everything came together into a perfect little happy ending.
Rachel created this beautiful story that truly does take us on an adventure right from the beginning of book 1! Everything in book 1, The Girl Who Talks to Ashes is relevant and has a callback in the second book that will have you doing your own detective work. Seamless and flawless and so easy to understand thanks to the stick figures at the end 😉 Thank you Rachel for giving me a YA duo that didn't make me cringe as a person in my late 20's but instead was written beautifully and so wholesome.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 7, 2024
One of my favorite reads, up there with the greatest of greats. Whatta' book, whatta' author, HOLY DEEP FRIED CANNOLI, Rachel Rener has done it again!
Let me start off by saying...I wouldn't have picked this book for myself. I did read Rachel's 'Gilded Blood' series and I loved it. And I figured if she did it once...maybe she could do it again. So, I read this book, knowing it had some mystery, lots of horror and some trigger warnings. AND OH MY GOD. You should all just go pick yourself up this duology because it might be the best thing since the discovery of cheese. I felt so many feelings. I CRIED. WHILE READING A BOOK. A BOOK! You know how rare that is for me? I'm the sort that doesn't cry at anything...like...my ducts won't allow it. AND YET. TEARS! Doctors have been puzzled for years. I have now experienced all human emotions. (I may be exaggerating a little...BUT NOT REALLY.)
I'll finish by saying, I really loved all the characters. ALL OF THEM. Even the mushroom'd up Shaman who makes Super Mario look clean. This was such a page-turner! I'm going to go read the one series I haven't read by Rachel after this...and if you haven't read 'The Girl Who Talks to Ashes' or the Sequel 'The Boy Who Lurks in the Shadows' WELL, WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?! Stop reading this and go pick up a copy. This one is WELL worth your time. I can't sing enough of my praises.
Let me start off by saying...I wouldn't have picked this book for myself. I did read Rachel's 'Gilded Blood' series and I loved it. And I figured if she did it once...maybe she could do it again. So, I read this book, knowing it had some mystery, lots of horror and some trigger warnings. AND OH MY GOD. You should all just go pick yourself up this duology because it might be the best thing since the discovery of cheese. I felt so many feelings. I CRIED. WHILE READING A BOOK. A BOOK! You know how rare that is for me? I'm the sort that doesn't cry at anything...like...my ducts won't allow it. AND YET. TEARS! Doctors have been puzzled for years. I have now experienced all human emotions. (I may be exaggerating a little...BUT NOT REALLY.)
I'll finish by saying, I really loved all the characters. ALL OF THEM. Even the mushroom'd up Shaman who makes Super Mario look clean. This was such a page-turner! I'm going to go read the one series I haven't read by Rachel after this...and if you haven't read 'The Girl Who Talks to Ashes' or the Sequel 'The Boy Who Lurks in the Shadows' WELL, WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?! Stop reading this and go pick up a copy. This one is WELL worth your time. I can't sing enough of my praises.
September 17, 2024
This is book 2 in the Bone Whisperer Chronicles. Set a few years after we last read Lilah, she is now working unofficially for Sheriff Reid. Never one to let a mystery go unsolved, she goes off on her own to try to find clues about a missing woman. Meanwhile, we meet Elliott, a young boy who can “wake up” the dead and make them real again. We get differing POV’s as the story moves along and these 2 timelines come to intersect.
Lilah is a determined “detective” on the case. But when she makes the mistake of going alone, she brings home more than she bargained for when a ghost becomes real. Can she keep her family safe and help figure out what this ghost wants?
Elliot is an almost typical young boy. He likes to play and make friends, even if he doesn’t understand they may not be alive. Following his heartbreaking story gives you all the emotions. You just want to cuddle him up and tell him everything will be ok, even as he gets older.
And the twists and turns this plot takes! Oh my!!! It’s a full circle and I have to admit at times gave my brain whiplash! Once you figure out what is going on, you just have this AHA moment and then you get all the feels again! And I love how the book ended! Can’t say I totally understand all the details of how it works, but it does!
Lilah is a determined “detective” on the case. But when she makes the mistake of going alone, she brings home more than she bargained for when a ghost becomes real. Can she keep her family safe and help figure out what this ghost wants?
Elliot is an almost typical young boy. He likes to play and make friends, even if he doesn’t understand they may not be alive. Following his heartbreaking story gives you all the emotions. You just want to cuddle him up and tell him everything will be ok, even as he gets older.
And the twists and turns this plot takes! Oh my!!! It’s a full circle and I have to admit at times gave my brain whiplash! Once you figure out what is going on, you just have this AHA moment and then you get all the feels again! And I love how the book ended! Can’t say I totally understand all the details of how it works, but it does!
October 3, 2023
Wowwwwwww, this book! I was kind of worried because I loved the first book SO MUCH, but Rachel absolutely outdid herself on this one. I think this one might even be better than the first! I teared up so many times.. both happy tears and sad. The twists and surprises were shocking but made total sense. I can't believe how much foreshadowing there was that I didn't recognize until reveals were made. The chapter headings were absolutely brilliant, just as they were in the first book. I cannot understand how in the world Rachel's brain works to be able to piece all of this time-altering insanity together and make not only a cohesive story, but such a fantastic one! This series will be timeless. In hundreds of years, readers will still be wondering how on Earth she came up with all of this and made it fit together so perfectly! This story surpassed all of my expectations, and the ending was absolutely perfect, although bittersweet for a couple of the characters. I seriously stopped halfway through the read to order the paperback because I was so confident this would be a shelf-worthy book, and I was absolutely right!
May 12, 2025
This was an enjoyable, engaging read. The plot was unique, the characters likable and interesting, and the writing engaging.
I did think the ending was a bit rushed, however. And it seemed a little implausible. There was a lot of detail in the “how” of things which made pure sci-fi seem plausible, but then In the climax, when Lilah helps Elliot fix everything using her powers, it stops explaining anything and just happens. It goes off without a hitch of course … except for one detail that got overlooked.
In book one, Lilah raises her dead adoptive mother Marie and speaks with her for a while. Then Marie returns to ashes.
In book two, it’s insinuated that Lilah’s powers work the same as her father’s, which pulls a soul from the body in a past time when they are raised and the souls are left to wander as a result, which is a bad thing. So why wasn’t Marie’s soul with the group that Lilah and Elliot had to save? It feels like a little bit of a plot hole that got overlooked.
Overall though the Bone Whisperer Chronicles was a good read and I look forward to checking out more of this author’s work.
I did think the ending was a bit rushed, however. And it seemed a little implausible. There was a lot of detail in the “how” of things which made pure sci-fi seem plausible, but then In the climax, when Lilah helps Elliot fix everything using her powers, it stops explaining anything and just happens. It goes off without a hitch of course … except for one detail that got overlooked.
In book one, Lilah raises her dead adoptive mother Marie and speaks with her for a while. Then Marie returns to ashes.
In book two, it’s insinuated that Lilah’s powers work the same as her father’s, which pulls a soul from the body in a past time when they are raised and the souls are left to wander as a result, which is a bad thing. So why wasn’t Marie’s soul with the group that Lilah and Elliot had to save? It feels like a little bit of a plot hole that got overlooked.
Overall though the Bone Whisperer Chronicles was a good read and I look forward to checking out more of this author’s work.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 20, 2023
I loved Lilah's first book, so I leaped at the chance to read the sequel and found myself yelling at my epileptic daughter for a whole new set of reasons... There is a reason I like to read older characters who don't chase serial killers into cemetaries....
But, I put my trust in Rachel and boy, was I not disappointed.
Terrified? Yes. Freaked out? Oh, Yes!
Disappointed, never.
Lilah has now been hired as an honorary detective and uses her powers to solve cold cases, by animating the corpses and asking them what happened. While, Jace, is off at college on a baseball scholarship. When Lilah starts searching for a mysterious woman who disappeared one snowy night, she has no idea how much this one event will spiral out into ways that she never saw coming.
I can't wait to see where the author takes us next. I received an advanced copy of this book, only to get too freaked out and decide to only read it during the light of day. It was a wild ride and one that I absolutely enjoyed, once I got over my fear of the dark and the boy who lurked there.
But, I put my trust in Rachel and boy, was I not disappointed.
Terrified? Yes. Freaked out? Oh, Yes!
Disappointed, never.
Lilah has now been hired as an honorary detective and uses her powers to solve cold cases, by animating the corpses and asking them what happened. While, Jace, is off at college on a baseball scholarship. When Lilah starts searching for a mysterious woman who disappeared one snowy night, she has no idea how much this one event will spiral out into ways that she never saw coming.
I can't wait to see where the author takes us next. I received an advanced copy of this book, only to get too freaked out and decide to only read it during the light of day. It was a wild ride and one that I absolutely enjoyed, once I got over my fear of the dark and the boy who lurked there.
January 19, 2024
There is a two-page Author’s Note from Rachel at the beginning of this book which goes into all the possible trigger warnings and BEWARE THIS IS DARK AND YOU WILL NEED A HAND TO HOLD.
With that being said, I didn’t think this was dark, violent or triggering in any way but I read this on a plane with a lot of sunshine streaming in from the windows, and if I had read this at night in the dark, maybe it would have been a different story. (“A different story” get it? Haha.)
Ok. Enough bad, sleep-deprived jokes for one review.
We return to the world of Lilah Quinn, who has been spending the last few years helping out the Sheriff with unsolved cold cases by bringing back dead witnesses. She “borrows” a file about a serial murderer and goes to question him, only to discover more than she bargained for when he refuses to follow her temporal reality.
What comes next is a mind-bending, reality-bending, time-bending adventure on loss, love, life, and family - both biological, and the ones we find on our way. It was one helluva good ride that kept me guessing up until the very end.
With that being said, I didn’t think this was dark, violent or triggering in any way but I read this on a plane with a lot of sunshine streaming in from the windows, and if I had read this at night in the dark, maybe it would have been a different story. (“A different story” get it? Haha.)
Ok. Enough bad, sleep-deprived jokes for one review.
We return to the world of Lilah Quinn, who has been spending the last few years helping out the Sheriff with unsolved cold cases by bringing back dead witnesses. She “borrows” a file about a serial murderer and goes to question him, only to discover more than she bargained for when he refuses to follow her temporal reality.
What comes next is a mind-bending, reality-bending, time-bending adventure on loss, love, life, and family - both biological, and the ones we find on our way. It was one helluva good ride that kept me guessing up until the very end.
September 4, 2024
This book is a perfect mix of sweet and spooky, so snuggle up with your favorite pumpkin spice beverage and prepare for reading heaven.
The sad story of Elliott, a boy with unusual powers, intertwines with that of Lilah from the previous book, in a mysterious and beautiful manner.
I really loved meeting the other characters again (never thought I would say that about Shaman Mike, but whatever...) and following their stories to the present day, while Elliott's tale made me cry.
The plot is well-paced, which is a feat in itself for something that hops about like a rabbit on a hot tin roof, as there is excitement and something new to discover in every chapter. Speaking of which, the little pictures on the chapter headings are so cute and clever...
The modern prose is just exactly what I prefer and find easy to read. There's no spice or language, even though it's a darker and more grown-up YA / NA read. Any Stranger Things fan in your life would enjoy this book. Go spread the word!
The sad story of Elliott, a boy with unusual powers, intertwines with that of Lilah from the previous book, in a mysterious and beautiful manner.
I really loved meeting the other characters again (never thought I would say that about Shaman Mike, but whatever...) and following their stories to the present day, while Elliott's tale made me cry.
The plot is well-paced, which is a feat in itself for something that hops about like a rabbit on a hot tin roof, as there is excitement and something new to discover in every chapter. Speaking of which, the little pictures on the chapter headings are so cute and clever...
The modern prose is just exactly what I prefer and find easy to read. There's no spice or language, even though it's a darker and more grown-up YA / NA read. Any Stranger Things fan in your life would enjoy this book. Go spread the word!
December 17, 2023
Holy HeadSpin...! I had originally felt that book one had wrapped things up pretty nicely to be a standalone, but this book is worth every nanosecond to learn about all the questions you didn't know you had! The book starts off with a major creep factor (the kind that makes you NEED -not want- to know WTH!) and then spins your head right round as you start putting puzzle pieces together. I don't know if Rachel had known this book was coming initially, but it made SO much sense by the end and left it so we could definitely spend a lot more quality time with Lilah and crazy cases.
If you like suspense, reading at the edge of your seat (have pillows ready for when you fall off!), and yet some seriously cozy vibes through a lot of it (weird mix, but it works so well!), then snag this book ASAP. It was a perfect book to pick my reading brain up and out of its funk.
If you like suspense, reading at the edge of your seat (have pillows ready for when you fall off!), and yet some seriously cozy vibes through a lot of it (weird mix, but it works so well!), then snag this book ASAP. It was a perfect book to pick my reading brain up and out of its funk.
September 30, 2023
Read this in four hours. Devoured it, I should say.
I loved Lilah Quinn and especially her dad Stan (#teamstan!) in The Girls Who Talks to Ashes. I was super excited to learn the next book was in the works - and blow me down, that it was a prequel AND a sequel!
Yes, as strange as it sounds, this is both. A fantastic mystery which unravels on the page, tragic, touching and delving right into the heart of love, loss, longing and belonging. This isn't for the faint of heart, and there are content warnings at the start of this book which readers should be aware of. However, we are all assured of a HEA, which Rener delivers. Being a fan of timey-wimey-wibbly-wobbly stories, this is one for my bookshelves for sure!
I loved Lilah Quinn and especially her dad Stan (#teamstan!) in The Girls Who Talks to Ashes. I was super excited to learn the next book was in the works - and blow me down, that it was a prequel AND a sequel!
Yes, as strange as it sounds, this is both. A fantastic mystery which unravels on the page, tragic, touching and delving right into the heart of love, loss, longing and belonging. This isn't for the faint of heart, and there are content warnings at the start of this book which readers should be aware of. However, we are all assured of a HEA, which Rener delivers. Being a fan of timey-wimey-wibbly-wobbly stories, this is one for my bookshelves for sure!
October 17, 2023
This is a story about the consequences of chronically meeting people at their deadlines. Lilah Quinn is the assistant to the town sheriff, working on cold cases while in school to become an official detective. Her latest case will unfortunately hit a lot closer to home than she expects. This was a great book, a true sequel in a genre that does not have many. Uncharacteristic to her normal style Rener does not pull many punches, making this to my recollection her first real foray into psychological horror. I was jumping at every shadow, seeing a paradox waiting to happen, even until the last pages. The time shenanigans are back, and they were worth waiting through an _ENTIRE_NEW_SERIES_ to get to. Make this book an OOPART of your collection. Read three times as an ARC.
July 12, 2024
Amazing prequel and sequel in one book!
Must read the first book in this series first to fully understand this book. The perfect sequel and prequel! I didn't even know this was a thing to have a book be both the sequel and prequel we follow the story of Elliot who can make ghosts appear and follow Lilah as she is tracking down murderers in cold cases. What happens when she brings Elliot back and he doesn't disappear when she's done talking to him and can leave his bones. The perfect ending. With a little bit of Nancy drew, back to the future, and a wrinkle in time thrown into this story I absolutely loved every second of reading and absolutely loved the plot twists and ending of this story!
Must read the first book in this series first to fully understand this book. The perfect sequel and prequel! I didn't even know this was a thing to have a book be both the sequel and prequel we follow the story of Elliot who can make ghosts appear and follow Lilah as she is tracking down murderers in cold cases. What happens when she brings Elliot back and he doesn't disappear when she's done talking to him and can leave his bones. The perfect ending. With a little bit of Nancy drew, back to the future, and a wrinkle in time thrown into this story I absolutely loved every second of reading and absolutely loved the plot twists and ending of this story!
January 15, 2024
I am utterly speechless, authors don't normally leave me grasping at thin air when it comes time to write a review. But this book just did that, it blew my mind 🤯. I just couldn't put it down, I stayed up and read all night. I was like one more chapter and I’ll go to bed. Once again people were right, it was really good. Rachel, why must you do this to me, every single time each and every book has exceeded my expectations. The Boy who Lurks in Shadows is a sequel as well as a prequel to The Girl who Talks to Ashes.
I have received a complimentary ARC from the author for a fair and honest review.
I have received a complimentary ARC from the author for a fair and honest review.
June 23, 2024
This book is darker than Book 1, The Girl Who Talks to Ashes, but even more enthralling. Partly ghost-story, partly time-travel, partly mystery – this story will break your heart, before picking up the pieces and forming something wonderful from them. The characters leap off the page and into your heart. The writing is engaging, and the story flows beautifully across different timelines. The multiple threads of the storyline are all woven together to create a beautiful tapestry in the end.
Highly recommended (along with Book 1) for when you want a truly satisfying story and don't want to invest in an on-going series.
Highly recommended (along with Book 1) for when you want a truly satisfying story and don't want to invest in an on-going series.
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