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The Gateway Trackers #10
Shadow of the Brotherhood
Secrets lurk in these hallowed halls…
Jess and Hannah Ballard’s time in Edinburgh has revealed a formidable new enemy in the form of Alasdair MacLeod, the vicious spirit of a former Caomhnóir whose deranged and dangerous experiments on other ghosts have led to chaos in the spirit world. While Hannah works to reverse the terrible and mysterious Collection Alasdair left behind in the city’s underground closes, Jess and Finn track Alasdair to Kingshurst University, where they suspect Alasdair first encountered the Necromancers.
But finding answers at Kingshurst University proves harder—and more dangerous than they ever could have imagined. Kingshurst has a deeply disturbing legacy, and it does not give up its secrets willingly. As Jess and Finn dig deeper and deeper into a world of secret societies and dark rituals, will they be able to unmask Alasdair, or will they find themselves trapped in a web of Necromancer magic too tangled and twisted to escape?
Shadow of the Brotherhood is the 10th installment in E.E. Holmes’ best-selling paranormal series, The Gateway Trackers set in The World of the Gateway.
Jess and Hannah Ballard’s time in Edinburgh has revealed a formidable new enemy in the form of Alasdair MacLeod, the vicious spirit of a former Caomhnóir whose deranged and dangerous experiments on other ghosts have led to chaos in the spirit world. While Hannah works to reverse the terrible and mysterious Collection Alasdair left behind in the city’s underground closes, Jess and Finn track Alasdair to Kingshurst University, where they suspect Alasdair first encountered the Necromancers.
But finding answers at Kingshurst University proves harder—and more dangerous than they ever could have imagined. Kingshurst has a deeply disturbing legacy, and it does not give up its secrets willingly. As Jess and Finn dig deeper and deeper into a world of secret societies and dark rituals, will they be able to unmask Alasdair, or will they find themselves trapped in a web of Necromancer magic too tangled and twisted to escape?
Shadow of the Brotherhood is the 10th installment in E.E. Holmes’ best-selling paranormal series, The Gateway Trackers set in The World of the Gateway.
292 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 23, 2024
341 people are currently reading
162 people want to read
About the author
E.E. Holmes
33 books1,036 followersE.E. Holmes grew up near Boston, Massachusetts, where she spent the majority of her childhood reading books. She read them almost constantly, and as a result, perfected the art of walking and reading at the same time, a skill she can still perform to this day with remarkably few instances of falling on her face. She also wrote many books and poems in blank books and on the backs of legal pads her father brought home from the office. They remain some of her finest work.
She soon learned to love literature of the dramatic persuasion, and earned a B.A. in theater from the College of the Holy Cross. After graduation, she set out to prove that her degree was, in fact, not useless, and worked as a principal actor in a summer Shakespeare festival and as a theater teacher, directing over thirty productions and numerous workshops for youth and high school students. She spent several years as the theater director at Wakefield High School where she also taught English literature and public speaking. It was in her classroom that she discovered the horrible truth: a disturbingly large percentage of high school students hate to read. This revelation devastated and bewildered her. She decided she wanted to do something about it, and thus she started work on her first young adult novel, Spirit Legacy: Book 1 of the Gateway Trilogy, which has gone on to win awards from Chanticleer Book Reviews and Media and The Independent Publisher Book Awards. She is also the author of three one act plays, one of which premiered at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.
E.E. Holmes lives in central Massachusetts with her husband, two children, and small, but surprisingly loud dog. When not writing, she enjoys watching unhealthy amounts of British television, procrastinating, and rediscovering her favorite books from her childhood all over again with her kids.
She soon learned to love literature of the dramatic persuasion, and earned a B.A. in theater from the College of the Holy Cross. After graduation, she set out to prove that her degree was, in fact, not useless, and worked as a principal actor in a summer Shakespeare festival and as a theater teacher, directing over thirty productions and numerous workshops for youth and high school students. She spent several years as the theater director at Wakefield High School where she also taught English literature and public speaking. It was in her classroom that she discovered the horrible truth: a disturbingly large percentage of high school students hate to read. This revelation devastated and bewildered her. She decided she wanted to do something about it, and thus she started work on her first young adult novel, Spirit Legacy: Book 1 of the Gateway Trilogy, which has gone on to win awards from Chanticleer Book Reviews and Media and The Independent Publisher Book Awards. She is also the author of three one act plays, one of which premiered at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.
E.E. Holmes lives in central Massachusetts with her husband, two children, and small, but surprisingly loud dog. When not writing, she enjoys watching unhealthy amounts of British television, procrastinating, and rediscovering her favorite books from her childhood all over again with her kids.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
April 28, 2024
Another riveting book
Again, a hard to put down read. Plenty of twists and turns. And I'm happy about the apology at the end. I wish there wax a promise of another book with the end of the wedding and then the beginning of something more and romantic between Jess and Finn. Of course, another challenge!
Again, a hard to put down read. Plenty of twists and turns. And I'm happy about the apology at the end. I wish there wax a promise of another book with the end of the wedding and then the beginning of something more and romantic between Jess and Finn. Of course, another challenge!
December 26, 2025
I love these characters I could listen to them all day long.
May 12, 2024
Another Winner from E. E. Holmes... READ THESE BOOKS!!!
As usual, I wish I could leave more than five stars for E. E. Holmes's latest entry in the Gateway Trackers series. I had no idea this book was coming out until I saw it on my feed, and it was the best of surprises. I fell in love with Jess, Hannah, Milo and the Durupinen world a few years ago now. It was my introduction to E. E. Holmes and since then I've read everything she's written— multiple times. She is truly a master of the craft, plotting, characterization, worldbuilding... everything she writes blows me away.
Shadow of the Brotherhood was no exception. It is probably one of my favorites in the whole series. The way the plot unfolded was perfect, and it has been so much fun seeing how Jess, Hannah, Finn, and Savvy have grown and changed since their first adventures together over 10 books ago! There is something so vivid and relatable about these characters, that makes them really come off the page.
Equally as believable & engrossing is the world which Holmes has created. I love the paranormal, in fiction and real life, and I read a TON of books featuring spirits, magic, and other supernatural elements. And of the literally hundreds of ghost-themed books/series I have read, the World of the Gateway is probably my favorite (top 3 at least!), for many reasons. For one thing, it is absolutely unique. I haven't read any other books that are even remotely similar to the way the Durupinen world works.
But beyond that, I think what I love most about it is that it seems real, like something that could exist. I know that may sound silly, considering the subject matter deals with the paranormal, but the way these books are written is so believable. It helps that the Durupinen come complete with a detailed history, as well as a set of rules that remain standard throughout the series. Even when evil spirits run rampant or the MCs are trying to destroy secret societies bent on world domination, the story is written in a fashion that doesn't strain credibility. Honestly, if it was revealed to me tomorrow that ghosts are real, I could absolutely believe that the Durupinen exist to help guide them.
Bottom line is, this series is amazing, and this newest book is one of the best yet. The World of the Gateway has become one of my favorite series, and I recommend it loudly and often! However— if you are reading this review and you have not yet read the original Gateway trilogy or the rest of the Gateway Trackers book, I HIGHLY recommend you go back and start at the beginning. As awesome as this book is, it will likely not make a lot of sense if you try to read it as a standalone, particularly if you have no previous knowledge of the series. That said, to anyone reading this review who is caught up and just wondering if the new book is worth reading... IT IS!
Shadow of the Brotherhood is a fantastic addition to this collection, and while it wraps up the storyline introduced in the most recently released books, I hope that E. E. Holmes keeps adding to these adventures. Until she does, I also highly recommend her other series: the Riftmagic Saga (a gorgeous historical fantasy), and the Vesper Coven (this one set in the same world as the Durupinen)!
As usual, I wish I could leave more than five stars for E. E. Holmes's latest entry in the Gateway Trackers series. I had no idea this book was coming out until I saw it on my feed, and it was the best of surprises. I fell in love with Jess, Hannah, Milo and the Durupinen world a few years ago now. It was my introduction to E. E. Holmes and since then I've read everything she's written— multiple times. She is truly a master of the craft, plotting, characterization, worldbuilding... everything she writes blows me away.
Shadow of the Brotherhood was no exception. It is probably one of my favorites in the whole series. The way the plot unfolded was perfect, and it has been so much fun seeing how Jess, Hannah, Finn, and Savvy have grown and changed since their first adventures together over 10 books ago! There is something so vivid and relatable about these characters, that makes them really come off the page.
Equally as believable & engrossing is the world which Holmes has created. I love the paranormal, in fiction and real life, and I read a TON of books featuring spirits, magic, and other supernatural elements. And of the literally hundreds of ghost-themed books/series I have read, the World of the Gateway is probably my favorite (top 3 at least!), for many reasons. For one thing, it is absolutely unique. I haven't read any other books that are even remotely similar to the way the Durupinen world works.
But beyond that, I think what I love most about it is that it seems real, like something that could exist. I know that may sound silly, considering the subject matter deals with the paranormal, but the way these books are written is so believable. It helps that the Durupinen come complete with a detailed history, as well as a set of rules that remain standard throughout the series. Even when evil spirits run rampant or the MCs are trying to destroy secret societies bent on world domination, the story is written in a fashion that doesn't strain credibility. Honestly, if it was revealed to me tomorrow that ghosts are real, I could absolutely believe that the Durupinen exist to help guide them.
Bottom line is, this series is amazing, and this newest book is one of the best yet. The World of the Gateway has become one of my favorite series, and I recommend it loudly and often! However— if you are reading this review and you have not yet read the original Gateway trilogy or the rest of the Gateway Trackers book, I HIGHLY recommend you go back and start at the beginning. As awesome as this book is, it will likely not make a lot of sense if you try to read it as a standalone, particularly if you have no previous knowledge of the series. That said, to anyone reading this review who is caught up and just wondering if the new book is worth reading... IT IS!
Shadow of the Brotherhood is a fantastic addition to this collection, and while it wraps up the storyline introduced in the most recently released books, I hope that E. E. Holmes keeps adding to these adventures. Until she does, I also highly recommend her other series: the Riftmagic Saga (a gorgeous historical fantasy), and the Vesper Coven (this one set in the same world as the Durupinen)!
September 14, 2025
I felt like books 9&10 were their own little duology within this larger series. I was lucky enough to read them back to back (I hadn't realized 9, 10, 11 were out). This picked up right where 9 left off. There had been SOME resolution at the end of book 9, but this was still that storyline. Tracking down Alasdair and trying to figure out why he is doing what he's doing.
Leaving the titular city of book 9, to a college campus ... still too much going on for much romance or humor. Not only was this a continuation of the situation in book 9 but also ... SPOILER
Leaving the titular city of book 9, to a college campus ... still too much going on for much romance or humor. Not only was this a continuation of the situation in book 9 but also ... SPOILER
May 28, 2024
Great story, but not my favorite in the series
I love Jess and Hannah and Milo and Sav and Finn. As long as the story continues, I will continue to read it! That said, this wasn’t my favorite book in the series. I realize the characters aren’t teenagers anymore and have matured through the series (I’m far from a teenager myself), but they just didn’t feel the same this time. The dialogue seemed very pragmatic and almost predictable. It was like the same story and same characters, but a different author. I hope the next book in the series offers more of a connection with the characters, as I found with the earlier books in the series. That said, still a captivating story worth reading!!
I love Jess and Hannah and Milo and Sav and Finn. As long as the story continues, I will continue to read it! That said, this wasn’t my favorite book in the series. I realize the characters aren’t teenagers anymore and have matured through the series (I’m far from a teenager myself), but they just didn’t feel the same this time. The dialogue seemed very pragmatic and almost predictable. It was like the same story and same characters, but a different author. I hope the next book in the series offers more of a connection with the characters, as I found with the earlier books in the series. That said, still a captivating story worth reading!!
July 26, 2024
It's always a sad day when I have to say goodbye to Jess, Hannah and the gang, This is definitely one of my favourite series of books, and this instalment only solidifies that. I am always completely drawn in to what's going on and forget completely there's a world that exists here. I love them all so freaking much, how could you not?! And the gang keeps growing in all the best ways.
No spoilers but the ending was absolutely epic and very well deserved.
The building of the whole Alistaird story line has been brilliant and I have been hanging off the edge of my seat to find out what's going to happen and if they will ever find him or unravel his past and all he has done. It just so bloody good!
No spoilers but the ending was absolutely epic and very well deserved.
The building of the whole Alistaird story line has been brilliant and I have been hanging off the edge of my seat to find out what's going to happen and if they will ever find him or unravel his past and all he has done. It just so bloody good!
April 25, 2024
Great to have the crew back
3.75 rounded up.
The book I've been waiting for. It was so good to have Jess, Hannah, Finn, Milo, and the rest of the crew back.
I love reading about their new missions and seeing them all grow and change. I've been with this series since the beginning, and I'm invested wholly in the world of the Duruprinen.
This instalment, I found too predictable. I guessed right away who the nameless spirit was, who the accomplice was. There was not so much guessing or mystery this time round. That being said, it was still an enjoyable read, and I flew through it.
3.75 rounded up.
The book I've been waiting for. It was so good to have Jess, Hannah, Finn, Milo, and the rest of the crew back.
I love reading about their new missions and seeing them all grow and change. I've been with this series since the beginning, and I'm invested wholly in the world of the Duruprinen.
This instalment, I found too predictable. I guessed right away who the nameless spirit was, who the accomplice was. There was not so much guessing or mystery this time round. That being said, it was still an enjoyable read, and I flew through it.
May 4, 2024
Felt like reconnecting with old friends
I have enjoyed all the books in the Gateway Series. I think the gap in time between the publishing of the last one and this made it feel like I was able to spend time with old friends. Hannah, Jess, Finn Milo and the rest do seem to find the most awful circumstances and this book was no different, but they always remain steadfastly determined to undo the horror and make it better. I love the fact that I can't always see the solution before the end. In order to fully appreciate their activities I think a reader truly needs to read the series in order because it does build book by book.
I have enjoyed all the books in the Gateway Series. I think the gap in time between the publishing of the last one and this made it feel like I was able to spend time with old friends. Hannah, Jess, Finn Milo and the rest do seem to find the most awful circumstances and this book was no different, but they always remain steadfastly determined to undo the horror and make it better. I love the fact that I can't always see the solution before the end. In order to fully appreciate their activities I think a reader truly needs to read the series in order because it does build book by book.
May 4, 2024
Jess and Hannah and friends continue their search for Alistair 'The Collector'. When I was a few chapters in I realised that I had to go back and read the last few chapters of book 9 so I could understand what was going on. And once I restarted book 10 I couldn't out it down, it was that good. This book kept you on the edge, always wondering who could the next character be that was helping Alistair. Hannah and Kieran are so cute together, I hope there is another book with the wedding with the 3 wedding dresses that Milo is insisting on.
April 27, 2024
I’ve read all of the gateway tracker books as soon as they release, and this wonderful author never disappoints! Jess, though, flawed in ways she’s all too familiar with, stretches beyond them for much higher goals - those that save human and mystical kind, again and again.
I read late into the night, unwilling to rest (Jess certainly doesn’t) until the last page. Can’t wait for the next one! Thanks for the awesome ride E.E. Holmes!
I read late into the night, unwilling to rest (Jess certainly doesn’t) until the last page. Can’t wait for the next one! Thanks for the awesome ride E.E. Holmes!
May 4, 2024
she’s done it again! another corker of a book.
Wow, what a book! Really enjoyed it, didn’t have to wait too long to read, couple of weeks as I had binged the whole series! I love how the characters develop, and grow. Love the twists and suspense of the story. I can’t wait for the next book hopefully the wedding!?😁 i shall miss Jess and the gang as they become part of your life. Feel like friends! You know what I mean?!! 😍 now what to read next??
Wow, what a book! Really enjoyed it, didn’t have to wait too long to read, couple of weeks as I had binged the whole series! I love how the characters develop, and grow. Love the twists and suspense of the story. I can’t wait for the next book hopefully the wedding!?😁 i shall miss Jess and the gang as they become part of your life. Feel like friends! You know what I mean?!! 😍 now what to read next??
June 3, 2025
Absolutely brilliant
This book picks up straight after the last one ended. Jess, Hannah, Milo and their friends have a lot of work to do. The collection is still there with the pieces of souls in pain after what Alisdair had done to them. The records of Alisdair have been destroyed by the Macloed clan desperately trying to cover up his crimes and his link to their clan,making the trackers job much harder.
Love this series so much.
This book picks up straight after the last one ended. Jess, Hannah, Milo and their friends have a lot of work to do. The collection is still there with the pieces of souls in pain after what Alisdair had done to them. The records of Alisdair have been destroyed by the Macloed clan desperately trying to cover up his crimes and his link to their clan,making the trackers job much harder.
Love this series so much.
May 4, 2024
Another well done to E. E. Holmes!
I enjoyed this book and will be waiting for another to come out! I love Jess, but I think she should learn not to trust others except her inner circle as we can see time and time. They turn out to be the bad people.. I would wish we would get a little bit more of Jess and Fin.. other than that, it was brilliant 👏
I enjoyed this book and will be waiting for another to come out! I love Jess, but I think she should learn not to trust others except her inner circle as we can see time and time. They turn out to be the bad people.. I would wish we would get a little bit more of Jess and Fin.. other than that, it was brilliant 👏
May 5, 2024
The end in sight
This was a good ending to a horrible twisted ghost. The many twist and turn and descriptions kept me going as only an E.E. Holmes book can do. I have read the whole series and look for more. Is Hannah's wedding next? Milo is a real trip!
Oh, I had two suspects picked out...and wasn't disappointed. It's fun to see if I can catch the killer. 😁
This was a good ending to a horrible twisted ghost. The many twist and turn and descriptions kept me going as only an E.E. Holmes book can do. I have read the whole series and look for more. Is Hannah's wedding next? Milo is a real trip!
Oh, I had two suspects picked out...and wasn't disappointed. It's fun to see if I can catch the killer. 😁
October 19, 2024
I can't believe that it's all over
Jess, Hannah, and Milo have been iconic over the last 13 books, but this book was such an epic showdown, and the last twist had me cheering so much.
This started with me reading Spirit Legacy and not realising the journey that I was about to embark on.
I've loved it, thank you, E.E.Holmes!
Jess, Hannah, and Milo have been iconic over the last 13 books, but this book was such an epic showdown, and the last twist had me cheering so much.
This started with me reading Spirit Legacy and not realising the journey that I was about to embark on.
I've loved it, thank you, E.E.Holmes!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 21, 2024
What can I say!…
Another brilliant Gateway book that has kept me up until the early hours desperate to find out what will happen next!! And again it has not disappointed me! I really hope it’s not too long for another story about Jess, Hannah, Milo, Finn, Savvy, Kiernan and Rana, not forgetting the odd appearance from Catriona, Flavia and others!
Another brilliant Gateway book that has kept me up until the early hours desperate to find out what will happen next!! And again it has not disappointed me! I really hope it’s not too long for another story about Jess, Hannah, Milo, Finn, Savvy, Kiernan and Rana, not forgetting the odd appearance from Catriona, Flavia and others!
April 27, 2024
I think I've enjoyed this book the most and absolutely love the whole series!! Just the right amount of suspense and adventure, true friendship, and genuine interest in helping others... even when some of the people don't want or think they need the help
April 28, 2024
This woman is brilliant
I can't get enough of her stories. The Brotherhood was excellent. Kept me on my toes the whole time. This team works together like a fine watch. Such intrigue and the ending blew my mind. I LOVED IT.😁😁
I can't get enough of her stories. The Brotherhood was excellent. Kept me on my toes the whole time. This team works together like a fine watch. Such intrigue and the ending blew my mind. I LOVED IT.😁😁
April 29, 2024
Another riveting installment!
I flew through this latest book in the Trackers series. I wish I could read them slower, but it’s just one “what happens next?!?!?” moment after another!
Excellent storytelling; I love this version of our world the author has created.
I flew through this latest book in the Trackers series. I wish I could read them slower, but it’s just one “what happens next?!?!?” moment after another!
Excellent storytelling; I love this version of our world the author has created.
April 29, 2024
Great read I have read all of E E Holmes books and this one did not disappoint. The characters are superb and the storytelling out of this world I didn't see the ending coming at all. If I could have given this book more than 5 stars I would have. I highly recommend this series.
May 1, 2024
What a story!
If you haven't already read this whole series, please do! It's a fascinating story, filled with characters brought to life by this author. Each book is like reuniting with old friends.
Keep them coming, Ms. Holmes!
If you haven't already read this whole series, please do! It's a fascinating story, filled with characters brought to life by this author. Each book is like reuniting with old friends.
Keep them coming, Ms. Holmes!
May 3, 2024
Another great read from one of my favorite authors. I have read all her books and can't wait for each new one that comes out. The Gateway series is enthralling and, as always, I could not put this one down; it was over way too soon.
May 4, 2024
Another fabulous ride with the Ballards!
I could not put this down. Is this truly book ten? I'm ready for the next one. Very enthralling and kept me on my toes. I so enjoy these books.
I could not put this down. Is this truly book ten? I'm ready for the next one. Very enthralling and kept me on my toes. I so enjoy these books.
May 4, 2024
Enthralling as always!
I do hope there will be more books. The stories are fascinating and Jess, Hanna, Milo, and the whole crew have become my friends. Will Jess and Finn marry? Enquiring minds want to know.
I do hope there will be more books. The stories are fascinating and Jess, Hanna, Milo, and the whole crew have become my friends. Will Jess and Finn marry? Enquiring minds want to know.
May 5, 2024
another great read
Once again Jess and Hannah find themselves on another adventure and still they are treated as outcasts by their piers. But they find a way to put that aside as they fight to right the wrongs of another clan Loved it!
Once again Jess and Hannah find themselves on another adventure and still they are treated as outcasts by their piers. But they find a way to put that aside as they fight to right the wrongs of another clan Loved it!
May 6, 2024
Please say there’s going to be a sequel!
I’ve read all the books in this series, and I am both flabbergasted and gobsmacked that it hasn’t been turned into a series on Netflix! Every bit as good as J.K. Rowling and Deborah Harkness in terms of excitement and world building!
I’ve read all the books in this series, and I am both flabbergasted and gobsmacked that it hasn’t been turned into a series on Netflix! Every bit as good as J.K. Rowling and Deborah Harkness in terms of excitement and world building!
May 8, 2024
Superb read
Loved the whole series each book has kept me wanting more & when the next book arrived they instantly connected to the last book & continued my fascination. Just WA t the story to keep on going please
Loved the whole series each book has kept me wanting more & when the next book arrived they instantly connected to the last book & continued my fascination. Just WA t the story to keep on going please
May 11, 2024
great books
I have loved each and every one of these books and this one is no exception, I could not put it down. I enjoy all the characters and how they all work together.
The twists and turns of the plot kept me riveted honestly I’m sad I have finished it! I can’t wait for their next adventure.
I have loved each and every one of these books and this one is no exception, I could not put it down. I enjoy all the characters and how they all work together.
The twists and turns of the plot kept me riveted honestly I’m sad I have finished it! I can’t wait for their next adventure.
May 11, 2024
I have loved reading this series and this latest book doesn’t disappoint. Highly recommend them.
This book is the 10th in the series and has all the usual characters in it. Hopefully there will be more 🤞
This book is the 10th in the series and has all the usual characters in it. Hopefully there will be more 🤞
May 17, 2024
Another great story from EE Holmes
I enjoyed the continuation of the story of Alasdair in the shadow of the brotherhood. Once again Jess, Hannah and the crew risk everything and delve deeper into Alasdair's twisted plan.
I enjoyed the continuation of the story of Alasdair in the shadow of the brotherhood. Once again Jess, Hannah and the crew risk everything and delve deeper into Alasdair's twisted plan.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews