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Ghostly #5
Ghostly Target
When someone starts killing police officers in the city, Detective Angus Young prioritizes finding out who's attacking those he works with. He's determined to take down the killer before any more officers are targeted.
Having the skill to speak to the ghosts of the dead is usually helpful to a medical examiner, but not when the ghosts can't identify who killed them. Keeping Angus safe is Lance's first priority as he does everything he can to try and help fit the clues together and bring peace to those who have died.
Working together, Angus and Lance put everything else on hold as they follow the leads to find a cop killer. With the help of friends both living and dead, the puzzle slowly starts to fit together, but once they have all the pieces, can they find the killer before another officer is shot?
Having the skill to speak to the ghosts of the dead is usually helpful to a medical examiner, but not when the ghosts can't identify who killed them. Keeping Angus safe is Lance's first priority as he does everything he can to try and help fit the clues together and bring peace to those who have died.
Working together, Angus and Lance put everything else on hold as they follow the leads to find a cop killer. With the help of friends both living and dead, the puzzle slowly starts to fit together, but once they have all the pieces, can they find the killer before another officer is shot?
238 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 31, 2023
73 people are currently reading
48 people want to read
About the author
E.M. Leya
100 books309 followersE.M. Leya lives surrounded by the beautiful mountains in Salt Lake City, Utah with her amazing daughter and loving pets. She is passionate about the world we live in and current events, deeming herself a "news junkie". She believes that we are all here to create something beautiful, whether it's through our talents or our actions. She enjoys writing stories that take us deep into real world problems while showing that love can happen for anyone, regardless of how dark their past might be.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
July 28, 2025
"He'd nap at Lance's and be there when he got home. Soon enough, the house would be his home anyway. He might as well get used to it."
We are on book five of the Ghostly series, and this time in Ghostly Target, we are dealing with an active shooter. Hold on to your panties because cops are getting messed up in this one, and we have to follow along with Angus as he tries to figure out who is targeting law enforcement.
All the while, we are worrying for him and watching Lance go through it emotionally. This book really shows how being in a relationship with a cop, when something like this can happen, can seriously mess with your head. The stress, the fear, the helplessness. It felt very real and very intense.
We also get a new ghost in this one, though he is not the most helpful of the bunch. Still, the scene at the end with Lance and the ghost’s funeral was touching. I cried. I am a big fat baby. Okay? These ghosts really hit me in the feels for absolutely no reason and I am not okay about it.
Overall, this was probably my least favorite of the series so far. Even though I never could have guessed the mystery — and believe me, I tried — I just was not as emotionally locked into this one. That said, this is still a solid book. A total four star read. It is just not my personal favorite.
What I did love, as always, was how the ghostly crew came together to help Angus and Franks solve the case, with Lance doing his part too. Like I have said before, I am mostly here for the little ghost family we are building. I love them. Do not go into the light, boos.
We are on book five of the Ghostly series, and this time in Ghostly Target, we are dealing with an active shooter. Hold on to your panties because cops are getting messed up in this one, and we have to follow along with Angus as he tries to figure out who is targeting law enforcement.
All the while, we are worrying for him and watching Lance go through it emotionally. This book really shows how being in a relationship with a cop, when something like this can happen, can seriously mess with your head. The stress, the fear, the helplessness. It felt very real and very intense.
We also get a new ghost in this one, though he is not the most helpful of the bunch. Still, the scene at the end with Lance and the ghost’s funeral was touching. I cried. I am a big fat baby. Okay? These ghosts really hit me in the feels for absolutely no reason and I am not okay about it.
Overall, this was probably my least favorite of the series so far. Even though I never could have guessed the mystery — and believe me, I tried — I just was not as emotionally locked into this one. That said, this is still a solid book. A total four star read. It is just not my personal favorite.
What I did love, as always, was how the ghostly crew came together to help Angus and Franks solve the case, with Lance doing his part too. Like I have said before, I am mostly here for the little ghost family we are building. I love them. Do not go into the light, boos.
April 20, 2024
kind of boring but nice nonetheless.
i love lance and angus's relationship.
joe's funeral was emotionally charged and i'm glad nobody else died.
i like that we saw more of lizzy and betty in action though i understand why it doesn't happen more often.
i love lance and angus's relationship.
joe's funeral was emotionally charged and i'm glad nobody else died.
i like that we saw more of lizzy and betty in action though i understand why it doesn't happen more often.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 2, 2025
4 stars. Audiobook. Paranormal cozy mystery with a touch of romance, zero spice, contemporary setting, series of 9 books following the same couple. Police homicide detective and medical examiner that can see ghosts. I would not say this is a buying-level series, but if you can get it from the library or part of a subscription service, then go for it. Maybe a good pallet cleanser after something super emotional since there is very little drama, angst or action.
The stories were well written and I eventually warmed to the characters, but the series overall was somewhat bland. It was too light in too many areas and needed a bump-up somewhere. No spice, little to no romance and sweetness, lack luster bad-guys, average investigating, no extra quirky parents, no nosy but endearing neighbors, no sassy friends or snarky ghosts, no obnoxious but lovable siblings/boss, no crass BFF or fun-loving crazy aunt. We don’t even get any decent hurt/comfort. At book 5, the MCs are a couple but still going home alone and spending so much time separate, even when they are dealing with some sad stuff and only a short drive away. There was some cuddle scenes and sweetness, but it’s really far into the series and sparse. I feel a bit unfair in my assessment because these books are fine, I’ve just read so many that are similar but way more than fine.
The stories were well written and I eventually warmed to the characters, but the series overall was somewhat bland. It was too light in too many areas and needed a bump-up somewhere. No spice, little to no romance and sweetness, lack luster bad-guys, average investigating, no extra quirky parents, no nosy but endearing neighbors, no sassy friends or snarky ghosts, no obnoxious but lovable siblings/boss, no crass BFF or fun-loving crazy aunt. We don’t even get any decent hurt/comfort. At book 5, the MCs are a couple but still going home alone and spending so much time separate, even when they are dealing with some sad stuff and only a short drive away. There was some cuddle scenes and sweetness, but it’s really far into the series and sparse. I feel a bit unfair in my assessment because these books are fine, I’ve just read so many that are similar but way more than fine.
March 16, 2024
Ghosts help catch a cop killer
This fifth book in the series has the ghosts playing a key role in helping to catch a cop killer. Meanwhile Lance and Angus make plans to move in together after their cruise.
This is a quick read and one that brings home the dangerous nature of police work and the impact on their loved ones. We meet a new ghost who might stick around and find another person who can see the ghosts. We also meet a medical examiner intern who is hoping to get hired at the office.
The story has its moments of high tension and we can empathize with the politics of policing that Angus has to deal with. It’s an entertaining read that fits in well with the other books in the series. I am really enjoying this series and I’m glad I gave the series a try after getting the recommendation.
This fifth book in the series has the ghosts playing a key role in helping to catch a cop killer. Meanwhile Lance and Angus make plans to move in together after their cruise.
This is a quick read and one that brings home the dangerous nature of police work and the impact on their loved ones. We meet a new ghost who might stick around and find another person who can see the ghosts. We also meet a medical examiner intern who is hoping to get hired at the office.
The story has its moments of high tension and we can empathize with the politics of policing that Angus has to deal with. It’s an entertaining read that fits in well with the other books in the series. I am really enjoying this series and I’m glad I gave the series a try after getting the recommendation.
November 4, 2023
If this is really the last story for these guys then at least we have left them in a good place.
Angus gets involved investigating a series of cop shootings and the ghosts have quite a part to play too.
I was nervous at the end expecting Angus to get shot whilst he was looking for the shooter.
I do so like Lance and Angus and the secondary characters are good too.
Angus gets involved investigating a series of cop shootings and the ghosts have quite a part to play too.
I was nervous at the end expecting Angus to get shot whilst he was looking for the shooter.
I do so like Lance and Angus and the secondary characters are good too.
November 12, 2023
a terrific plot, great suspense,
Rating: 4🌈
The Ghostly series continues with Ghostly Target, a book about a killer targeting police officers. This plot switches the focus from the normal plots where the bodies have been found to the detective team of Angus and Franks, and a suspenseful investigation.
One officer down, that’s the first body but the killer is shooting at officers, randomly it seems picking targets. So immediately Laya has a strong narrative full of fear, anger, and frustration from all the characters involved. This is not just Angus and Franks, the officers fearing for their own lives but dealing with the death of one of their own, but Lance, and the co workers, and all the ghosts who make up their found families .
It is also the ghost of the first officer who was shot, and dealing with the aftermath of his death. This element is always such a great aspect of this series and is a strong one here. The author is very good as portraying a person’s confusion and frustration at being dead and denied access to the life and people they love.
All the ghosts are so memorable and their roles in the investigation and events just make them more interesting.
Lance and Angus’s relationship is gotten more committed, obviously as they are talking about moving forward with one house. But so much of the story, naturally, has to be about this killer and their investigation, that I felt their relationship development was lost.
I need more of Frank actually. Frank’s a fascinating character and deserving of his new life, maybe a dog or something. His personality is crying out for another storyline.
I enjoy the series and this new novel. Wonderful investigative plot and use of the ghosts! A new book was just added to the series list but no release date. Thrilled to find that this series will continue!
Ghostly series:
- [x] Ghostly Awakening #1
- [x] Ghostly Findings #2
- [x] Ghostly Envy #3
- [x] Ghostly Claus #4
- [x] Ghostly Target #5
- [ ] Ghostly Hostage #6 - TBD
Rating: 4🌈
The Ghostly series continues with Ghostly Target, a book about a killer targeting police officers. This plot switches the focus from the normal plots where the bodies have been found to the detective team of Angus and Franks, and a suspenseful investigation.
One officer down, that’s the first body but the killer is shooting at officers, randomly it seems picking targets. So immediately Laya has a strong narrative full of fear, anger, and frustration from all the characters involved. This is not just Angus and Franks, the officers fearing for their own lives but dealing with the death of one of their own, but Lance, and the co workers, and all the ghosts who make up their found families .
It is also the ghost of the first officer who was shot, and dealing with the aftermath of his death. This element is always such a great aspect of this series and is a strong one here. The author is very good as portraying a person’s confusion and frustration at being dead and denied access to the life and people they love.
All the ghosts are so memorable and their roles in the investigation and events just make them more interesting.
Lance and Angus’s relationship is gotten more committed, obviously as they are talking about moving forward with one house. But so much of the story, naturally, has to be about this killer and their investigation, that I felt their relationship development was lost.
I need more of Frank actually. Frank’s a fascinating character and deserving of his new life, maybe a dog or something. His personality is crying out for another storyline.
I enjoy the series and this new novel. Wonderful investigative plot and use of the ghosts! A new book was just added to the series list but no release date. Thrilled to find that this series will continue!
Ghostly series:
- [x] Ghostly Awakening #1
- [x] Ghostly Findings #2
- [x] Ghostly Envy #3
- [x] Ghostly Claus #4
- [x] Ghostly Target #5
- [ ] Ghostly Hostage #6 - TBD
June 6, 2025
The mystery was interesting. The police work was good. I like that they treated the bikers with respect and that the ghost was of a decorated Black police officer. It’s funny that the MCs ride because it doesn’t fit my perception of them. But that’s kind of cool.
I really like all the characters, especially the ghosts. I love Angus’s parents but they weren’t in this book, just mentioned. The mom’s best friend, a ghost, was there though and she’s great.
The main characters are really mellow, maybe more realistic. They don’t avow how much they love each other like each couldn’t live without the other. They just say, “I love you.” Everything is very practical and matter of fact. I’m more into the angst and melodrama but I still really like these guys. Their relationship has been slow but steady which doesn’t feel realistic but is a nice change. They do talk about the important things. With Angus a police officer, there’s always the chance of death and they discussed how they would react if he became a ghost.
There was a little danger, not a lot. The whole thing was very low emotion even though they said they were scared. I didn’t really feel it but I think a lot of that was the reader.
The reader, Greg D. Barnett, has a decent variety of voices but he usually puts a pause after sentences after he breathes in: “Lance sat down” breath in, pause. “Then he started talking.” Breathe in, pause. It’s really distracting and makes the text seem wooden.
I loved this and will read the next one soon.
I really like all the characters, especially the ghosts. I love Angus’s parents but they weren’t in this book, just mentioned. The mom’s best friend, a ghost, was there though and she’s great.
The main characters are really mellow, maybe more realistic. They don’t avow how much they love each other like each couldn’t live without the other. They just say, “I love you.” Everything is very practical and matter of fact. I’m more into the angst and melodrama but I still really like these guys. Their relationship has been slow but steady which doesn’t feel realistic but is a nice change. They do talk about the important things. With Angus a police officer, there’s always the chance of death and they discussed how they would react if he became a ghost.
There was a little danger, not a lot. The whole thing was very low emotion even though they said they were scared. I didn’t really feel it but I think a lot of that was the reader.
The reader, Greg D. Barnett, has a decent variety of voices but he usually puts a pause after sentences after he breathes in: “Lance sat down” breath in, pause. “Then he started talking.” Breathe in, pause. It’s really distracting and makes the text seem wooden.
I loved this and will read the next one soon.
February 8, 2025
This is the fifth book in the series featuring police officer Detective Angus Young and medical examiner Lance. In this one we have Angus and his colleague Frank chasing down a cop killer hooligan. I love watching Angus and Lance together and I love how their relationship is developing. I can’t wait until they finally move in together with Haunt, which I think should be occurring in the next book. I would like more romantic moments between Angus and Lance, especially because their relationship is still sort of new. It seems like either the ghosts, or Frank, or Angus’ parents are always around. I’m glad they’re finally alone on a cruise at the end of the book, that was sweet. This book had less serial killer vibes which was a good change. Also, the ghosts help a lot in catching the bad guy, especially Betty. All of the ghosts are super remarkable and unique. She is so much fun to watch. I also liked that Lance is finally getting an assistant to help out at the morgue. I hope Frank finds someone soon so he stops feeling like a third wheel around Angus and Lance, he’s a lovely character, maybe in one of the next books
August 30, 2025
**********Contains Spoilers**********
I’m new to EM Leya’s work and I’m looking forward to reading more. I really enjoyed this book and thought that it was another good addition to the Ghostly Series. I found this book a lot more exciting than the previous book, Ghostly Claus but that’s mainly because I didn’t like the murder victim as he was an a*se and was being extremely disruptive when Lance was just doing his job, and couldn’t talk to him since he was in the middle of an autopsy with Callie’s assistance.
I found the plot very engaging and I had to smile at the funeral scene when the deceased officer showed up at his own funeral and the antics he pulled that only Lance was privy too. Angus & Lance’s relationship is strengthening with each book. I hope that Franks will find a girlfriend soon, even if he isn’t looking. I’m looking forward to reading Ghostly Hostage next, as well as more books by EM Leya in the future. I’d definitely recommend this book, series and author to others.
I’m new to EM Leya’s work and I’m looking forward to reading more. I really enjoyed this book and thought that it was another good addition to the Ghostly Series. I found this book a lot more exciting than the previous book, Ghostly Claus but that’s mainly because I didn’t like the murder victim as he was an a*se and was being extremely disruptive when Lance was just doing his job, and couldn’t talk to him since he was in the middle of an autopsy with Callie’s assistance.
I found the plot very engaging and I had to smile at the funeral scene when the deceased officer showed up at his own funeral and the antics he pulled that only Lance was privy too. Angus & Lance’s relationship is strengthening with each book. I hope that Franks will find a girlfriend soon, even if he isn’t looking. I’m looking forward to reading Ghostly Hostage next, as well as more books by EM Leya in the future. I’d definitely recommend this book, series and author to others.
November 30, 2024
This is the fifth book in the series. This time Angus and Lance are searching for a cop killer. Officers are shot completely unaware, with no provacation. All the attacks look completely random, and since it's just a sniper's bullet that takes them down, the ghost didn't see anything. Finding clues is difficult, and when things start to fall into place, will they be able to stop the attacks, when leads are given by the dead. I like this series. I especially like that it isn't one big sex fest....Sometimes there is so much emphasis on the spicy parts, that the story gets lost, or isn't really developed. Reading this though I kep thinking that if people could really talk to the dead, solving crimes would be a breeze...
December 11, 2023
Truthfully I was a bit disappointed. The series has been great, and the plots are interesting. This one also had an interesting plot, and the ghosts played an active role. However, even though all the boxes were checked, it lacked some type of oomph! I think it centered around the relationship which seems to have lost its heat. No sex, no close emotional moments. Even the humor was just off. The deceased cop's behavior at his funeral lacked humor as we, as readers, know he is performing for an audience of one. Not sure how it could be fixed as I am not an author - just a rabid reader.
October 8, 2024
OK, this is getting annoying! I spent the whole time I was reading this last night feeling like I shouldn't know what would happen next... yes, I have obviously read this sometime in the past and didn't mark it as read for one reason or another! 🤦♀️😭🤬
So, as I enjoyed the story, I will move on to book #6, Ghostly Hostage... let's go find out if I have read this whole dang series...
So, as I enjoyed the story, I will move on to book #6, Ghostly Hostage... let's go find out if I have read this whole dang series...
July 29, 2024
So far my Favorite
Wow! This book is one the best in the series. I was so invested in the story and where the characters will take us. Lance and Angus developing relationship was everything in this book We got more character development for both characters and the plot was great. The story took us for a small ride and enjoy it. I read this book in one sitting and have no regrets.
Wow! This book is one the best in the series. I was so invested in the story and where the characters will take us. Lance and Angus developing relationship was everything in this book We got more character development for both characters and the plot was great. The story took us for a small ride and enjoy it. I read this book in one sitting and have no regrets.
February 24, 2025
Another good mystery featuring Lance and Angus and an assortment of ghosts and other characters. I'm happy to see Lance's ghostly family expanding and helping to find the killer.
I'm finding the audiobooks to be very enjoyable to listen to. However, I must admit, I probably wouldn't read the physical books because the story is rather slow, repetitive, and there is absolutely no romance or sexy times.
Read February 22, 2025
I'm finding the audiobooks to be very enjoyable to listen to. However, I must admit, I probably wouldn't read the physical books because the story is rather slow, repetitive, and there is absolutely no romance or sexy times.
Read February 22, 2025
June 19, 2024
This is one crazy case
All the ghosts come together to help Angus catch a cop killer. They are all so great! I love Jeremy at the lab and he has been a really great at helping Lance. It got a bit emotional for Joe and his family and Lance actually does the one thing he would never do. It was very sweet and touching.
All the ghosts come together to help Angus catch a cop killer. They are all so great! I love Jeremy at the lab and he has been a really great at helping Lance. It got a bit emotional for Joe and his family and Lance actually does the one thing he would never do. It was very sweet and touching.
October 18, 2024
Lance & Angus
Really enjoyed this one. Cops are being targeted and the detectives are working overtime to stop it from happening again as well as keeping themselves safe. Lance and Angus definitely deserve the cruise they are set to go on. Jeremy, the morgue ghost is the one who finds the biggest clue and moves the case towards closing. Good story, on to the next.
Really enjoyed this one. Cops are being targeted and the detectives are working overtime to stop it from happening again as well as keeping themselves safe. Lance and Angus definitely deserve the cruise they are set to go on. Jeremy, the morgue ghost is the one who finds the biggest clue and moves the case towards closing. Good story, on to the next.
March 5, 2025
3⭐️
This installment was a lot more action packed than the others in the series. And there are some points in the book where Lance being able to see ghosts might cause some ripples in the future at work for both Lance and Angus. I am enjoying reading this series and am hoping there are more books coming out soon.
This installment was a lot more action packed than the others in the series. And there are some points in the book where Lance being able to see ghosts might cause some ripples in the future at work for both Lance and Angus. I am enjoying reading this series and am hoping there are more books coming out soon.
November 8, 2023
Book 5 is amazing, I love Lance and Angus and all they others, they make me laugh, I love the relationships between them all living and the dead. This series is an essential read and I promise you will enjoy it.
I highly recommend this author and series.
I highly recommend this author and series.
December 15, 2023
Awesome series. I’m loving the interaction between the Angus and Lance, but I mostly love how the ghosts are a key part of solving their investigations. And I’m happy to hear the series does not stop here! Highly recommend to read the series in order.
November 20, 2023
There I just something about this series that I love.
December 2, 2023
Another great book
January 8, 2024
Addicted
I am addicted to this series loved the story arc, characters and the great way each story unfolds. I totally think it worth a read and highly recommend.
I am addicted to this series loved the story arc, characters and the great way each story unfolds. I totally think it worth a read and highly recommend.
March 24, 2024
4.25 stars
May 9, 2025
story line: ****
main characters: ****
side characters: ****
world building: ***
editing: *****
main characters: ****
side characters: ****
world building: ***
editing: *****
October 4, 2024
It's starting to get super predictable.
January 9, 2025
3.5 stars - there are quite a lot of recurring characters but my familiarity with them through the preceding books means this does not detract/confuse my reading.
July 18, 2025
The narrator did a good job.
September 30, 2024
I love this series. Well written with well developed characters. I am looking forward to future stories.
November 30, 2025
4 stars
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews