Possession

by Drusilla Carlisle

This wasn't exactly the boarding school she expected…

Lana’s the new girl at Grandview Academy. She knew that curfews, terrible food, and boredom would be the staples of this place. But she would never have guessed what she was actually walking into…

Her roommate is an unfriendly witch; the resident mean girls are a pack of malicious werewolves, and, of course, the sexist guy in school is the outcast son of a vampire.

While she struggles to fit in as one of the few humans, Lana is forced to confront her own dark past while coping with life in this new supernatural world. She will need to quickly… Her life depends on it.

Possession is the first book in the thrilling Horror High series of young adult horror books set at a paranormal academy. If you like your supernatural high school novels filled with twists and turns, a slow-burn romance, and dark discoveries, you will be glued to this book.

Grab your copy of Horror High Book 1 today and uncover the supernatural world of Grandview Academy now!

What readers are saying about
The expertly built tension and chilling atmosphere make for an immersive reading experience that horror enthusiasts will relish. - GoodReads Reviewer

It was Umbrella Academy meets Wednesday. Cool characters. Great plot. Excited for the next book to see what happens! - GoodReads Reviewer

Every time I thought I knew what was going on, it changed on me, and things twisted in a whole new way! - GoodReads Reviewer

A dark academia, paranormal suspended and mystery with a dash of romance. The magic was enchanting and the world was pleasantly complex. - Goodreads Reviewer

Fan of R.L. Stine? Well, now you will be a fan of Drusilla Carlisle! This book had me on page one and kept me engaged all the way to the end. It took me back to my teen years reading the Fear Street books! I cannot wait for the next book. I highly recommend! - Melissa Tilley Hall, author of the Haunted series

Genres: Horror, Fantasy, Young Adult, Thriller

287 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 26, 2023

About the author

Drusilla Carlisle is an author of spice free, young adult supernatural fantasy and horror. She enjoys focusing on the relationships between her characters, featuring ride-or-die friendships and paranormal romance.

Born and raised in Salem, Massachusetts, Drusilla has always been passionate about storytelling. She started writing at a young age and continued to hone her craft throughout high school and college. Her love for supernatural fantasy, horror, and paranormal romance led her to explore the genre of young adult fiction, and she hasn't looked back since.

When she's not writing, Drusilla can be found playing with her cats, reading, going out to dinner with her husband, or spending time with her family and friends. She is currently working on Book 2 of her Horror High series and can't wait to share it with her readers.

Whether you're a fan of supernatural fantasy, horror, paranormal romance, or simply love a good adventure, Drusilla Carlise's books are sure to captivate and enthrall you. Follow her on Author Central for updates on her latest releases and upcoming projects.

Reviews

[Anastasia ｼ · Rating 2 out of 5]

dnf 68%

I struggled to read this - I had a hard time with the pacing and the writing style… while the concept was great and the plot interesting, I just couldn't connect with it.

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[Claire · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was really, really amazing. I loved all the supernatural elements and how dynamic and well developed all the characters were. I really enjoyed the relationship that Lana had with her friends and how they were able to set aside their differences to help her. I also enjoyed how the supernatural elements were just presented as a normal part of the world building. I’m very much looking forward to book 2 and I would highly recommend this story to anyone who is a fan of horror stories, urban fantasy settings and found family elements. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Cat J.F · Rating 5 out of 5]

What could be any worse than highschool? Being sent to a paranormal highschool after being accused of your parents murder.

This is something that caught my eye whilst browsing the web and then read in one sitting. This is the first book I've read from this author and I definitely enjoyed it.

The characters were well fleshed out and worked well together. I would've loved to see more Bryce in the story and hear about the battle with the evil twins.

There was so much going on at anyone time but not in a way that was confusing it just drew me in more.

The only problem I had was at 17% where I found a typo / unfinished word.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Amber · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. I could not wait to see what happened from one chapter to the next. This is an excellent start to what is sure to be an amazing series. There are some really unique characters you don't see in a lot of other YA novels. If you are a fan of the series Wednesday or anything set at a school for special people/creatures, then you will really enjoy this series! Can't wait for Book 2!

[Ashley (bookworm84) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love anything paranormal and this book didn't disappoint! I really wish that I had this book when I was a YA reader. I'm looking forward to book two!

I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Jean · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this ARC from BookSirens in exchange for a review.

4 out of 5 🌟

I’m sure we all remember our teenage days. Having teenage angst, school crushes, good ol puppy dog love right? Well, what if your normal high school days get flipped upside down because of a demon?

Unfortunately, that happened to Lana Bridges. In Possession, you’re following Lana, a high school student who has her whole life uprooted at the flick of a weapon. Lana, doesn’t remember all the bad things that happened to her nor does she understand why she is being forced to change schools besides of her needing to be protected.

This new school is nothing like her previous one. She has friends there, a boyfriend and she was a popular kid. But, at Grandview the kids are different. She has to learn how to fit in with witches, demons, ghosts, mean-girl werewolves and the oh so scary boy who is the son of a vampire. And of course you know, Vampires are extremely dangerous. The school even has a perimeter up to help with safety protocols to protect the kids from these vicious monsters.

Naturally things don’t go so well for Lana her first few days. Everyone hates her. She’s the new kid. She has a terrible past and she’s Human. But, things quickly take a turn for the worst, imagine that, in a school full of supernatural beings there’s even worse things to worry about. And it doesn’t help that chaotic things have already happened since her arrival and it seems like her best bet is to try and go back home. It really doesn’t help matters that there’s a demon possessing Lana, and she may or may not be at death’s door. Her very few new friends are in danger because of her. So many others have been injured and some even died because of her being possessed. Lana, has to come together with some of the most ruthless creatures known to man to be able to overcome this tragic situation. And, she just might come out alive, with some new friends and possibly a new boyfriend. Will Lana be able to overcome everything that’s happened to be her or will she be forever trapped by the demon that’s possessing her.

Walk the halls of Grandview and find out what ghoulish adventures you can get into.

Sidenote: I would have given Possession 5 out of 5 stars. But, I did come across some errors. Overall it was an amazing read. And I found myself getting lost in the hallways right along with Lana. The errors that I did find didn’t take away from the story and I know that editing can be a big pain in the neck. I thoroughly enjoyed the story and the characters are so easy to fall in love with, even the mean girls. I can’t wait for the next book.

[Nicole · Rating 2 out of 5]

ARC Review

Scale information:
1: terrible, awful, I cannot stop ranting about how bad it was; 3: this is exactly what I expect from a book of this genre; 5: I cannot stop thinking about this book, I must own a copy, I will tell everyone to read it.

I was so excited for this! The concept is great, the plot interesting. I would definitely read the next book in the series, I want to know what's next. The ending was really good. It wrapped up the main story from this book and left enough "small" unresolved questions for a sequel, but it absolutely did not end on a cliffhanger. A breath of fresh air for a series these days! Major kudos to the author for that. While some supernatural aspects felt a bit "run of the mill," there were a number of interesting spins that the author did that I really enjoyed.

That being said, I did have a hard time with the pacing and the writing style/narration itself. Usually if a book's writing is off at the beginning, I can get used to it and it's not an issue after reading for a bit. Unfortunately, the stilted writing stuck with me for the whole read. It was a quick read, which is great, but it came at the expense of world building and character development.

This book is advertised as "enemies to lovers," but the entire "enemies to lovers" part happens in a nine day gap that you don't get to know anything about, due to the main character not being able to remember those days because she was possessed. The romance doesn't feel real, the characters one dimensional. I would have loved to have read a slower paced book that took the time to show the characters more fully, or describe the High School more.

There was also one part I just could not take seriously: "... Besides, I'm a super alpha."

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Lea Niven-Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Review - Possession (Horror High 1) - Drusilla Carlisle

This is a great wee YA book to get stuck into, especially if you’re new to the paranormal genre this could be a great gateway book.

We follow Lana who is thrust into a school for the supernatural after her life is turned upside down by then death of her parents. Set at Grandview Academy this is a great teen drama!

With unexpected relationships, and a number of twists and turns, this book also hits the spot If you’re looking for a cozy wee paranormal book! You really start to care about Lana, and hope she can come through in the end to love her life in happiness.

There are many occasions where we also get to spend a lot of time with Lana’s inner mind, however, I would have loved to have seen some more of the drama that was unfolding when in these ‘trances’ shall we say (I don’t want to ruin it! So you’ll have to read it!). I can imagine that there was a lot of chaos and experimentation happening and would have loved to have experienced some of that!

Will also be interesting to see where the story goes. I know the next book follows the same characters, however I wonder how long it could go in for. This could potentially be a very long series, with the common setting being Grandview Academy. Or it could end with Lana, Scott, Cady and Ellis on 3 books (maybe more if they split their stories up)

However, would definitely recommend this to any reader who loves YA paranormal, cozy, easy, cute reads!

[Danielle | danielle.reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars!

I received an advance review copy for free, and leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you BookSirens for allowing me to review!

Lana is the new girl at Grandview Academy after leaving her old life in Rhode Island. Moving schools and making new friends is tough. Having a roommate that’s a witch, werewolves and other magical beings for classmates is even worse. Lana is forced into the supernatural world while also having to face some of her deep dark secrets that she would rather leave in the past.

The question is, who in this supernatural world can she actually trust?

This book was a perfect entryway into the Horror High series. We got to meet so many different characters and special beings, but understand how all of them are interconnected in Lana’s journey. I am very intrigued to learn more about Scott’s past and what on earth happened to Lucy!

The plot moved along well throughout however I would have liked to see more of their everyday schedule, not just the situation with Lana. At one point, there were a ton of characters being introduced and I got confused on who they were and what their ability was, but they seemed to have moved across the page quickly and they weren’t mentioned again or were clearly a passing character. I would recommend this to an older teenager to read and would read the next book of Horror High to see how the plot develops

[Rochelle Pieterse · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Horror High: Possession" by Drusilla Carlisle is a spine-tingling start to an enthralling series that absolutely deserves its 5-star rating. From the very first page, readers are plunged into a world of gripping suspense and supernatural intrigue that will leave them eagerly anticipating the next installment.

Carlisle's masterful storytelling weaves a web of eerie and unsettling events, drawing readers into a realm where the line between the ordinary and the paranormal blurs. The characters are vividly portrayed, and their experiences are compelling, evoking a sense of unease and fascination that lingers long after the book is finished.

"Horror High: Possession" is a thrilling and well-crafted tale that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. The expertly built tension and chilling atmosphere make for an immersive reading experience that horror enthusiasts will relish. As the first book in the series, it sets the stage for an unfolding mystery that promises to captivate and terrify in equal measure.

Readers who revel in supernatural mysteries and pulse-pounding horror will find "Possession" to be an absolute must-read. Drusilla Carlisle's skillful blend of dread and excitement leaves readers eagerly anticipating the continuation of the series, making the wait for Book 2 all the more tantalizing.

[Jenny · Rating 3 out of 5]

Possession is a young adult novel about a human that finds herself at a boarding school for the supernatural after a traumatic events changes her life forever. Lana must figure out and deal with her own dark past and secrets or risk not only her life, but those of her new friends’ as well.

This was a fast paced start of a series with an interesting premise. I’m not typically a horror person, but Possession had a nice mix of suspense and action that felt well balanced. I appreciated the inclusion of less common supernatural beings and a less than perfect group of diverse characters. They felt like real people you went to high school with.

Why I gave it 3 stars: Unfortunately things moved a bit too quickly while not much actually happened for about half of the book. Once the story did pick up it felt like there was more telling than showing for most character development and deep relationships seemed to form out of no where. It was hard for me to feel invested in the characters since I didn’t feel like I knew enough about them to care.

Overall I would say this was an enjoyable read for the more unique aspects of it and would recommend it to someone looking for a lighter horror read.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Raynbow Corleone · Rating 4 out of 5]

**ARC REVIEW** This slow burn paranormal romance was everything and more. I really enjoyed it. Think exorcist but in the POV of being trapped inside your mind with said demon! Perfect. I was always wondering what would happen next. The fact that Providence, RI was thrown in there… well I connected with that. This was a good book that I couldn’t put down and I am glad for some #enemiestolovers as we all need that in our life. To brood oh so well with that jawline! ❤️! Enjoy your high school days all over again as something no one has ever dealt with before! Be that odd one out and live your life… or at least try!!!

[Tiffany · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Review
Books that are based in high school are a hit or miss for me, but I really enjoyed the story, the characters and the twists that I did not see coming. Lana and Cady's relationship was perfect and it made my heart melt because Cady accepted Lana right away and didn't worry about the rumors that were spread about her. It was exactly what Lana needed to grow and be accepted at a paranormal school as well as figure out what in the world is going on in her head.
Really looking forward to book number 2 to dive more into Scott and Lucy's story.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Savanah-Ray Woodford · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fun twist on the high school experience. I laughed, I cringed, and I wondered where we were headed throughout the story. Following the main character through her trials and tribulations at her new high school, meeting new people and making new friends, the bullies and teachers can hit home for all types of people, no matter which group you fall into (or fell into as the case may be). There’s someone for everyone to sympathize with and identify with.

Over all well written, fun and easy to fall into. I read it in less than two days, and could imagine myself living with the characters and their experiences.

[Sarah Rizk · Rating 5 out of 5]

Supernatural

Lana has no recollection of what transpired on the day her parents were murdered. All she knows is what she has been told, that she did it. She finds herself sent to a school with creatures she hadn't known existed. Soon, she will learn that she has more to fear from herself rather than her monsterous classmates. When found locked in a battle of wills with a prince of hell possessing her body, will she get to keep control?

I absolutely loved the paranormal theme and thought there were some really cool concepts here. The characters are so believable, personality wise, and it's like being back in high school. I can't wait to see/read what happens next.

[Iliana · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed how easy it was to get to know the characters, although I did wish to know more, and like them. I liked the main character and was rooting for her. The conflict was resolved in a satisfactory way and this was very plot driven. To earn 5 stars the author could have provided more insight into how the school works, it's founding, more on the classes taken, etc. I really love world building and wanted to see more of that. This isn't to say the world building is absent, just not developed enough for me. For full transparency I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Catherine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It covers mental health issues along with identity issues. All whilst still having that magical flare.
The characters are all interesting in their own way. The main character Lana struggles with coming to terms with her past. All whilst she is trying to navigate a brand new school with supernatural beings, she never believed existed.
Scott is your typical brooding male character who really is just misunderstood and is actually really sweet.

The storyline kept me gripped for the entire book it was so good. Easily read in a day

[Natasha · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book as an ARC for an honest review 😁

I really went into this book blind and I'm so glad I did ! I was left wanting to know everything possible and as fast as possible.
It really had you hooked from chapter 1 wanting to know what was happening, who was the good guys to who was actually helping Lana.
Lana was amazing and after her coming to terms why she was where she was and what was holding her body as a prisoner and who was there to help her.
I really loved this book it had the perfect balance of everything to keep you wanting more. The ending to this book was perfect it left you wanting more and waiting for book 2 where answer are going to be answered.
I would 100% recommend this book 😁

[thisBandherbooks ✨☀️🌻Buffy🌻☀️✨ · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this ARC free in exchange for a voluntary honest review! This is so good! I read it really fast. I loved the dialogue! I love when I'm reading a book and it makes me laugh out loud! Tons of action as well. I love reading about supernatural characters too. It was Umbrella Academy meets Wednesday. Cool characters. Great plot. Excited for the next book to see what happens! My only complaint is not really a complaint but more personal opinion but I wish it was a little fluffier so I could let my 12 year old read it. But I’ll definitely let her read it eventually!

[Ashleigh Carter · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am so grateful for the opportunity to review this book ahead of its release. It was such a good, fast-paced read. Every time I thought I knew what was going on, it changed on me, and things twisted in a whole new way! Quick synopsis: Girl gets accused of murdering her parents, is sent to a special school for the supernatural, discovers what really happens, and I can’t possibly say more without giving all the good stuff away. Read it! I wish I had the next one already! Releases December 5th!

[Wallflower Book Thoughts · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very well written paranormal young adult book and I think it will be a great series. It is a very good book for someone in middle school or high school because of the themes in it and it taking place in high school. All of the main characters were written very well and all had some growth and development in this story. This has a very good found family trope.

I received an advanced reading copy and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Jessica Forbes · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book. It was thrilling to go through the journey with Lana as she figured out what was wrong with her and, eventually, how to fix it as best as she could. All the while, she manages to make friends with several students at the school, creating a new family around her. A+++ 5 outta 5 stars!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Rachel Maheu · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

The premise of this book is so fun - horror high school (in a supernatural way, not just the standard experience.) Drusilla did a great job including all the universal high school experiences: cliques, catty mean girls, mysterious loner types, etc. but with bonus super powers! Even though I'm way past my high school years (don't remind me) these all rang so true.

I thought there were a lot of story lines happening throughout the book but they were all wrapped up together nicely! There are so many questions that I still want answered, that'll keep me coming back for more. The book was entertaining, engaging, and I kept wanting to read so I could know what happened!

[Sophia Terry · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Reminds me of a supernatural sky high. Fun plot which was not easy to guess straight away. Lots of funny characters. Did feel a bit more plot driven than character driven but I am hoping that as this is the first in the series it will change. Lots of potential not bad for a first book in the series.

[S.M. Moran · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dark academia mystery

A dark academia, paranormal suspended and mystery with a dash of romance. The magic was enchanting and the world was pleasantly complex. The mystery is the heart of the plot. The climax gives a satisfying conclusion yet leaves threads of possibilities for more stories to come.

[Melissa Hall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fan of R.L. Stine? Well, now you will be a fan of Drusilla Carlisle! This book had me on page one and kept me engaged all the way to the end. It took me back to my teen years reading the Fear Street books! I cannot wait for the next book. I highly recommend!

[|| ••Amber•• || · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ugh!!!! this was such a good and fun ARC read for me! Equal levels of spooky, suspense, and thrill with a side of cutsie romance with some good twists and turns and gasping moments! I can’t wait for book 2 of the series to come! I need more!!

[Katie Lujan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved it!!
I definitely can’t wait for book 2, my first ever ARC read and I was excited to see what was next and every turn of a page. Thank you so much for the opportunity. I always love a good vampire, werewolf, and witches story🫶🏼 definitely would love to have the physical copy as well 🥰

[Amanda Cantrell · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a very good and well written young adult paranormal book. It kept me intrigued the entire time while I was reading it. The main character Lana was really interesting and showed a lot of growth throughout the story. If you love a good found family trope this book is for you.

[Kyla Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was hooked, I couldn't stop reading and I stayed up until after 1:00 in the morning to finish the book. I would 100% recommend this to my friends to read in a heartbeat. Thank you Drusilla Carlisle for the opportunity for the ARC read.