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Rylan Flynn #3
The Whisper House
In a haunted mansion, ghosts are not the only danger…
I’m Rylan Flynn. I hunt for ghosts and restless spirits, and solve the mysteries that make them haunt the living.
My ex-boyfriend Declan never believed in my abilities. Now he thinks his home is haunted and he’s pleading for my help. Declan lives in a huge mansion, full of history and secrets.
When I arrive at the house, I find a dying woman in the gardens. It seems like the spirit in Declan’s house may be the only witness to a murder.
For the first time, Detective Ford Pierce asks for my help. Inside the mansion, we find mysterious locked rooms and shattered windows, but the ghost stays hidden. Why won’t it speak to me?
I’m almost ready to give up when my best friend, Mickey, is snatched from her home in the middle of the night. The killer has her, and time is running out.
I’ll do anything to bring Mickey back. But will my desperate search for clues uncover the truth, or lead me right into the killer’s hands?
I’m Rylan Flynn. I hunt for ghosts and restless spirits, and solve the mysteries that make them haunt the living.
My ex-boyfriend Declan never believed in my abilities. Now he thinks his home is haunted and he’s pleading for my help. Declan lives in a huge mansion, full of history and secrets.
When I arrive at the house, I find a dying woman in the gardens. It seems like the spirit in Declan’s house may be the only witness to a murder.
For the first time, Detective Ford Pierce asks for my help. Inside the mansion, we find mysterious locked rooms and shattered windows, but the ghost stays hidden. Why won’t it speak to me?
I’m almost ready to give up when my best friend, Mickey, is snatched from her home in the middle of the night. The killer has her, and time is running out.
I’ll do anything to bring Mickey back. But will my desperate search for clues uncover the truth, or lead me right into the killer’s hands?
230 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 13, 2024
886 people are currently reading
83 people want to read
About the author
Dawn Merriman
51 books224 followersDawn Merriman lives in northeastern Indiana on a small pig farm with her husband and teenage children. She enjoys animals, auctions, reading, snorkeling and writing small town murder mystery novels. Dawn Merriman completed her first novel in Middle School and a few others in High School and college. She won 1st place in the Northeast Indiana Young Writers short story contest in 1990. After a writing hiatus to raise her children, she published her debut novel, "How Murder Saved My Life" in 2019.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
February 9, 2024
Another hauntingly good book by Dawn Merriman! I found The Whisper House: A totally addictive paranormal mystery with a twist to be gripping, captivating, thrilling, and hard to put down. This book was pure ghost bliss for me. This is the riveting, fun, and spooky third book in the Rylan Flynn series.
Rylan has a unique gift; she can see and speak with ghosts. She goes to where there are ghosts to investigate what is keeping them from passing on and why they haunt the living. In this book, Rylan’s ex-boyfriend, Declan believes that his home is haunted. While at his home investigating, Rylan and her best friend, Mickey, find a dying woman on the grounds of Declan’s home. Who hurt her and why? The only witness appears to be a ghost inside the home.
As Rylan attempts to solve the paranormal mystery, the stakes become even higher when Mickey is taken. My mind was full of questions while reading this book. In addition to wondering who killed the woman, I wondered why Mickey was take, by whom, and where is she being held?
I love the paranormal aspect of this series. Dawn Merriman has expertly blended the paranormal aspects and the mystery beautifully together. Like the first two books in the series (The Spirit Girls and The Shadow Girls), this book was well written, well thought out, and hard to put down. I loved the sense of dread and the atmospheric feel of Declan's mansion. I also enjoyed the tension which oozed throughout the book as well as the mounting sense of dread and danger.
I enjoy Rylan and her dedication to her friend, Mickey. I also enjoyed Detective Ford Pierce's scenes as well. Rylan and Ford have interesting interactions and I look forward to reading more about each in future books. The characters in this book are likeable and I rooted for them the entire book. I did not see the ending coming at all. I like it when that happens. The wool was pulled over my eyes.
Gripping, entertaining, fast paced, full of dread, danger, and tension.
Could this book be read as a stand-along? Yes, but as it is only the third book in the series, one could easily go back and read the first two books in the series which I thought were terrific.
Thank you to Second Sky Books and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
Rylan has a unique gift; she can see and speak with ghosts. She goes to where there are ghosts to investigate what is keeping them from passing on and why they haunt the living. In this book, Rylan’s ex-boyfriend, Declan believes that his home is haunted. While at his home investigating, Rylan and her best friend, Mickey, find a dying woman on the grounds of Declan’s home. Who hurt her and why? The only witness appears to be a ghost inside the home.
As Rylan attempts to solve the paranormal mystery, the stakes become even higher when Mickey is taken. My mind was full of questions while reading this book. In addition to wondering who killed the woman, I wondered why Mickey was take, by whom, and where is she being held?
I love the paranormal aspect of this series. Dawn Merriman has expertly blended the paranormal aspects and the mystery beautifully together. Like the first two books in the series (The Spirit Girls and The Shadow Girls), this book was well written, well thought out, and hard to put down. I loved the sense of dread and the atmospheric feel of Declan's mansion. I also enjoyed the tension which oozed throughout the book as well as the mounting sense of dread and danger.
I enjoy Rylan and her dedication to her friend, Mickey. I also enjoyed Detective Ford Pierce's scenes as well. Rylan and Ford have interesting interactions and I look forward to reading more about each in future books. The characters in this book are likeable and I rooted for them the entire book. I did not see the ending coming at all. I like it when that happens. The wool was pulled over my eyes.
Gripping, entertaining, fast paced, full of dread, danger, and tension.
Could this book be read as a stand-along? Yes, but as it is only the third book in the series, one could easily go back and read the first two books in the series which I thought were terrific.
Thank you to Second Sky Books and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
January 7, 2024
And I am back with Rylan. God I love this series, I love Rylan but the books are far too short. I could sit and read about her all day...I still have so many questions that I need answers for.
I got a copy of the book, started it on the airplane and finished it before I even got to my holiday destination. I was hooked. A dark twist and it starts 2 days after the end of The Shadow Girls. I have eagerly waited for this book and I have to wait even longer for the next one!!
This was so intense, with so many ghosts but so many bigger things going on right now. I flew through the story, I just lost myself in the story. I mean an old house that holds so many secrets and who is the woman that Rylan sees in the window? Is she a threat? And the little boy! Oh and Val! Gosh so much!!
Dawn has created the best series, one of my favourites. Ghosts and paranormal are my go to and this is perfect, it gives me the occasional tingle as the fear creeps in and I love it! I want more!
I want to go into that room!!!!
I got a copy of the book, started it on the airplane and finished it before I even got to my holiday destination. I was hooked. A dark twist and it starts 2 days after the end of The Shadow Girls. I have eagerly waited for this book and I have to wait even longer for the next one!!
This was so intense, with so many ghosts but so many bigger things going on right now. I flew through the story, I just lost myself in the story. I mean an old house that holds so many secrets and who is the woman that Rylan sees in the window? Is she a threat? And the little boy! Oh and Val! Gosh so much!!
Dawn has created the best series, one of my favourites. Ghosts and paranormal are my go to and this is perfect, it gives me the occasional tingle as the fear creeps in and I love it! I want more!
I want to go into that room!!!!
February 17, 2024
3.5 ☆
Unfortunately not a lot happens.
Unfortunately not a lot happens.
March 15, 2025
3.5 because Micky and her family. For this book Rylan is asked by her boyfriend to come to his mansion that he believes is haunted, while there they discover the body of a dying woman. There’s also a ghost in the house that’s not speaking. Trouble starts almost immediately a
Be while there wasn’t a lot of action, the emotional toll on Rylan starts. Mickey was horrible in this book in the way she treated Rylan and the way she allowed her husband to treat Ryland. We get it, it wasn’t good to see someone die, but Rylan went through it too. A supposed “friend” wouldn’t treat Rylan the way Mickey, her husband and then her father did. If I were Rylan, ehh maybe I’ll forgive (someday) but you stay farrr away moving forward. Rylan appeared weak emotionally in this book which I don’t think was the intent, but oh well. Overall it’s a good book and series, but seriously grow up.
Be while there wasn’t a lot of action, the emotional toll on Rylan starts. Mickey was horrible in this book in the way she treated Rylan and the way she allowed her husband to treat Ryland. We get it, it wasn’t good to see someone die, but Rylan went through it too. A supposed “friend” wouldn’t treat Rylan the way Mickey, her husband and then her father did. If I were Rylan, ehh maybe I’ll forgive (someday) but you stay farrr away moving forward. Rylan appeared weak emotionally in this book which I don’t think was the intent, but oh well. Overall it’s a good book and series, but seriously grow up.
February 10, 2024
would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this book
rylan flynn sees and hears ghosts, she also helps them cross over
its a gift she hadnt been born with and most people didnt believe she could help or even see ghosts especially one of her exes declan
who one day called and asked for her help as he believed his house was haunted....
and it was...but it wouldnt speak to rylan and then the worst thing ever to happen her best friend mickey was kidnapped and thats when things started to go wrong
a quick fascinating read that will grip you right to the end.. thoroughly enjoyed it
rylan flynn sees and hears ghosts, she also helps them cross over
its a gift she hadnt been born with and most people didnt believe she could help or even see ghosts especially one of her exes declan
who one day called and asked for her help as he believed his house was haunted....
and it was...but it wouldnt speak to rylan and then the worst thing ever to happen her best friend mickey was kidnapped and thats when things started to go wrong
a quick fascinating read that will grip you right to the end.. thoroughly enjoyed it
February 13, 2024
Interesting addition to series. I felt like something was missing from this one though. I’m very interested to see where this series is going. I really like the premise and the characters.
February 16, 2024
I’ve started in the middle of a series again, jumping into The Whisper House, the third of Dawn Merriman’s Rylan Flynn series, without reading the first two. Whoops! I don’t think my enjoyment of the story suffered, though.
Rylan Flynn can communicate with ghosts. And now her ex-boyfriend, Declan Rathborne, is calling. He used to make light of her abilities, but now he’s asking her to come check out his palatial mansion to see if it’s haunted. Rylan and her best friend, Mickey Martinez, plan to use the mansion as an episode on their ghost-hunting show, but they get more than they bargain for when they see a woman dash into the gardens. There’s a murder on their hands, literally, as the woman dies in Rylan and Mickey’s arms as they try to help her.
But that’s not the only mystery Rylan finds herself involved in. Even more traumatic, Mickey is kidnapped not long after the unknown woman is killed, after she and Rylan had a falling out. Who took Mickey, and why? In both cases, spirits may hold the key to solving the mystery, and Detective Ford Pierce isn’t above asking Rylan to do what she can to help.
Merriman gives us a likable heroine in Rylan, and one who’s dealing with issues of her own. Her ability to speak to spirits is due to a childhood trauma. Her dead mother’s ghost lives in her house. A mysterious howling something lurks in her brother Keaton’s old room. And will Ford Pierce ever see her as anything other than a friend’s little sister?
Merriman also weaves multiple threads together skillfully, and she kept me guessing as to whether the two mysteries were connected. We’ve got the investigation into the unknown woman’s death and Mickey’s abduction. Rylan’s Aunt Val is dealing with her own unresolved issues. And Rylan is trying to figure out whether her feelings for Ford are reciprocated and what the heck is up with Declan. It all combined to make for a quick, entertaining read!
There were a couple of things that stuck in my craw just a bit. First, Mickey’s parents came into town when their daughter went missing, and apparently they demanded that the state police be given jurisdiction. It’s been a while since my prosecutorial days, but I don’t recall family members of crime victims being able to demand that a particular law enforcement agency get involved in a case. I can see a chief deciding to take officers off an investigation because of their personal involvement, but I don’t think victims’ families get to say what agency has jurisdiction. Not unless things have changed since my prosecutorial days.
Second, I really appreciate that Merriman makes the effort to inject a little faith into her paranormal mystery. The book had no adult situations, no swearing to speak of (if there was any, it wasn’t enough to stand out in my mind), and I do love a good, clean story. But Rylan’s use of prayer to seek divine assistance in communicating with spirits doesn’t really square with my understanding of Scripture. It’s a fun story idea, but I wouldn’t recommend praying for help talking to any deceased loved ones.
Those two things notwithstanding, this book still gets high marks. Characters I cared about, not one but two mysteries, keeping me guessing almost until the big reveal – these add up to The Whisper House being a delight to read! I can’t wait to see what Rylan gets up to next.
Rylan Flynn can communicate with ghosts. And now her ex-boyfriend, Declan Rathborne, is calling. He used to make light of her abilities, but now he’s asking her to come check out his palatial mansion to see if it’s haunted. Rylan and her best friend, Mickey Martinez, plan to use the mansion as an episode on their ghost-hunting show, but they get more than they bargain for when they see a woman dash into the gardens. There’s a murder on their hands, literally, as the woman dies in Rylan and Mickey’s arms as they try to help her.
But that’s not the only mystery Rylan finds herself involved in. Even more traumatic, Mickey is kidnapped not long after the unknown woman is killed, after she and Rylan had a falling out. Who took Mickey, and why? In both cases, spirits may hold the key to solving the mystery, and Detective Ford Pierce isn’t above asking Rylan to do what she can to help.
Merriman gives us a likable heroine in Rylan, and one who’s dealing with issues of her own. Her ability to speak to spirits is due to a childhood trauma. Her dead mother’s ghost lives in her house. A mysterious howling something lurks in her brother Keaton’s old room. And will Ford Pierce ever see her as anything other than a friend’s little sister?
Merriman also weaves multiple threads together skillfully, and she kept me guessing as to whether the two mysteries were connected. We’ve got the investigation into the unknown woman’s death and Mickey’s abduction. Rylan’s Aunt Val is dealing with her own unresolved issues. And Rylan is trying to figure out whether her feelings for Ford are reciprocated and what the heck is up with Declan. It all combined to make for a quick, entertaining read!
There were a couple of things that stuck in my craw just a bit. First, Mickey’s parents came into town when their daughter went missing, and apparently they demanded that the state police be given jurisdiction. It’s been a while since my prosecutorial days, but I don’t recall family members of crime victims being able to demand that a particular law enforcement agency get involved in a case. I can see a chief deciding to take officers off an investigation because of their personal involvement, but I don’t think victims’ families get to say what agency has jurisdiction. Not unless things have changed since my prosecutorial days.
Second, I really appreciate that Merriman makes the effort to inject a little faith into her paranormal mystery. The book had no adult situations, no swearing to speak of (if there was any, it wasn’t enough to stand out in my mind), and I do love a good, clean story. But Rylan’s use of prayer to seek divine assistance in communicating with spirits doesn’t really square with my understanding of Scripture. It’s a fun story idea, but I wouldn’t recommend praying for help talking to any deceased loved ones.
Those two things notwithstanding, this book still gets high marks. Characters I cared about, not one but two mysteries, keeping me guessing almost until the big reveal – these add up to The Whisper House being a delight to read! I can’t wait to see what Rylan gets up to next.
January 30, 2024
The Whisper House is the 3rd in the series, so I was introduced a little further along. Without having any previous introduction to the story, characters, or series arc, I was able to keep up with the story and grab inferences from past books. My lack of previous knowledge did not inhibit me from understanding and enjoying this book, however, now that I've finished I want to go back and read the series from the start to catch up.
As a reader, I was immediately thrown into Rylan's supernatural world, with a reunion of sorts with an old boyfriend, a little redemption that he's asked her to help his ghost situation that they previously broke up for, and a dying woman on the lawn.
Overall, the story has enough elements to keep me interested;
* Ghosts/Paranormal
* Murder Mystery
* Relationship Drama
* Intriguing Settings
More positives for me:
* No curse words or gratuitous sex scenes
* No casual attitude towards death - It doesn't make death/murder entertaining, but gives respect to the tragedy
* Aspects of faith woven in with prayer being a common go-to
* Surprise of Who-Dunnit - I seriously had no clue as to the motive or who the "villain" was, though I had questions as to this characters presence and mystery surrounding this character
* A love interest that is gradual and built on friendship rather than jumping into bed
* While there are certainly elements of supernatural, as in seeing and talking to ghosts and helping them cross over, there aren't any additional occult practices or rituals included - at least not in this book, so it's not a "dark" story
It did take me a bit to get into, mostly because this was my first encounter with the series. I feel like if I had read from book one, this wouldn't have been a problem for me. Once I did get into the book, I was intrigued. It didn't feel disjointed, but the clues and red herrings all made sense and were head-smackers (as in, Uhh! Why didn't I pick up on that?!) It wasn't a traditional mystery to me, but was woven with emotion, relationships, drama, and multiple POVs that kept me as a reader on my toes.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and it definitely made me want to read more. I felt that the end reveal was enough to help me understand the motives and connect all the dots for me. I will definitely try to find the first 2 books and read through them, so that gets 5 stars if a story wants to keep me reading. It's also clean enough (despite the murder) that I can give to my teen to read, so bonus points for that.
As a reader, I was immediately thrown into Rylan's supernatural world, with a reunion of sorts with an old boyfriend, a little redemption that he's asked her to help his ghost situation that they previously broke up for, and a dying woman on the lawn.
Overall, the story has enough elements to keep me interested;
* Ghosts/Paranormal
* Murder Mystery
* Relationship Drama
* Intriguing Settings
More positives for me:
* No curse words or gratuitous sex scenes
* No casual attitude towards death - It doesn't make death/murder entertaining, but gives respect to the tragedy
* Aspects of faith woven in with prayer being a common go-to
* Surprise of Who-Dunnit - I seriously had no clue as to the motive or who the "villain" was, though I had questions as to this characters presence and mystery surrounding this character
* A love interest that is gradual and built on friendship rather than jumping into bed
* While there are certainly elements of supernatural, as in seeing and talking to ghosts and helping them cross over, there aren't any additional occult practices or rituals included - at least not in this book, so it's not a "dark" story
It did take me a bit to get into, mostly because this was my first encounter with the series. I feel like if I had read from book one, this wouldn't have been a problem for me. Once I did get into the book, I was intrigued. It didn't feel disjointed, but the clues and red herrings all made sense and were head-smackers (as in, Uhh! Why didn't I pick up on that?!) It wasn't a traditional mystery to me, but was woven with emotion, relationships, drama, and multiple POVs that kept me as a reader on my toes.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and it definitely made me want to read more. I felt that the end reveal was enough to help me understand the motives and connect all the dots for me. I will definitely try to find the first 2 books and read through them, so that gets 5 stars if a story wants to keep me reading. It's also clean enough (despite the murder) that I can give to my teen to read, so bonus points for that.
February 13, 2024
I wanted to like this book more than I did. I think maybe it is because I dropped in the series on the third book instead of the first.
Rylan Flynn and her best friend Mickey Martinez film a popular ghost show on Youtube. Rylan's ex-boyfriend, who always doubted her abilities, calls her to investigate a haunting at his new house, a historic mansion. Instead, the find a dying woman in the garden. Their troubles only increase from there.
None of the characters felt well developed; again, that may be because I started in the middle of the series.
Overall, it's an easy read and interesting enough, but I wouldn't call it a page turner. The series would likely be more interesting to Christian ghost hunters than occult ones. Again, maybe had I started at the beginning I would like this series more. All in all, I found it bland and a little insensitive regarding racial stereotypes and mental health issues.
I received an ARC from Netgalley.
Rylan Flynn and her best friend Mickey Martinez film a popular ghost show on Youtube. Rylan's ex-boyfriend, who always doubted her abilities, calls her to investigate a haunting at his new house, a historic mansion. Instead, the find a dying woman in the garden. Their troubles only increase from there.
None of the characters felt well developed; again, that may be because I started in the middle of the series.
Overall, it's an easy read and interesting enough, but I wouldn't call it a page turner. The series would likely be more interesting to Christian ghost hunters than occult ones. Again, maybe had I started at the beginning I would like this series more. All in all, I found it bland and a little insensitive regarding racial stereotypes and mental health issues.
I received an ARC from Netgalley.
February 17, 2024
Rounded up from 3.5
This is the third book in the Rylan Flynn series, but it works perfectly well as a standalone. I would, however, recommend reading the other books to get a better understanding of the characters.
Rylan had an unexpected phone call from her ex, Declan, who had never believed in her powers, saying that his house is haunted. Instead of finding a just ghost, they come across a dying young woman in the garden. It shakes them up, especially Mickey. Soon after, she's snatched from her house, and it's up to Rylan to find her friend.
Much like the other books in this series, The Whisper House is a fast-paced and quick read with plenty of ghostly goings on to keep you entertained throughout.
There was a little more drama in this book when it came to relationships, which I enjoyed. I felt in the first two books, Rylan took her best friend Mickey for granted, but this story really shows the depths of their friendship.
The elements of romance are still there throughout. The will-they-won't-they between Rylan and Detective Pierce is still going strong. This time Rylan's aunt Val gets her own storyline, but I won't say much more than that, so I don't spoil it!
I still feel like this series has a young adult feel to it, not a bad thing, but I would like the stories to be a little grittier. Also, I felt the ending with this one felt a bit rushed and I would have liked a bit more of denouement.
If you are looking for a tale full of ghosts, mystery, friendship drama with a little sprinkling of romance in there, then I'd highly recommend this book to you.
This is the third book in the Rylan Flynn series, but it works perfectly well as a standalone. I would, however, recommend reading the other books to get a better understanding of the characters.
Rylan had an unexpected phone call from her ex, Declan, who had never believed in her powers, saying that his house is haunted. Instead of finding a just ghost, they come across a dying young woman in the garden. It shakes them up, especially Mickey. Soon after, she's snatched from her house, and it's up to Rylan to find her friend.
Much like the other books in this series, The Whisper House is a fast-paced and quick read with plenty of ghostly goings on to keep you entertained throughout.
There was a little more drama in this book when it came to relationships, which I enjoyed. I felt in the first two books, Rylan took her best friend Mickey for granted, but this story really shows the depths of their friendship.
The elements of romance are still there throughout. The will-they-won't-they between Rylan and Detective Pierce is still going strong. This time Rylan's aunt Val gets her own storyline, but I won't say much more than that, so I don't spoil it!
I still feel like this series has a young adult feel to it, not a bad thing, but I would like the stories to be a little grittier. Also, I felt the ending with this one felt a bit rushed and I would have liked a bit more of denouement.
If you are looking for a tale full of ghosts, mystery, friendship drama with a little sprinkling of romance in there, then I'd highly recommend this book to you.
March 6, 2024
Ghost hunter Rylan Flynn is feeling awkward when she goes filming at her ex's home. But things get a whole lot worse when a woman is found with significant injuries and dies despite her best efforts. Can ghosts help Rylan stop another death?
The Whisper House is the third book in the Rylan Flynn series and I love them! Take a look at The Spirit Girls and The Shadow Girls.
Rylan and her camerawoman Mickey are out on location at the home of Rylan's ex. She spots one ghost but the encounter is rather underwhelming. Going outside, they find a woman who dies and passes to the other side before Rylan can ask her who is responsible. Mickey asks to take a break from the ghost hunting, leaving Rylan devastated, and then the killer strikes again...
The book is written from multiple first person perspectives so we see Rylan's experience as well as others. I liked the way we can see Rylan and Ford's contrasting and corresponding emotions and am desperate for them to get together! There is a careful balance of simmering attraction, ghostly escapades, murder and family drama, which all work well together.
It was a very quick read but I was totally immersed in the plot! I continued to like the way the author blends ghosts and faith. However, I wanted a little more development and emotional depth for some of the plotlines and we didn't get as much of the family ghosts (the situation in Rylan's home). Aunt Val has a ghost subplot that played out predictably but beautifully.
The Whisper House is an enjoyable paranormal and supernatural murder mystery.
The Whisper House is the third book in the Rylan Flynn series and I love them! Take a look at The Spirit Girls and The Shadow Girls.
Rylan and her camerawoman Mickey are out on location at the home of Rylan's ex. She spots one ghost but the encounter is rather underwhelming. Going outside, they find a woman who dies and passes to the other side before Rylan can ask her who is responsible. Mickey asks to take a break from the ghost hunting, leaving Rylan devastated, and then the killer strikes again...
The book is written from multiple first person perspectives so we see Rylan's experience as well as others. I liked the way we can see Rylan and Ford's contrasting and corresponding emotions and am desperate for them to get together! There is a careful balance of simmering attraction, ghostly escapades, murder and family drama, which all work well together.
It was a very quick read but I was totally immersed in the plot! I continued to like the way the author blends ghosts and faith. However, I wanted a little more development and emotional depth for some of the plotlines and we didn't get as much of the family ghosts (the situation in Rylan's home). Aunt Val has a ghost subplot that played out predictably but beautifully.
The Whisper House is an enjoyable paranormal and supernatural murder mystery.
April 14, 2025
good
Rylan didn’t expect to witness a death when she went to the house of her ex-boyfriend on a ghost-hunting expedition. Instead of a ghost, they find a girl, dying in his garden.
It seems even less important when Mickey is kidnapped, and all the skills Rylan has cannot help…
This is book three in the series, and it is a series which needs to be read in order. Each of the mysteries is standalone and completed in one book BUT there is an ongoing, overarching storyline that wends its way through the series.
Rylan Flynn is a medium, a ghost hunter, a YouTube star, and a troubled woman. Her mother was murdered a few years ago, and it’s obvious that Rylan struggles to deal with her death. She has few friends, and is a very lonely person that I spend a lot of time worrying about while I read! I’m kind of hoping she gets some help soon; whether in regard to her mother’s death, or her hoarding, or the creepy evil spirits she keeps running across, it doesn’t matter!
She’s beginning to get closer to her longtime crush Ford, so there is some hope for the future.
This is a delightfully creepy series (probably best read with some good lighting- those evil shadows are worrisome), with a fascinatingly flawed heroine, and some great ghostly action.
The books are engrossing, each in their own right, but as a series they are even more enthralling, as we learn a little more about Rylan and her family in each book.
If you love a good paranormal thriller, or a paranormal mystery with a side of suspense, then this is an excellent series to read.
Rylan didn’t expect to witness a death when she went to the house of her ex-boyfriend on a ghost-hunting expedition. Instead of a ghost, they find a girl, dying in his garden.
It seems even less important when Mickey is kidnapped, and all the skills Rylan has cannot help…
This is book three in the series, and it is a series which needs to be read in order. Each of the mysteries is standalone and completed in one book BUT there is an ongoing, overarching storyline that wends its way through the series.
Rylan Flynn is a medium, a ghost hunter, a YouTube star, and a troubled woman. Her mother was murdered a few years ago, and it’s obvious that Rylan struggles to deal with her death. She has few friends, and is a very lonely person that I spend a lot of time worrying about while I read! I’m kind of hoping she gets some help soon; whether in regard to her mother’s death, or her hoarding, or the creepy evil spirits she keeps running across, it doesn’t matter!
She’s beginning to get closer to her longtime crush Ford, so there is some hope for the future.
This is a delightfully creepy series (probably best read with some good lighting- those evil shadows are worrisome), with a fascinatingly flawed heroine, and some great ghostly action.
The books are engrossing, each in their own right, but as a series they are even more enthralling, as we learn a little more about Rylan and her family in each book.
If you love a good paranormal thriller, or a paranormal mystery with a side of suspense, then this is an excellent series to read.
February 19, 2024
This was an engaging read with the unsettling undercurrents I have come to expect from this series. Regardless, the characters and mystery are well developed, and the book left me wanting more and ready for Book 4. Rylan is a complex character who is confident in her abilities even though both her personal and professional lives seem to remain in a state of imbalance. In fact, if I were to sum up my response while reading the book "imbalanced" is pretty accurate. I prefer some consistency in the protagonist's support group/friends. In this outing, I was pleased to see Rylan's relationship with Ford improving, but dismayed to see the chasm develop between Rylan and her best friend, Mickey. The animosity of Mickey's family toward Rylan was disturbing. It is time for resolution or at least progress in Rylan's home situation, from her hoarding to the thing in her brother's old room to her mother's ghost. Until these things are resolved, or at least shared, I don't know how Rylan will ever develop into a stronger more self-possessed character, and I really think this character deserves that opportunity. Obviously, I am invested in this character, and I hope Book 4 will bring some balance and resolution to Rylan's life, and we will see her work more in conjunction with rather than separate from those around her. None of that will detract from her unique abilities and personality, and it will open up her character for so much more.
February 17, 2024
Rylan Flynn can see and communicate with ghosts at times
She's used this ability to quietly help the police solve crimes.
However, many are sceptical about what she has to say
So her role in investigations they usually downplay.
Her ex-boyfriend never believed what she said was true,
That's the main reason Rylan decided they were through.
So why is he now wanting her to call
Pleading for her help doesn't make sense at all!
However, when Rylan and Mickey go to his home they see
A dying woman in the gardens, as if she's trying to flee.
Where did she come from, who is her killer?
The duo are again involved in another crime thriller.
The abduction of Mickey has them in a panic
They need her safely back, the atmosphere is manic!
But following the clues, seeking ghostly help, too,
Can Rylan and Ford succeed in her rescue?
A fascinating story, with family dramas by the score
As well as a potential romance with attraction they can't ignore.
Another paranormal murder mystery, filled with suspense
And a grand finale that is absolutely tense!
A very different series, I highly recommend to you
With ghostly encounters helping share many a clue!
For my complementary copy, I say thank you,
As I share with you this, my honest review.
She's used this ability to quietly help the police solve crimes.
However, many are sceptical about what she has to say
So her role in investigations they usually downplay.
Her ex-boyfriend never believed what she said was true,
That's the main reason Rylan decided they were through.
So why is he now wanting her to call
Pleading for her help doesn't make sense at all!
However, when Rylan and Mickey go to his home they see
A dying woman in the gardens, as if she's trying to flee.
Where did she come from, who is her killer?
The duo are again involved in another crime thriller.
The abduction of Mickey has them in a panic
They need her safely back, the atmosphere is manic!
But following the clues, seeking ghostly help, too,
Can Rylan and Ford succeed in her rescue?
A fascinating story, with family dramas by the score
As well as a potential romance with attraction they can't ignore.
Another paranormal murder mystery, filled with suspense
And a grand finale that is absolutely tense!
A very different series, I highly recommend to you
With ghostly encounters helping share many a clue!
For my complementary copy, I say thank you,
As I share with you this, my honest review.
May 17, 2024
This series is pretty good, I finished the 3 books in the series within 3-4 days. Boooyyyyy do I have questions. The books don't end in a cliffhanger but there are still answers I'm waiting for. First and foremost is, what in the world is happening between Rylan and Ford. Because I've been waiting three books for something, ANYTHING to happen and so far the best that's happened are hugs that end up slightly awkward. It's so clear to everyone around them that they're into one another except them two, and this may be the only case where the exes show up and it doesn't give them two characters a nudge in the right direction. Another thing is i feel like in every book, Mickey always wonder what her role is and Rylan would reassure her and Mickey is satisfied with the answer for the moment.
Another major question is, the situation with her house, her brother's room and her mother. Im dying to know more about who murdered her mom, what is she going to do about the black shadowy thing in her brother's room and wow I'm surprised she can hide her hoarding in her house from her loved ones for so long.
Overall, looking forward to the next book and to see where Rylan and Ford's relationship goes.
Another major question is, the situation with her house, her brother's room and her mother. Im dying to know more about who murdered her mom, what is she going to do about the black shadowy thing in her brother's room and wow I'm surprised she can hide her hoarding in her house from her loved ones for so long.
Overall, looking forward to the next book and to see where Rylan and Ford's relationship goes.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 13, 2024
There is so much happening in this book! First Rylan and Mickey are going to work a case for her ex-boyfriend. A semi-famous author whose new home seems to have a few ghosts, and when they arrive they experience something horrifying. Then Mickey gets kidnapped and Ford, our sexy detective and love interest (there is definite pining on both sides) has to figure out if it is related to the aforementioned horrible thing at Declan's house. We're still waiting to see if we find out who caused what happened to her mother, and that THING is still hiding out in her brother's old bedroom. Her Aunt Val needs some help with something from her past, and of course, Rylan wants to help. That's all to say there isn't one moment that's not moving the story forward in some way which kept me glued to the pages. I read it all in one sitting and am now itching to have the next book in my hand.. which will probably be a while since this one hasn't even been released yet.. sigh oh well! I will be starting a reread, and watching some ghost-hunting shows to tide me over until Rylan and Mickey come back in the next book. If you are any kind of paranormal/ghost-hunting fan you should check this series out.
February 4, 2024
This is a great mystery thriller with a paranormal twist.
Rylan is asked to investigate her ex boyfriend’s mansion as he’s been hearing some strange noises.
With Mickey filming they start their walk round the house and are shocked to see a woman out in the grounds.
As they go out to check on her, they hear screams and when they reach her she’s badly injured. Unfortunately the stab wounds are quite severe so the woman soon passes away.
Ford arrives to investigate the murder and Rylan is frustrated as the woman passed over before she could ask any questions.
This incident shakes Mickey so she tells Rylan she wants a break from filming but soon her life is in danger.
Rylan and Ford are out looking for Mickey but there seems to be no clues as to who took her until Rylan speaks to the spirit of a young boy who has been around in Mickey’s home.
This is another great mystery thriller that I really enjoyed.
Thanks to Second Sky and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
Rylan is asked to investigate her ex boyfriend’s mansion as he’s been hearing some strange noises.
With Mickey filming they start their walk round the house and are shocked to see a woman out in the grounds.
As they go out to check on her, they hear screams and when they reach her she’s badly injured. Unfortunately the stab wounds are quite severe so the woman soon passes away.
Ford arrives to investigate the murder and Rylan is frustrated as the woman passed over before she could ask any questions.
This incident shakes Mickey so she tells Rylan she wants a break from filming but soon her life is in danger.
Rylan and Ford are out looking for Mickey but there seems to be no clues as to who took her until Rylan speaks to the spirit of a young boy who has been around in Mickey’s home.
This is another great mystery thriller that I really enjoyed.
Thanks to Second Sky and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
January 11, 2024
You might remember when I wrote my thoughts about the previous book (I did not read book 1), that I picked it without realising it was a paranormal thriller which is so not my cup of tea. I loved everything about it so much that I was utterly pleased when I saw that book 3 was next on my list.
Once again I was immediately taken by the story and the great characters, recurring and new ones. I started it last night and finished it before noon today.
Honestly, I am a bit jealous of Rylan. I would also love to be able to see and communicate with ghosts. Well, friendly ones anyway ;)
I love the way the author has portrayed the ghosts. They are not creepy or bad, but they aim to help to solve crimes.
I do hope Rylan can meet a ghost to, not only give her some advice on how to solve a crime, but also on matters of the heart. She needs a little push there ;)
I am counting the days until book 4 lands on my Kindle. :) 5 stars
Thank you
Once again I was immediately taken by the story and the great characters, recurring and new ones. I started it last night and finished it before noon today.
Honestly, I am a bit jealous of Rylan. I would also love to be able to see and communicate with ghosts. Well, friendly ones anyway ;)
I love the way the author has portrayed the ghosts. They are not creepy or bad, but they aim to help to solve crimes.
I do hope Rylan can meet a ghost to, not only give her some advice on how to solve a crime, but also on matters of the heart. She needs a little push there ;)
I am counting the days until book 4 lands on my Kindle. :) 5 stars
Thank you
February 13, 2024
I rarely read paranormal stories but I was intrigued by the blurb and fell right into this tale shortly after starting page one. The characters and storylines were complicated, multi-layered, and difficult to get a bead on, causing the little pea in my brain to rattle non-stop. I was a willing victim to Ms. Merriman’s addictive storytelling and tumbled into an oddly disconcerting vortex that sucked me deeper and deeper into a misty plain of lost and/or helpful spirits.
The writing was so absorbing and easy to follow, that I felt I was as if I were fully present alongside the restless Rylan as she interacted with the living and departed. Despite diving into the series with the third installment, I felt no confusion or difficulties, but rather an intense yen to gather the two previous books for my reading enjoyment as well as to slate my curiosity about her previous adventures that led to her current state of affairs.
The writing was so absorbing and easy to follow, that I felt I was as if I were fully present alongside the restless Rylan as she interacted with the living and departed. Despite diving into the series with the third installment, I felt no confusion or difficulties, but rather an intense yen to gather the two previous books for my reading enjoyment as well as to slate my curiosity about her previous adventures that led to her current state of affairs.
February 14, 2024
Each instalment in this series is better than the previous and the level of suspense is getting higher and the plot more gripping. Rylan is changing as her life is changing as the life of her friends and relatives.
There’s a constant in these stories: the ghost of Rylan’s mother and her hoarding. I always find the descriptions of her house a bit claustrophobic and disturbing, a bit on the horror side
One day she0ll be able to let her mother go or solve the mystery of her murder but now she’s still living with a ghost and using her hoarding as a mean of protection.
This is a fast paced, action packed and twisty story, maybe the darker in the series. There’s hope but here’s also a lot surprising twists and mysteries.
I enjoyed it as it was a very entertaining read that kept me turning pages.
Can’t wait to read the next story, this one is highly recommended
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to Second Sky for this ARC, all opinions are mine
There’s a constant in these stories: the ghost of Rylan’s mother and her hoarding. I always find the descriptions of her house a bit claustrophobic and disturbing, a bit on the horror side
One day she0ll be able to let her mother go or solve the mystery of her murder but now she’s still living with a ghost and using her hoarding as a mean of protection.
This is a fast paced, action packed and twisty story, maybe the darker in the series. There’s hope but here’s also a lot surprising twists and mysteries.
I enjoyed it as it was a very entertaining read that kept me turning pages.
Can’t wait to read the next story, this one is highly recommended
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to Second Sky for this ARC, all opinions are mine
February 10, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It's a cozy mystery with a ghost whisperer theme. Rylan can see and talk to ghosts and has a ghost hunting show. Her best friend is the camera person and behind the scenes. I did not read the other 2 books and I don't think I missed anything but would love to read them sometime.
Rylan's mother lives with her but is a ghost. Her mother doesn't realize that she is a ghost. Rylan is also a hoarder and I think some of the problem is to fill a void. Her father is a big part of her life and her brother is a the DA or ADA. She has a crush on the cop.
This story takes place at her ex boyfriend's house and they find a murdered woman and it goes from there with her best friend being kidnapped and ghosts helping her.
Thank you to NetGalley and Second Sky for the ebook to review.
Rylan's mother lives with her but is a ghost. Her mother doesn't realize that she is a ghost. Rylan is also a hoarder and I think some of the problem is to fill a void. Her father is a big part of her life and her brother is a the DA or ADA. She has a crush on the cop.
This story takes place at her ex boyfriend's house and they find a murdered woman and it goes from there with her best friend being kidnapped and ghosts helping her.
Thank you to NetGalley and Second Sky for the ebook to review.
February 13, 2024
I really like Rylan. She is unique. Rylan sees ghosts. When an ex calls her because he is sure that his house is haunted, Rylan is very surprised. One of the reasons she broke up with him was because he didn't believe in her ability. When she and Mickey arrive, Rylan senses that there are ghosts in his home. While exploring the house, they hear an all too real person scream. They find a woman in the garden that has been stabbed. As Rylan watches, the woman walks into the light. How will they figure out how she died? Where did she come from? She seemed to appear out of nowhere. All of a sudden, Mickey is kidnapped. Her husband comes home and finds the house empty. Who took her? Rylan and Mickey have been friends since they were children and Rylan is going to find her. No matter what anyone else says. Can she do it?
February 19, 2024
Rylan can communicate with ghosts, but her previous boyfriend who didn’t believe her is now asking for her help. But soon, with best friend Mickey, their investigation will take a turn when a murder takes place and Mickey goes missing.
Rylan will need to solve both mysteries as well as figure out what is happening in her personal life.
Merriman gives us a great main character, with a deep backstory and several threads to keep us intrigued.
This is the third novel within the series, but I definitely felt this could be read as a stand-alone, as I didn’t feel I was missing out; it has led me to want to read the other two novels.
This was a quick and easy read for me, that has a young adult feel to it. This narrative is full of murder, mystery, ghosts and intrigue and one I could not put down.
Rylan will need to solve both mysteries as well as figure out what is happening in her personal life.
Merriman gives us a great main character, with a deep backstory and several threads to keep us intrigued.
This is the third novel within the series, but I definitely felt this could be read as a stand-alone, as I didn’t feel I was missing out; it has led me to want to read the other two novels.
This was a quick and easy read for me, that has a young adult feel to it. This narrative is full of murder, mystery, ghosts and intrigue and one I could not put down.
January 13, 2024
I was excited to see this latest in the series because Rylan is a haunted soul both literally and figuratively. In this book, her ex-boyfriend needs her help with a haunting, but it turns to murder when they find a dying woman. I felt so many things for Rylan just like I did in the previous two books because of the state of her house…in several different ways. I don’t want to spoil it, but I’m anxious to see how this plays out and we find out just what is going on. I love this type of mystery where the author mentions a “problem” and we wait for several books before we find out. Anyway, the author kept me guessing with this latest, and I had no idea who the villain was. Bring on the next book! Highly recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
January 14, 2024
My first book from the series which means I’ll have to go back and read the previous ones to know more.
Rylan can see and speak to ghosts, she hosts a show about helping ghosts cross over with her best friend and camera person Mickey. When Mickey is kidnapped, Rylan does her best to help the police to find her despite the lead investigators finding her to be a nuisance.
I loved the premise of the book, plenty ghosts that pop out. I would watch their ghost show! I did find the book to be a bit too short as I would love to know more especially about her mum and if she ever goes into her brothers room or sorts the house out, but I guess I will have to wait for the next in the series to find out more.
Rylan can see and speak to ghosts, she hosts a show about helping ghosts cross over with her best friend and camera person Mickey. When Mickey is kidnapped, Rylan does her best to help the police to find her despite the lead investigators finding her to be a nuisance.
I loved the premise of the book, plenty ghosts that pop out. I would watch their ghost show! I did find the book to be a bit too short as I would love to know more especially about her mum and if she ever goes into her brothers room or sorts the house out, but I guess I will have to wait for the next in the series to find out more.
January 28, 2024
This is the third book in this series. However, I didn't realise that when I requested it. I didn't feel like it made a difference that I hadn't read the first two in the series.
This book started with Rylan and Mickey going to investigate at Declan's house. The only problem is Declan is Rylan's ex-boyfriend.
I felt this story was fast-paced with twists and turns along the way. I found myself unable to put the book down, I was hooked from the first page. I would highly recommend this book, and I will definitely be going back and reading the first two in the series. I also can't wait to see what Rylan will do next!
I also want to thank the publisher and Netgalley for giving me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book started with Rylan and Mickey going to investigate at Declan's house. The only problem is Declan is Rylan's ex-boyfriend.
I felt this story was fast-paced with twists and turns along the way. I found myself unable to put the book down, I was hooked from the first page. I would highly recommend this book, and I will definitely be going back and reading the first two in the series. I also can't wait to see what Rylan will do next!
I also want to thank the publisher and Netgalley for giving me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 27, 2024
This is the third book in the Rylan Flynn paranormal mysteries series. I have read one of the previous books, so I was interested to read about this character again.
At first, I wondered if this would be a fun, lighthearted sort of spooky story, but I found it a little deeper and darker than I expected. The protagonist, Rylan, has the ability to see and communicate with ghosts, which seems to be a big part of her character. It seems that this ability leads to some personal struggles on her part, and I did feel very connected to her and her experiences. This was a light, enjoyable read, easy to read in one sitting, but I became quite emotionally invested in it.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for a free copy to review.
At first, I wondered if this would be a fun, lighthearted sort of spooky story, but I found it a little deeper and darker than I expected. The protagonist, Rylan, has the ability to see and communicate with ghosts, which seems to be a big part of her character. It seems that this ability leads to some personal struggles on her part, and I did feel very connected to her and her experiences. This was a light, enjoyable read, easy to read in one sitting, but I became quite emotionally invested in it.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for a free copy to review.
January 16, 2024
This is the third book in this easy read fantasy series. Ghost hunting, murder, family, maybe romance and witty entertaining dialogue are once again presented to the reader. The first two books have been quite light hearted even dealing with villains and murder. Here though in, giving more depth to her characters life stories, Dawn Merriman presents us with a slightly darker feel as Rylan Flynn starts to struggle with the gift she has and what that means for her personally. I can’t wait for the next instalment. I suggest you start at the beginning and read the books in order. Thank you to Second Sky and NetGalley for the ARC. The views expressed are all mine, freely given.
February 16, 2024
I have become very invested in Rylan's story. I was surprised to feel so much empathy for this character back when I started book one. However, now anytime someone is mean or judgemental towards Rylan, I feel angry. There is nothing better than when characters transcend the pages and have me engaging emotionally. These books are the perfect combo of a cozy mystery with a bit of a killer edge. The story is not gory but still gives effective suspense. I gave The Whisper House 5/5 stars. It was a fun read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Second Sky for the opportunity to review The Whisper House. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Thank you to NetGalley and Second Sky for the opportunity to review The Whisper House. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 19, 2025
This series is EVERYTHING! I am o̶b̶s̶e̶s̶s̶e̶d̶, h̶o̶o̶k̶e̶d̶, a̶d̶d̶i̶c̶t̶e̶d̶...ALL OF THESE!!
So, Book Three in the Rylan Flynn Mysteries...Starting several days after the previous book ended... Rylan's ex rocks up with a haunted house, a strange woman appears in a window and then her best friend goes missing. You are SO missing out if you haven't read any of this series!
I couldn't turn the pages fast enough and had it devoured in several hours. Do I read too fast or are the books too short?
I've said it before, but this is my favourite paranormal thriller series EVER!! I love the characters, the author's writing style and the ghosts obviously!!
So, Book Three in the Rylan Flynn Mysteries...Starting several days after the previous book ended... Rylan's ex rocks up with a haunted house, a strange woman appears in a window and then her best friend goes missing. You are SO missing out if you haven't read any of this series!
I couldn't turn the pages fast enough and had it devoured in several hours. Do I read too fast or are the books too short?
I've said it before, but this is my favourite paranormal thriller series EVER!! I love the characters, the author's writing style and the ghosts obviously!!
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