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Caretaker
A house like this deserves the perfect family. But now it has found them it will never let them go.
It’s one thing to find your forever home, the perfect place to bring up your family. But what do you do when you discover that your future is being shaped by someone else’s long, dark past, and events start to defy any normal explanation? Suddenly, forever can feel like a mighty long time…
Buried deep within the foundations of the old Farr Hill mansion lies a centuries-old secret, a ticking time-bomb full of dark forces - or something stronger - just waiting to be discovered. The Keane family think they have chosen Farr Hill, but soon they will begin to realise that it is Farr Hill that has chosen them.
It’s one thing to find your forever home, the perfect place to bring up your family. But what do you do when you discover that your future is being shaped by someone else’s long, dark past, and events start to defy any normal explanation? Suddenly, forever can feel like a mighty long time…
Buried deep within the foundations of the old Farr Hill mansion lies a centuries-old secret, a ticking time-bomb full of dark forces - or something stronger - just waiting to be discovered. The Keane family think they have chosen Farr Hill, but soon they will begin to realise that it is Farr Hill that has chosen them.
280 pages, Paperback
Published May 7, 2024
132 people are currently reading
14457 people want to read
About the author
R.J. Halbert
2 books136 followersR.J. Halbert is the husband and wife team behind CARETAKER - Book One of The Goodpasture Chronicles, a supernatural tale about breaking generational curses to forge new bonds of hope.
Jason Halbert, one-half of R.J. Halbert, is an Emmy and Grammy Award winning producer and songwriter. His songs have reached millions of listeners worldwide through multiple #1 and Platinum selling records. In addition to his 20+ year career as Music Director and Producer for Kelly Clarkson and several other notable artists, he has left his unique creative mark on numerous works in film and television.
When not creating music, he loves bee-keeping, Sci-Fi, and is known to be quite a storyteller.
After homeschooling their two children around the world on a tour bus, Rhonda Halbert, the second half of R.J. Halbert, has spent the past 10 years as a successful music and television manager, guiding her clients’ relationships with labels, networks, and producers. She is also a published photographer, music supervisor, passionate cook, garden enthusiast, and spiritual practitioner.
Together, Jason and Rhonda have woven their 30+ years of life together into a riveting story, based somewhat on truth and experience, but even more so, brimming with imagination.
Jason Halbert, one-half of R.J. Halbert, is an Emmy and Grammy Award winning producer and songwriter. His songs have reached millions of listeners worldwide through multiple #1 and Platinum selling records. In addition to his 20+ year career as Music Director and Producer for Kelly Clarkson and several other notable artists, he has left his unique creative mark on numerous works in film and television.
When not creating music, he loves bee-keeping, Sci-Fi, and is known to be quite a storyteller.
After homeschooling their two children around the world on a tour bus, Rhonda Halbert, the second half of R.J. Halbert, has spent the past 10 years as a successful music and television manager, guiding her clients’ relationships with labels, networks, and producers. She is also a published photographer, music supervisor, passionate cook, garden enthusiast, and spiritual practitioner.
Together, Jason and Rhonda have woven their 30+ years of life together into a riveting story, based somewhat on truth and experience, but even more so, brimming with imagination.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
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April 19, 2024This book is absolutely beyond intriguing! Once you start it, you won’t be able to put it down! Every word, every page, every chapter grips you tighter and tighter and won’t let you go
April 7, 2024
A page-turner that will pull at your heartstrings. A tale that integrates a fictionalized version of the author’s story blended with supernatural events that are tied to the past. A book that serves as a beacon of hope for others to keep dreaming. Caretaker guides you on the adventure that you’ve been waiting for to escape reality. So, dive in, explore, and allow your imagination to have no limit. R.J. Halbert is only getting started and so is The Goodpasture Chronicles.
April 17, 2024
Caretaker by RJ Halbert is a truly captivating and surprising book that took me on an unexpected journey. From the moment I picked it up, I was whisked into a world filled with unique elements and musical magic. I found myself thoroughly engrossed in the story, eagerly turning pages to uncover what would happen next.
Initially, I approached the book with preconceived notions of what being a caretaker might entail. However, as I delved into the story, I discovered that it held so much more than what I had anticipated. The author skillfully crafted a narrative that not only entertained but also challenged my perception of what it means to be a caretaker. By the end, I found myself personally identifying with the characters, feeling as though I, too, had taken on the role of a caretaker.
Overall, Caretaker was a wonderful story though I may not be smart enough to fully close the book on the ending...perhaps it was a new beginning?! I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a captivating and meaningful read.
Initially, I approached the book with preconceived notions of what being a caretaker might entail. However, as I delved into the story, I discovered that it held so much more than what I had anticipated. The author skillfully crafted a narrative that not only entertained but also challenged my perception of what it means to be a caretaker. By the end, I found myself personally identifying with the characters, feeling as though I, too, had taken on the role of a caretaker.
Overall, Caretaker was a wonderful story though I may not be smart enough to fully close the book on the ending...perhaps it was a new beginning?! I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a captivating and meaningful read.
January 29, 2025
This novel is the first in a series - and it tried to pack in so many things: abuse, alcoholism, autism, miscarriage, disease, time travel, dark magic and fantasy to name a few. It felt more like an outline to me, with the plot bouncing around and trying to create an aura of mystery. I was very disappointed that the ebook I read was not proofread - 'demeaner' is not a word. It was spelled properly when used again later. I’m not sure how the two authors divided the writing but it didn’t seem cohesive to me. I did like the occasional use of lyrics. Maybe the second book will be better?
June 8, 2024
Can’t wait for book 2!
February 8, 2025
Read this to help out a friend - would not recommend. The story is all over the place and the pacing is very off.
June 28, 2024
I saw this book discussed on the Kelly Clarkson (it was written by her music producer and his wife) and immediately purchased it after the show. The story is built around a family who leaves Boston to find a more peaceful life away from the city. They move into an old estate with quite a storied backstory. The events of this book will leave you scratching your head and wanting more. I am ready for Book 2!
July 28, 2025
This story grabs you and won’t let you go! I was on the edge of my seat. The characters were all so believable and the story was amazing! I hope the authors write more stories like this.
May 29, 2024
very interesting
First book of a trilogy. Good writing, very interesting, and leaves you with many questions.
I look forward to book 2.
First book of a trilogy. Good writing, very interesting, and leaves you with many questions.
I look forward to book 2.
May 16, 2025
This was an engaging story and I really enjoyed listening to it on Audible. It had different voices of each character and music. It felt like I was listening to a movie. I am interested in continuing this series, when more books come out.
May 9, 2025
Book 1 takes us on a journey following the Keane family as they move from Boston to a small New Hampshire community and discover their new home (surrounded by fog) has more to it then they anticipated!! 🏠
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Caretaker starts and ends with history that weaves together with the present storyline and we will find out more in Book 2!
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Each member of the family has experiences with the house and blends very well with the story. Lots of mystery, suspense, and emotions are found in the book. I loved how each family member had their own moment in the story and really enjoyed the son’s (Zach) way of thinking and finding ways to help his mother during a difficult and mysterious connection to the house and how to problem solve!
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The story has a small town feel, but also a grand adventure and psychological elements to it. The characters are very well written including the Keane Family, Town Folks, our mystery Caretaker of the house, and of course the house itself!!
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If you’re a fan of history, supernatural elements, and close family connections, then #Caretaker is for you!! 📚
.
Caretaker starts and ends with history that weaves together with the present storyline and we will find out more in Book 2!
.
Each member of the family has experiences with the house and blends very well with the story. Lots of mystery, suspense, and emotions are found in the book. I loved how each family member had their own moment in the story and really enjoyed the son’s (Zach) way of thinking and finding ways to help his mother during a difficult and mysterious connection to the house and how to problem solve!
.
The story has a small town feel, but also a grand adventure and psychological elements to it. The characters are very well written including the Keane Family, Town Folks, our mystery Caretaker of the house, and of course the house itself!!
.
If you’re a fan of history, supernatural elements, and close family connections, then #Caretaker is for you!! 📚
September 19, 2024
Took a while to finish this book due to life, but read in basically two sittings!
A very intriguing supernatural/sci-fi book about a family who move to a new house that has some very strange things happening to people who live in the house (or used to live in the house). Feels a little similar to some of Stephen King/ Dean Koontz stories but nowhere near as dark
Some of the supernatural events are explained away, some of it is left for future books in the series - speaking of which there is a 2 page teaser for the next book in the series which seems to be set in a completely different story line so it will be interesting to see how these two evolve.
A couple of the characters have hints of things to come so pretty intriguing.
I was fortunate to get an ARC copy of this book but would recommend it buying it and future editions.
A very intriguing supernatural/sci-fi book about a family who move to a new house that has some very strange things happening to people who live in the house (or used to live in the house). Feels a little similar to some of Stephen King/ Dean Koontz stories but nowhere near as dark
Some of the supernatural events are explained away, some of it is left for future books in the series - speaking of which there is a 2 page teaser for the next book in the series which seems to be set in a completely different story line so it will be interesting to see how these two evolve.
A couple of the characters have hints of things to come so pretty intriguing.
I was fortunate to get an ARC copy of this book but would recommend it buying it and future editions.
August 14, 2025
The writing style was very simple and amateurish. The plot was ham-fisted. The pacing was jarring.
The writers focused too much on details that don't matter and lead to boring stints of reading. The characters are very confusing - you're spoon fed the clues, but the characters' motives are confusing because they seem to contradict themselves. Marshall is a perfect example. He knows what the house is doing, but is allow it to harm (and very nearly kill) people. But Marshall also helps the family the entire way.
Overall, I'm interested to see how the connection to the ancient past works out but I can't say if I'll actually end up picking up the rest of the series when it releases.
The writers focused too much on details that don't matter and lead to boring stints of reading. The characters are very confusing - you're spoon fed the clues, but the characters' motives are confusing because they seem to contradict themselves. Marshall is a perfect example. He knows what the house is doing, but is allow it to harm (and very nearly kill) people. But Marshall also helps the family the entire way.
Overall, I'm interested to see how the connection to the ancient past works out but I can't say if I'll actually end up picking up the rest of the series when it releases.
June 8, 2025
What a mess!!!! I don’t know where to start but this book was just not good. Not one character rings true, the dialogue and writing is stilted, the storyline is just silly and the point of the opening 3 and ending 3 pages is lost on me. They need a really good editor here to try to salvage this. Less about what the family eats for breakfast, for instance.
May 27, 2025
At first I thought this was a young adult title but a scene or two told me it wasn't. Then it ended and I realized I didn't understand the book at all! The plot doesn't center around the Caretaker. And the epilogue simply confused me more.
September 13, 2024
What a disappointing book. A story that is an explained with references to cultures that aren’t followed up on. Things are found during the story and then never mentioned again.
July 20, 2025
This was almost a DNF book for me, but it was short, so I persevered. Book 1 of a fantasy series, but so much bad writing. I will not be reading the second book.
August 21, 2024
Caretaker, the first installment in The Goodpasture Chronicles by R.J. Halbert, is an intriguing blend of historical mystery, family drama, and supernatural elements. The story follows Ian and Lyana Keane, a couple who move with their children to a mysterious old house in a small town, hoping for a fresh start after a series of personal losses. As they settle into their new home, they begin to uncover the secrets of the house and its connection to the enigmatic Goodpasture family, leading them on a journey that intertwines the past with their present.
What immediately stands out in Caretaker is Halbert’s ability to create a sense of place. The descriptions of the Goodpasture house and the small town of Littleton are vivid, almost cinematic, making it easy to imagine the sprawling gardens, the eerie, fog-laden driveway, and the antique-filled rooms of the old mansion. The house itself is practically a character in the story, with its creaking floors, hidden rooms, and a mysterious caretaker who seems to know more than he lets on. Halbert does an excellent job of building an atmosphere that is both inviting and unsettling, pulling the reader deeper into the mystery. The character development in the book is another strong point. Lyana, in particular, is a well-drawn character whose struggles with her past and hopes for her family's future make her relatable and compelling. Her journey from skepticism to belief, as she encounters the house’s strange phenomena, is handled with subtlety and care. The dynamic between the Keane family members, especially between Lyana and her children, adds depth to the story and grounds the supernatural elements in a very human experience. The flashbacks to Lyana’s childhood, although sometimes jarring, effectively build her backstory and explain her motivations. The story thoughtfully takes its time in the beginning, richly establishing the setting and characters, which allows readers to fully immerse themselves in the world before diving into the central mystery. As the plot progresses, the pace accelerates, drawing you deeper into the unfolding events. The buildup of tension is masterfully handled, leading to satisfying revelations that keep readers engaged while also leaving just enough unanswered questions to create anticipation for future installments.
Caretaker is a captivating read that blends elements of mystery, history, and the supernatural into a story about family, loss, and the search for new beginnings. R.J. Halbert’s skillful storytelling and rich descriptions make it an enjoyable journey, particularly for readers who appreciate a slow-burn mystery with emotional depth. I would recommend this book to fans of gothic fiction, haunted house stories, and those who enjoy a well-crafted family drama with a touch of the supernatural.
What immediately stands out in Caretaker is Halbert’s ability to create a sense of place. The descriptions of the Goodpasture house and the small town of Littleton are vivid, almost cinematic, making it easy to imagine the sprawling gardens, the eerie, fog-laden driveway, and the antique-filled rooms of the old mansion. The house itself is practically a character in the story, with its creaking floors, hidden rooms, and a mysterious caretaker who seems to know more than he lets on. Halbert does an excellent job of building an atmosphere that is both inviting and unsettling, pulling the reader deeper into the mystery. The character development in the book is another strong point. Lyana, in particular, is a well-drawn character whose struggles with her past and hopes for her family's future make her relatable and compelling. Her journey from skepticism to belief, as she encounters the house’s strange phenomena, is handled with subtlety and care. The dynamic between the Keane family members, especially between Lyana and her children, adds depth to the story and grounds the supernatural elements in a very human experience. The flashbacks to Lyana’s childhood, although sometimes jarring, effectively build her backstory and explain her motivations. The story thoughtfully takes its time in the beginning, richly establishing the setting and characters, which allows readers to fully immerse themselves in the world before diving into the central mystery. As the plot progresses, the pace accelerates, drawing you deeper into the unfolding events. The buildup of tension is masterfully handled, leading to satisfying revelations that keep readers engaged while also leaving just enough unanswered questions to create anticipation for future installments.
Caretaker is a captivating read that blends elements of mystery, history, and the supernatural into a story about family, loss, and the search for new beginnings. R.J. Halbert’s skillful storytelling and rich descriptions make it an enjoyable journey, particularly for readers who appreciate a slow-burn mystery with emotional depth. I would recommend this book to fans of gothic fiction, haunted house stories, and those who enjoy a well-crafted family drama with a touch of the supernatural.
April 26, 2024
I was excited to read this new book by R.J. Halbert. From the very first chapter, the storyline and character development pull you in. As the story builds, you are taken on a "mystical carpet ride" of sorts through ever changing twists and turns in each of the character's lives. There is an almost ghostly undercurrent weaving its way through the landscape around these characters. A close-knit family plagued by some bizarre happen-stance that ultimately picks at the surface of old wounds, perhaps unveiling some new ones but certainly weaving a strong fiber of family at the core of its foundation.
October 29, 2024
Some books leave an unforgettable mark on your soul—Caretaker is one of those rare gems! This supernatural page-turner pulls you into the Keane family’s journey as they move into a new home with a haunting past. With each twist and revelation, suspense, heart, and hope are seamlessly woven together, delivering a story that stays with you long after the final page. This book is more than just a ghost story—it’s a powerful tale of healing, love, and the courage to confront the past in order to create a new future. Captivating and beautifully written, Caretaker is a must-read for all who crave stories that both thrill and inspire!
May 12, 2024
Caretaker, Book 1 in The Goodpasture Chronicles, had suspense, character building, and powerful description/imagery. The story revolves around a family, a mysterious house, and the community they live in. The music links tie in and help you get a sense of the scenes. The novel walks you through the lives of each of the family members to allow you to better relate with the characters. It also keeps you wanting to know more about others. RJ Halbert truly did an amazing job depicting a story that has me wanting to read the next book already!
May 17, 2024
A captivating story that blurs the line between supernatural and logical. Is it real or the work of dark forces? Fans of the show “Mysterious Ways” will enjoy this book.
The Keane family settles into a new home and senses a strong bond with it. But then, the situation becomes eerie - a door manifests itself, all lights except one go out, and family members are transported back in time. Is the house trying to tell them something or have they all lost their minds?
The book will reveal that the word caretaker has multiple meanings. Stay tuned for the next installment in the series to find out more!
The Keane family settles into a new home and senses a strong bond with it. But then, the situation becomes eerie - a door manifests itself, all lights except one go out, and family members are transported back in time. Is the house trying to tell them something or have they all lost their minds?
The book will reveal that the word caretaker has multiple meanings. Stay tuned for the next installment in the series to find out more!
May 22, 2024
Caretaker took me on a journey through adventure, grief, trauma, healing, family bonding, mystery and suspense. I found myself needing to read another chapter, and another chapter...
I fell in love with the family/characters and the town of Littleton, NH and found myself right alongside them as they navigated the journey of figuring out how the house was connected to them. I absolutely CANNOT wait for the next book, and I will re-read this one again and again until it comes out. There are so many themes and ideas that I want to revisit. This book is incredible!
I fell in love with the family/characters and the town of Littleton, NH and found myself right alongside them as they navigated the journey of figuring out how the house was connected to them. I absolutely CANNOT wait for the next book, and I will re-read this one again and again until it comes out. There are so many themes and ideas that I want to revisit. This book is incredible!
September 19, 2025
I wanted to like this book so much more than I did. I didn’t like the ending, but perhaps it’s because this is setting up a multi-book series that so many plot-holes and loose ends weren’t resolved. I felt the writing style was a bit amateurish and the family was waaayyy too perfect. I would have liked more tension and timing to enhance the pacing and build for the conflicts. The conflicts weee also resolved too easily, which made them not very believable. Hoping the next book is stronger and ties together the loose ends!
May 5, 2024
What a phenomenal book! It’s brilliantly laid out for those with a short attention span, keeps you guessing, and is full of surprises! Just when you think, “I’ll finish this chapter and stop”, you have to read just one more. You *think* you know where it’s going, and then the authors take you on a different journey. What a brilliant start to what is sure to be, a well beloved trilogy that will impact generations to come. Cannot wait for the audio book!
September 3, 2024
4.5 stars
I wasn't quite sure what to expect going into this book, but I had heard good things about it, so I was excited to check it out. It did not disappoint! It quickly pulled me in. Numerous unexpected twists make this a page turner. Timeline transitions are seamless, and there is the perfect mix of history and mystery. This is a fun adventure for those seeking escape from reality, and the ending leaves the reader excited for the next installment.
I wasn't quite sure what to expect going into this book, but I had heard good things about it, so I was excited to check it out. It did not disappoint! It quickly pulled me in. Numerous unexpected twists make this a page turner. Timeline transitions are seamless, and there is the perfect mix of history and mystery. This is a fun adventure for those seeking escape from reality, and the ending leaves the reader excited for the next installment.
May 7, 2024
Caretaker is a thrilling read that surprisingly reached into the deepest corners of my heart. From the very first page, I was captivated! It's the kind of book that resonates with you long after you've turned the final page, impacting your heart in ways you never knew it needed. Highly recommended for anyone craving an unforgettable adventure!
May 18, 2025
4/5 STARS! Listening to this audiobook is a must! Its incredibly immersive & adds so much to the story. The plot is such a unique twist on a "haunted house" & the characters are relatable and well written. I loved how the story tied together with the mythology and the past, & enjoyed this a lot! Definitely an interesting read.
April 7, 2024
Caretaker is a riveting story that will draw you in from the beginning! R.J. Halbert does an amazing job at setting the backstory and creating suspense that makes me so excited for the next books in the Goopasture Chronicles! Truly a page turner that you will not want to put down.
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