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Phantom Trackers
Laura is the most skeptical person she knows, aside from budding physicist Henrie. Ghosts are bedtime stories and fodder for Hollywood movies. They aren’t real, but that’s why they make for a compelling documentary subject. Granted, filming a ghost hunting documentary wasn’t exactly what she had in mind when she set out to win a competition for young documentary makers, but what mattered was winning. For a media production major, like Laura, it should have been easy.
Spooky location? Check.
Eager team? Check.
Laminated production schedule? Check.
Except as Laura and the rest of the Phantom Trackers, Gus, Blake, and Henrie discover, ghost hunting isn’t easy. First, Blake screws everything up by announcing to the world, Laura is psychic (she isn’t), then strange happenings begin. Ones that grow more difficult to explain with each occurrence.
Fredriksten fortress is not only one of the oldest buildings in Norway, it’s hiding a centuries’ old secret.
Spooky location? Check.
Eager team? Check.
Laminated production schedule? Check.
Except as Laura and the rest of the Phantom Trackers, Gus, Blake, and Henrie discover, ghost hunting isn’t easy. First, Blake screws everything up by announcing to the world, Laura is psychic (she isn’t), then strange happenings begin. Ones that grow more difficult to explain with each occurrence.
Fredriksten fortress is not only one of the oldest buildings in Norway, it’s hiding a centuries’ old secret.
160 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 25, 2024
1 person is currently reading
4 people want to read
About the author
Freya Winther
1 book6 followersA writer since childhood Freya has dreamed of publishing a novel for years. A dream that's come true with Phantom Trackers, her debut novel.
Freya moved to Norway at a young age where she developed a passion for local history and ghost stories. She spends her spare time writing, taking pictures and attending book club
Freya moved to Norway at a young age where she developed a passion for local history and ghost stories. She spends her spare time writing, taking pictures and attending book club
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
May 7, 2024
4 stars and a recommendation for Phantom Trackers by Freya Winther! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Phantom Trackers follows a team of student ghost hunters, including two skeptics and two believers, in a haunted fortress in Norway. One of the believers claims that a skeptic, Laura (the FMC), is a psychic while they’re on a livestream. Laura must then pretend to connect to the spirits of the fortress, but by the end, is she still pretending?
Winther's writing was strong and created a haunting atmosphere. I felt the stress and tension the characters felt, and definitely felt a little spooked in my own house afterwards. I thought the plot was interesting, but deserved more attention and development. I had questions at the end of the novel that I’d like answered, but I think those could be addressed in a sequel. Due to the length of the novella, there wasn’t much opportunity for character growth, but I think that’s alright as this was primarily action focused and not character focused.
I genuinely think this could be more fleshed out and turned into a full length novel, or that, if there’s a sequel, it deserves to be a full length novel. I look forward to what Winther's writes next!
Winther's writing was strong and created a haunting atmosphere. I felt the stress and tension the characters felt, and definitely felt a little spooked in my own house afterwards. I thought the plot was interesting, but deserved more attention and development. I had questions at the end of the novel that I’d like answered, but I think those could be addressed in a sequel. Due to the length of the novella, there wasn’t much opportunity for character growth, but I think that’s alright as this was primarily action focused and not character focused.
I genuinely think this could be more fleshed out and turned into a full length novel, or that, if there’s a sequel, it deserves to be a full length novel. I look forward to what Winther's writes next!
May 22, 2024
4⭐️ ARC Review
If you’re a fan of the ‘A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder’ style format, Phantom Trackers is the book for you!
Set in the ominous location of Fredriksten Fortress, characters Laura, Henrie, Blake and Gus attempt to prove the fortress for their documentary! Laura, our main point of view character, is determined to create a successful documentary film, hell bent on winning the film competition the documentary is entered within. The plot explores these very attempts, following the four main characters as they arrive and start to investigate at the spooky destination.
Our main character Laura, is cool and collected, certain that ghosts do not exist, and confident that they will collect enough footage to use in the documentary either way. She is tested, when after being forced into the role of the ‘fake psychic’ by Blake, she starts to experience some rather supernatural dreams.
The author Freya Winther cleverly weaves a tale of suspense throughout the plot that had me on the edge of my seat, wishing I didn’t start the book late at night. I’m not usually a horror genre girlie, but thankfully there wasn’t anything too scary for me to manage.
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves a young adult romp that mixes horror elements with the comedy of four contrasting characters interacting! I found it hugely entertaining, and especially the horror elements kept me turning the pages quickly!
Thank you to the author for providing me with an advance copy to read and review.
If you’re a fan of the ‘A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder’ style format, Phantom Trackers is the book for you!
Set in the ominous location of Fredriksten Fortress, characters Laura, Henrie, Blake and Gus attempt to prove the fortress for their documentary! Laura, our main point of view character, is determined to create a successful documentary film, hell bent on winning the film competition the documentary is entered within. The plot explores these very attempts, following the four main characters as they arrive and start to investigate at the spooky destination.
Our main character Laura, is cool and collected, certain that ghosts do not exist, and confident that they will collect enough footage to use in the documentary either way. She is tested, when after being forced into the role of the ‘fake psychic’ by Blake, she starts to experience some rather supernatural dreams.
The author Freya Winther cleverly weaves a tale of suspense throughout the plot that had me on the edge of my seat, wishing I didn’t start the book late at night. I’m not usually a horror genre girlie, but thankfully there wasn’t anything too scary for me to manage.
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves a young adult romp that mixes horror elements with the comedy of four contrasting characters interacting! I found it hugely entertaining, and especially the horror elements kept me turning the pages quickly!
Thank you to the author for providing me with an advance copy to read and review.
May 10, 2024
5 stars! I received an advance review copy, and I’m leaving this review voluntarily. Phantom Trackers follows a team of student ghost hunters (two believers and two skeptics).
The length of this book wasn’t that long, but I thought it was perfect since it was more focused on the plot. The writing was strong, and it felt like I was in the story but 'watching from the sidelines.' I was so engrossed in the story and the characters that I experienced their emotions throughout the book. I found the plot and the characters intriguing. I loved how the tension built up, making it difficult for me to set the book aside. I also enjoyed the dynamic of having two believers and two skeptics, which added balance to the story.
The length of this book wasn’t that long, but I thought it was perfect since it was more focused on the plot. The writing was strong, and it felt like I was in the story but 'watching from the sidelines.' I was so engrossed in the story and the characters that I experienced their emotions throughout the book. I found the plot and the characters intriguing. I loved how the tension built up, making it difficult for me to set the book aside. I also enjoyed the dynamic of having two believers and two skeptics, which added balance to the story.
May 19, 2024
I absolutely loved this book, the twists and turns had me guessing what was going to happen next. This book hooks you from the very beginning until the very end. Definitely recommended!
June 4, 2024
It was a decent ghost story. More geared toward the younger adult. Light suspense. Not spooky.
May 27, 2024
Arc Review - I’m leaving this review voluntarily.
Rating 5/5 ⭐️
I don’t normally read horror but I enjoyed reading this one even though I’m a scaredy cat.
This is the book for you if you like:
♡ Summer Horror
♡ Campy Fun
♡ Scooby Doo Gang
♡ Mystery
♡ And Ofc Ghosts
♡ Quick Read
Plot:
“Laura is the most skeptical person she knows, aside from budding physicist Henrie. Ghosts are bedtime stories and fodder for Hollywood movies. They aren’t real, but that’s why they make for a compelling documentary subject. Granted, filming a ghost hunting documentary wasn’t exactly what she had in mind when she set out to win a competition for young documentary makers, but what mattered is winning. For a media production major, like Laura, it should have been easy. Spooky location? Check. Eager team? Check. Laminated production schedule? Check. Except as Laura and the rest of the Phantom Trackers, Gus, Blake, and Henrie discover, ghost hunting isn’t easy. First Blake screws everything up by announcing to the world, Laura is psychic (she isn’t), then strange happenings begin. Ones that grow more difficult to explain with each occurrence. Fredriksten Fortress is not only one of the oldest buildings in Norway, it’s hiding a centuries’ old secret.”
The concept for this book is really good and I love that things become chaotic during an Instagram Live.
I love the Scooby Gang vibes and that all the characters are so different from each other. Gus was definitely my favorite character though (he was hilarious). And Blake is a wildcard which I find very entertaining.
I also liked that there were opposing sides of who believes in the paranormal and who doesn’t. The MC walks into this project as a non-believer and pessimist, whose only goal is winning the competition.
There was a fair amount of progression and character growth, especially given that this was a short novel, and so I felt Freya did a lot in such a short amount of time. So there is more room for further character in the sequel. It also got me excited for the next book!
Rating 5/5 ⭐️
I don’t normally read horror but I enjoyed reading this one even though I’m a scaredy cat.
This is the book for you if you like:
♡ Summer Horror
♡ Campy Fun
♡ Scooby Doo Gang
♡ Mystery
♡ And Ofc Ghosts
♡ Quick Read
Plot:
“Laura is the most skeptical person she knows, aside from budding physicist Henrie. Ghosts are bedtime stories and fodder for Hollywood movies. They aren’t real, but that’s why they make for a compelling documentary subject. Granted, filming a ghost hunting documentary wasn’t exactly what she had in mind when she set out to win a competition for young documentary makers, but what mattered is winning. For a media production major, like Laura, it should have been easy. Spooky location? Check. Eager team? Check. Laminated production schedule? Check. Except as Laura and the rest of the Phantom Trackers, Gus, Blake, and Henrie discover, ghost hunting isn’t easy. First Blake screws everything up by announcing to the world, Laura is psychic (she isn’t), then strange happenings begin. Ones that grow more difficult to explain with each occurrence. Fredriksten Fortress is not only one of the oldest buildings in Norway, it’s hiding a centuries’ old secret.”
The concept for this book is really good and I love that things become chaotic during an Instagram Live.
I love the Scooby Gang vibes and that all the characters are so different from each other. Gus was definitely my favorite character though (he was hilarious). And Blake is a wildcard which I find very entertaining.
I also liked that there were opposing sides of who believes in the paranormal and who doesn’t. The MC walks into this project as a non-believer and pessimist, whose only goal is winning the competition.
There was a fair amount of progression and character growth, especially given that this was a short novel, and so I felt Freya did a lot in such a short amount of time. So there is more room for further character in the sequel. It also got me excited for the next book!
May 10, 2024
Four struggling post-graduate students are looking for a way to create more funds to support their studies. The main character, Laura, the main character, has figured out the best way to do it: use social media, create a story, get fans. Go viral. But it has to be something that will really capture the imagination of it's followers. So why not find a haunted tower and go ghost hunting?
Gus provides Intel on a suitable venue. A building in Norway with a bell tower with a history of tragic falls, and a spectral woman in white. Hennie, the paranormal kit, complete with cameras and ghost boxes. PhD student Hennie also is a dab hand and picking locks. Finally, the more mature Blake whose good looks bring more cred, as well as a little more money.
The question now is whether or not the spirits will deliver for sceptics and believers alike. The second is whether or not thede young people will get put unscathed. There are already tensions: Blake announces online that Laura is their resident psychic, when in fact she is a sceptic. However, it is possible that these kids will learn more about themselves than they know, especially Laura.
All the ingredients for a rollicking good spooky tale are here, as unease grows amidst bumps in the night and possible sightings. The rookie ghost hunters have to sleuth at the hidden history of the bell tower, to get a better sense of what is going on.
It does seem to be pitched most at young adults, and comes to a satisfying end. It should certainly entertain those who do enjoy yarns such as these. As a ghost story it did seem a little lightweight, as there is little of any real sense of dread built up, other than that one or two of the characters is reduced to a jibbering wreck (though he recovers for more).
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Gus provides Intel on a suitable venue. A building in Norway with a bell tower with a history of tragic falls, and a spectral woman in white. Hennie, the paranormal kit, complete with cameras and ghost boxes. PhD student Hennie also is a dab hand and picking locks. Finally, the more mature Blake whose good looks bring more cred, as well as a little more money.
The question now is whether or not the spirits will deliver for sceptics and believers alike. The second is whether or not thede young people will get put unscathed. There are already tensions: Blake announces online that Laura is their resident psychic, when in fact she is a sceptic. However, it is possible that these kids will learn more about themselves than they know, especially Laura.
All the ingredients for a rollicking good spooky tale are here, as unease grows amidst bumps in the night and possible sightings. The rookie ghost hunters have to sleuth at the hidden history of the bell tower, to get a better sense of what is going on.
It does seem to be pitched most at young adults, and comes to a satisfying end. It should certainly entertain those who do enjoy yarns such as these. As a ghost story it did seem a little lightweight, as there is little of any real sense of dread built up, other than that one or two of the characters is reduced to a jibbering wreck (though he recovers for more).
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 13, 2024
Thank you book sirens and Freya Winthes for the ARC of Phantom Trackers.
Phantom Trackers was a faced paced supernatural story of a group of ghost hunters that are doing this to win a contest. I will say the creepiness was good but the pacing and delivery felt a bit rushed and things left out. I loved the storyline about the lore behind the ghost but the back story with all the characters felt a little disjointed. It was not enough to not let me enjoy the story and finish the end in a sprint to find out the end. Overall I liked the book and would recommend it for a in between fast good read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Phantom Trackers was a faced paced supernatural story of a group of ghost hunters that are doing this to win a contest. I will say the creepiness was good but the pacing and delivery felt a bit rushed and things left out. I loved the storyline about the lore behind the ghost but the back story with all the characters felt a little disjointed. It was not enough to not let me enjoy the story and finish the end in a sprint to find out the end. Overall I liked the book and would recommend it for a in between fast good read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 6, 2024
What fun this was. Wanting to win a contest and obtain the funds for a documentary a group of students head to a "haunted" fortress in Norway. I thought Freya did a wonderful job of creating the tension and creepy atmosphere and keeping it throughout. I most definitely got chills during some passages and would love to read more escapades of this group. There WERE two skeptics and two believers at the beginning, you will need to read the book to find if that still rings true by the end.
I received a free reader's copy of this book and am leaving a review voluntarily.
I received a free reader's copy of this book and am leaving a review voluntarily.
June 17, 2025
I had no idea what to expect when I chose this book but I loved it! What a ride! I loved the found family aspect of their friendships and how they bonded over such a short period of time when circumstances brought them together. The plot moves quickly and I could really feel my skin crawling as she described the events leading up to the ending. I couldn't put it down. Great story, great description, great fun!
June 5, 2024
“They came to find the White Lady and now she was hunting them.”
I love horror and found this author had a talent of building up the suspense. It starts out like a cozy read, and I enjoyed the characters’ dynamic of non-believers vs believers. I’m looking forward to more cases for these Phantom Trackers to tackle.
I love horror and found this author had a talent of building up the suspense. It starts out like a cozy read, and I enjoyed the characters’ dynamic of non-believers vs believers. I’m looking forward to more cases for these Phantom Trackers to tackle.
July 28, 2024
really enjoyed it—it was a fun little romp of a ghost story, with enjoyable characters and dynamics. the concept of them doing this as a project for college as well as making it into an online deal was very fun and solidified it in the modern era well. suspense was done well, with hints towards the big reveal being easy to follow and interesting—kept my gears turning.
gave it three stars simply because i wasn’t entirely enthralled by it, and the big conflict at the end went by too fast for my taste.
still, i’m looking forward to the next one!!
gave it three stars simply because i wasn’t entirely enthralled by it, and the big conflict at the end went by too fast for my taste.
still, i’m looking forward to the next one!!
August 15, 2024
Definitely if this book had fallen into my hands at another time in my life I would have devoured it in hours, I had to put it down for days due to real life responsibilities and still managed to get hooked again when I came back.
I'm also all for more adventures of the Phantom Trackers, I'd like to read them more fleshed out as characters because I feel like they were very linear overall but the book is only 160 pages so a sequel wouldn't hurt😅
It was as if the figure was willing itself into existence.
°°°°°°°°°°°°
Definitivamente si este libro hubiera caído en mis manos en otro momento de mi vida lo hubiera devorado en horas, tuve que dejarlo por días debido a responsabilidades de la vida real y aun así logré engancharme de nuevo cuando regresé.
También estoy a favor de más aventuras de los Phantom Trackers, me gustaría leerlos más desarrollados como personajes porque siento que fueron muy lineales en general pero el libro solo tiene 160 páginas así que una secuela no vendría mal😅
Era como si la figura quisiera existir por sí misma.
I'm also all for more adventures of the Phantom Trackers, I'd like to read them more fleshed out as characters because I feel like they were very linear overall but the book is only 160 pages so a sequel wouldn't hurt😅
It was as if the figure was willing itself into existence.
°°°°°°°°°°°°
Definitivamente si este libro hubiera caído en mis manos en otro momento de mi vida lo hubiera devorado en horas, tuve que dejarlo por días debido a responsabilidades de la vida real y aun así logré engancharme de nuevo cuando regresé.
También estoy a favor de más aventuras de los Phantom Trackers, me gustaría leerlos más desarrollados como personajes porque siento que fueron muy lineales en general pero el libro solo tiene 160 páginas así que una secuela no vendría mal😅
Era como si la figura quisiera existir por sí misma.
May 17, 2024
A fun little story about four people who come together to create a ghost-hunting documentary. It all came together easily for them... there's no suspense in the storyline as far as the "who dunnit" aspect goes.
~ Thank you to BookSirens for the free ARC. This review is voluntary and honest. ~
~ Thank you to BookSirens for the free ARC. This review is voluntary and honest. ~
November 4, 2024
A spooky adventure with a fun dynamic between the cast of characters. I really enjoyed reading Phantom Trackers. My favorite details were the haunting elements and how the setting was described. Each of the four main characters have their area of expertise in the ghost hunting documentary. As the story progresses, you get to see how each uses their skill sets and how their differences in personalities affect their beliefs about the ghost they are searching for. I'm looking forward to reading the sequel to this book. I think the world that the author has created has a lot of potential for more.
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews