Dark Reflections: A Nile Ghost Story

by Cristine Courcy

If she doesn't listen...she'll be next.

There is no such thing as ghosts. No one knows this better than Hannah Green. But after moving to Nile, the most haunted town in America, Hannah's finding it hard to keep her head...

There are rumors all over the island about the Rosecrest House and the haunted mirror that hangs in its hallway. And the last girl who moved in—left in a straitjacket. Will Hannah figure out the mystery of the mirror before it's too late? Or will she end up another victim of the ghost and become a dark reflection of herself?

Dark Reflections is a fast-paced YA paranormal novel with magic, monsters, and mystery that will keep you guessing until the very end. A Nancy Drew meets Supernatural thriller with an independent heroine who has more important things on her mind than love triangles.

260 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 8, 2024

About the author

I peaked in high school, so that's what I write about.

With my stories, I'm creating my own genre: cozy dark fantasy. Dark fantasy with a light heart. And I can promise you—I write every story with purposeful intention to keep the story as heartfelt and action-packed as possible, without adding unnecessary negativity or mature themes. There will be horror, there will be darkness, but I hope at the end of every story, you feel uplifted and hopeful. (cliffhangers aside...)

Reviews

[Eileen · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars

I enjoyed this story, but it didn't grab me immediately the way the Grey Sisters story did, partly because I thought it was more directly connected to the Grey Sisters and I kept expecting them to show up. It took me about halfway through the book before I realized it was in the same town/universe, but it was a self-contained novel that didn't connect with the Grey family until the end. I also think that being uncertain about where they story fit in the universe made it hard for me to just sit and enjoy the story. Still, by the time I figured out the connections, I was invested in the story and I am hoping Courcy will write more books with this set of characters. At that point, I will probably reread this story before continuing with the next one and I suspect I will like this story even more.

Some of the town kids at Seraphina's school also show up in this story, with Maddie, Peter, and Courtney being more prominent than the rest. Two other characters that end up being an important part of the story are Lacey, who reminds me a little bit of Luna Lovegood, and Elijah, the somewhat nerdy and eccentric upstairs neighbor.

I thought the character development for Hannah was well done, as she starts out stubbornly believing only in science, partly because of her past experiences with her dad as her family fell apart after the loss of her sister. Although she experiences some things that one might consider supernatural, and one of her best friends in this town (Lacey) believes in everything supernatural, she refuses to trust what she sees and experiences and chalks it up to her anxiety and possible signs of mental instability. It takes her time to let new people in, and she is even mean to Lacey at times, which I did not like. But she did learn from it, and that's what I like in a character.

The scary monster? Yeah, no spoilers, but I was definitely on the edge of my seat. I'll just leave it at that and say that the ending is worth it. I read the second half of the book in one sitting because I was so engrossed trying to figure out how to put the clues together. By the end, I really liked Hannah's character and would love to see more stories with her and her friends.

This is a perfect supernatural/fantasy novel for teens and up. While I am not the target audience, I loved it and will be recommending this to my students.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from BookSirens. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Βίκυ Χ. · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Dark Reflections: A Nile Ghost Story,” part of the Grey Sisters Saga by Cristine Courcy, is a captivating Teen & YA paranormal novel that kept me on the edge of my seat. This thrilling ghost story would make an excellent box-office film adaptation. However, it’s important to caution readers, especially younger ones, to avoid attempting any of the ceremonies either mentioned or described in the book, as they could be extremely dangerous and potentially fatal in real life.

Struck hard by fate, Hannah Green and her mother, Elizabeth, are forced to move to Rosecrest House on Martin Isle. Hannah, a lonely homeschooled teenager struggling with mental health issues, finds solace in her mother’s efforts to provide for her and ensure she receives a proper education. However, what seemed like a wise choice in Rosecrest House turns out to be the most haunted and dangerous place on the Isle, known locally as the Nile. Despite its eerie reputation, the Isle offers Hannah the very things she’s been avoiding: good friends and adventure. Dark secrets and malevolent entities that defy science and logic lurk in the shadows, threatening to destroy family, friendship, and romance. Will evil prevail? Will Hannah’s fragile mental health shatter, or will she use her sharp mind and golden heart to save the day? Fellow readers, brace yourselves for numerous twists and turns and a mind-blowing ending.

Cristine Courcy’s cinematic writing has crafted a well-plotted and fast-paced tale with fully fleshed-out characters in an eerily captivating magical realm brimming with mystery and suspense. “Dark Reflections” has left a lasting impression on me, and I recommend it to all lovers of the genre.

Many heartfelt thanks to BookSirens and Cristine Courcy for the eARC of this enchanting book. I can't wait to read more of this author's books.

[Nicole Nash (Costanza) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Okay, I really loved this book! 😃

Hannah Green moves to one of the most haunted places in America, Nile. Hannah believes the rumors floating around Nile are just that, rumors. However, the last girl who lived there, now resides in a psychiatric facility due to the haunted mirror in the house. Can Hannah put the rumors to rest? Or will she discover the paranormal is real after all...? 👻

The only two issues I had were: the pacing of the story, I feel like it went too quickly during certain events and more action. When there was action, I was glued to the paged. I want more of that! 📖

I loved the setting! It gave it a spookier vibe! I also enjoyed the hint of romance between the characters, it added more drama to the story.
The way mental health was represented in this story was also done very well!

I hope there are more stories because I would absolutely read more of these paranormal stories!

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

[Scarlette · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay…I loved this book.

But first I have to say that I appreciated the way mental illness was handled. As someone who has loved ones who struggle with this—I appreciated how it was represented and how it showed the effects it can have on the family members when left untreated. I think that mental illness and supernatural stuff can get touchy, but this was done really well.

Alright—I lovedddd this story. Hannah in particular is a favorite character. I just love her. The story was twisty and scary and the ending was unexpected. So good!

I really liked how she is homeschooled. You don’t see that at alllll in books.

And though it ended on a bit of a cliffhanger, the main story was wrapped up well.

I’m looking forward to reading more of Hannah’s story!!

[Peter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nice, chilling horror story for YA and adults. Lots of secrets and twists await you. Hannah finds herself, and her mother, living in Rosecrest house. The house everyone tells her is the one she shouldn’t live in, because there are ghosts stories and a tragedy surrounding this house. Hannah has been told by the owner to never pull the cover off of a mirror. But being told not to - yes you’ve guessed. Now Hannah is seeing things, and time is running out as she searches for the truth that will save her. So please follow my advice, don’t open the cover of this book. Will you enjoy the experience if you ignore my advice? I’m sure you will!! Thank you to Crustine Courcy and BookSurens for the ARC. The views expressed are all mine, freely given.

[Leah · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book. Found it a little fast paced at first like I wasn’t getting chance to know the characters properly and events were happening pretty quickly but once the story progressed I enjoyed it.
Couple of twists in this one too that kept it interesting!
Loved the descriptions of the environments, set the scenes really well.
If you enjoy a classic ghost story type book and supernatural mystery - you’ll like this.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Angela Brannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really liked this book and did not see all the twists coming. The mirrors/reflections were a great element and I found them creepy end well written. The characters were realistically drawn and relatable, and I was pulling for them to solve the mystery (those pesky kids LOL). The themes of friendship and guilt were well thought out and drove the story line. I heartily recommend this book to both YA readers and adults that like to see a skeptic get a good paranormal comeuppance!!

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

[Lola Jansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you love spooky fantasy with supernatural monsters and mystery, this is a must read!
Perfect balance between fantasy, horror, supernatural, and mystery with a hint of romance.

Very easy to read, pulls you right in! Spooky scenes and a twist that will leave you guessing the entire book!
Lively characters that are very realistic and have good development.
Really enjoyed this book!!!

Hope there is gonna be a part 2?

Tysm for letting me read this arc!

[Melanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was lovely to visit Nile again. Poor Hannah carrying the weight and guilt of Rebecca. Hopefully she and Elijah will be able to put that to rest. I loved Lacey she is such a quirky little thing but so loving. Ms Barbara leaving the house to Hannah will change her and her moms life in so many ways. I can’t wait for the next Nile saga.

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

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great book. I love how the characters that you love from other books make appearances here. Nile is definitely not a boring place. With witches, seers, and monsters there is always something going on. Hannah has to confront her past to be able to see her future. Lots of twists and turns as her and her friends get to the bottom of the mystery behind the mirror. A must ready for those who love a paranormal/mystery/badass main character.

[Abbie · Rating 3 out of 5]

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

Hannah's story is one that takes many twists and turns full of mystery and a hint of romance for me personally though the book didn't grip me until the last 50 pages or so. It is very well written and if you enjoy supernatural mysteries then this book is for you

Overall I'd give it 3.5 stars

[Christinaraven · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Nile ghost story that was a wild read that introduces Hannah as she moves to Nile and finds out magic is real in a wild way. It mixed magic and mystery with a touch of danger as Hannah must figure out what is really going on as she seems to be next. It made me laugh with its teen angst and drama but had me guessing to the end. Was an easy and quick read to enjoy.

[Lily_the_Book_Dragon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an excellent young adult book. The story was fast paced and sucked me in quickly. The characters were all so quirky and well developed. There was an excellent mix of mystery, action, and the supernatural. Definitely a book I’d recommend to others.

Please note: I received an advanced reader copy of this book for free and am voluntarily leaving this review.

[Helen Waddington · Rating 4 out of 5]

Set in the same world as the grey sisters this is well written and captures interest but at times is a little fast paced for full character development.

That said I enjoyed the story and the ending leaves it open for continuation.

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

[beccasbookscapes · Rating 2 out of 5]

Thank you to BooksSirens for a copy of this ARC. I felt like this was a little predictable with Hannah figuring out she was special after she keeps trying to say over and over she doesn’t believe in ghost. It got a little annoying after a while. It’s an ok read but I wanted more action and more twists.

[Christina Luberts · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mystery, suspense, danger, magic and a haunted mirror. Follow Hannah as she tries to figure out what is really going on. She don't believe in ghost. But will she after she moves into the house? Or will she still think theres a reasonable explanation for what is happening? I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Jodi Luff · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. Taking place in the same universe as the Seraphina and Phoenix Grey books, but with all new characters. The paranormal elements were mostly expected, but there was a little twist that was a surprise.

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

[AMBER CLARK]

Creepy mirrors, dark secrets and malevolent entities make this YA novel perfect for teens and up. There are so many twists and turns, and it has an ending that you won't see coming. This story is so well done especially when dealing with potentially sensitive topics. Can't wait to read more from Courcy.

[Dora Reads a Lot · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my favourite Nile story so far! Hanna is the coolest FMC.
I love how all the stories intertwine and that we get to visit with characters we already know.
I had fun reading this book, I'd totally recommend it to anyone who doesn't mind scary supernatural stories!

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

[Neil · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really loved this book, the central character is Hannah a teenage girl with a troubled past. When moving to a new home Hannah hopes for a fresh start but finds the new home to be haunted. What follows is a thrilling read a real page turner and every chapter seems to end on a cliff hanger!

[Rowan Creech · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first book from this author that I have read and it was quite good. I loved the characters and the story and she had me at ghost. I can't wait to read other books written by Cristine Courcy.

[Brianna · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had great characters and a very interesting plot. I thoroughly enjoyed the suspense and the level of scary made it hard to sleep! Definitely a must-read.

[Sheri · Rating 5 out of 5]

I liked this book even better than the Gray sisters books. There is a lot of mystery and uncertainty, but answers are revealed in time. I would've loved for it to have ended a little differently but it was still really good and satisfying. It has a happily ever after with an open end for more stories to come. I hope more stories do come!

I received an advanced review copy and am voluntarily leaving a review.