Firstly, I want to mention that I received a free e-ARC copy of Celeste in exchange for an honest review. A big thank you to the author for this opportunity!
Normally in my reviews I don't put my own synopsis but due to this book coming out on the 14th of October, I figured I'll add it. This takes place over two timelines, both of Riley (one when she was a child, the other while she was in high school). Riley is a young deaf woman with special psychic abilities - in particular, she is an empath. She has had encounters with The Shadow Man since she was a kid, a paranormal creature relating to a demon that is capable of killing whomever it likes. Her adventures of growing up involve ghost hunting parentals & confronting her own demons that once held her back.
I thought that this was an endearing book. It fits more in the cozy horror category, with no gore or anything too unsettling happening. After my recent reads, this was much needed and a palette-cleanser, more on the uplifting side.
The sweet little girl, Riley, I related to. She initially grew up in an abusive environment before meeting her neighbors, who later become her adoptive parents. Her medical condition prevented her from blending in with the other kids. It's heartwarming to see her break out of her shell. It is a reminder to many of us, I am sure, of what our own middle/high school experiences were. Riley grows on you quickly and you only want the best for her. Her neighbors that take over her care are kind-hearted people. All supporting characters are well-developed and experience some kind of growth throughout. In my opinion, things such as this are vital to a good story or series, so I apricated the time spent on it.
I love the touches on empathic abilities/gifts. Having a tarot/reiki business myself, I work with these kinds of clients. The ghost/demon hunting aspect was my favorite - I mean how cool would it be to own a bookstore and collect items that are deemed cursed and capture spirits from the other side?
This is a series so there are a few unanswered questions. I don't want to give any spoilers, but there are parts I hope are touched on in future books. The plot is good, this is fit for anyone that enjoys YA novels/series. It doesn't feel like anything is missing in terms of the writing or plot. I found the ending enjoyable since the horror aspect of the book came out.
As far as scare factor, I personally didn't find The Shadow Man himself scary. However for those that enjoy "lighter" horror or get easily frightened, this will be perfect for queasy stomachs and something almost anyone can handle. If you find the paranormal unsettling, the ending will get your heart racing!
I recommend this to anyone looking for a paranormal thriller/horror. This will appeal to YA audiences/fans the most. If you enjoy the paranormal, ghost hunting, psychic abilities, rich character development, I think you'll enjoy this! I'll definitely stay tuned for future books in the series.