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Mirage
A Halloween murder mystery novel by Emma Smith, perfect for fans of Cynthia Murphy and Kathryn Foxfield.
Ravensfarne, an idyllic paradise, off the beaten track...
Georgia has lived on a tiny island off the coast of Northumberland all her life. So when cousin Cindy from Connecticut comes to stay for Halloween, she's not expecting anything out of the ordinary to happen... until her friends start dying, one by one.
A push from the castle ruins; an accident; and murder, cold-blooded murder. Trapped in a storm with the killer still on the loose, there's no way to escape. It's down to the cousins to figure out what's going on, and to track down the murderer...
Because if they don't, it looks like they might be next.
A young adult mystery set off the coast of England, exploring themes of first love, friendship and loyalty.
Ravensfarne, an idyllic paradise, off the beaten track...
Georgia has lived on a tiny island off the coast of Northumberland all her life. So when cousin Cindy from Connecticut comes to stay for Halloween, she's not expecting anything out of the ordinary to happen... until her friends start dying, one by one.
A push from the castle ruins; an accident; and murder, cold-blooded murder. Trapped in a storm with the killer still on the loose, there's no way to escape. It's down to the cousins to figure out what's going on, and to track down the murderer...
Because if they don't, it looks like they might be next.
A young adult mystery set off the coast of England, exploring themes of first love, friendship and loyalty.
324 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 30, 2024
About the author
Emma Smith
14 books567 followersEmma Smith is a young adult and children's author from Yorkshire. She wrote and illustrated her first “book” when she was seven years old and hasn’t stopped writing since. When she’s not walking on the beach or drinking an iced coffee with a crumpet and some chocolate, you’ll probably find her reading something dark and mysterious… and most certainly YA.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
August 3, 2024
This book was given on behalf of an ARC read, in return for a review
Mirage by Emma Smith
A young girl who has moved from Connecticut, USA to a small local town called Ravensfarne to start a whole new life but who was to know what would happen next?
My initial reaction was oh my god, I love the way the characters were displayed how jealousy filled Georgia but yet how she put her differences aside with her cousin who came to visit. As well as this I love how the plot keeps you in suspense one second someone is alive and next you’re thinking who will be gone so soon after. The pace of the plot was good I liked how it flowed so effortlessly, with Georgia being able to show each stage of the event.
I liked how Georgia had her comfort and how they started with a big life in America to a small deli in Northumberland, as well as this the final exposure to what happened at the end brought me to another level how quickly the scenarios changed and how it was presented was amazing, although one thing I didn’t like about it was how quickly Georgia judged Cindy not knowing the events that had happened and I often found her jealous over small things but I felt that Brough a difference to the story as it showed her true emotions about how different the pair are. I feel this is written 100% for the age group that it was aimed at, and I believe it will be enjoyable for whom it’s intended.
Overall I would 100% recommend this book for the release on the 30th of August, especially for those who are a massive fan of horror and Halloween themes similar to A Good Girls Guide to murder, Mirage brought me a thrill like never before and showed me a genre that caught me from the beginning. My rating for this book is 5/5 stars.
Mirage by Emma Smith
A young girl who has moved from Connecticut, USA to a small local town called Ravensfarne to start a whole new life but who was to know what would happen next?
My initial reaction was oh my god, I love the way the characters were displayed how jealousy filled Georgia but yet how she put her differences aside with her cousin who came to visit. As well as this I love how the plot keeps you in suspense one second someone is alive and next you’re thinking who will be gone so soon after. The pace of the plot was good I liked how it flowed so effortlessly, with Georgia being able to show each stage of the event.
I liked how Georgia had her comfort and how they started with a big life in America to a small deli in Northumberland, as well as this the final exposure to what happened at the end brought me to another level how quickly the scenarios changed and how it was presented was amazing, although one thing I didn’t like about it was how quickly Georgia judged Cindy not knowing the events that had happened and I often found her jealous over small things but I felt that Brough a difference to the story as it showed her true emotions about how different the pair are. I feel this is written 100% for the age group that it was aimed at, and I believe it will be enjoyable for whom it’s intended.
Overall I would 100% recommend this book for the release on the 30th of August, especially for those who are a massive fan of horror and Halloween themes similar to A Good Girls Guide to murder, Mirage brought me a thrill like never before and showed me a genre that caught me from the beginning. My rating for this book is 5/5 stars.
August 4, 2024
The perfect YA novel…
If you loved Good Girls Guide to murder you will love this book even more. I did.
The scenery had me wanting to get in bed with a blanked and a hot chocolate I ate this book up.
The mystery hooked me and I loved the island setting it just felt so cozy and homely. Then the mystery kicks in and you’re on your seat wanting to know who is the traitor. One minuite I’m loving the characters relationship development the next I’m trying to be a detective and solve the mystery.
The ending was not at all what I was expecting honestly you will not see it coming which is rare for books these days. This book really had an eerie feeling that kept me hooked all the way through
Emma has written a great YA mystery and I wish I could re read it again without knowing the ending it was fabulous🙂
If you loved Good Girls Guide to murder you will love this book even more. I did.
The scenery had me wanting to get in bed with a blanked and a hot chocolate I ate this book up.
The mystery hooked me and I loved the island setting it just felt so cozy and homely. Then the mystery kicks in and you’re on your seat wanting to know who is the traitor. One minuite I’m loving the characters relationship development the next I’m trying to be a detective and solve the mystery.
The ending was not at all what I was expecting honestly you will not see it coming which is rare for books these days. This book really had an eerie feeling that kept me hooked all the way through
Emma has written a great YA mystery and I wish I could re read it again without knowing the ending it was fabulous🙂
August 16, 2024
Are you overly obsessed with Gimore Girls? Do you like autumnal books with pumpkin spice lattes and halloween celebrations? And do you like being scared to your wit's end trying to figure out what on earth is going on!!?
Mirage is the perfect blend of cosy and terrifying. The depth that was given to EVERY SINGLE CHARACTER is so thoughtful to the extent where it's very easy to want to hear their story too. But Georgia? Our protagonist? I love how flawed she is, bringing a hint of coming-of-age into the midst of all the horror. This book isn't just about murder; it has a lot of really important topics and realism.
Emma's writing style is so easy to fall in love with and every adventure into the ELU is an amazing experience. I cannot recommend her books enough: you will love them.
Mirage is the perfect blend of cosy and terrifying. The depth that was given to EVERY SINGLE CHARACTER is so thoughtful to the extent where it's very easy to want to hear their story too. But Georgia? Our protagonist? I love how flawed she is, bringing a hint of coming-of-age into the midst of all the horror. This book isn't just about murder; it has a lot of really important topics and realism.
Emma's writing style is so easy to fall in love with and every adventure into the ELU is an amazing experience. I cannot recommend her books enough: you will love them.
March 24, 2025
oh. my. god. started this book the same day i finished it and couldnt put it down. a mix between gilmore girls and halloween and a twisty murder mystery. so many twists and turns and this book was SO EXCITING. my new favorite from emma smith and one of the best books ive read this year. i highly recommend this book if you like pumpkin spice lattes and murder mystery books 🎃🔪⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
August 12, 2025
just went through every emotion in the english dictionary. anyway everyone read mirage by emma smith thanks for coming to my ted talk
August 2, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
4.5⭐️
I was sent this arc by the author in exchange for an honest review and wow it was amazing! Georgia the protagonist has spent her whole life living on a tiny island in Northumberland where her mum owns a deli. It’s a small, cosy community that has been described beautifully. When Georgia’s cousin Cindy visits from Connecticut, Georgia’s first emotion is jealousy. But the girls have to put their differences aside when they witness a local girl’s murder on Halloween night. Cut off from the mainland, Georgia, Cindy and their friends have to race against the murderer in order to survive…
I will admit I wasn’t the biggest fan of the protagonist (I found her to be unnecessarily jealous and a bit annoying at times) but I found that didn’t affect my enjoyment of the book at all. I still loved it and read it in a day as I couldn’t put it down.
The writing style was excellent: the characters were so human and the duality between the cosiness of the island and the creepiness of the crimes taking place was so perfect. I’d recommend to any fans of crime and lovers of Halloween!
4.5⭐️
I was sent this arc by the author in exchange for an honest review and wow it was amazing! Georgia the protagonist has spent her whole life living on a tiny island in Northumberland where her mum owns a deli. It’s a small, cosy community that has been described beautifully. When Georgia’s cousin Cindy visits from Connecticut, Georgia’s first emotion is jealousy. But the girls have to put their differences aside when they witness a local girl’s murder on Halloween night. Cut off from the mainland, Georgia, Cindy and their friends have to race against the murderer in order to survive…
I will admit I wasn’t the biggest fan of the protagonist (I found her to be unnecessarily jealous and a bit annoying at times) but I found that didn’t affect my enjoyment of the book at all. I still loved it and read it in a day as I couldn’t put it down.
The writing style was excellent: the characters were so human and the duality between the cosiness of the island and the creepiness of the crimes taking place was so perfect. I’d recommend to any fans of crime and lovers of Halloween!
September 10, 2024
Before I even started Mirage I knew I'd love it from everything Emma had shared about it - and I was totally right. The perfect Autumn/Halloween read, Mirage is a fairly fast paced mystery set on a tiny island in the north of England. I absolutely adored the setting and thought it was really brought to life, and the mystery itself was terrifying and engrossing - I couldn't stop reading. As always, I loved the characters, they were very realistic and I loved Georgia as a protagonist. The story also deals with some really important issues very well, and I liked the side characters and their places within the island's community and the mystery itself. I would 100% recommend this for a September or October read, it really got me in a Halloween mood!!
September 8, 2024
I'm so obsessed!!! The setting in this book is one of my favourites of Emma’s ❤️🍂 Absolutely loved all the descriptions (the attention to detail was so so good) and it really felt like a found family (despite all the murder). It’s made me so excited for Autumn and Halloween 🎃 I suspected almost everyone at one point 🤦🏻♀️🤣 I can’t stop thinking about each character and I’ve already made a Pinterest board for them all! (A true sign of a five star)
August 24, 2024
i am soooo happy that i got to read this book as an ARC reader for the first time ever.
throughout the book, i felt nervous, i laughed, i screamed… and i felt a connection with the main character, Georgia, in many occasions. if you are looking for a YA/ mystery book, i highly recommend reading this one. also the plot twists??? so good!!!
thanks Emma for giving me the opportunity to read your book. it’s going to be amazing!!! 🩷
throughout the book, i felt nervous, i laughed, i screamed… and i felt a connection with the main character, Georgia, in many occasions. if you are looking for a YA/ mystery book, i highly recommend reading this one. also the plot twists??? so good!!!
thanks Emma for giving me the opportunity to read your book. it’s going to be amazing!!! 🩷
August 2, 2024
you need to read this book immediately with a blanket and a hot drink and a cosy lamp and an 80s slasher spotify playlist on and get lost in the mystery!!! perfect summerween to autumn transition i had a blast
January 2, 2025
WOAH!!! Kept me hooked. Was a bit slow at the beginning and took awhile to get to the main plot but I can guarantee that if you stick it out, it’s SO worth it.
January 2, 2025
This was bit of a frustrating read to me. I really wanted to love it, and I did like it in the begging, the whole premise of it all, but then it just went a bit… downhill?
a) Why there was so much time spent on the characteristics of the other three friends, when they were barely important to the story and only one of them showed up again at the very end of the book?
b) Why didn’t any of them make an appearance at least in the village hall, when all of the island residents were there?
c) How could have Mr. Evans been with the Petersons when Lolly died, as we later find out? Because after Lolly dies, the mum goes to his house and sends him to the Petersons to tell them their daughter has died - so that doesn’t make a whole lot of sense to me.
d) Almost all of the story building is based on conversations - it’s all tell and almost no show. I feel like there could have been more clues throughout the book about who the killer is, not just a summary of all that happened at the end of the book. The revelation that Paul was suspecting Cindy the whole time also felt a bit random, since there were no suble hints about it before - again.
e) If the mom had such a bad feeling about Cindy and knew she had a history of lying, why would she let her daughter run around the island with her while all the murders were happening? Instead we got the ominous “don’t trust anyone”, but it doesn’t make any sense to me why she wouldn’t just tell Georgia to keep her distance and why.
f) And even if she had no problem with Cindy, why would she let them run around the island with all that was hapenning still? My parents would probably lock me up in a basement.
g) Why would Georgia jump to the conclusion that Mr. and Mrs. Evans were the murderers basically just because he followed them into the house?
h) The overuse of the word “loo”.
i) If Cindy tripped Annie while they were all looking down, why did she fall backwards? At least that’s what I’ve gathered from the description.
All in all, I feel like this writer and her ideas have a lot of potential, but the execution wasn’t quite there yet imo. On the other hand, the whole book is very atmospheric, I loved it’s setting and if Ravensfarne was a real place, I would love to go there.
a) Why there was so much time spent on the characteristics of the other three friends, when they were barely important to the story and only one of them showed up again at the very end of the book?
b) Why didn’t any of them make an appearance at least in the village hall, when all of the island residents were there?
c) How could have Mr. Evans been with the Petersons when Lolly died, as we later find out? Because after Lolly dies, the mum goes to his house and sends him to the Petersons to tell them their daughter has died - so that doesn’t make a whole lot of sense to me.
d) Almost all of the story building is based on conversations - it’s all tell and almost no show. I feel like there could have been more clues throughout the book about who the killer is, not just a summary of all that happened at the end of the book. The revelation that Paul was suspecting Cindy the whole time also felt a bit random, since there were no suble hints about it before - again.
e) If the mom had such a bad feeling about Cindy and knew she had a history of lying, why would she let her daughter run around the island with her while all the murders were happening? Instead we got the ominous “don’t trust anyone”, but it doesn’t make any sense to me why she wouldn’t just tell Georgia to keep her distance and why.
f) And even if she had no problem with Cindy, why would she let them run around the island with all that was hapenning still? My parents would probably lock me up in a basement.
g) Why would Georgia jump to the conclusion that Mr. and Mrs. Evans were the murderers basically just because he followed them into the house?
h) The overuse of the word “loo”.
i) If Cindy tripped Annie while they were all looking down, why did she fall backwards? At least that’s what I’ve gathered from the description.
All in all, I feel like this writer and her ideas have a lot of potential, but the execution wasn’t quite there yet imo. On the other hand, the whole book is very atmospheric, I loved it’s setting and if Ravensfarne was a real place, I would love to go there.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 16, 2024
this book was good, i guess?
i quite liked the beginning, the description of the island and the atmosphere. the prose was also fine. a couple of errors but i can excuse that, since the book’s self-published.
i was excited for this book; a mystery thriller, set on a small island in england, promising agggtm & gilmore girls vibes? sign me up. needless to say, i was a bit disappointed. i wouldn’t say it’s anything like agggtm. or gilmore girls, for that matter. the potential was there, sure, but it wasn’t explored nearly enough for me to consider it a fair comparison.
regarding the plot, it’s… okay. it definitely has potential, again, but i’d say after the halfway mark, it goes downhill. there are no real suspects, at least according to the main character, because every time someone *is* suspected (because they had either motive, a chance to yk… ~do the killing~ or both) she just *looks* them in the eye or *sees* their face and she just… *knows*. trust her, she’s known these people for *so* long and they’ve *always* been kind, they wouldn’t hurt a fly… even though they have secrets that are just now coming to light… she *knows* they’re telling the truth. really. no doubt. unless, of course, they’re lying… that was so annoying, ugh.
i would say most of the plot is quite predictable, i think i correctly guessed all the murders except for one and part of the ending as well. (more on that below)
i will say that the characters were well written, although some of them were uselessly described in detail, even though they don’t appear for the rest of the book. they didn’t feel flat, interesting themes and feelings were explored and i could picture them being real people. however… gushing (for *years*) about a guy you barely seem to know? even though he’s supposedly one of your best friends? WHILE YOUR FRIENDS ARE DYING???? girl, stand up.
now, for the ending. i so wanted it to not be the classic cliche, which is why i was so disappointed and angry at the revelation that the murderer was, in fact, the most obvious and cliche suspect EVER. sorry not sorry, i didn’t like that ending, at all. the explanation of everything felt rushed, boring and… quite bizarre if i may say so.
so yeah, a bit of a let down, but still okay. just… average — hence the three stars.
i quite liked the beginning, the description of the island and the atmosphere. the prose was also fine. a couple of errors but i can excuse that, since the book’s self-published.
i was excited for this book; a mystery thriller, set on a small island in england, promising agggtm & gilmore girls vibes? sign me up. needless to say, i was a bit disappointed. i wouldn’t say it’s anything like agggtm. or gilmore girls, for that matter. the potential was there, sure, but it wasn’t explored nearly enough for me to consider it a fair comparison.
regarding the plot, it’s… okay. it definitely has potential, again, but i’d say after the halfway mark, it goes downhill. there are no real suspects, at least according to the main character, because every time someone *is* suspected (because they had either motive, a chance to yk… ~do the killing~ or both) she just *looks* them in the eye or *sees* their face and she just… *knows*. trust her, she’s known these people for *so* long and they’ve *always* been kind, they wouldn’t hurt a fly… even though they have secrets that are just now coming to light… she *knows* they’re telling the truth. really. no doubt. unless, of course, they’re lying… that was so annoying, ugh.
i would say most of the plot is quite predictable, i think i correctly guessed all the murders except for one and part of the ending as well. (more on that below)
i will say that the characters were well written, although some of them were uselessly described in detail, even though they don’t appear for the rest of the book. they didn’t feel flat, interesting themes and feelings were explored and i could picture them being real people. however… gushing (for *years*) about a guy you barely seem to know? even though he’s supposedly one of your best friends? WHILE YOUR FRIENDS ARE DYING???? girl, stand up.
now, for the ending. i so wanted it to not be the classic cliche, which is why i was so disappointed and angry at the revelation that the murderer was, in fact, the most obvious and cliche suspect EVER. sorry not sorry, i didn’t like that ending, at all. the explanation of everything felt rushed, boring and… quite bizarre if i may say so.
so yeah, a bit of a let down, but still okay. just… average — hence the three stars.
August 30, 2024
I knew that even before I read the book I was going to thoroughly enjoy it because of the setting, time of the year, and overall the way Emma is advertising the book. I am always up for a cozy, small town, murder mystery, and when it’s set during Halloween I am even more enticed. If you like all of those things, it is sure to be a read for you.
Into smaller details I loved about the book, I loved how every character had their own identity and growth. Even the smaller characters changed perspectives and characteristics about themselves as the book went on and that really shows how much time Emma took to write the not-perfect but beautiful characters.
I was kept guessing who was the murderer the entire time, similar to when I read Holly Jackson’s books. At some points I had a hint of who it was but then my opinion changed when something else happened. As a newer murder mystery reader I found it easy to keep track of all the hints and clues and twists, so if you’re newer to the genre it won’t be confusing.
I also love how the book goes from the end, to the time when the main event happened, and back to the end because it makes the book feel more separated and easier to get through. I’ve been in a reading slump for awhile now but I found that when reading it I would wonder what would happen next even when I wasn’t reading!
This book was a 5/5 ⭐️ and I will definitely be reading it in the Fall when it’s not 30 Celsius with a coffee and comfy sweater :) thank you Emma Smith for allowing me to be an ARC reader!
Into smaller details I loved about the book, I loved how every character had their own identity and growth. Even the smaller characters changed perspectives and characteristics about themselves as the book went on and that really shows how much time Emma took to write the not-perfect but beautiful characters.
I was kept guessing who was the murderer the entire time, similar to when I read Holly Jackson’s books. At some points I had a hint of who it was but then my opinion changed when something else happened. As a newer murder mystery reader I found it easy to keep track of all the hints and clues and twists, so if you’re newer to the genre it won’t be confusing.
I also love how the book goes from the end, to the time when the main event happened, and back to the end because it makes the book feel more separated and easier to get through. I’ve been in a reading slump for awhile now but I found that when reading it I would wonder what would happen next even when I wasn’t reading!
This book was a 5/5 ⭐️ and I will definitely be reading it in the Fall when it’s not 30 Celsius with a coffee and comfy sweater :) thank you Emma Smith for allowing me to be an ARC reader!
August 20, 2024
‘Ravensfarne is a tiny place. It only has about three-hundred-and-fifty inhabitants.’
‘Untouched beauty. That was the appeal of Ravensfarne. It wasn’t trying to be something great, something special. It just was.’
In a tale of halloween mystery, self-growth, and discovering what is important to you, is the setting of Ravensfarne. Perfectly autumnal and cosy, there are references to Gilmore Girls that make it feel relatable while still being timeless, and Ravensfarne is the best backdrop for this. The descriptions of the castle, the storm and the characters create a spooky atmosphere which makes you question everyone’s intentions. Meanwhile you rely on Georgia’s description of her beloved home and experience her self-development and honest admittance of her insecurities as she sees the island from the view of an outsider, her cousin Cindy, for the first time.
Cindy is introduced as an all-American it girl - the polar opposite to Georgia’s loveable and humble, while still from perfect, group of friends (honourable mention of Annie - the best character in the entire book!). As the group gets closer you grow to love them all despite their faults, and, when the losses start and the betrayal sets in, the claustrophobia of Ravensfarne’s small and tight-knit community grows.
All in all, Mirage is something new to add to Emma Smith’s growing universe (side note: I loved the Dead Fine mention - we love an author who links all her books together!). It is the perfect read for cosy and stormy nights, and as a die-hard fan I cannot wait to see what she comes out with next :).
‘Untouched beauty. That was the appeal of Ravensfarne. It wasn’t trying to be something great, something special. It just was.’
In a tale of halloween mystery, self-growth, and discovering what is important to you, is the setting of Ravensfarne. Perfectly autumnal and cosy, there are references to Gilmore Girls that make it feel relatable while still being timeless, and Ravensfarne is the best backdrop for this. The descriptions of the castle, the storm and the characters create a spooky atmosphere which makes you question everyone’s intentions. Meanwhile you rely on Georgia’s description of her beloved home and experience her self-development and honest admittance of her insecurities as she sees the island from the view of an outsider, her cousin Cindy, for the first time.
Cindy is introduced as an all-American it girl - the polar opposite to Georgia’s loveable and humble, while still from perfect, group of friends (honourable mention of Annie - the best character in the entire book!). As the group gets closer you grow to love them all despite their faults, and, when the losses start and the betrayal sets in, the claustrophobia of Ravensfarne’s small and tight-knit community grows.
All in all, Mirage is something new to add to Emma Smith’s growing universe (side note: I loved the Dead Fine mention - we love an author who links all her books together!). It is the perfect read for cosy and stormy nights, and as a die-hard fan I cannot wait to see what she comes out with next :).
August 30, 2024
A deeply twisted, autumnal tale, waxed in pumpkin spice candles, seasonal lattes and rainy halloween nights. Emma wrote this one with so much detail, description and power; it truly was a book worth every moment.
Mirage follows Georgia, a simple teenage girl, living on a small island of the coast of Northern England, and her group of friends on the spooky night of Halloween. Her secretive cousin Cindy, is visiting for the week and it seems that she has bought trouble with her. The tight-knit town is not what is seems when Georgias friends start dying one by one, and the police isn’t there to find the killer. She takes it upon herself to find out the truth, whilst also endangering herself.
I simply could not have figured out this book, I had to sit and read it mostly in one sitting, as it was too gripping and had to find out who was behind the monstrosity. Mirage keeps you guessing, thinking you had it all figured out, until you hadn’t. It’s also a story of youth, friendship, teenage love and difficult relationships.
I really enjoyed reading it, the setting was grimy and dark, perfect for the upcoming seasons, the characters were intricate and interesting, I wanted to know more about them. The writing style was clear and well organised, there was no plot holes and everything made sense in the end.
For the fans of Gilmore girls, pumpkin spice lattes, halloween movies and dressing up- this book is for you: so read it❤️
Mirage follows Georgia, a simple teenage girl, living on a small island of the coast of Northern England, and her group of friends on the spooky night of Halloween. Her secretive cousin Cindy, is visiting for the week and it seems that she has bought trouble with her. The tight-knit town is not what is seems when Georgias friends start dying one by one, and the police isn’t there to find the killer. She takes it upon herself to find out the truth, whilst also endangering herself.
I simply could not have figured out this book, I had to sit and read it mostly in one sitting, as it was too gripping and had to find out who was behind the monstrosity. Mirage keeps you guessing, thinking you had it all figured out, until you hadn’t. It’s also a story of youth, friendship, teenage love and difficult relationships.
I really enjoyed reading it, the setting was grimy and dark, perfect for the upcoming seasons, the characters were intricate and interesting, I wanted to know more about them. The writing style was clear and well organised, there was no plot holes and everything made sense in the end.
For the fans of Gilmore girls, pumpkin spice lattes, halloween movies and dressing up- this book is for you: so read it❤️
March 9, 2026
This book was so atmospheric and mysterious, I loved every second reading it!!
The vibes of the setting were amazing it made me really want rainy weather and to just cozy up in a blanket with a cup of hot chocolate or tea.
The story follows Georgia, who lives on a small island called Ravensfarne. Her cousin comes to visit her during her October break, but suddenly her friends are dying.
I did figure out who the murderer was, however I still really enjoyed reading it. It was still very mysterious and intriguing, and additionally I started to really care for the characters, especially Ben!!!
I even cried multiple times hahaha, I will definitely miss the characters and the town.
Also, once again, I absolutely loved the atmosphere of the book and now really want to visit Northumberland hahaha
I’m definitely looking forward to reading more of the authors works!!
The vibes of the setting were amazing it made me really want rainy weather and to just cozy up in a blanket with a cup of hot chocolate or tea.
The story follows Georgia, who lives on a small island called Ravensfarne. Her cousin comes to visit her during her October break, but suddenly her friends are dying.
I did figure out who the murderer was, however I still really enjoyed reading it. It was still very mysterious and intriguing, and additionally I started to really care for the characters, especially Ben!!!
I even cried multiple times hahaha, I will definitely miss the characters and the town.
Also, once again, I absolutely loved the atmosphere of the book and now really want to visit Northumberland hahaha
I’m definitely looking forward to reading more of the authors works!!
August 30, 2025
I loved this book! First of all, the vibes.. omg stunning! Two, I loved the plot, it was intriguing and kept me thinking.
I loved how this book was a bit different from the books I have read by Emma but it still kept the same Emma Smith charms that I love. I think my favourite thing about Emma's books for each of them is the way she can make me feel cosy in places I've never been, also under represented places in both UKYA and literature as a whole!
I loved how this book was a bit different from the books I have read by Emma but it still kept the same Emma Smith charms that I love. I think my favourite thing about Emma's books for each of them is the way she can make me feel cosy in places I've never been, also under represented places in both UKYA and literature as a whole!
August 12, 2024
I was given the chance to read this as an ARC reader.
This is a really cute autumnal YA mystery, it made me want to curl up with a blanket and listen to the rain whilst I read - unfortunately it was 29 degrees instead. The story and the characters kept me entertained and the twists and turns just kept coming. I finished the book in less than 24hrs as I didn’t want to put it down.
This is a really cute autumnal YA mystery, it made me want to curl up with a blanket and listen to the rain whilst I read - unfortunately it was 29 degrees instead. The story and the characters kept me entertained and the twists and turns just kept coming. I finished the book in less than 24hrs as I didn’t want to put it down.
August 28, 2024
This book was wonderful,felt like a hug on a plate with a sinister tone (yes im weird that i find murder mysteries comforting), and as someone who has always felt inferior to their cousins, it felt very close to home,the plot was enthralling and dragged me out of my worst adhd based reading slump I've ever had.
September 4, 2024
3.5 ~ I need to read more mystery books (and more indie ones) I fear.
I thought the prose was well written, some interesting ideas presented (the whole peaking in year 11 thing, etc.) and kinda bitchy main character that was honest and intriguing. I mostly breezed through the book.
Ben for the win. Best boy (and character)!!
I did guess the murderer and I didn’t love how many accused people there were by the end. I also felt a little emotionally distant from the cast but can’t put my finger on why. Wanted more, especially from Cindy.
Weirdly enough with the ending, I’m split. Either I wanted it to be more triumphant than it was (eg with a focus on Ben and Georgia’s bond). Or I wanted it to be, weirdly enough, a bit depressing. Maybe give me a fully traumatised Georgia, unable to write about anything but the murders for her school essay. (Scarred a la The Secret History or even Treasure island (one of my fave endings)).
I think I’ve read too much gothic literature as I wanted even more gothic vibes than it were present. Ravensfarne is forever tainted. (Maybe how can she keep living there???) Burn that castle down. (Maybe not the fire lol).
I also wanted the interesting themes to be explored even more than they were (eg jealousy between the cousins, Georgia feeling boring etc.)
I loved the setting of the castle and the autumnal vibes. The imagery of the castle was 🤌.
…
I do think the mum was a bit irresponsible. What wasssss she doing. But I’ll allow it since we need these reckless teenagers to go out into the storm and find the killer…
I thought the prose was well written, some interesting ideas presented (the whole peaking in year 11 thing, etc.) and kinda bitchy main character that was honest and intriguing. I mostly breezed through the book.
Ben for the win. Best boy (and character)!!
I did guess the murderer and I didn’t love how many accused people there were by the end. I also felt a little emotionally distant from the cast but can’t put my finger on why. Wanted more, especially from Cindy.
Weirdly enough with the ending, I’m split. Either I wanted it to be more triumphant than it was (eg with a focus on Ben and Georgia’s bond). Or I wanted it to be, weirdly enough, a bit depressing. Maybe give me a fully traumatised Georgia, unable to write about anything but the murders for her school essay. (Scarred a la The Secret History or even Treasure island (one of my fave endings)).
I think I’ve read too much gothic literature as I wanted even more gothic vibes than it were present. Ravensfarne is forever tainted. (Maybe how can she keep living there???) Burn that castle down. (Maybe not the fire lol).
I also wanted the interesting themes to be explored even more than they were (eg jealousy between the cousins, Georgia feeling boring etc.)
I loved the setting of the castle and the autumnal vibes. The imagery of the castle was 🤌.
…
I do think the mum was a bit irresponsible. What wasssss she doing. But I’ll allow it since we need these reckless teenagers to go out into the storm and find the killer…
November 8, 2024
Omg this was an amazing experience! It‘s perfect for autumn and mystery lovers. I loved that Georgia actually suspended everyone even her mom and I also understand why she wouldn’t go with Cindy( at the beginning she even suspected her)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 2, 2024
I was lucky enough to have been sent this book before it was released. I was truly gripped and like WTF when things started to go down! I really did enjoy the book and story. Flowed nice and was easy to read. I’m dyslexic so that’s a good thing! I didn’t know who to believe and was suspicious of everyone. Can definitely see how cosy this book would be if read during a storm/gloomy night in late October/November with a hot chocolate. Will definitely recommend to friends and family who love these types of small town murder mysteries!
April 4, 2025
I read Guided earlier in the year and really loved it so when she announced her latest YA book I knew I really needed to read it and it also did not disappoint. Once I was hooked by this story I could not put it down and needed to know who the killer was and just how close to the characters they were.
Mirage follows Georgia who lives on a small island off the coast of Northumberland and when her cousin Cindy from the US comes to stay over Halloween, she doesn’t expect anything to be all that different from normal until the teens on the island start dying one after the other.
As I already mentioned once I was hooked I could not put this book down which is a sign of a good mystery and well done plotting. The more I read from Emma the more I see how skilled she is as a writer with how many different books she can write and how the tone can always be so well done but so different. I suspected so many different characters to be the killer at different points, and the reasons why Georgia suspected many of these characters felt reasonable which I also think is a sign of a good writer. I also didn’t expect so many of the different twists yet when I look back they were well plotted and I suspect if I reread it things will all add up before I read the twist.
There were times where I was close to tears which I didn’t expect going into the book, but some of the deaths were heartbreaking and seeing the characters tackle grief and their thoughts around losing people so close to them was so well done and really did almost bring me to tears. I connected to some of these characters and really didn’t want to lose them however you have no idea who is next or how it will all happen and go down.
It was also nice to see all the characters who like previous books I’ve read by Emma felt like real true teenagers who were flawed and still learning but also trying to do what they felt was best even if it may not be the best idea when you are watching on. You also see the characters deal with large feelings and how they can work with those without hurting others or giving others the benefit of the doubt, an example of this being Georgia’s feelings of jealousy towards Cindy.
One of the things I am most excited about when I think about reading Emma’s other YA books is getting to see all of the references to her other books, and in this one we did get one Vibbington reference which was exciting to see and I look forward to seeing more of that character in future books. I wish I could reread this as a physical copy and not know how it will all go down so as someone who will get the chance I really recommend that you take it. Everytime I read an Emma Smith book I just want to read more and this being my first five stars from her only heightens these feelings and I can’t wait to see what else she has in store for me.
Mirage follows Georgia who lives on a small island off the coast of Northumberland and when her cousin Cindy from the US comes to stay over Halloween, she doesn’t expect anything to be all that different from normal until the teens on the island start dying one after the other.
As I already mentioned once I was hooked I could not put this book down which is a sign of a good mystery and well done plotting. The more I read from Emma the more I see how skilled she is as a writer with how many different books she can write and how the tone can always be so well done but so different. I suspected so many different characters to be the killer at different points, and the reasons why Georgia suspected many of these characters felt reasonable which I also think is a sign of a good writer. I also didn’t expect so many of the different twists yet when I look back they were well plotted and I suspect if I reread it things will all add up before I read the twist.
There were times where I was close to tears which I didn’t expect going into the book, but some of the deaths were heartbreaking and seeing the characters tackle grief and their thoughts around losing people so close to them was so well done and really did almost bring me to tears. I connected to some of these characters and really didn’t want to lose them however you have no idea who is next or how it will all happen and go down.
It was also nice to see all the characters who like previous books I’ve read by Emma felt like real true teenagers who were flawed and still learning but also trying to do what they felt was best even if it may not be the best idea when you are watching on. You also see the characters deal with large feelings and how they can work with those without hurting others or giving others the benefit of the doubt, an example of this being Georgia’s feelings of jealousy towards Cindy.
One of the things I am most excited about when I think about reading Emma’s other YA books is getting to see all of the references to her other books, and in this one we did get one Vibbington reference which was exciting to see and I look forward to seeing more of that character in future books. I wish I could reread this as a physical copy and not know how it will all go down so as someone who will get the chance I really recommend that you take it. Everytime I read an Emma Smith book I just want to read more and this being my first five stars from her only heightens these feelings and I can’t wait to see what else she has in store for me.
August 30, 2024
This is the seventh time I’ve written this review because it keeps on not saving, fingers crossed that it works this time 🤞
This book was a cosy, quick read and will be perfect to read in the colder autumn months - blanket and fire and hot drink in hand, of course.
There were so many small elements that made this book even cuter, such as the Gilmore Girls references, Georgia’s fair isle jumpers (I absolutely love them) and even just the mention of Halloween in general.
I loved the relationship of everyone on the island, and I felt like it was generally such a nice community. I think that relationship between the kids was especially interesting, considering the fact that they didn’t talk at school, but when the storm hit and the group was faced with tragedy, they were all there for each other.
There were a lot of characters mentioned throughout the book, but it never got crowded. I said this when I reviewed TDHAWF, but I knew exactly who everyone was, and their relationship with everyone else on the island.
Especially in Mirage, there were so many people to suspect, and they all had some motive and/or a lot of evidence pointing to them, which made it so fun to play around with who the murderer actually was.
As an aspiring writer myself, I thought of starting a book where kids are being killed off one at a time whilst trying to find out who the killer is - much like Mirage - but was out completely put off due to the fact I become far too attached to my characters 😭
Attachment is such a bad thing whilst reading/writing murder mystery is such an annoying thing, because whilst reading Mirage, I knew people were going to die, and yet I still absolutely bawled when they did. I’m blaming Emma for that, because she always writes her characters so well.
Honestly, the whole vibe of this book was exactly what I love, and it’s the perfect Halloween mystery. I’m four books into Emma’s work and every book so far has been five stars! Mirage is definitely my current favourite, but I’m so excited to read the rest of Emma’s books!
I’d also like to say that I’m so happy and honoured I got to be an arc reader for Mirage and I’m so so excited for the rest of the world to be able to read it!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
P.S. You can preorder Mirage now for just £2.99 on Amazon Kindle (I think, please correct me Emma and I’ll edit this if that’s wrong lol) It’ll be so worth it , you save money and help rankings! HUGE win-win!
This book was a cosy, quick read and will be perfect to read in the colder autumn months - blanket and fire and hot drink in hand, of course.
There were so many small elements that made this book even cuter, such as the Gilmore Girls references, Georgia’s fair isle jumpers (I absolutely love them) and even just the mention of Halloween in general.
I loved the relationship of everyone on the island, and I felt like it was generally such a nice community. I think that relationship between the kids was especially interesting, considering the fact that they didn’t talk at school, but when the storm hit and the group was faced with tragedy, they were all there for each other.
There were a lot of characters mentioned throughout the book, but it never got crowded. I said this when I reviewed TDHAWF, but I knew exactly who everyone was, and their relationship with everyone else on the island.
Especially in Mirage, there were so many people to suspect, and they all had some motive and/or a lot of evidence pointing to them, which made it so fun to play around with who the murderer actually was.
As an aspiring writer myself, I thought of starting a book where kids are being killed off one at a time whilst trying to find out who the killer is - much like Mirage - but was out completely put off due to the fact I become far too attached to my characters 😭
Attachment is such a bad thing whilst reading/writing murder mystery is such an annoying thing, because whilst reading Mirage, I knew people were going to die, and yet I still absolutely bawled when they did. I’m blaming Emma for that, because she always writes her characters so well.
Honestly, the whole vibe of this book was exactly what I love, and it’s the perfect Halloween mystery. I’m four books into Emma’s work and every book so far has been five stars! Mirage is definitely my current favourite, but I’m so excited to read the rest of Emma’s books!
I’d also like to say that I’m so happy and honoured I got to be an arc reader for Mirage and I’m so so excited for the rest of the world to be able to read it!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
P.S. You can preorder Mirage now for just £2.99 on Amazon Kindle (I think, please correct me Emma and I’ll edit this if that’s wrong lol) It’ll be so worth it , you save money and help rankings! HUGE win-win!
August 19, 2024
Mirage' is definitely one of my highlights this year and a perfect read for september/october, the cozy island feeling, reminding me of Gilmore Girls somehow, paired with the murder mystery gives of the perfect autumn/halloween read, so don't hesitate to get yourself a copy, especially if you like crime shows and thrillers!!
The characters were so well described, each and every one had a lot of dimension, even the smaller characters (for example Graham). This made the story to me even more better since Emma managed to make me feel like I was a part of this Island and knew the people that lived there, just as well as Georgia knows them.
The story NEVER got boring, when I thought that there would come some "slower" chapters now, something new, that made the plot complete, happened and gave me new thoughts about what was happening on the island and who could be responsible for that...
Speaking of that... not once while I was reading the book was I able to figure out who was responsible for the murders. I had some different suspects but still got surprised in the end!
This book was so great but I have to say that I would have wished for a biiiit longer ending honestly, but I think that is just MY preference, in no means this made the book bad, but for me a little longer ending (1-2 more short chapters) would have made the book a 10 out of 10 for me, now I would say it's like a 9.5. (still wishing good reads would offer more rating options)
Probably this one is my favorite out of Emmas books now, since I'm such a lover of thrillers.
She managed to keep me on the hook the entire time, and make me like and also feel with every single one of the characters, I'm repeating myself but I have to say it again, this was definitely one of my highlights this year, I think it could be yours too if you give it a chance :)
The characters were so well described, each and every one had a lot of dimension, even the smaller characters (for example Graham). This made the story to me even more better since Emma managed to make me feel like I was a part of this Island and knew the people that lived there, just as well as Georgia knows them.
The story NEVER got boring, when I thought that there would come some "slower" chapters now, something new, that made the plot complete, happened and gave me new thoughts about what was happening on the island and who could be responsible for that...
Speaking of that... not once while I was reading the book was I able to figure out who was responsible for the murders. I had some different suspects but still got surprised in the end!
This book was so great but I have to say that I would have wished for a biiiit longer ending honestly, but I think that is just MY preference, in no means this made the book bad, but for me a little longer ending (1-2 more short chapters) would have made the book a 10 out of 10 for me, now I would say it's like a 9.5. (still wishing good reads would offer more rating options)
Probably this one is my favorite out of Emmas books now, since I'm such a lover of thrillers.
She managed to keep me on the hook the entire time, and make me like and also feel with every single one of the characters, I'm repeating myself but I have to say it again, this was definitely one of my highlights this year, I think it could be yours too if you give it a chance :)
August 26, 2024
4.75
I really loved this book. I am obsessed with the vibes it gave and it was so cozy to read it. I knew I was gonna like this as it was being marketed as a mix between Gilmore girls and agggtm and it really was, the relationship between Georgia and her mom was really comforting to read. As for the mystery part it was really well written, I did not except Annie to die and certainly not so soon also I didnt see Pauls death coming. I was really shocked at the deaths and cried a little. In the beginning the pace was a bit slow but as the first murder came it was picking up pretty quick. I loved the themes in this book: grief but also manipulation and there was alot of character development especially from Georgia. I liked that it had a plot twist but not a big one, like not that some character who we never heard of did it. There were alot of secrets on the island that Georgia also discovered and that was fun to read about. I also liked that it was sort of realistic, that there was a good reason why there wasnt police and she had to do it herself. I really loved the add of holly who 'fled from her husband' who abused her, I feel like thats an important part as it probably happens alot. This book has alot of potential for other books as someone from Vibbington came to visit (and there was a little mention from dead fine which was really fun to read about) and a friend from Georgia who does girl guiding which I feel could really make a fun book.
This book made me stay up all night to read so thats a really good sign. I think this is my favorite Emma Smith book!
-Iris
I really loved this book. I am obsessed with the vibes it gave and it was so cozy to read it. I knew I was gonna like this as it was being marketed as a mix between Gilmore girls and agggtm and it really was, the relationship between Georgia and her mom was really comforting to read. As for the mystery part it was really well written, I did not except Annie to die and certainly not so soon also I didnt see Pauls death coming. I was really shocked at the deaths and cried a little. In the beginning the pace was a bit slow but as the first murder came it was picking up pretty quick. I loved the themes in this book: grief but also manipulation and there was alot of character development especially from Georgia. I liked that it had a plot twist but not a big one, like not that some character who we never heard of did it. There were alot of secrets on the island that Georgia also discovered and that was fun to read about. I also liked that it was sort of realistic, that there was a good reason why there wasnt police and she had to do it herself. I really loved the add of holly who 'fled from her husband' who abused her, I feel like thats an important part as it probably happens alot. This book has alot of potential for other books as someone from Vibbington came to visit (and there was a little mention from dead fine which was really fun to read about) and a friend from Georgia who does girl guiding which I feel could really make a fun book.
This book made me stay up all night to read so thats a really good sign. I think this is my favorite Emma Smith book!
-Iris
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 29, 2024
Get your pumpkin spice latte, snuggle under a blanket and DEVOUR this book!!
I absolutely adored this!! It's just so fun and spooky and easy to read with so many twists and turns!
The overall atmosphere of this was everything. It had the cosy pumpkin spice latte, Gilmore Girls vibes of autumn yet also a series of murders on Halloween on a cut off island in a storm! This is THE autumn book and as always, the descriptions were incredible making it feel all the more real. I also need Georgia's coffee set up in my bedroom 😅
I was completely hooked when reading this! The murder mystery is so wild and fun and creepy. I was literally guessing everyone and just when I thought I had it, another twist would be thrown in.
The characters were so well developed and easy to distinguish. As is always the case with Emma's YA books, they were realistic, flawed teenagers which I love!! There's themes of first love, friendship, loyalty, judgment. It sums up the British teenage experience (excluding the murders hopefully!).
I also loved the relationships in this book - romantic, family, friend, community. It was all there! It's interesting to see how these relationships grow and change and develop, for the better or for the worse..
If you love
- Gilmore girls
- Murder mysteries
- Pumpkin spice lattes
- Castle ruins
- Autumn
Then this is a must-read!!
I absolutely adored this!! It's just so fun and spooky and easy to read with so many twists and turns!
The overall atmosphere of this was everything. It had the cosy pumpkin spice latte, Gilmore Girls vibes of autumn yet also a series of murders on Halloween on a cut off island in a storm! This is THE autumn book and as always, the descriptions were incredible making it feel all the more real. I also need Georgia's coffee set up in my bedroom 😅
I was completely hooked when reading this! The murder mystery is so wild and fun and creepy. I was literally guessing everyone and just when I thought I had it, another twist would be thrown in.
The characters were so well developed and easy to distinguish. As is always the case with Emma's YA books, they were realistic, flawed teenagers which I love!! There's themes of first love, friendship, loyalty, judgment. It sums up the British teenage experience (excluding the murders hopefully!).
I also loved the relationships in this book - romantic, family, friend, community. It was all there! It's interesting to see how these relationships grow and change and develop, for the better or for the worse..
If you love
- Gilmore girls
- Murder mysteries
- Pumpkin spice lattes
- Castle ruins
- Autumn
Then this is a must-read!!
August 15, 2024
What an engaging and beautifully written story with an amazing murder mystery element. If you’re a fan of Halloween and Autumn like me, this is the book for you! Reading this made me even more excited for the season than I already was! I’m not usually a fan of mystery thrillers, but I’ve loved every one of Emma’s entries into the genre, especially this one. The character dynamics were extremely accurate to the late teen age group and I can see people disliking some of them, but I found that especially Georgia was so real and human. Many female leads these days have no flaws or personality, so her character was a breath of fresh air to me.
I adore the setting of Ravensfarne island and how the small community come together during the storm, while also creating an isolating atmosphere where anything could happen. It’s an extremely captivating read throughout and I couldn’t recommend this book more! August 30th can’t come any quicker for everyone to get their hands on this! Congratulations again Emma and I wish you every success! x
I adore the setting of Ravensfarne island and how the small community come together during the storm, while also creating an isolating atmosphere where anything could happen. It’s an extremely captivating read throughout and I couldn’t recommend this book more! August 30th can’t come any quicker for everyone to get their hands on this! Congratulations again Emma and I wish you every success! x
August 23, 2024
I was lucky enough to read this book as an ARC reader and I could not recommend it enough! ‘Mirage’ is perfect for mystery fanatics, especially those who loved ‘A Good Girls Guide To Murder’! Emma Smith creates a mystery in such a unique way and seriously grips a reader. This book had me gripped from the very beginning, with my thoughts and theories being spun throughout. It is a book that will keep you on your toes; always expect the unexpected with Emma Smith!! I think this is the perfect addition to Emma’s mystery books so far, offering a different vibe to the others (I also really loved the ‘Dead Fine’ reference, it was perfect!). As a huge Emma Smith fan (who btw is far too underrated), I urge everybody to read ‘Mirage’ as soon as possible; set yourself up all cozy with a hot drink and you’ll be set! Also definitely look at her other books, my personal favourites are ‘Dead Fine’, ‘Wasted’ and ‘Guided’ which are all also mysteries!!
All in all, this book was incredible and is an amazing representation of how talented Emma is as an author!!
All in all, this book was incredible and is an amazing representation of how talented Emma is as an author!!
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