Ghostridden

Ghost Townies #1

by E.J. Russell

When ghostwriter Maz Amani inherits a house from an uncle he’s never heard of, he offers heartfelt thanks to the universe, packs up his car, his cat, and his skepticism about mysterious uncles leaving all their worldly goods to unknown nephews, and high-tails it to a small town halfway to the Oregon coast.

Anything would be better than week after week of couch surfing his way around Portland. Even if the alleged house is a rundown shack ridden with termites, spiders, and—shudder—rats, he’ll deal. Because hey, he owns a house!

And when his legacy turns out to be a pristine Queen Anne beauty with nary a termite, spider, or rat in sight, he’s ready to stand the universe unlimited vodka shots.

Except not so fast.

Because instead, his house is ridden with something a little more on-brand for a place called Ghost…

Genres: Paranormal, Mystery, Ghosts, M M Romance, Contemporary, Romance, Audiobook

228 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 20, 2024

About the author

E.J. Russell –grace, mother of three, recovering actor–writes romance in a rainbow of flavors. Count on high snark, low angst and happy endings.

Reality? Eh, not so much.

Reviews

[Carol [Goodreads Addict] · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ghostridden is a stand alone cozy mystery by E.J. Russell. This is my first book by this author. I’ve been wanting to try them for awhile and have another on my TBR. Since this was offered on Kindle Unlimited, it was a perfect choice for me. One thing is that I didn’t look closely enough to realize it was a cozy mystery so there is only a hint of a possible romance. Still, it was a cute who-done-it and I enjoyed it.



Mazin “Maz” Amani is thirty years old. He has recently had a bad break-up and has been couch surfing in Portland when he is contacted and informed he has inherited a Victorian Mansion in Ghost, Oregon from an Uncle he never even knew he had. Maz needs a change of scenery and this is the perfect opportunity. Although he’s certain that he’ll find a house that is in complete disrepair, abandoned. When in truth, what he discovers is the complete opposite.



Maz works from home. He is a ghost writer and what a perfect place for him to make a new home, in a town called Ghost. Only the town’s name soon means something very different to Maz.

When Maz arrives at his new home, he finds a pristine, beautiful home that he falls instantly in love with. But it doesn’t take long for him to realize that something is amiss. And that something is that he is sharing his new home with it’s previous owner who has been deceased for quite some time.



As Maz begins to dig into the history of it’s previous owners, something doesn’t feel right and he is determined to figure it out to help his new roommate. He also makes some new friends and even a possible romantic interest, if he can live long enough to enjoy it all!



This was a pretty quick read. I read it in a little over a day. I enjoyed trying to figure out the mystery and seeing how easily Maz just accepted his new roommate, something he never believed in before. And that he was so determined to help him. It was sweet and cute and a perfect book for this time of year!

For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...

[Cadiva · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love EJ's paranormal romance and now I love this cosy mystery

This was such a fun read, with an interesting narrative, a lot of humour, and a mystery which unravelled itself in an excellent fashion.

While I'd worked out who the bad guy was, it didn't happen until later on in the story when it became clear what the motivation had been for the previously undiscovered crime.

The ghostly element helps keep the story fresh and provides a lovely insight into the lives of the previous owners of the house.

I'm also intrigued by the family who established the Manor House too and their ghostly investigations.

[Edga · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ghostridden is a cosy mystery with a ghostly twist. The story is EJ Russell at her best, it's a mystery and supernatural elements, which follows Maz, who unexpectedly inherits a beautifully kept house from his unknown uncle. As he settles into his new life, he discovers that the house is haunted by none other than said uncle, Avi.

Ms Russell cleverly crafts the plot, which gradually unravels the mystery surrounding Avi and the reason for his presence in the house. I loved the cosy and atmospheric setting, also the majority of the characters are both endearing and relatable. Maz's interactions with Ricky are charming, and the 'very nearly date' adds a touch of humor and warmth to the story.

I really enjoyed this read, it'll appeal to those who like cozy mysteries and supernatural thrillers alike. It's both light hearted and heart warming. Can't wait for the next book.

If you can you must listen to the audiobook. Greg Boudreaux is masterly in his narration. He brings the story and the characters to life effortlessly, capturing all of their foibles. He really is one of the best narrators out there.

[Terri · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this one. There are some redundant recaps in the middle, and the author plays with what the ghost can do, but the plot's good and I enjoyed the characters a lot. The small town vibe was right on. I'll definitely want book 2.

[Deeze · Rating 3 out of 5]

An interesting take on ghosts.

This was a nice story and the mystery was well done.

What let it down for me was Maz and Ricky. I just never felt a connection. They were both nice guys but there was no spark.

Avi on the other hand was who I wanted more of, and I really wanted Oren to make an appearance.

So while this was a good story it also lacked something to really keep me invested.

[Jan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ghostwriter Maz Amani was having a lot of bad luck due to his former boyfriend causing employment problems. THEN he finds out that he has inherited a gorgeous Queen Anne house in small town Ghost, Oregon. He has also inherited a wonderful neighbor who has a very interesting nephew, a few academics interested in Maz's housemate who just happens to be a GHOST. Fantastic characters including Maz's cat, Gilgamesh. Absolutely loved this fun read and glad to see that there will be more in this series!
#GhostTowniesBk1 #cozymystery #paranormal #ghost #smalltown #situationahumor #bromance #petcat #ghostwriter #contemporary #multigenerational #EJRussell #LGBTQIABooks #LGBTQBooks #BooksBooksBooks #BooksAndBooks #ReadMoreBooks #ReadBooks #ILoveBooks #BooksAreBetter #DiverseBooks #Bookstagram #GregBoudreaux #audio #ibpalovesindies #newseries

[Teresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great start to a new series!

I really enjoyed this book about a ghostwriter and a ghost writer! Well, and the potential love interest(s) lol. It is really more a cozy mystery than a romance, much like the Quest Investigations series, but well worth the read. I can’t wait to read more about the town and these characters!

The audio bumped my rating up to 4.5!!

[Teresa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great start to a new series!

I really enjoyed this book about a ghostwriter and a ghost writer! Well, and the potential love interest(s) lol. It is really more a cozy mystery than a romance, much like the Quest Investigations series, but well worth the read. I can’t wait to read more about the town and these characters!

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

An engaging cozy mystery

Maz inherits a house with a ghost and discovers interesting things about the person’s history and death. And a few things about one of his favorite authors! The story kept me glued to my Kindle. A quick, rewarding read.

[Cynthia M Brow · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ghostridden is the story of Maz a ghostwriter and Ricky who has many jobs. I loved this story but wished it was longer. I wish there had been more romance but I loved the mystery in the story. I loved the ghost and Gil the cat. E.J. Russell is an amazing author and I can't wait to see what she comes up with next. If you get the audio narration, Greg Boudreaux does a wonderful job of narrating everything he does. He makes the change in characters seamlessly. I can't wait to listen to the next book he does. I would definitely recommend this book.

[Monika · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved Ghostridden! There was a lot to this very quick read and I can't wait for the next book.

● Contemporary
● Paranormal
● Small town
● Starting over in a new town
● A ghost writer (haha!) who is the only one that can see the ghost (Avi)
● Oops, plus a cat that can also see Avi
● A jack-of-all trades
● A ghost I really wanted to hug
● A bit of a mystery
● Not an HEA or an HFN but the beginning of what I think will be a sweet romance
● Made me cry
● There is an ending but the story is left open
● Part of a series
● Can't wait for the next instalment

[notachance · Rating 4 out of 5]

I nearly didn’t read this because the cover is so bad, but I’m glad I did. It’s another mystery that could have been solved with a security camera, which for some reason doesn’t occur to anyone, though. Also I thought the John Barrowman gushing was a weird inclusion given all the accusations.

[RBR]

“A wonderful gift may not be wrapped as you expect.” – Jonathan Lockwood Huie


Maz's life unexpectedly turns in 'Ghostridden' by E.J. Russell. His recent breakup has left him homeless, seeking refuge on friends' couches until he can get a job and a place of his own. However, a surprising twist of fate alters his circumstances. His distant uncle's passing has left him a house, albeit in the remote town of Ghost. Maz and his cat, Gil, pack up his Civic and head to their new life.

Since Maz has never seen a picture of his inherited house, he imagines it might be a broken-down dump with rats. However, the reality is far more enchanting. The house is a breathtaking sight, starkly contrasting his expectations. But when Maz tries to open the door, the key won't work. Fortunately, his next-door neighbor, Tia Sofia, offers help from her son, Ricky. Ricky and Maz share an instant, undeniable attraction. But Maz's self-confidence has taken a hit after so many breakups that he won't even entertain the thought that something could happen between them.

After being empty for so long, Maz expects the house to need cleaning, but to his and Ricky's surprise, the place is immaculate. Maz decides that the real estate agent must have arranged for cleaning. Ricky gives him a tour, and Maz marvels at the beauty surrounding him. Maz spends his first night at his new home thinking all is well. But, when he goes downstairs, he is met with a disturbing view. The library is in shambles; books are all over the floor, and pictures are crooked on the walls. Also, there is a typewriter in the attic that has a message that reads: "No, no, no, no." He is beginning to believe someone, or something, doesn't want him there.

Things become even more bizarre when Avi, the previous owner, manifests and criticizes his writing. Without skipping too many beats, Maz starts a conversation with him. When he tries to tell Ricky and others about Avi, they are skeptical because Maz is the only one who can see him. Maz and Avi become accustomed to each other, especially since Maz must deliver some sad news and witness the pain it causes. Despite these challenges, Maz's determination to find out the truth about some events in the past and do his best to make them right is inspiring.

'Ghostridden' is a charming tale with a happy-for-now conclusion. Maz's quick wit is engaging, and gaining insight into his thoughts greatly enhances the story. Avi was a wonderful mix of nostalgia and sadness. My heart broke for him. Gil, of course, was a joy. Thanks, E.J., for the entertaining story. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.


DISCLAIMER: Books reviewed on this site were usually provided at no cost by the publisher or author. This book was purchased by the reviewer.

[Sudsana Reads (mostly smut) · Rating 4 out of 5]

📗4.2 Read 22nd October, 2025. i went in completely blind. Was desperate for a ghost story and so am glad i picked this up. There’s a mystery to it which was unexpected! Lovely characters especially Avi. Narrated by Greg Boudreaux! Tropes & tags at the end.

🔹Story- 4⭐, Characters- 4.8⭐, Sex- n/a⭐, Epilogue- n/a⭐

●The story focuses on Maz inheriting a house from his dead uncle in a town named Ghost and having the ghost of Avi (his uncle’s partner) in his house. He's told by a psychic that the only way to help the ghost move on is to find its "happiness," sending him on a funny, sometimes sad, but always entertaining investigative journey to uncover new truths.

●i LOVED Avi. ♥ Orin and Avi’s story is so tragic. :’( The poor ghost didn’t even know that Orin (Maz’s uncle) has died and he’s still waiting for him to come home. 😭

●i liked Maz and Ricky together. They were cute. They became friends. i love how Ricky trusts Maz unconditionally. But nothing happens here. Then i realised this is BOOK 1 OF THE SERIES. And apparently it’s not a romance at all since the author states: While the books contain romantic elements, they are not romances. 😭😭😭

●i could see the culprit from a mile away but still, it was nicely done.

These issues didn’t lower my enjoyment much, but i needed to mention them:

♦There were a LOT of side characters. It got hard to keep up at first.

♦OM drama: Carson (Avi’s nephew) seems really interested in Maz. He’s sleezy, manipulative & a liar. They go out on “a coffee date” but Maz is not interested, he just wants to be friends. But the whole thing feels icky.

♦Maz's ex was an abusive shitbag. So throughout the book he keeps mentioning how the guy used to demean him. It really seems he’s deeply wounded by the ex, his self image taking a toll. i felt angry on Maz’s behalf.

Tropes & tags: multiracial couple (arabic x hispanic), haunted house, murder mystery, not a romance, high angst, 1st person single pov.
CW: Mentions of emotional abuse by ex.

[Kelly (Maybedog) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like cozy mystery ghost stories and this is a good entry into the genre despite the fact that the mystery isn’t really understood as even existing until fairly early on. Even then, the MC is the only one who really cares much and even he doesn’t really do much more than talk to the medical examiner who agrees the man was probably killed. There’s no detective with i all. It’s not that people argue with him about whether the character was murdered, they find it possible, but no one looks into it. Then the second mystery, which dovetails with the first, is pretty much solved as soon as it’s discovered.

But the characters are sweet and the town is perfect, things very common in cozies. Maz just happens upon the perfect job for someone in his line of work. He finds the perfect house. He even has unruly curls that he brings up way too frequently just like the women in probably a third of female protagonists in cozy mysteries. (He really needed to stop referring to his hair.)

I do love that he’s of Arab decent which you almost never see in any kind of book where it’s not relevant to the plot. His vocation is unusual and I really like it. MC writers are prevalent but not ghost writers. They’re not seen as real writers by a lot of people and not well respected. But here there are several scenes in the book where he explains the special skills in being a ghostwriter and how it really is being a writer, just a different kind than, say, a novelist.

The house was really cool, especially the library. It was awesome that when he listed the books he said M/M romance authors along with mainstream author in the same reverent tone. I too loved the window seats although it was weird that they both adored them because they had read Jane Eyre. I’ve read that book and it was long enough ago that I don’t even remember window seats being in them. Maybe it was the first book such things appeared in, I don’t know, but they play a role in gobs of stories especially those geared towards young girls. MMy parents even have them, although they’re made for extra seating not curling up in.

I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.

The reader was my beloved Greg Boudreaux and he was amazing as usual. He did an excellent job pronouncing the Mexican Spanish words in addition to everything else.

[Melanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Delightful New Read and splendid group of characters

Rating: 4.5🌈

E.J. Russell begins a new series, Ghost Townies, with Ghostridden, a wonderful paranormal mystery that introduces the delightful denizens, mysteriously quirky history of this remote small town that’s Ghost, Oregon.

It begins when ghostwriter Maz Amani, accompanied by his ginger cat Gilgamesh, arrives at the house he inherited from an Uncle Oren he barely knew.

That house, a gorgeous Queen Anne, is its own character and promptly becomes a magnet as it pulls in neighbors and townsfolk to meet the new owner.

Russell does such a splendid job building a sense of community by way a of a great cast of characters. Each one has a special role and warmth to them, whether it’s Tia Sophia, Saul Pasternak and Jerry McHale and their daughter, Taryn, to the other shop owners, these are folk we want to know and spend time with.

The main characters too. Maz Amani who so desperately wants a home, finds himself in the middle of a mystery. The story of the house he inherited is more than it appears. I love that we discover along with Maz as he learns about the house, the couple (his Uncle included), and the town through research and revelations. Some bittersweet and heartfelt.

There’s a few elements that caught me off guard. In one point in a conversation, Maz says

“Are you taking the piss?”

This is a distinctly UK/English phrase, definitely not one you’d hear an American say. So its appearance in a dialogue, from an American to another, in this context is very jarring and took me out of the moment.

Another is that I felt the “villain” of this book was easily tagged. While the motivation behind the villainy isn’t clear until the end (great dramatic scenes), I feel I knew the “who” straight away.

Not a bad element because we get that wonderful storytelling about Avi and Oren in between, and it’s amazing.

I hope for much more of this going forward. Of the main couple and characters too. I think this will be a great series.


Cover design: L C Chase

[Theodore]

I feel like Maz didn't act appropriately to his situation at the start. He had either a ghost or an intruder inside his house and yet he was still fine cracking jokes, taking jobs, and going in dates? Plus he accepted Taryn's suggestion of the supernatural too quickly imo. I feel like either the paranormal should've been established as a clear regulat existence in the universe first or Maz should've been characterized as a believer in the paranormal earlier in the story, because him literally taking a stranger's word for it that "it was ghosts!" felt super weird.

I really would definitely not call this a romance. I wouldn't even say this has a romantic subplot given how Maz and Ricky basically don't actually get to date each other one-on-one. The story is a low stakes mystery that happens to have two men trying to date each other.

No comment about the mystery itself other than it was sort of obvious, but since I'm not very familiar with mystery stories, idk if it was meant to be obvious.

Given that this actually isn't a romance (which is my preferred genre) I will not be giving this a rating since it would be unfair of me to judge this by something that it isn't.

I felt a little misled given the blurb mentions nothing about this being only a paranormal story (I notice the sequel's blurb specifically mentions that the series is not a romance, so perhaps the author realized that the blurb + cover were misleading).

[Katriana · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely am enamored with this story, the characters were incredible, the dialogue was engaging, and the way this was written was done expertly! Everything flowed smoothly, the characters that were apart of the story had a reason for being there. I enjoyed that this took place in a small town, and I loved how that was emphasized. The author took us on a journey around the small town names after a supernatural entity.

The origin story of how the small town became Ghost, was really intriguing. I loved that E.J. came up with a whole backstory and historical component to not just the town itself, but also to the buildings that are in the town too.

I really liked how this book was focused on Maz's journey with Avi, how he was determined to learn more about the man that resides in his home. And how he wanted to figure out what happened to him, even though Avi was basically a stranger. The murder mystery aspect I thought was written in such a believable and captivating way, I was fully invested in learning what happened to Avi, and why it happened.

This was a terrific story that I enjoyed greatly! While there is still a romance kindling throughout the pages of this story, it's not the main focus. Which I thought was a nice change! All in all a really magnificent story featuring a friendly ghost, and a mystery that has to be solved.

[Mari Cardenas · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars!

It's no secret I'm a big fan of Ms. Russell's writing and this book is definitely one of the reasons why. Fantastic characters, a captivating storyline, and the promise of more in further installments. 

I loved Maz, who was down on his luck until he inherited a house in a quaint town named Ghost from an uncle he'd never heard about. The people in Ghost are mostly welcoming and take Maz in as one of their own even if he's new to the town, especially the town's handyman Ricky, godson of his lovely neighbor Sofia, who (I hope) will be Maz's significant other in the next books. 

The romance took a bit of a backstep in lieu of a fascinating plotline that involved a ghost (Avi) that is haunting Maz's new house and who only Maz and his cat seem able to see and interact with. While their start was more than a bit shaky, they quickly established a nice rapport between them. I really liked that while he empathized with Carson, Avi's nephew, and believed his claims that he'd been emotionally abused by Avi when he was still alive, Maz was open-minded enough to listen to Ricky and realize there was more to that than what Carson had said. 

Overall, a great start to the series! I have no trouble recommending this book and I'm already looking forward to more. 

*** Copy provided for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***

[Harrison Hicks · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fun start to a new cozy paranormal series by EJ Russell. When Maz Armani inherits a house in Oregon from an uncle he never knew he had, he undertakes a journey with quite a few twists and turns.

As it turns out, the house is haunted, and only Maz can see the ghost, his uncle Avi. He then must solve the mystery of Avi's death with the help of several of the townspeople of the town, including Ricky, an intriguing figure with skills in many different areas but no seemingly defined job. It's an entertaining tale, if a bit slow to get going with all of the characters involved and setting up the premise.

The villain of the piece isn't exactly a surprise, but Maz's efforts to help Avi give the book an added layer of emotion as he comes to know a family member previously unknown to him. And the added twist of Maz's profession of ghostwriter is an interesting one, one that I found thought provoking at times with Russell making a convincing case for the creativity of ghostwriters, and indeed all writers in general.

With the setup of this new series out of the way, I'm looking forward to seeing what other mysteries Maz helps to solve in the haunted town of Ghost, Oregon.

[Xanthe · Rating 5 out of 5]

**4.5**
I love reading EJ Russell's paranormal stories and, already, I can tell this is going to be a great series.
I was invested from the start as Maz moves to Ghost, the small town where he has inherited a house from a second cousin he didn't know about. Fortunate timing as he was couch surfing but now finds himself a home owner, though it does become slightly complicated.
Some wonderful townspeople to meet, one or two not so much and then there is the addition of a ghost in his own home. The world building from the author is excellent as Ghost seems to fit its name perfectly, having become a quieter town in recent years. I can't wait to get to know everyone better, and we're teased with the possibility of a relationship between Maz and his neighbour's godson/nephew, Ricky. He seems really sweet and like they'd be good together but the strange goings on in Maz's house, along with the mystery that develops, keeps that on the back burner for now.
I'm really looking forward to more from this series and highly recommend diving in with this book.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.

[Beth · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fun, low angst paranormal romance

This is the first in a series and there’s a lot of stage setting. There’s also more to be explained which I hope will be coming in follow up books. The MC, Max, is likeable and the story is intriguing. A previously unheard of relative leaves Max a gorgeous house in a small town called Ghost, OR. Thanks to his ex Max is in desperate need of a place to live and a chance to re-start his career so he packs up his meager belongings and his cat and takes off. Once he arrives in Ghost he’s in for some shocking revelations and he finds a mystery to solve.

The story is fun and low angst. There’s the start of a slow burn romance but no steam. There are interesting secondary characters. The “mysteries” were all pretty obvious (I thought) and I found myself frequently telling Max to get a clue. Max is just a little too naive and gullible for someone who makes a career out of researching and ghost writing. But he’s loveable so it’s not as irritating as it could be.

I’m looking forward to where the series goes from here and the progression of the budding romance.

[Anne Barwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the idea of a ghostwriter sharing a house with a ghost, and this book delivered on that and more. The first story in this new fun series has plenty of my favourite things – small town, mystery, more than a touch of paranormal, an author or two, and a cat.

I loved Maz immediately. He’s overdue life going his way, especially after his nasty ex. I love that his and Ricky’s relationship is very slow burn. Maz seems to settle into his new home and situation first. Ricky’s definitely one of the good guys. He’s there to help immediately. I love how he’s related to everyone, and his relationship with his Tia Sophia is sweet.

Ghost is populated with wonderful townspeople. I loved Taryn, and wouldn’t want to come up against her. Her dads are awesome, as are the siblings who run the bakery.

I hope Avi finds some closure by the end of the series – poor guy.

And Gilgamesh AKA Gig is a typical kitty scene stealer. I love how he’s already purred his way into Tia Sophia’s heart.

I liked that not everyone is a good guy, and loved the final showdown as all the clues fall into place. I’m already looking forward to the next in the series.

[Eden Winters · Rating 5 out of 5]

E.J. Russell books are an auto-buy for me. In fact, I wish there was a way to set that up. New release, go ahead and send me a copy, and just let me know the charges and that it's in my library. Yeah, that would work.

No matter what the subgenre or trope, E.J. keeps me riveted, whether it's the urban fantasy world of modern day fae, unique shifters in Oregon, a supernatural detective agency or a supernatural dating service, or even contemporary romance. The novels never fail to please.

I'm happy that Ghostridden is the start of a new series for me to devour. I enjoyed this one in audiobook format, and Greg Boudreaux's narration is fantastic as always. You know, I never realized I had a thing for long-lost-relative-leaves-something-in-a-will stories until this one. But now I know.

I have questions about our heroes Maz and Ricky, but as this is a series, I expect the details to be teased out over the next few books. Fantastic supporting cast, and in particular, the scene-stealing cat, Gil.

I also have high hopes for Avi's situation.

Excellent first installment. I can't wait for more. Highly recommended.

[MyDoRyS · Rating 3 out of 5]

My reviews are my own. If you liked this book, I’m glad you enjoyed it. This is merely my opinion, so let's keep it courteous.

The story was entertaining, I almost skipped it because the cover is so lame...feels like an 80's sitcom picture. It was a bit predictable. I wish they spent more time on the "detective" work than so much wasted on unnecessary fillers. I do not get why the MC, even if he is new to town, will believe people who are total assholes. If you don't like someone's personality, why even give them any time? I don't get people who can't just say NO when they don't want to do something and let others push them around. In addition, how can someone be so blind? He has an amazing guy interested in him, and he is going out with a pompous, arrogant prick instead. Anyway, not awful, but I don't get the MC being so ignorant when he is a 30-year-old adult. I couldn't connect with him, too immature for my taste for an adult character.

On to my next adventure, Happy Readings!!!

[E. · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

“Ghostridden” by EJ Russell is a fun gay paranormal story that has a delightful mixture of genres that grabbed me from the first line and kept me anxiously turning the pages. I love the way things slowly escalate from an unforeseen windfall to uncanny occurrences to a murder mystery, all within a small-town framework. There are plenty of fascinating characters, including those with an obsession to contact ghosts, which makes it all the more amusing that both Maz and his cat are the only ones who can see and interact with a ghost.

This is the beginning of a series, so there are a few dangling threads, and I am anxiously awaiting sequels to help resolve some of the overall arcs as well as introduce additional quirky characters. After all, there can’t help but be more fun times in a town called Ghost, inhabited by ghosts, that welcomed a ghostwriter who may just provide services to help a ghost write a book.


A copy of this title was provided for review

[Khurshid · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a delightful and interesting book Ghostridden by E J Russell turned out to be.
It had an interesting story line, and I fell in love with Avi, Rick and Maz and his cat Gil, all were a delight.
The characters were engaging and the story flowed easily from one scene to another seamlessly.

An unusual Ghost story based in a town called Ghost with an interesting twist to the story as it progressed.

This was my first time reading by this author, and I am looking forward to read more of her work, and am hoping that there will be a follow up to this series. Would like to read more about the romance between Maz and Rick next with Avi and Oren joining the team.

Definitely deserved 5 shiny Stars.

[Sandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I genuinely loved this book. I read it in one sitting. I would like to point out that while one of the major mysteries do get solved in the book, this does not come across as a "standalone" because the story is clearly not done yet. That means, considering it was just released last month, that I'll probably have to wait longer than I'd like for the next one. In a perfect world, all the books in a series would come at the same time. (It's possible my need to binge Netflix series is rubbing off on my reading practice.)

In any case, I can't wait for the next book to be released and I'll be happy to read this first one again when it does! It was sweet and saucy with a heavy dose of wholesome*... and the characters are lovable. I recommend this book whole-heartedly.

[SandyB · Rating 5 out of 5]

Between ghostwriter Maz Amani slowly coming around to the supernatural quirks of Ghost, OR, to his fabulous cat, Gilgamesh, and the town’s residents who are quick to make him feel welcome, this book charmed me from the get-go. The mystery was fun and just the right amount of mystery for a cozy PNR–a few interesting twists, plus fortunately solved in this book–while the romance is definitely at the starter stage, just like the series. Without giving too much away, there are just enough loose ends for characters and secondary plots to make me cross a few fingers that the next book is out soon.

[Shymsal · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fun start to Russell's new series. Maz was a good main character, intelligent, kind, quick witted. The romance was the warm and cuddly sort (Very little to no heat so far). The cat brought the attitude, as he should!, and was loveable in a cat's irascible way.

The ghost story made me very sad and very angry with the "bad guy" -- who, while on the obvious side, had issues odd enough to make them memorable to me.

I find myself wondering if Maz (and/or Avi) will be the catalyst to more of the local ghosts making themselves known, so I am definitely looking forward to seeing more of this world!