Simon's Ghost

by Kathleen Alys Hurley

At the age of seventeen, Simon watched the love of his life, Dominic, die in a tragic accident.
Now, some five years later, Dominic’s ghost is still hanging around, equal parts eternal companion and haunting reminder of the night that ended their childhoods.
But Dominic is not the only spirit Simon has to deal with. Ever since the accident, Simon has been seeing strange supernatural visions.
From the cold beaches of Maine to the white-hot sunny skies of California, the United States of America is all Ghost Country. And Simon will have to cross all of it in his dangerous journey to get back home.
Simon’s Ghost is the debut novel by Kathleen Alys Hurley published by Poe Girl Publishing

253 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 18, 2024

Reviews

[Bb Hurley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am normally not a horror reader, but this ghost/redemption/supernatural road trip was the perfect blend of Gothic storytelling and quickwitted narrative.
It took me two chapters to see where the author was taking the story of Simon and Dominic. But once the early character development was established the narrative holds its own as we travel with the characters both physically and emotionally. This is particularly true leading to a really beautifully written and satisfying ending.

[MJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

A compelling read with an interesting way to explore grief, anxiety, and love. The imagery in this story is powerful, with such interesting visuals they stick with you after you put the book down. With a powerful ending and a (g)host of intriguing characters, it’s a read you’ll find yourself thinking about even when the pages aren’t in front of you.

[Rosemary Shelton · Rating 5 out of 5]

On all counts this story was great-
Firstly, I think my favorite part were the descriptions. I don’t know how to describe it but it felt like the descriptions of the places and setting were less visual and more about the feelings of the place.
Secondly, the main character was extremely likeable but still flawed enough to be an interesting main character
Thirdly, the ending was extremely satisfying.

I definitely always prefer character driven stories and this definitely was that.
Also it took me a stupid long time to realize the chapter titles were Odyssey references

[Hilary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Normally horror isn't my go to genre but I'm so glad I picked this one up. Ever since I watched The Sixth Sense I've had an irrational fear of seeing ghosts/murder scenes so this really spoke to me. The author has such a visual writing style that it felt like experiences I have already had. Hard to believe this is a debut novel, I would read more from this author.

[Stephen Hurley · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was a good story about a like-able, engaging main character's dangerous journey to find something in himself he did not know he was looking for. A very powerful and satisfying ending. With ghosts!

[Allie · Rating 5 out of 5]

It took me a few chapters to feel invested in the main character, Simon, but once I did, this book was a very quick enjoyable, and thought-provoking read. The ending was a very nice way to tie up the story. I still find myself thinking of the characters and wanting the best for them.