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Reconstructionist #0.5
The Graveyard Kiss
Tis better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all
But really? Is it? Luci, a true believer in Victorian love poetry, is about to find out whether her teenaged heart and soul is up to surviving a boyfriend who prefers elegies… and the ancient evil he might have dug up on the Internet.
This 7,000 word young adult, urban fantasy, short story from author Meghan Ciana Doidge is set in the same universe as The Dowser series.
But really? Is it? Luci, a true believer in Victorian love poetry, is about to find out whether her teenaged heart and soul is up to surviving a boyfriend who prefers elegies… and the ancient evil he might have dug up on the Internet.
This 7,000 word young adult, urban fantasy, short story from author Meghan Ciana Doidge is set in the same universe as The Dowser series.
31 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 6, 2014
50 people are currently reading
179 people want to read
About the author
Meghan Ciana Doidge
47 books1,293 followersMeghan Ciana Doidge writes tales of true love conquering all, even death. Though sometimes the love is elusive, the vampires and werewolves come out to play in the daylight, and bloody mayhem ensues.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
May 11, 2014
A short story set in a familiar world, but with unknown characters. I'm not sure how this relates to this author's other books, but this story was definitely intriguing on its own. The ending took an unexpected turn for me which made this super interesting. I'm not a gigantic poetry fan, so while I recognized a lot of the author's names and even some of the lines used, most of it was foreign to me. Not a big deal, but if poetry is your thing, you might enjoy this more. Regardless, I gave this 5 stars because I think the editing was flawless, the story-telling enchanting, and the plot captured my attention. Definitely need more of this author!
January 25, 2020
Free on Amazon today (May 9th-11th) - http://mybook.to/GraveyardKiss
(Source: Downloaded for free from amazon.co.uk.)
I wasn't really sure what to expect from this, but I actually really enjoyed it! I loved Luci, and I loved the little twists in the story, it was really funny and clever!
The ending was also good, and I was impressed at the little twist we got there too! Great short story overall!
8 out of 10.
(Source: Downloaded for free from amazon.co.uk.)
I wasn't really sure what to expect from this, but I actually really enjoyed it! I loved Luci, and I loved the little twists in the story, it was really funny and clever!
The ending was also good, and I was impressed at the little twist we got there too! Great short story overall!
8 out of 10.
August 13, 2016
Strange little story
I have to say that this is masterfully written, but I honestly can't say that I liked it. I don't. The author perfectly paints a girl of a certain age and class as well as her entire environment with an economy of well chosen words. You certainly suspect something is wrong from the dissonance between the events outside and the girl's thoughts. You may even suspect the theme from certain clues along the way. But I, at least, was not prepared for the Saki-esque sucker punch at the end of the story. I wanted the story to continue, to fill in maddening details of the past, to say what happens next. Nope, I didn't like it, not one little bit. But I won't forget the story for quite some time.
(Note: If you are unfamiliar with the stories of H.H. Munroe, pen name Saki, run, do not walk, to read every one. And then come back and read everything that Meghan Ciana Doidge has written. You will be glad you did on both counts.)
I have to say that this is masterfully written, but I honestly can't say that I liked it. I don't. The author perfectly paints a girl of a certain age and class as well as her entire environment with an economy of well chosen words. You certainly suspect something is wrong from the dissonance between the events outside and the girl's thoughts. You may even suspect the theme from certain clues along the way. But I, at least, was not prepared for the Saki-esque sucker punch at the end of the story. I wanted the story to continue, to fill in maddening details of the past, to say what happens next. Nope, I didn't like it, not one little bit. But I won't forget the story for quite some time.
(Note: If you are unfamiliar with the stories of H.H. Munroe, pen name Saki, run, do not walk, to read every one. And then come back and read everything that Meghan Ciana Doidge has written. You will be glad you did on both counts.)
February 23, 2016
This was an interesting little short story. Not really what I was expecting by the description, but worth the 30 minute read. The ending was great!
May 26, 2018
The Graveyard Kiss was an unusual little novella. It was suspenseful, dramatic and well-plotted - but it was missing that little something.
I wasn't fond of the characters, as the protagonist was a little too much on the peculiar / weird side - rather than being simply quirky -for my liking. I couldn't relate to her and that let me down a little.
Saying that, the suspense was extremely well planned out for such a short novella. Normally, I find these sorts of books rushed and over before you know it. The Graveyard Kiss managed to keep you on your toes the entire time and was developed out well. Unfortunately, we were kept a little too much in the dark and I found that I didn't really have a clue what was happening for most of the novel.
The end twist was fantastic but the actual ending itself was slightly... unfulfilling, I think. Is that the word I am looking for? I just didn't settle right with me... does that make sense?
However, this was definitely one of the best novellas I have ever read seeing as it was a Amazon freebie.
I wasn't fond of the characters, as the protagonist was a little too much on the peculiar / weird side - rather than being simply quirky -for my liking. I couldn't relate to her and that let me down a little.
Saying that, the suspense was extremely well planned out for such a short novella. Normally, I find these sorts of books rushed and over before you know it. The Graveyard Kiss managed to keep you on your toes the entire time and was developed out well. Unfortunately, we were kept a little too much in the dark and I found that I didn't really have a clue what was happening for most of the novel.
The end twist was fantastic but the actual ending itself was slightly... unfulfilling, I think. Is that the word I am looking for? I just didn't settle right with me... does that make sense?
However, this was definitely one of the best novellas I have ever read seeing as it was a Amazon freebie.
June 29, 2019
Am I doing this in the wrong order? I am a completionist and decided to start with 0.5 of the reconstructionist series, but I'm feeling a little lost.
We join Luci, who I don't know (do we get to know her?) and I went right from the Dowser and Oracle into this... high school drama? Luci is a teenager who is adapting to life and mourning her boyfriend in a very unique way. These two are in love in the way that only high schoolers can be, complete with notes, hearts, and poetry. He ends up following up on something on the internet and suddenly she is at his funeral and then at his grave. Then things get... weird. As a short story I'm left a little confused and not sure where it's supposed to be going. Maybe that will be a little clearer when I dive into book 1.
We join Luci, who I don't know (do we get to know her?) and I went right from the Dowser and Oracle into this... high school drama? Luci is a teenager who is adapting to life and mourning her boyfriend in a very unique way. These two are in love in the way that only high schoolers can be, complete with notes, hearts, and poetry. He ends up following up on something on the internet and suddenly she is at his funeral and then at his grave. Then things get... weird. As a short story I'm left a little confused and not sure where it's supposed to be going. Maybe that will be a little clearer when I dive into book 1.
February 22, 2017
This is the pre-quel to the Reconstructionist series. It is short story about what happens to the teenagers in the book. It is poignant and thoughtful. It reminded me of how much angst is enveloped in those adolescent years and how teens feel so deeply. This author does not have her characters jump into relationships quickly and I like that. Sometimes I wish they would move a little faster in some of her books. The Graveyard Kiss is a look back that explains the beginning of this series. This novella is important to the series, as it makes you feel more for the victims and those left behind.
January 19, 2025
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️. 0🌶️. This was an intriguing tiny novella. I haven’t read Meghan before, and as she’s attending RARE25 I thought I would just do a taster before I go. The taster may turn into a meal. As I really enjoyed this! The writing was great for such a short novella, and the premise of the story is intriguing. This also contains a detailed reading order guide, so I’ll likely be off down that rabbit hole soon.
February 10, 2018
Oh my gosh. This was incredible. The Graveyard Kiss is written in a different point of view than the other books she has written. At first, I was confused as to where it was going, but I was definitely hooked. It's an excellent quick read, and I can't wait to see how it connects to The Reconstructionist trilogy.
November 28, 2020
I found this a strange beginning, but really was fascinated with the back and forth feelings toward someone who had recently died (no funeral yet). As I got further into the story, I liked it even better. Then the ending....and what a surprise it is! Totally, not what I was expecting. I recommend reading this book.
March 15, 2017
A very quick story to whet the appetite! Having read The Cupcake Series (or the Downer Series), I knew where the story should be Headed! I can not wait to now start The Reconstructionist!
September 27, 2017
Short story before the Reconstructionist series starts.
A little dark, but definitely needed before the main book!
A little dark, but definitely needed before the main book!
December 27, 2017
Starts slow and ends with a bang.
January 12, 2020
I enjoyed this story. I really had no idea where it was going to end up when I started. You should read this!
August 25, 2025
It's supposed to be an introduction to the new room The Reconstructionist, but I didn't see much point in it.
We'll see how it goes
We'll see how it goes
September 10, 2025
Interesting story
June 24, 2019
Reconstructionist #0.5
The Graveyard Kiss by Meghan Ciana Doidge is the prequel to her Reconstructionist series & story #10 in her Adept Universe. Enjoy!
Read:
June 23, 2019 – Audible AudioBook
Recommended chronological reading order for the Adept Universe, which includes the Dowser, Oracle, Reconstructionist and Amplifier series:
1. Cupcakes, Trinkets, and Other Deadly Magic (Dowser 1)
2. Trinkets, Treasures, and Other Bloody Magic (Dowser 2)
3. Treasures, Demons, and Other Black Magic (Dowser 3)
4. I See Me (Oracle 1)
5. Shadows, Maps, and Other Ancient Magic (Dowser 4)
6. Maps, Artifacts, and Other Arcane Magic (Dowser 5)
7. I See You (Oracle 2)
8. Artifacts, Dragons, and Other Lethal Magic (Dowser 6)
9. I See Us (Oracle 3)
10. The Graveyard Kiss (Reconstructionist 0.5)
11. Catching Echoes (Reconstructionist 1)
12. Dawn Bytes (Reconstructionist 1.5)
13. Tangled Echoes (Reconstructionist 2)
14. An Uncut Key (Reconstructionist 2.5)
15. Unleashing Echoes (Reconstructionist 3)
16. Champaign, Misfits, and Other Shady Magic (Dowser 7)
17. Misfits, Gemstones and Other Shattered Magic (Dowser 8)
18. Graveyards, Visions, and Other Things that Byte (Dowser 8.5)
19. Gemstones, Elves, and Other Insidious Magic (Dowser 9)
20. The Amplifier Protocol (Amplifier 0)
21. Demons and DNA (Amplifier 1)
22. Bonds and Broken Dreams (Amplifier 2)… Coming July 23, 2019
The Graveyard Kiss by Meghan Ciana Doidge is the prequel to her Reconstructionist series & story #10 in her Adept Universe. Enjoy!Read:
June 23, 2019 – Audible AudioBook
Recommended chronological reading order for the Adept Universe, which includes the Dowser, Oracle, Reconstructionist and Amplifier series:
1. Cupcakes, Trinkets, and Other Deadly Magic (Dowser 1)
2. Trinkets, Treasures, and Other Bloody Magic (Dowser 2)
3. Treasures, Demons, and Other Black Magic (Dowser 3)
4. I See Me (Oracle 1)
5. Shadows, Maps, and Other Ancient Magic (Dowser 4)
6. Maps, Artifacts, and Other Arcane Magic (Dowser 5)
7. I See You (Oracle 2)
8. Artifacts, Dragons, and Other Lethal Magic (Dowser 6)
9. I See Us (Oracle 3)
10. The Graveyard Kiss (Reconstructionist 0.5)
11. Catching Echoes (Reconstructionist 1)
12. Dawn Bytes (Reconstructionist 1.5)
13. Tangled Echoes (Reconstructionist 2)
14. An Uncut Key (Reconstructionist 2.5)
15. Unleashing Echoes (Reconstructionist 3)
16. Champaign, Misfits, and Other Shady Magic (Dowser 7)
17. Misfits, Gemstones and Other Shattered Magic (Dowser 8)
18. Graveyards, Visions, and Other Things that Byte (Dowser 8.5)
19. Gemstones, Elves, and Other Insidious Magic (Dowser 9)
20. The Amplifier Protocol (Amplifier 0)
21. Demons and DNA (Amplifier 1)
22. Bonds and Broken Dreams (Amplifier 2)… Coming July 23, 2019
August 9, 2016
Coming, yet again, from the mind of Ms Meghan Ciana Doidge we have a 7000 word short story called The Graveyard Kiss that is set in the same world as The Dowser Series (also known by me as the Cupcake books). This story can also be found in the anthology titled The Kiss, An Anthology of Love and Other Close Encounters.
As for The Graveyard Kiss I have to say that I thoroughly enjoyed the characters and the fast pace, yet detailed and not rushed scenes. Luci is very much into old Victorian poetry, especially the love poems and the imagery surrounding the words chosen. Her boyfriend is more into a different type of prose, the type that is shared during a wake or a funeral. I can't share any more as since this is a short story to do so would give away too much. Suffice it to say I loved the direction the story took at the end. It was not what I expected at all…very well done, Meghan.
As for The Graveyard Kiss I have to say that I thoroughly enjoyed the characters and the fast pace, yet detailed and not rushed scenes. Luci is very much into old Victorian poetry, especially the love poems and the imagery surrounding the words chosen. Her boyfriend is more into a different type of prose, the type that is shared during a wake or a funeral. I can't share any more as since this is a short story to do so would give away too much. Suffice it to say I loved the direction the story took at the end. It was not what I expected at all…very well done, Meghan.
July 16, 2014
To see my full review:
http://wp.me/p1jhaj-5el
This short story is an entertaining read, with a twist that is absolutely perfect. Doidge’s stories always draw me in, and although this is a very short story set in the world of The Dowser Series, it’s characters are new. And yet, the characterization and emotions Doidge elegantly writes onto the page quickly drew me into the plot—even at only 7000 words. I’d love to see this go somewhere—perhaps Luci will show up in the next Dowser Series novel? One can hope.
http://wp.me/p1jhaj-5el
This short story is an entertaining read, with a twist that is absolutely perfect. Doidge’s stories always draw me in, and although this is a very short story set in the world of The Dowser Series, it’s characters are new. And yet, the characterization and emotions Doidge elegantly writes onto the page quickly drew me into the plot—even at only 7000 words. I’d love to see this go somewhere—perhaps Luci will show up in the next Dowser Series novel? One can hope.
December 30, 2016
Love the ending..
June 26, 2017
Once again wonderful
I am always so happy when I find a new author. Then so sad when I have to wait for there next book. Once again Ms. Doidge has entertained me greatly. Thank you.
I am always so happy when I find a new author. Then so sad when I have to wait for there next book. Once again Ms. Doidge has entertained me greatly. Thank you.
October 21, 2024
Helpful to read if you plan to read the Reconstrutionist Series Book#1.
May 3, 2022
Intriguing
Such a short story but I feelbit sets the groundwork for the next book. Can't wait to see what it leads to.
Such a short story but I feelbit sets the groundwork for the next book. Can't wait to see what it leads to.
May 26, 2023
Intriguing little prequel!
September 20, 2023
Intriguing
Since this is the preamble to the Reconstructionist series, it definitely makes me wonder what the series will be like. Can’t wait
Since this is the preamble to the Reconstructionist series, it definitely makes me wonder what the series will be like. Can’t wait
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews