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The Most Unusual Haunting of Edgar Lovejoy
Jamie Wendon-Dale may design haunted houses, but they don't actually believe in ghosts—until they meet Edgar Lovejoy, who is tall, clever, beautiful…and 100% haunted.
A COZY, GHOSTLY LGBTQIA+ ROMANCE
Jamie Wendon-Dale creates haunted houses for a living. Haunting is their life—but nobody working New Orleans' spooky circuit actually believes in ghosts.
Edgar Lovejoy is 100% haunted. No, really. Ghosts have tormented him since childhood and he's organized his life around attempts to avoid them.
Opposites? Get ready to attract. But while Jamie's biggest concern is that Edgar sometimes seems a bit distracted, Edgar's fears are much greater. Not only is he scared of encountering the dearly departed whenever he leaves the house, but he's terrified of making himself vulnerable to Jamie. After all, how do you tell someone who believes ghosts only exist as smoke and mirrors that you see them everywhere you go? And how can you trust in a happy future when you can't even believe in yourself?
A little spooky, a little magical, and a whole lot The (Most Unusual) Haunting of Edgar Lovejoy will leave you feeling like you've found a brand new bookish family of your own.
A COZY, GHOSTLY LGBTQIA+ ROMANCE
Jamie Wendon-Dale creates haunted houses for a living. Haunting is their life—but nobody working New Orleans' spooky circuit actually believes in ghosts.
Edgar Lovejoy is 100% haunted. No, really. Ghosts have tormented him since childhood and he's organized his life around attempts to avoid them.
Opposites? Get ready to attract. But while Jamie's biggest concern is that Edgar sometimes seems a bit distracted, Edgar's fears are much greater. Not only is he scared of encountering the dearly departed whenever he leaves the house, but he's terrified of making himself vulnerable to Jamie. After all, how do you tell someone who believes ghosts only exist as smoke and mirrors that you see them everywhere you go? And how can you trust in a happy future when you can't even believe in yourself?
A little spooky, a little magical, and a whole lot The (Most Unusual) Haunting of Edgar Lovejoy will leave you feeling like you've found a brand new bookish family of your own.
384 pages, Paperback
First published September 9, 2025
135 people are currently reading
5571 people want to read
About the author
Roan Parrish
37 books2,397 followersRoan Parrish lives in Philadelphia, where she is gradually attempting to write love stories in every genre.
When not writing, she can usually be found cutting her friends’ hair, meandering through whatever city she’s in while listening to torch songs and melodic death metal, or cooking overly elaborate meals. She loves bonfires, winter beaches, minor chord harmonies, and self-tattooing. One time she may or may not have baked a six-layer chocolate cake and then thrown it out the window in a fit of pique.
She is represented by Courtney Miller-Callihan of Handspun Literary Agency.
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When not writing, she can usually be found cutting her friends’ hair, meandering through whatever city she’s in while listening to torch songs and melodic death metal, or cooking overly elaborate meals. She loves bonfires, winter beaches, minor chord harmonies, and self-tattooing. One time she may or may not have baked a six-layer chocolate cake and then thrown it out the window in a fit of pique.
She is represented by Courtney Miller-Callihan of Handspun Literary Agency.
Roan's Newsletter
Roan's Facebook Group
Roan on Twitter
Roan on Instagram
Roan’s website
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 364 reviews
September 11, 2025
I was ready for fake haunted houses and real haunting ghosts, but this was primarily a queer contemporary romance packed with so much other stuff that the paranormal elements came short in comparison. The couple was very sweet and all the characters were great in general, but some things just rubbed me the wrong way and I'm overall pretty conflicted about this book.
The book follows the romance between Edgar and Jamie who couldn't be more different from one another. Jamie is a designer of haunted houses and they generally like to express themselves in any way possible while Edgar is very shy and anxious and literally haunted. They meet and become a couple very quickly, and then the story is about them navigating their lives together. I genuinely liked the characters, but I would have preferred a slower burn. The book is very fast paced in my opinion and especially the beginning felt very dense. Like, in the first 5% of the book we meet both main characters and learn about their respective family situation and about all of their problems, and there's also a vampire-themed burlesque dance and a ghost encounter AND the initial meeting of the two also happens. It was a lot. It didn't exactly get better as the book went on, but I got used to how full this book felt at all times. The book really dives into the family dynamics of both Edgar and Jamie for instance, and that's why there is a birth and a wedding in this book about two people who just met each other. It's a shame that the author didn't really find a balance there, because the sibling relationships are a big strength of this book in my opinion. I also really appreciate the anxiety representation. Edgar made himself very small due to his ghost-seeing ability to the point where he just never goes out or socializes if not necessary. He's scared every day and doesn't dare to live a normal life, and there were quotes about his anxiety that I felt in my soul. But I am pretty unhappy with the way his anxiety was handled as the book went on. Edgar blossoms because of Jamie and that sure is nice, but from the way his condition was described he needed professional help and not only the power of love or the real-talk-with-a-ghost crap that this book presented. I'm sure it's not intentionally written like that, but that's the impression I got and it was a pity that it wasn't handled with more care. The book isn't as fun and silly as cover and title may suggest, so there definitely was room to address the topic of mental health in a more distinct way. Jamie's struggle with identity and being perceived by others were handled better in my opinion, but also not in a super satisfying way. Which is realistic, probably. Not at all realistic, nor convincing, was the whole supernatural part of this book. I feel like the ghosts were not utilized in any meaningful way and I'm really wondering why they were part of this book at all. Sure, they are the reason for Edgar's anxiety, but that could have been literally anything else too. I kinda wish that the paranormal part had been cut completely, because I just can't see its purpose. Well, that's not true. The purpose is that I picked this book up for the supernatural elements, because I would just never read a romance by itself. So I think it's clear where my disappointment is coming from. I would totally recommend this book as a queer spicy romance with great characters though, and I'm sure that other readers wouldn't stumble over the same things that I did. 3.5 stars.
Huge thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks UK for providing a digital arc in exchange for an honest review.
The book follows the romance between Edgar and Jamie who couldn't be more different from one another. Jamie is a designer of haunted houses and they generally like to express themselves in any way possible while Edgar is very shy and anxious and literally haunted. They meet and become a couple very quickly, and then the story is about them navigating their lives together. I genuinely liked the characters, but I would have preferred a slower burn. The book is very fast paced in my opinion and especially the beginning felt very dense. Like, in the first 5% of the book we meet both main characters and learn about their respective family situation and about all of their problems, and there's also a vampire-themed burlesque dance and a ghost encounter AND the initial meeting of the two also happens. It was a lot. It didn't exactly get better as the book went on, but I got used to how full this book felt at all times. The book really dives into the family dynamics of both Edgar and Jamie for instance, and that's why there is a birth and a wedding in this book about two people who just met each other. It's a shame that the author didn't really find a balance there, because the sibling relationships are a big strength of this book in my opinion. I also really appreciate the anxiety representation. Edgar made himself very small due to his ghost-seeing ability to the point where he just never goes out or socializes if not necessary. He's scared every day and doesn't dare to live a normal life, and there were quotes about his anxiety that I felt in my soul. But I am pretty unhappy with the way his anxiety was handled as the book went on. Edgar blossoms because of Jamie and that sure is nice, but from the way his condition was described he needed professional help and not only the power of love or the real-talk-with-a-ghost crap that this book presented. I'm sure it's not intentionally written like that, but that's the impression I got and it was a pity that it wasn't handled with more care. The book isn't as fun and silly as cover and title may suggest, so there definitely was room to address the topic of mental health in a more distinct way. Jamie's struggle with identity and being perceived by others were handled better in my opinion, but also not in a super satisfying way. Which is realistic, probably. Not at all realistic, nor convincing, was the whole supernatural part of this book. I feel like the ghosts were not utilized in any meaningful way and I'm really wondering why they were part of this book at all. Sure, they are the reason for Edgar's anxiety, but that could have been literally anything else too. I kinda wish that the paranormal part had been cut completely, because I just can't see its purpose. Well, that's not true. The purpose is that I picked this book up for the supernatural elements, because I would just never read a romance by itself. So I think it's clear where my disappointment is coming from. I would totally recommend this book as a queer spicy romance with great characters though, and I'm sure that other readers wouldn't stumble over the same things that I did. 3.5 stars.
Huge thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks UK for providing a digital arc in exchange for an honest review.
September 13, 2025
Safety info, content warnings and tropes down below.
This was an absolute delight to read. Roan Parrish is in a league of their own, and I can always trust them to make me laugh and cry. The Most Unusual Haunting of Edgar Lovejoy was a perfect blend of cozy and atmospheric, romantic and sweet, and just creepy enough to bring the spooky season vibes. It was charming beyond words, and Jamie and Edgar really was the perfect couple.
384 pages really flew by, and I didn't want it to end. Roan Parrish is one of the very few authors who can keep me engaged in a low angst book with little to no external plot. The writing quality is always amazing, and the characters are good and interesting enough that you don't need all the drama or external happenings. That's not to say that nothing happens. Jamie is dealing with awful, bigoted parents and a family wedding they have no interest in attending, and Edgar is plagued by debilitating anxiety and fear, which has resulted in a lonely and small life.
The story is set in New Orleans, and the descriptions of the city and the overall vibe was immaculate, and made me want to start decorating my house for halloween.
It was nice to read a romance where they go from strangers to dating to lovers (how is it so unusual to read about people dating in romance books??) and communicate their needs and values. That doesn't mean everything was perfect or easy all the time, but it does mean I believed in their romance and HEA as a reader.
Highly recommend this book. Consider me charmed.
Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for the ARC.
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & content tags ⚠️
Cozy romance
Ghostly
Opposites attract
Trans rep
Nonbinary rep
Burlesque performer
Seeing ghosts
Anxiety rep
New Orleans
Found family
Size difference
Opposites attract
Hurt/comfort
A cat café
Ghost tours
Sad and lonely MC
Fast burn
⚠️ Spice menu ⚠️
The big boy likes being topped
Edgar likes his hair pulled
Toppy trans masc enby
Praise
The most intimate handjob
Begging
Strap fun
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
MC misgendered by family (on page)
Corpse details
Alcohol consumption
Death of childhood best friend (past)
Anxiety attacks and general anxiety
Mentions of past abandonment by parent
MC's parent being verbally abusive (past)
Mentions of past discussions of abortion
Brief mention of MC's sibling having an abortion (past)
On-page recreational drug use (SCs, weed)
Penetration without prep
On-page birth (SC, not graphic)
Mentions of parental drug and alcohol abuse (past)
Vomiting
Details of past child neglect (MC and SCs neglected)
Explicit sexual content
Brief mention of child molestation (past, unknown characters, no details)
MC taking an edible on page
MC and SC smoking weed on page
Fear of abandonment
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: No
Breakup: No
POV: 3rd person, dual
Genre: Cozy paranormal romance
Pairing: M/enby
Strict roles or versatile: Versatile
Main characters’ age: 25 and not specified
Series: Standalone
Kindle Unlimited: No
Pages: 384
Happy ending: Yes
“At the beginning of my transition, I went through a period of worrying that my body was…too complicated? It felt like people looked at me as if I was a mystery to solve rather than a person.”
Edgar arranged himself so he lay on his side with his head resting on Jamie’s shoulder and draped his arm across their stomach. Jamie gathered him in so they could stroke his hair.
“What’s wrong with you?”
It was a verbalization of what he assumed everyone was always thinking about him, but it was startling to hear it spoken aloud. “Um. Nothing?”
“Exactly. Usually you look like you’re about to cry, dissociate, or have a panic attack. But right now you look strangely neutral, which I’m assuming is your version of glowing.”
“You like being the object of my desire?” they purred. “You like turning me on with how hot you are? How much I want you?” His breath came shallower, and suddenly he wished he hadn’t said anything, because Jamie was looking at him like they saw him. Like they really saw the writhing agonized need deep in his guts and liked him anyway. Maybe liked him more because of it.
Kinda grim to learn at the age of twenty-five that you value strangers’ opinions of you over your own personal enjoyment of the world.
The thing about having Edgar Lovejoy for a boyfriend was that Jamie was constantly getting sneak attacked by things that turned their heart to absolute mush.
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...
This was an absolute delight to read. Roan Parrish is in a league of their own, and I can always trust them to make me laugh and cry. The Most Unusual Haunting of Edgar Lovejoy was a perfect blend of cozy and atmospheric, romantic and sweet, and just creepy enough to bring the spooky season vibes. It was charming beyond words, and Jamie and Edgar really was the perfect couple.
384 pages really flew by, and I didn't want it to end. Roan Parrish is one of the very few authors who can keep me engaged in a low angst book with little to no external plot. The writing quality is always amazing, and the characters are good and interesting enough that you don't need all the drama or external happenings. That's not to say that nothing happens. Jamie is dealing with awful, bigoted parents and a family wedding they have no interest in attending, and Edgar is plagued by debilitating anxiety and fear, which has resulted in a lonely and small life.
The story is set in New Orleans, and the descriptions of the city and the overall vibe was immaculate, and made me want to start decorating my house for halloween.
It was nice to read a romance where they go from strangers to dating to lovers (how is it so unusual to read about people dating in romance books??) and communicate their needs and values. That doesn't mean everything was perfect or easy all the time, but it does mean I believed in their romance and HEA as a reader.
Highly recommend this book. Consider me charmed.
Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for the ARC.
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & content tags ⚠️
Cozy romance
Ghostly
Opposites attract
Trans rep
Nonbinary rep
Burlesque performer
Seeing ghosts
Anxiety rep
New Orleans
Found family
Size difference
Opposites attract
Hurt/comfort
A cat café
Ghost tours
Sad and lonely MC
Fast burn
⚠️ Spice menu ⚠️
The big boy likes being topped
Edgar likes his hair pulled
Toppy trans masc enby
Praise
The most intimate handjob
Begging
Strap fun
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
MC misgendered by family (on page)
Corpse details
Alcohol consumption
Death of childhood best friend (past)
Anxiety attacks and general anxiety
Mentions of past abandonment by parent
MC's parent being verbally abusive (past)
Mentions of past discussions of abortion
Brief mention of MC's sibling having an abortion (past)
On-page recreational drug use (SCs, weed)
Penetration without prep
On-page birth (SC, not graphic)
Mentions of parental drug and alcohol abuse (past)
Vomiting
Details of past child neglect (MC and SCs neglected)
Explicit sexual content
Brief mention of child molestation (past, unknown characters, no details)
MC taking an edible on page
MC and SC smoking weed on page
Fear of abandonment
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: No
Breakup: No
POV: 3rd person, dual
Genre: Cozy paranormal romance
Pairing: M/enby
Strict roles or versatile: Versatile
Main characters’ age: 25 and not specified
Series: Standalone
Kindle Unlimited: No
Pages: 384
Happy ending: Yes
“At the beginning of my transition, I went through a period of worrying that my body was…too complicated? It felt like people looked at me as if I was a mystery to solve rather than a person.”
Edgar arranged himself so he lay on his side with his head resting on Jamie’s shoulder and draped his arm across their stomach. Jamie gathered him in so they could stroke his hair.
“What’s wrong with you?”
It was a verbalization of what he assumed everyone was always thinking about him, but it was startling to hear it spoken aloud. “Um. Nothing?”
“Exactly. Usually you look like you’re about to cry, dissociate, or have a panic attack. But right now you look strangely neutral, which I’m assuming is your version of glowing.”
“You like being the object of my desire?” they purred. “You like turning me on with how hot you are? How much I want you?” His breath came shallower, and suddenly he wished he hadn’t said anything, because Jamie was looking at him like they saw him. Like they really saw the writhing agonized need deep in his guts and liked him anyway. Maybe liked him more because of it.
Kinda grim to learn at the age of twenty-five that you value strangers’ opinions of you over your own personal enjoyment of the world.
The thing about having Edgar Lovejoy for a boyfriend was that Jamie was constantly getting sneak attacked by things that turned their heart to absolute mush.
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...
September 17, 2025
Here's my biggest gripe about this book: I felt that the mental health rep with Edgar was handled extremely carelessly. It's clear that Edgar is suffering from intense panic disorder and agoraphobia but the author never came out and called it this. Everything was skirted around. Edgar "couldn't go to therapy" because the cause of his panic disorder was seeing ghosts and he didn't think he would be believed. He "tried anti-anxiety meds once" but didn't like them because they made him feel off (or paranoid, I honestly cannot remember what the exact wording was). And all of this was "solved" by the power of love, acceptance, and mishandled exposure therapy.
As someone who has experienced panic disorder and agoraphobia, when I realized early on this is what Edgar was living with too, I was excited to see the representation, and to talk about these very real issues folks deal with. Instead I was reminded why my stance on rep like this by authors who do not have the appropriate knowledge/education on the matter is actually hazardous.
If you are experiencing panic disorder, intense anxiety, and/or agoraphobia, please seek professional support. It is not something that goes away with love and acceptance. Medication CAN be very helpful and often times takes more than one try. Different meds work better for some than others. Exposure therapy is very important but needs to be carefully practiced.
As someone who has experienced panic disorder and agoraphobia, when I realized early on this is what Edgar was living with too, I was excited to see the representation, and to talk about these very real issues folks deal with. Instead I was reminded why my stance on rep like this by authors who do not have the appropriate knowledge/education on the matter is actually hazardous.
If you are experiencing panic disorder, intense anxiety, and/or agoraphobia, please seek professional support. It is not something that goes away with love and acceptance. Medication CAN be very helpful and often times takes more than one try. Different meds work better for some than others. Exposure therapy is very important but needs to be carefully practiced.
September 2, 2025
OMG y'all, The Most Unusual Haunting of Edgar Lovejoy might be the coziest horror/romance I've ever read? Seriously though, this book is so freaking sweet, completely character-driven with all of the spooky season vibes but none of the scariness. While there are some minor conflicts, the book is primarily about finding love and acceptance, managing crippling anxiety, and surrounding yourself with people and things that make you happy. The perfect low angst spooky season read!
While Edgar and Jamie seem like total opposites, the way that they are both able to give each other what they need in such a thoughtful and supportive manner was so refreshing. Reading about how Edgar's anxiety around seeing ghosts has made his life so small and lonely was really sad, but I love how Jamie was not only able to get him to break out of his self-imposed isolation in such an intuitive way. Though Jamie seems like they are much more self-assured, they are also constantly dealing with their family's constant misgendering and lack of respect for their time. Though I wish they'd set more boundaries sooner, I love that Jamie has such incredible friends and Edgar around when they finally tell them off.
The paranormal aspects of this book are much more vibes than anything. Edgar and his family members have some paranormal powers and Jamie works building haunted houses, but nothing truly scary happens in the book. I'm not much of a horror reader, and this book has EXACTLY the level of horror I actually want to read. This was my first book by Roan Parrish, and I think I might be hooked, especially when looking at the incredible variety in their backlist. Highly recommend checking this one out for spooky season!
While Edgar and Jamie seem like total opposites, the way that they are both able to give each other what they need in such a thoughtful and supportive manner was so refreshing. Reading about how Edgar's anxiety around seeing ghosts has made his life so small and lonely was really sad, but I love how Jamie was not only able to get him to break out of his self-imposed isolation in such an intuitive way. Though Jamie seems like they are much more self-assured, they are also constantly dealing with their family's constant misgendering and lack of respect for their time. Though I wish they'd set more boundaries sooner, I love that Jamie has such incredible friends and Edgar around when they finally tell them off.
The paranormal aspects of this book are much more vibes than anything. Edgar and his family members have some paranormal powers and Jamie works building haunted houses, but nothing truly scary happens in the book. I'm not much of a horror reader, and this book has EXACTLY the level of horror I actually want to read. This was my first book by Roan Parrish, and I think I might be hooked, especially when looking at the incredible variety in their backlist. Highly recommend checking this one out for spooky season!
October 3, 2025
A guy haunted by ghosts, who’s isolated himself for years falling for a person building haunted houses? Who even comes up with stories like this? Roan Parrish apparently because they always write the best books ever!
I was a little afraid that this was going to be a horror (I could never sleep again!), but this was actually the sweetest book ever with the gayest group of friends and the most amazing anxiety rep.
Edgar can see ghosts ever since he was little, like all of his family members. But unlike them he’s extremely afraid of them and spends his days locked inside his home, being afraid of the outside world.
When meeting gorgeous and mysterious burlesque dancer Aiden (they/them), he’s trying for the first time in ages to overcome his fears. But how do you tell someone you can see ghosts and not end up in a mental ward?
Roan Parrish books just hit different. This was absolutely lovely. The way Aiden was so patient, understanding and open. The way they communicated was amazing.
Edgar is an absolute cinnamon roll, a gentle giant working in a cat cafe. I immediately fell for him and rooted so hard for these two.
I also loved to read about both of them struggling with their families in different ways.
Aiden is trying hard to be accepted as trans and nonbinary, while Edgar is trying to reconnect with his absent brother and support his single, heavily pregnant sister.
Edgar coming out of his shell more and more, opening up to new friends and overcoming his fears was beautiful to read about. Aiden standing up for themself and letting Edgar love them made me cheer so hard too!
I loved these two together, their queer friend group and siblings!
This was hands down one of my favourite books I read so far this year and if we don’t get a book about Poe I’m going to cry!
Rep: Gay MC, trans nonbinary MC, queer SC
TW: transphobic family members, anxiety, death of a friend and parent
I was a little afraid that this was going to be a horror (I could never sleep again!), but this was actually the sweetest book ever with the gayest group of friends and the most amazing anxiety rep.
Edgar can see ghosts ever since he was little, like all of his family members. But unlike them he’s extremely afraid of them and spends his days locked inside his home, being afraid of the outside world.
When meeting gorgeous and mysterious burlesque dancer Aiden (they/them), he’s trying for the first time in ages to overcome his fears. But how do you tell someone you can see ghosts and not end up in a mental ward?
Roan Parrish books just hit different. This was absolutely lovely. The way Aiden was so patient, understanding and open. The way they communicated was amazing.
Edgar is an absolute cinnamon roll, a gentle giant working in a cat cafe. I immediately fell for him and rooted so hard for these two.
I also loved to read about both of them struggling with their families in different ways.
Aiden is trying hard to be accepted as trans and nonbinary, while Edgar is trying to reconnect with his absent brother and support his single, heavily pregnant sister.
Edgar coming out of his shell more and more, opening up to new friends and overcoming his fears was beautiful to read about. Aiden standing up for themself and letting Edgar love them made me cheer so hard too!
I loved these two together, their queer friend group and siblings!
This was hands down one of my favourite books I read so far this year and if we don’t get a book about Poe I’m going to cry!
Rep: Gay MC, trans nonbinary MC, queer SC
TW: transphobic family members, anxiety, death of a friend and parent
September 18, 2025
Jamie Wendon-Dale, (transmasc pronouns they/them) creates haunted houses for a living. Haunting is their life...but nobody working in New Orleans' spooky circuit actually believes in ghosts. Edgar Lovejoy (cis pronouns he/him) is 100% haunted. No, really. Ghosts have tormented him since childhood, and he's organized his life around attempts to avoid them. The two opposites get ready to try to attract. But while Jamie's biggest concern is that Edgar sometimes seems a bit distracted, Edgar's fears are much greater. Not only is he scared of encountering the dearly departed whenever he leaves the house, but he's terrified of making himself vulnerable to Jamie. After all, how do you tell someone who believes ghosts only exist as smoke and mirrors that you see them everywhere you go? How can you trust in a happy future when you can't even believe in yourself? it's a little spooky, a little magical, and a whole lot of cozy. The Most Unusual Haunting of Edgar Lovejoy will leave you feeling like you've found a brand-new family of your own.
A haunted house designer meets a man who has been running into ghosts since childhood. This little gem can best be described as a queer contemporary from one of my favorite M/M romance authors, Roan Parrish. I thought she was never going to give us another book...it's been WAY TOO LONG!
New Orleans resident, Edgar Lovejoy, is a perpetually anxious, but so undeniably adorable...and also a part-time delivery man and...I love this job...a cat café worker. Edgar only wants to lead a peaceful life...a life that is totally free from frightening ghosts. Unfortunately, he has "second sight". The best way to avoid interacting with unwanted spirits is to stay confined to his house and never leave it or at least try to leave as little as possible.
When the very handsome and confident Jaime Wendon-Dale, who is a transmasculine burlesque performer whose day job involves designing highly detailed "scare mazes". He starts to flirt with Edgar on one of his rare nights out...and wouldn't you know it...he is instantly captivated. He's interested enough to risk leaving his self-imposed isolation to get to know them better. They have a first date, but it didn't go very well...not because they weren't enjoying one another's company...their perfect date is interrupted, of course, by a ghost. Poor Edgar. He wonders if he will ever feel comfortable and brave enough to explain why he appears constantly preoccupied and so distraught.
Through alternating chapters from Edgar and Jaime, Roan Parrish creates a delightful, sometimes, funny, nothing short of satisfying slow-burn romance. She Beautifully balances humor with poignant moments and thoughtful discussions of mental health struggles. The result is a simply delightful romance celebrating all the courage that is often times required to fully embrace one’s true self.
A haunted house designer meets a man who has been running into ghosts since childhood. This little gem can best be described as a queer contemporary from one of my favorite M/M romance authors, Roan Parrish. I thought she was never going to give us another book...it's been WAY TOO LONG!
New Orleans resident, Edgar Lovejoy, is a perpetually anxious, but so undeniably adorable...and also a part-time delivery man and...I love this job...a cat café worker. Edgar only wants to lead a peaceful life...a life that is totally free from frightening ghosts. Unfortunately, he has "second sight". The best way to avoid interacting with unwanted spirits is to stay confined to his house and never leave it or at least try to leave as little as possible.
When the very handsome and confident Jaime Wendon-Dale, who is a transmasculine burlesque performer whose day job involves designing highly detailed "scare mazes". He starts to flirt with Edgar on one of his rare nights out...and wouldn't you know it...he is instantly captivated. He's interested enough to risk leaving his self-imposed isolation to get to know them better. They have a first date, but it didn't go very well...not because they weren't enjoying one another's company...their perfect date is interrupted, of course, by a ghost. Poor Edgar. He wonders if he will ever feel comfortable and brave enough to explain why he appears constantly preoccupied and so distraught.
Through alternating chapters from Edgar and Jaime, Roan Parrish creates a delightful, sometimes, funny, nothing short of satisfying slow-burn romance. She Beautifully balances humor with poignant moments and thoughtful discussions of mental health struggles. The result is a simply delightful romance celebrating all the courage that is often times required to fully embrace one’s true self.
July 27, 2025
this was so SWEET 🥹
Edgar, I want to put you in my pocket and keep you safe from everything. I couldn’t tell you what the plot of this book was but I don’t care. I loved the quirky found family vibes, I loved the spooky paranormal touches, and I just really really loved Edgar
Edgar, I want to put you in my pocket and keep you safe from everything. I couldn’t tell you what the plot of this book was but I don’t care. I loved the quirky found family vibes, I loved the spooky paranormal touches, and I just really really loved Edgar
September 6, 2025
I didn’t like this. I was bored, which is not a good thing. I also really didn’t feel like the characters had much relationship development. It kind of felt rushed and forced. I also wanted more of a spooky vibe and I didn’t really get that.
Read
November 5, 2025DNF at 27%. This one might end up being gold but I’m too bored to continue. I borrowed both the ebook and audiobook from the library and alternately tried reading, listening and doing both at the same time to see if I could push past the boredom hump but I can’t. I’m not enjoying the story no matter the delivery. That said, the narrators seem fine and if the story captivated me, I’d enjoy the narration.
November 2, 2025
In our book club discussion, I said that some books just are 3 stars and some books are 3 stars that you desperately wanted to be more. This book is in the latter category.
There’s so much here that does (or should) work, but somehow, amidst the many competing goals that Parrish had, it just doesn’t all come together. I love the sentences that Parrish writes, they are often beautiful. She’s particularly good at capturing a mood. But the story feels strangely adrift, with the characters and situations and plot never quite meshing in a satisfying way. And it doesn’t help that the most interesting character (Poe) is a side character who shows up halfway through.
Oddly enough, for just a middle of the road book, it is extremely sexual and I think most of the sex scenes are done quite well. Just one more strange quirk of this book.
If you’re interested in a cozy-ish structure (problems get solved almost immediately) that deals with pretty high stress situations (anxiety, family stuff, childhood trauma), then you may really like this. Just wasn’t particularly my cup of tea.
There’s so much here that does (or should) work, but somehow, amidst the many competing goals that Parrish had, it just doesn’t all come together. I love the sentences that Parrish writes, they are often beautiful. She’s particularly good at capturing a mood. But the story feels strangely adrift, with the characters and situations and plot never quite meshing in a satisfying way. And it doesn’t help that the most interesting character (Poe) is a side character who shows up halfway through.
Oddly enough, for just a middle of the road book, it is extremely sexual and I think most of the sex scenes are done quite well. Just one more strange quirk of this book.
If you’re interested in a cozy-ish structure (problems get solved almost immediately) that deals with pretty high stress situations (anxiety, family stuff, childhood trauma), then you may really like this. Just wasn’t particularly my cup of tea.
October 28, 2025
Received from Edelweiss and NetGalley, thanks!
4.5 stars
CW: misgendering, panic attacks, parental neglect, transphobia
I really enjoyed this book! It’s been a while since I’ve gotten to read a new Roan Parrish and I’m so glad that it was so good!
Edgar Lovejoy is an absolute cinnamon roll of a man, though has fairly bad anxiety, based on the fact that he can see ghosts. One of the themes throughout the book is about how ghosts present themselves in different ways for different people, and for Edgar, they are scary and they’ve always been scary. He’s constantly on alert for ghosts when in public and his apartment is his safe refuge.
Jamie Weldon-Dale does burlesque and builds haunted houses. They meet Edgar at a burlesque show and there’s an immediate spark, but then Edgar sees a ghost and has to leave. Jamie has an absolutely awful, transphobic family, and while their sister sort of comes around towards the end, the rest of the interactions are absolutely painful to read.
The story is told from dual POVs, both Edgar and Jamie, and I really appreciated getting to see what they were both thinking. I really liked that Jamie actively questions their own biases and assumptions. They would have a negative thought about something with their relationship with Edgar, and then they would question it, try to see it from Edgar’s view, and it really led to a low angst read, which I really appreciated.
What I also appreciated was that despite finding love, Jamie and Edgar still have their own baggage and own challenges to work through at the end of the book. But together they’re able to support each other and that can make things a little bit easier.
Really loved this book, and liked the links to other Parrish books!
4.5 stars
CW: misgendering, panic attacks, parental neglect, transphobia
I really enjoyed this book! It’s been a while since I’ve gotten to read a new Roan Parrish and I’m so glad that it was so good!
Edgar Lovejoy is an absolute cinnamon roll of a man, though has fairly bad anxiety, based on the fact that he can see ghosts. One of the themes throughout the book is about how ghosts present themselves in different ways for different people, and for Edgar, they are scary and they’ve always been scary. He’s constantly on alert for ghosts when in public and his apartment is his safe refuge.
Jamie Weldon-Dale does burlesque and builds haunted houses. They meet Edgar at a burlesque show and there’s an immediate spark, but then Edgar sees a ghost and has to leave. Jamie has an absolutely awful, transphobic family, and while their sister sort of comes around towards the end, the rest of the interactions are absolutely painful to read.
The story is told from dual POVs, both Edgar and Jamie, and I really appreciated getting to see what they were both thinking. I really liked that Jamie actively questions their own biases and assumptions. They would have a negative thought about something with their relationship with Edgar, and then they would question it, try to see it from Edgar’s view, and it really led to a low angst read, which I really appreciated.
What I also appreciated was that despite finding love, Jamie and Edgar still have their own baggage and own challenges to work through at the end of the book. But together they’re able to support each other and that can make things a little bit easier.
Really loved this book, and liked the links to other Parrish books!
September 15, 2025
2 💫 The plot? Who was she? Truly a story that didn’t make sense for like 90% of it. It started out cute, but the love story was instantaneous, there was zero conflict, and a majority of the “ storylines” had nothing to do with each other. It felt like the author had a bunch of good ideas and then just shove them into a book and called it a day. As I was reading it, I felt like I was missing like the other half of the book with how much stuff is not explained.
October 25, 2025
Roan Parrish continues to write the sweetest, most comforting romances, and I am SO here for it. I thought this one might be a little more tension-filled, because of the haunting, but this was such a cosy read! I thought Edgar being terribly afraid of the ghosts he can see, and developing an anxiety disorder (partly) because of that, felt very relatable. It was wonderful to see him connect and fall in love with Jamie after isolating himself so much, and I loved how there was very little drama to the romance. Most of the conflict in the story came from Edgar struggling with his anxiety and from both characters dealing with complicated family relationships. I do wish we'd seen maybe a little more of the settings in the story, because those didn't feel super descriptive. For instance, I'd like to have read a little more about the haunted houses Jamie works on developing.
December 24, 2025
If this was a manga, it would be a slice-of-life one where nothing happens, but you still feel happy after reading it.
August 19, 2025
ARC Review
This was a lovely romance that I wish I was reading at Halloween. Spooky rather than scary, the vibes are perfect.
It's not so cosy that it's without bite. Jamie's horrendous family and Edgar's anxiety keep the tale firmly rooted in an unfortunate reality.
The romance is tender and lovely.
This was a lovely romance that I wish I was reading at Halloween. Spooky rather than scary, the vibes are perfect.
It's not so cosy that it's without bite. Jamie's horrendous family and Edgar's anxiety keep the tale firmly rooted in an unfortunate reality.
The romance is tender and lovely.
October 14, 2025
4.5 stars
It took me a little while to get into it and the first half was in the 3.75 star area, but the second half really worked for me and I didn't want it to end.
I really admire Roan Parrish's politic and the way it's reflected in their characters - even if sometimes it's somewhat unsubtle or seemingly implausible. I also sometimes really want to read about a couple meeting in a "normal" way and working through a typical relationship (even if they had some non-typical challenges). As usual, Roan Parrish always brings a solid sense of place and strong characterization. I really feel like they were setting the stage for a book for Poe and I would eat that up for sure.
(I will say, there were a fair number of typos and small errors and honestly that's on the publisher - I hate how much publishers are cheaping out these days. Authors and readers deserve better.)
It took me a little while to get into it and the first half was in the 3.75 star area, but the second half really worked for me and I didn't want it to end.
I really admire Roan Parrish's politic and the way it's reflected in their characters - even if sometimes it's somewhat unsubtle or seemingly implausible. I also sometimes really want to read about a couple meeting in a "normal" way and working through a typical relationship (even if they had some non-typical challenges). As usual, Roan Parrish always brings a solid sense of place and strong characterization. I really feel like they were setting the stage for a book for Poe and I would eat that up for sure.
(I will say, there were a fair number of typos and small errors and honestly that's on the publisher - I hate how much publishers are cheaping out these days. Authors and readers deserve better.)
October 29, 2025
Worst book ever. Very misleading. There was more ghost reference in the ‘title’ than anywhere in the book. What a huge disappointment and waste of money. Next time I read the back cover MUCH closer! Didn’t even finish the book because, what for?
January 5, 2026
Whoever described this book as cozy really needs to evaluate their life choices
September 17, 2025
I read almost half of the book and have decided to give up on it. I was bored while reading 30 pages of Edgar trying on clothes at his sister’s store. Edgar sees ghosts and his boyfriend Jamie builds haunted houses. It sounds like it should be such a great idea for a story. Sadly, neither topic is really expanded upon.
September 26, 2025
3.5 rounded down
This was a sweet romance set in the same universe as The Holiday Trap, which I do wish the author had made clearer in the blurb/etc. It's by no means necessary to have read that one, but I did feel like the characters make enough of an appearance that it was clear to me that we were supposed to be familiar with them.
Much like The Holiday Trap, this definitely leans into the cozy sweetness. I really enjoyed the characters and the dynamics a lot, and it was very cute and sweet and adorable, but it was lacking a certain amount of tension. The blurb makes it seems like there might be a bit of conflict with Jamie not believing in ghosts when Edgar can see them, but that is never an issue, and Jamie is immediately amazing. Frankly, both Edgar and Jamie are so wonderful and amazing and perfect with each other that it just felt a little boring and unrealistic at times. I thought the writing was great, as always, and like I said, I really enjoyed the characters (including the supporting cast) and this felt like a really fleshed out world. It's clear that the author's intention was to write a sweet, affirming story, and they accomplished that, but I can't help but miss their slightly grittier works.
This was a sweet romance set in the same universe as The Holiday Trap, which I do wish the author had made clearer in the blurb/etc. It's by no means necessary to have read that one, but I did feel like the characters make enough of an appearance that it was clear to me that we were supposed to be familiar with them.
Much like The Holiday Trap, this definitely leans into the cozy sweetness. I really enjoyed the characters and the dynamics a lot, and it was very cute and sweet and adorable, but it was lacking a certain amount of tension. The blurb makes it seems like there might be a bit of conflict with Jamie not believing in ghosts when Edgar can see them, but that is never an issue, and Jamie is immediately amazing. Frankly, both Edgar and Jamie are so wonderful and amazing and perfect with each other that it just felt a little boring and unrealistic at times. I thought the writing was great, as always, and like I said, I really enjoyed the characters (including the supporting cast) and this felt like a really fleshed out world. It's clear that the author's intention was to write a sweet, affirming story, and they accomplished that, but I can't help but miss their slightly grittier works.
September 22, 2025
Sweet queer romance with ghosts and (fake) haunted houses. At first glance, with its cozy autumnal cover, I expected a warm and slightly spooky read. What I actually got was a much angstier story - cute in places, but not what the cover promised. That mismatch was probably my biggest disappointment...
The main character, Edgar (he/him), has an extreme fear of ghosts - not ideal, since he can see them (nothing like a panic attack to ruin your day). Jamie (they/them) designs haunted house experiences for a living (what a cool job) and also performs burlesque. Unusual couple but it worked!
Their romance is definitely sweet, and I was rooting for the couple. Just to note, the book is also very spicy (again, I wasn’t prepared, fooled by the cute cover), so be prepared 😂
I also loved the secondary characters, especially Edgar’s siblings. And Edgar works in a cat café, so there were kittens everywhere 😭😭 Enough said.
It pains me to say that the writing style was the main thing that held me back. The author leaned heavily into tell-not-show, and I just couldn’t immerse myself in the story.
Overall, I was glad to read something with a different setting and characters with such interesting lived experiences, but unfortunately the book wasn’t for me.
⭐ 3/5
Thank you to NetGalley for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
The main character, Edgar (he/him), has an extreme fear of ghosts - not ideal, since he can see them (nothing like a panic attack to ruin your day). Jamie (they/them) designs haunted house experiences for a living (what a cool job) and also performs burlesque. Unusual couple but it worked!
Their romance is definitely sweet, and I was rooting for the couple. Just to note, the book is also very spicy (again, I wasn’t prepared, fooled by the cute cover), so be prepared 😂
I also loved the secondary characters, especially Edgar’s siblings. And Edgar works in a cat café, so there were kittens everywhere 😭😭 Enough said.
It pains me to say that the writing style was the main thing that held me back. The author leaned heavily into tell-not-show, and I just couldn’t immerse myself in the story.
Overall, I was glad to read something with a different setting and characters with such interesting lived experiences, but unfortunately the book wasn’t for me.
⭐ 3/5
Thank you to NetGalley for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
October 14, 2025
You know the feeling when you go to take a drink, thinking it’s soda or juice but it’s actually water and the surprise makes you want to spit it back out. That was my initial reaction to this book. Based on the title, summary and cover I was expecting a spooky, fun romance. What I got was an incredibly sweet, contemporary, queer romance between Edgar (terrified, cat loving, ghost whisperer) and Jamie (bad ass, non-binary, trans haunted house extraordinaire.) Not bad, just not what I expected.
At one point Edgar’s sister says it isn’t the ghosts that are the issue, it’s Edgar’s reaction to them and that perfectly describes this novel. The ghosts really don’t play a part here other than the fact that Edgar, in an attempt to avoid them, has made his world incredibly small. He lives in constant fear and has shut out love, connections and relationships. It’s not until Jamie comes along and their instant connection makes Edgar want to try.
After my initial disappointment at the lack of spookiness I really enjoyed this. Characters arcs like Edgar’s, blossoming into the people they were meant to be and letting others in despite insecurities and fear, are among my favorite. Jamie and Edgar are wonderful characters. They get together early but I loved watching their relationship progress and evolve. It may sound boring to just read about people dating but Edgar and Jamie were so sweet together that I couldn’t stop smiling. Supportive, honest and almost sickeningly into each other. It worked for me.
The ratings being less than stellar on this make sense. The marketing does it no favors because this won’t be the spooky read you may expect. But if you want a character driven contemporary romance with two main characters you will want to wrap in bubble wrap to protect them from the world, this is for you.
At one point Edgar’s sister says it isn’t the ghosts that are the issue, it’s Edgar’s reaction to them and that perfectly describes this novel. The ghosts really don’t play a part here other than the fact that Edgar, in an attempt to avoid them, has made his world incredibly small. He lives in constant fear and has shut out love, connections and relationships. It’s not until Jamie comes along and their instant connection makes Edgar want to try.
After my initial disappointment at the lack of spookiness I really enjoyed this. Characters arcs like Edgar’s, blossoming into the people they were meant to be and letting others in despite insecurities and fear, are among my favorite. Jamie and Edgar are wonderful characters. They get together early but I loved watching their relationship progress and evolve. It may sound boring to just read about people dating but Edgar and Jamie were so sweet together that I couldn’t stop smiling. Supportive, honest and almost sickeningly into each other. It worked for me.
The ratings being less than stellar on this make sense. The marketing does it no favors because this won’t be the spooky read you may expect. But if you want a character driven contemporary romance with two main characters you will want to wrap in bubble wrap to protect them from the world, this is for you.
September 10, 2025
This was a cozy, queer, big-hearted, paranormal, dual POV romance between a cat cafe server who can see ghosts (Edward) and a transmasc/nonbinary burlesque dancer/haunted house designer who falls hard for him. I loved the romance between the leads, felt really empathetic and angry on the transphobia and lack of support Jamie felt from their family and really enjoyed the New Orleans setting and haunted house/ghost tour aspects. Great on audio and a solid read for #SpookySeason lovers!! Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review!
January 15, 2026
what happens when a man who sees ghosts and a person who literally builds haunted houses connect? this fucking story. it was so good! I LOVE trans books all the time but I extra love M/NB books. I really loved that Edgar was this big hulking man who genuinely lives in fear and just wants someone to comfort him and Jamie is ready and willing to do just that.
both Edgar and Jamie felt very full as characters to me. they both had their own situations going on and family Dynamics and personal things to go through as well as their relationship. sometimes things can feel lopsided but that was not the case here overall this was another win for Roan Parrish.
both Edgar and Jamie felt very full as characters to me. they both had their own situations going on and family Dynamics and personal things to go through as well as their relationship. sometimes things can feel lopsided but that was not the case here overall this was another win for Roan Parrish.
August 27, 2025
Roan Parrish's books always get me with their atmosphere, and that's also true for The Most Unusual Haunting of Edgar Lovejoy. What could add to a book set in current day Louisiana better than haunted houses (fake) and ghosts (real)?
If I saw ghosts, I'd probably react the same way Edgar does. Barricade myself in my apartment and never tell a soul. At the same time, Edgar is warm and kind, even if he's a little awkward around people. Which, let's face it, is understandable.
While they're always entertaining, Parrish's books tend to make me think. I love how this one explores how, based on their perceptions of death, different people might react very differently to paranormal experiences like Edgar's.
I loved reading about a nonbinary MC. The way Jamie stands up for themself to their family was great (though also not always easy to read for personal reasons). I loved the resolution of that plot, I wish more books went in that direction.
I'd recommend this book to anyone who's looking for a cozy book with a dash of spooky that reads beautifully and goes a little deeper than most. I think readers who loved the paranormal undertones in The Remaking of Corbin Wale will love the paranormal not-so-undertones in this book too.
Thank you to Sourcebooks Casablanca and NetGalley for the ARC!
If I saw ghosts, I'd probably react the same way Edgar does. Barricade myself in my apartment and never tell a soul. At the same time, Edgar is warm and kind, even if he's a little awkward around people. Which, let's face it, is understandable.
While they're always entertaining, Parrish's books tend to make me think. I love how this one explores how, based on their perceptions of death, different people might react very differently to paranormal experiences like Edgar's.
I loved reading about a nonbinary MC. The way Jamie stands up for themself to their family was great (though also not always easy to read for personal reasons). I loved the resolution of that plot, I wish more books went in that direction.
I'd recommend this book to anyone who's looking for a cozy book with a dash of spooky that reads beautifully and goes a little deeper than most. I think readers who loved the paranormal undertones in The Remaking of Corbin Wale will love the paranormal not-so-undertones in this book too.
Thank you to Sourcebooks Casablanca and NetGalley for the ARC!
October 14, 2025
talented, brilliant, incredible, amazing, show-stopping…
#bookclubpick
#bookclubpick
September 24, 2025
The cover is a bit deceiving and so is the summary saying this is book is cozy. The story didn’t give me cozy, fall vibes. I also don’t know how Edgar being able to see ghosts added to the plot? He saw ghosts and it scared him. The rest of his family sees them too but not always scary to the others. That’s the extent of the haunting. I was hoping for something more paranormal than that.
Also, the spicy parts of book were pretty graphic. Not that I mind. Please, proceed. But that also doesn’t say “cozy” book to me. Some people might be a bit surprised.
What did I like? Edgar and Jaime. Edgar’s family and friends. Jaime finding their voice and realizing they don’t need to play nice even when it comes to family. I found myself enjoying parts with Jaime and their family more than chapters focused on Edgar.
It’s a good book and a nice romance. The title, cover and summary are a bit misleading but glad I read it.
Also, the spicy parts of book were pretty graphic. Not that I mind. Please, proceed. But that also doesn’t say “cozy” book to me. Some people might be a bit surprised.
What did I like? Edgar and Jaime. Edgar’s family and friends. Jaime finding their voice and realizing they don’t need to play nice even when it comes to family. I found myself enjoying parts with Jaime and their family more than chapters focused on Edgar.
It’s a good book and a nice romance. The title, cover and summary are a bit misleading but glad I read it.
dnf
October 9, 2025I'm so sad about it, but it's too fluffy for me at the moment.
There are conflicts of course, mainly with the protagonists' families, but I don't see any tension in their relationship. Roan Parrish used to write super angsty romances, but this reads very differently.
I might try it again at some point, but right now I don't want to continue just to give it a mediocre rating in the end that the book doesn't deserve.
There are conflicts of course, mainly with the protagonists' families, but I don't see any tension in their relationship. Roan Parrish used to write super angsty romances, but this reads very differently.
I might try it again at some point, but right now I don't want to continue just to give it a mediocre rating in the end that the book doesn't deserve.
September 22, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (4.5 stars)
Okay, confession time: I went into The Most Unusual Haunting of Edgar Lovejoy with an entirely different picture in my head. I’ve had this on my TBR ever since the announcement, patiently waiting for spooky season, expecting something a little grim, a little macabre, a dash of goosebumps more with a bit more ooomph. What I got instead? A story that is tender, gooey, emotional, and unexpectedly healing. Honestly, it melted me.
This isn’t just about ghosts...it’s about life. It’s about healing, self-worth, and finding someone who gets you when the world really doesn’t. And Roan Parrish delivered all of that with such sweetness that I was torn between sniffling and squealing.
We have Jamie, whose family refuses to accept their identity and still insists on seeing them as something they're not. The family pressure peaks around a wedding Jamie is supposed to attend, and the dissonance is disheartening, to say the least. My heart ached (and okay, clenched with rage) at the way Jamie’s family treated them. Even when the sister tries to mend things—it just wasn’t enough for me to forgive them.
And then there’s Edgar Lovejoy. Poor Edgar has literally been haunted his whole life, structuring every routine, every corner of his existence, around dodging the spirits that trail him. He’s anxious, awkward, always on guard—like he’s constantly trying not to breathe too loudly in case the ghosts notice.
When these two meet? Sparks. Not the fireworks-and-dramatic-music kind, but the quiet, warm, slow-burning kind that heals instead of hurts. Together, they create this tender little ecosystem of care and trust. And there's so much to unpack...together.
Now, here’s where my tiny quibble comes in. The paranormal aspect, while ever-present, sometimes felt like it was overshadowed by the emotional arc. There was one figure from Edgar’s past that I really wanted just one more scene with—one more beat of closure would have been chef’s-kiss perfect. That’s why I’m giving it 4.5 stars for the story itself, but obs rounding up here to 5.
The narration made this experience even more unforgettable.
So, in the end: not the spooky gothic tale I was expecting (I should have looked at that cover), but a sweet, strange, and healing journey I loved even more. The Most Unusual Haunting of Edgar Lovejoy surprised me in the best possible way, and I’ll be carrying these characters with me for a long time.
Okay, confession time: I went into The Most Unusual Haunting of Edgar Lovejoy with an entirely different picture in my head. I’ve had this on my TBR ever since the announcement, patiently waiting for spooky season, expecting something a little grim, a little macabre, a dash of goosebumps more with a bit more ooomph. What I got instead? A story that is tender, gooey, emotional, and unexpectedly healing. Honestly, it melted me.
This isn’t just about ghosts...it’s about life. It’s about healing, self-worth, and finding someone who gets you when the world really doesn’t. And Roan Parrish delivered all of that with such sweetness that I was torn between sniffling and squealing.
We have Jamie, whose family refuses to accept their identity and still insists on seeing them as something they're not. The family pressure peaks around a wedding Jamie is supposed to attend, and the dissonance is disheartening, to say the least. My heart ached (and okay, clenched with rage) at the way Jamie’s family treated them. Even when the sister tries to mend things—it just wasn’t enough for me to forgive them.
And then there’s Edgar Lovejoy. Poor Edgar has literally been haunted his whole life, structuring every routine, every corner of his existence, around dodging the spirits that trail him. He’s anxious, awkward, always on guard—like he’s constantly trying not to breathe too loudly in case the ghosts notice.
When these two meet? Sparks. Not the fireworks-and-dramatic-music kind, but the quiet, warm, slow-burning kind that heals instead of hurts. Together, they create this tender little ecosystem of care and trust. And there's so much to unpack...together.
Now, here’s where my tiny quibble comes in. The paranormal aspect, while ever-present, sometimes felt like it was overshadowed by the emotional arc. There was one figure from Edgar’s past that I really wanted just one more scene with—one more beat of closure would have been chef’s-kiss perfect. That’s why I’m giving it 4.5 stars for the story itself, but obs rounding up here to 5.
The narration made this experience even more unforgettable.
So, in the end: not the spooky gothic tale I was expecting (I should have looked at that cover), but a sweet, strange, and healing journey I loved even more. The Most Unusual Haunting of Edgar Lovejoy surprised me in the best possible way, and I’ll be carrying these characters with me for a long time.
November 16, 2025
Queer Joy & Cozy Romance for Halloween Lovers
Roan Parrish delivers one of the coziest and most wonderful romances I’ve ever read. The story follows Edgar, a real-life ghost detector who sees and experiences garish specters, and Jamie, a non-binary haunted house developer. Their meeting is mostly by chance, but from there, a beautiful love story unfolds.
There’s plenty of mystery woven into the narrative. Edgar’s gift and how it fits into his life and family dynamics is one thread. Another centers around Jamie’s sister’s upcoming wedding, where identity, family politics, and emotional tension add layers of complexity.
Parrish expertly blends identity and romance, handling Jamie’s character with care and respect. When misgendering occurs, the responses are exactly what they should be—thoughtful and affirming. If you're in the mood for fall-themed spice, this book delivers. The intimate scenes are both delightful and unexpected, adding depth to the characters’ connection and keeping the romance alive.
Roan Parrish delivers one of the coziest and most wonderful romances I’ve ever read. The story follows Edgar, a real-life ghost detector who sees and experiences garish specters, and Jamie, a non-binary haunted house developer. Their meeting is mostly by chance, but from there, a beautiful love story unfolds.
There’s plenty of mystery woven into the narrative. Edgar’s gift and how it fits into his life and family dynamics is one thread. Another centers around Jamie’s sister’s upcoming wedding, where identity, family politics, and emotional tension add layers of complexity.
Parrish expertly blends identity and romance, handling Jamie’s character with care and respect. When misgendering occurs, the responses are exactly what they should be—thoughtful and affirming. If you're in the mood for fall-themed spice, this book delivers. The intimate scenes are both delightful and unexpected, adding depth to the characters’ connection and keeping the romance alive.
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