What do you think?
Rate this book
Ghosted
Every year, for the past four decades, Dr. John Perry, head of the Twinkleton Paranormal Society, hosts a gala ball and invites the quaint Oregon village’s most notable citizens (both living and dead) to attend a Ghost Walk. This year is no different—with one exception.
This year, John Perry will vie for the role of Ghost of Honor.
On leave while he recovers from injuries sustained in the line of duty, FBI Special Agent Archie Crane returns to Twinkleton, Oregon—and soon finds himself suspected of homicide by Police Chief Beau Langham.
Beau and Archie go way back, and not all the memories are good. Ten years ago, Archie broke Beau’s heart. Is Beau looking for revenge or does he really think Archie capable of murdering his eccentric former guardian?
This year, John Perry will vie for the role of Ghost of Honor.
On leave while he recovers from injuries sustained in the line of duty, FBI Special Agent Archie Crane returns to Twinkleton, Oregon—and soon finds himself suspected of homicide by Police Chief Beau Langham.
Beau and Archie go way back, and not all the memories are good. Ten years ago, Archie broke Beau’s heart. Is Beau looking for revenge or does he really think Archie capable of murdering his eccentric former guardian?
289 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 18, 2024
40 people are currently reading
378 people want to read
About the author
Josh Lanyon
223 books5,418 followersAuthor of 100+ titles of Gay Mystery and M/M Romance, Josh Lanyon has built her literary legacy on twisty mystery, kickass adventure, and unapologetic man-on-man romance.
Her work has been translated into twelve languages. The FBI thriller Fair Game was the first Male/Male title to be published by Italy’s Harlequin Mondadori and Stranger on the Shore (Harper Collins Italia) was the first M/M title to be published in print. In 2016 Fatal Shadows placed #5 in Japan’s annual Boy Love novel list (the first and only title by a foreign author to place on the list). The Adrien English series was awarded the All-Time Favorite Couple by the Goodreads M/M Romance Group. In 2019, Fatal Shadows became the first LGBTQ mobile game created by Moments: Choose Your Story.
She’s an EPIC Award winner, a four-time Lambda Literary Award finalist (twice for Gay Mystery), an Edgar nominee, and the first ever recipient of the Goodreads All Time Favorite M/M Author award.
Josh is married and lives in Southern California with her irascible husband, two adorable dogs, a small garden, and an ever-expanding library of vintage mystery destined to eventually crush them all beneath its weight.
Find other Josh Lanyon titles at www.joshlanyon.com
Follow Josh on Twitter, Facebook, and Goodreads.
Her work has been translated into twelve languages. The FBI thriller Fair Game was the first Male/Male title to be published by Italy’s Harlequin Mondadori and Stranger on the Shore (Harper Collins Italia) was the first M/M title to be published in print. In 2016 Fatal Shadows placed #5 in Japan’s annual Boy Love novel list (the first and only title by a foreign author to place on the list). The Adrien English series was awarded the All-Time Favorite Couple by the Goodreads M/M Romance Group. In 2019, Fatal Shadows became the first LGBTQ mobile game created by Moments: Choose Your Story.
She’s an EPIC Award winner, a four-time Lambda Literary Award finalist (twice for Gay Mystery), an Edgar nominee, and the first ever recipient of the Goodreads All Time Favorite M/M Author award.
Josh is married and lives in Southern California with her irascible husband, two adorable dogs, a small garden, and an ever-expanding library of vintage mystery destined to eventually crush them all beneath its weight.
Find other Josh Lanyon titles at www.joshlanyon.com
Follow Josh on Twitter, Facebook, and Goodreads.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 114 reviews
January 4, 2025
4.5 stars
This was so good! Everyone who says that this is like reading 'the old' Josh Lanyon is right. Is it perfect and without a flaw? No, but I was completely invested in the story from the beginning until the end.
This author is so good at writing second chance romance. She always makes it feel believable. I loved the chemistry and the dynamics between Beau and Archie, their past, their initial animosity and how it transforms by the end.
The story is told from one POV, Archie’s, and it never felt like something was missing. It’s another thing that this author is really good at. As well as writing characters like Beau and Archie. They feel familiar, in a good way.
There’s a good balance between mystery and romance, with some paranormal elements. There’s not too much of anything. I wouldn’t say no to more romance, but the ending is very Josh Lanyon.
This was so good! Everyone who says that this is like reading 'the old' Josh Lanyon is right. Is it perfect and without a flaw? No, but I was completely invested in the story from the beginning until the end.
This author is so good at writing second chance romance. She always makes it feel believable. I loved the chemistry and the dynamics between Beau and Archie, their past, their initial animosity and how it transforms by the end.
The story is told from one POV, Archie’s, and it never felt like something was missing. It’s another thing that this author is really good at. As well as writing characters like Beau and Archie. They feel familiar, in a good way.
There’s a good balance between mystery and romance, with some paranormal elements. There’s not too much of anything. I wouldn’t say no to more romance, but the ending is very Josh Lanyon.
March 4, 2025
4.5 stars rounded up.
I loved this. My first Josh Lanyon story and from all accounts I have started on a high.
A second chance romance featuring a simple, but engaging murder mystery with a dose of the supernatural.
Archie Crane returns home to his guardians estate to recuperate following a FBI operation thats gone badly and has lead to his hospitalisation. During a soiree for a supernatural society Archie's guardian is murdered. This tragedy leads to the return of Archie's childhood sweetheart and current Chief of Police, Beau Langham, as well as earning him a place on the list of suspects for the murder.
I thought the issues that divided Archie and Beau in their childhood made sense, with them both having different goals for the future that they thought incompatible, further complicated by Beau still grappling with his sexuality and coming out. In the current time line the way that Archie and Beau made their way back to each other also felt satisfying and organic and it was sweet that neither one really moved on from their relationship. It's worth noting that during their separation Beau gets married, however when we enter into the story he has long divorced his ex and her only presence in the story is discussion about custody concerns of their son.
This would have been an easy 5 star read and would have earnt a place on my list of faves for the year if not for the last 10%. It felt like the murder mystery was resolved way too suddenly and I guessed one of the major plot points very early on (those who have known me a while would know how useless I am at guessing twists so you know this one has to be obvious if I got it lol). A little more time in an epilogue with Archie and Beau would have been the icing on the cake.
All that being said I still had a fabulous time.
I loved this. My first Josh Lanyon story and from all accounts I have started on a high.
A second chance romance featuring a simple, but engaging murder mystery with a dose of the supernatural.
Archie Crane returns home to his guardians estate to recuperate following a FBI operation thats gone badly and has lead to his hospitalisation. During a soiree for a supernatural society Archie's guardian is murdered. This tragedy leads to the return of Archie's childhood sweetheart and current Chief of Police, Beau Langham, as well as earning him a place on the list of suspects for the murder.
I thought the issues that divided Archie and Beau in their childhood made sense, with them both having different goals for the future that they thought incompatible, further complicated by Beau still grappling with his sexuality and coming out. In the current time line the way that Archie and Beau made their way back to each other also felt satisfying and organic and it was sweet that neither one really moved on from their relationship. It's worth noting that during their separation Beau gets married, however when we enter into the story he has long divorced his ex and her only presence in the story is discussion about custody concerns of their son.
This would have been an easy 5 star read and would have earnt a place on my list of faves for the year if not for the last 10%. It felt like the murder mystery was resolved way too suddenly and I guessed one of the major plot points very early on (those who have known me a while would know how useless I am at guessing twists so you know this one has to be obvious if I got it lol). A little more time in an epilogue with Archie and Beau would have been the icing on the cake.
All that being said I still had a fabulous time.
March 22, 2025
4,5*
This might just be my favorite Josh Lanyon so far 😳
Single third-person narrative, great characters, compelling yet mostly heartbreaking murder mystery (CW for parent death), a touch of supernatural for those open to it... And a second-chance romance. Which - wow. I don't like second-chance romances, okay? In most cases, there's too much room for exes and on-page OP action. Not here, though 🥰
Archie is an FBI special agent, Beau the chief of the small town police, and they meet again after seven years apart with no word between them. They secretly dated in high school, with Beau being firmly in the closet, and the end of their relationship was messy, leaving them both either hurt or angry. Now, Archie is back in town after a work-related traumatic injury at the request of his foster father John. Soon after, John is found dead, and Archie is confronted not only with grief but accusations of murder - and with still bitter Beau.
Jesus I gobbled it up, all of it. Archie is the kind of character I always fall for - a bit messy, self-doubting, seemingly emotionally closed-off, self-reliant to a fault. Being in his head was a relatable delight. Beau was intriguing (which seems right for JL's love interests - I'm either curious about them, or I hate them with passion - yes I'm looking at you, Jake Riordan 🖕), and I was rooting for them to finally talk, come to an understanding, and reconnect. The ending was ambiguous yet hopeful, which tends to be a winner for me.
My track record with JL's standalone novels is a bit iffy because while I love her writing style, I usually forget everything about the stories in a week - the case, the characters; nothing really stands out to me. Well, I'm pretty sure I won't forget Ghosted ❤️
What was life if not these fragile connections? Those hopeful tendrils stretching upward, outward toward the warmth and sustenance of closeness and belonging. Not always strong enough to endure a lifetime, but real while they lasted.
Everything while they lasted.
This might just be my favorite Josh Lanyon so far 😳
Single third-person narrative, great characters, compelling yet mostly heartbreaking murder mystery (CW for parent death), a touch of supernatural for those open to it... And a second-chance romance. Which - wow. I don't like second-chance romances, okay? In most cases, there's too much room for exes and on-page OP action. Not here, though 🥰
Archie is an FBI special agent, Beau the chief of the small town police, and they meet again after seven years apart with no word between them. They secretly dated in high school, with Beau being firmly in the closet, and the end of their relationship was messy, leaving them both either hurt or angry. Now, Archie is back in town after a work-related traumatic injury at the request of his foster father John. Soon after, John is found dead, and Archie is confronted not only with grief but accusations of murder - and with still bitter Beau.
Jesus I gobbled it up, all of it. Archie is the kind of character I always fall for - a bit messy, self-doubting, seemingly emotionally closed-off, self-reliant to a fault. Being in his head was a relatable delight. Beau was intriguing (which seems right for JL's love interests - I'm either curious about them, or I hate them with passion - yes I'm looking at you, Jake Riordan 🖕), and I was rooting for them to finally talk, come to an understanding, and reconnect. The ending was ambiguous yet hopeful, which tends to be a winner for me.
My track record with JL's standalone novels is a bit iffy because while I love her writing style, I usually forget everything about the stories in a week - the case, the characters; nothing really stands out to me. Well, I'm pretty sure I won't forget Ghosted ❤️
What was life if not these fragile connections? Those hopeful tendrils stretching upward, outward toward the warmth and sustenance of closeness and belonging. Not always strong enough to endure a lifetime, but real while they lasted.
Everything while they lasted.
April 29, 2025
Loved this one a whole lot more than the few books released lately by this author. Loved the second chance story, the writing, the mystery. What I didn’t love however was me turning another page and discovering there were no more. Like, come ooonn .. a little epilogue at least? I was a bit shocked, I confess, we’re so used to epilogues these days that we’re left baffled when there isn’t one 🤣 Anyway, this was a bit cheesier than we’re used from this author and the mystery resolved in a easier way than usual but you just can’t stop reading. At first I was annoyed with the whiny voice of our MC. Of course we get to understand why he was like that but it made me frustrated that nothing pleased him. Being an orphan would have been bad. Adopted by a good man? Bad too. The man (John) doesn’t love him? Bad . The man loved him too much) also bad and annoying. Always whining and always in a bad mood about anything and everything and he was ungrateful and self centered, at least in relation with John. By the end I got used to his grumpy self lol Beau wasn’t any better either. He was petty , childish and totally unprofessional. But,hey, that’s Josh Lanyon’s talent afterall, making us love even the most flawed characters . Pretty enjoyable read , light and not overly complicated. I wish there were more…ghosts though.
February 28, 2025
5 stars!! ❤️❤️I’ve read so many of JL’s books over the past year that I’ve lost count. I feel like I’m on a mission to read all her books.. what I’ll do after I’ve read all, I don’t know 🙁 But this is one of her newer ones with a plot that was intriguing with a hint of the supernatural. Second chance romance don’t always appeal to me, but here the love-to-hate-to-love-again was very organic. I didn’t like Beau at first, but started understanding him and his motivations eventually. I’m glad there were no needless misunderstandings to mess up Archie and Beau’s reunion.. I just wish there was an epilogue; the ending seemed abrupt.
December 7, 2024
This was the best Lanyon book I’ve read in a long time. This was back to her roots. This setup was reminiscent of Pirate King with Adrien and Jake. A part, a murder, a reunion of list lovers, one being a suspect and one a cop.
I do wish the relationship had more to it but since I’ve read so many of Lanyon’s books I know how to read between the lines and that these two (literally) sailed into the subset together.
I do wish the relationship had more to it but since I’ve read so many of Lanyon’s books I know how to read between the lines and that these two (literally) sailed into the subset together.
January 23, 2025
3.5 Stars
Overall, I did enjoy this, especially the latter half. A well written, second chance romance/murder mystery, with the tiniest hint of the paranormal. However, I did have some issues, which ultimately brought my rating down.
Unfortunately, It took me as much time to warm up to Archie and Beau together as they did 😏 I wasn’t particularly enamoured with Beau in the beginning. Partly due to his past choices, but considering Archie’s visible, physical condition and emotional turmoil, Beau could’ve been a teensy bit more compassionate. Luckily, my opinion changed and when Beau took Archie into his arms, I was fully onboard. That was one of my favourite scenes. However, just when it was getting good, it was all over. I wanted a helluva lot more from that ending! Where’s the epilogue? I have questions 😠
That leads me to the climax, which was disappointingly off-page, and didn’t involve the MC’s at all. Not to mention certain revelations that didn’t surprise me in the slightest, yet earned a few tears all the same 😢
Finally, I’m not sure if this is normal for the author, but she needs to get a better proof reader. There were a lot of aggravating errors. Forgive me for pointing out, as I know it’s anal, but it’s one of my biggest pet peeves, especially when I’ve brought the book.
Overall, I did enjoy this, especially the latter half. A well written, second chance romance/murder mystery, with the tiniest hint of the paranormal. However, I did have some issues, which ultimately brought my rating down.
Unfortunately, It took me as much time to warm up to Archie and Beau together as they did 😏 I wasn’t particularly enamoured with Beau in the beginning. Partly due to his past choices, but considering Archie’s visible, physical condition and emotional turmoil, Beau could’ve been a teensy bit more compassionate. Luckily, my opinion changed and when Beau took Archie into his arms, I was fully onboard. That was one of my favourite scenes. However, just when it was getting good, it was all over. I wanted a helluva lot more from that ending! Where’s the epilogue? I have questions 😠
That leads me to the climax, which was disappointingly off-page, and didn’t involve the MC’s at all. Not to mention certain revelations that didn’t surprise me in the slightest, yet earned a few tears all the same 😢
Finally, I’m not sure if this is normal for the author, but she needs to get a better proof reader. There were a lot of aggravating errors. Forgive me for pointing out, as I know it’s anal, but it’s one of my biggest pet peeves, especially when I’ve brought the book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 24, 2024
Second chance romance. Loved the mystery too. Ending unsatisfying, but that’s par for the course with this author.
August 1, 2025
Overall book review: 4.5
Audio book: N/A
Book cover: 3
Well this was pure…
I'm fangirling all over the place. Josh Lanyon! You did it!
I can't really tell you how much I LOVED this story.
Would I have loved a more fleshed out conclusion between
Archie and Beau? Well, of course yes, but Like Snjez said -
it's Josh Lanyon.
There is enough little easter eggs for you to make your
own conclusions. Happy ones.
I have to say, this one had me wiping a few tears
here and there. So many emotions! So much yummy
angsty moments!
My heart is really sad for John, and my feelings towards
Archie's mother is not on the generous side of things.
I'm not going into details.
This book certainly had that JL feeling in SPADES and I'm
one really happy book high customer after finishing
it.
Why can't this be a trilogy??? I didn't have my fill
of these boys yet!
Audio book: N/A
Book cover: 3
Well this was pure…
I'm fangirling all over the place. Josh Lanyon! You did it!
I can't really tell you how much I LOVED this story.
Would I have loved a more fleshed out conclusion between
Archie and Beau? Well, of course yes, but Like Snjez said -
it's Josh Lanyon.
There is enough little easter eggs for you to make your
own conclusions. Happy ones.
I have to say, this one had me wiping a few tears
here and there. So many emotions! So much yummy
angsty moments!
My heart is really sad for John, and my feelings towards
Archie's mother is not on the generous side of things.
I'm not going into details.
This book certainly had that JL feeling in SPADES and I'm
one really happy book high customer after finishing
it.
Why can't this be a trilogy??? I didn't have my fill
of these boys yet!
June 24, 2025
Every year, for the past four decades, Dr. John Perry, head of the Twinkleton Paranormal Society, hosts a gala ball and invites the quaint Oregon village’s most notable citizens (both living and dead), to attend a "Ghost Walk". This year is no different...but with one exception. This year, John Perry will vie for the role of "Ghost of Honor."
This was a very emotional story. So many different emotions. I loved Archie from the start. He was a wonderful character...someone that you could relate to and hope for his well-deserved happiness. The story is mostly about his emotional explorations of his past after having survived a near death experience. He was orphaned and alone when he found love with Beau in high school, only to lose it when he went away to college. There were so many years gone by and so much misunderstanding. F, B.I. Agent Archie returns to Twinkelton, the town he swore to never see again, to visit his Uncle John, the man who raised him... but instead he finds John's body in the garden gazebo. John's murder investigation brings the two former lovers together again.
Josh Lanyon is one of my all-time favorite M/M romance writers...I'll buy and read anything she puts on paper...but after I reached chapter 17 and slightly over 200 pages, I thought perhaps I had somehow gotten the genera wrong. Beau and Archie had loved one another in the past, and it's obvious to anyone with eyes that under all the bickering that they do, that they STILL love one another, but they haven't, to this point, even kissed. So... we have an interesting, well written story with two hot, sexy main characters...a mystery about who killed Archie's Uncle John...a character we can hate, and hope dies soon...A BIG surprise for Archie... but I just wanted to point out to Ms. Lanyon that Archie and Beau have been together in two rooms...both with one bed...and neither guy to this point has used said bed, for anything but sleeping!
In spite of the slow "getting together" of the two sexy main characters, this really is a warm delightful read... eventually it's a romance, but from the start; it is a mystery, and a slightly chilling ghostly adventure. I do love ghost stories so I am hoping that Josh Lanyon might possibly have a follow up to this book in her creative mind. While this is not exactly a "cliff hanger", it does leave room for another Beau and Archie adventure. I hated to see this book end, but I'm finding that to be more and more true of all my books...especially those by my favorite authors.
This was a very emotional story. So many different emotions. I loved Archie from the start. He was a wonderful character...someone that you could relate to and hope for his well-deserved happiness. The story is mostly about his emotional explorations of his past after having survived a near death experience. He was orphaned and alone when he found love with Beau in high school, only to lose it when he went away to college. There were so many years gone by and so much misunderstanding. F, B.I. Agent Archie returns to Twinkelton, the town he swore to never see again, to visit his Uncle John, the man who raised him... but instead he finds John's body in the garden gazebo. John's murder investigation brings the two former lovers together again.
Josh Lanyon is one of my all-time favorite M/M romance writers...I'll buy and read anything she puts on paper...but after I reached chapter 17 and slightly over 200 pages, I thought perhaps I had somehow gotten the genera wrong. Beau and Archie had loved one another in the past, and it's obvious to anyone with eyes that under all the bickering that they do, that they STILL love one another, but they haven't, to this point, even kissed. So... we have an interesting, well written story with two hot, sexy main characters...a mystery about who killed Archie's Uncle John...a character we can hate, and hope dies soon...A BIG surprise for Archie... but I just wanted to point out to Ms. Lanyon that Archie and Beau have been together in two rooms...both with one bed...and neither guy to this point has used said bed, for anything but sleeping!
In spite of the slow "getting together" of the two sexy main characters, this really is a warm delightful read... eventually it's a romance, but from the start; it is a mystery, and a slightly chilling ghostly adventure. I do love ghost stories so I am hoping that Josh Lanyon might possibly have a follow up to this book in her creative mind. While this is not exactly a "cliff hanger", it does leave room for another Beau and Archie adventure. I hated to see this book end, but I'm finding that to be more and more true of all my books...especially those by my favorite authors.
August 16, 2025
Absolutely loved this!
Read
February 5, 2025Josh Lanyon writes second chance romance beautifully. I absolutely loved this, having not read any of hers for a while. It's not perfect; a few annoying proof-reading errors and the climax of the murder/mystery all happens in a big rush and off page. But the spare style of writing is gorgeous, and, yeah, whilst its not quite as wonderful as the lovely Adrien, I gobbled it up.
December 9, 2024
I really liked this story of second chance romance and murder mystery with a paranormal twist! The tension between MCs was great. Like other reviewers said, the ending leaves a bit to be desired but you can assume what happens after the last page.
December 18, 2024
Loved it
January 22, 2025
4⭐
Lanyon writes well again. I was hooked: there's mystery and romance. These stories are often very white and upper class with some cliches thrown in, but I enjoy the personalities. I adore cop/suspect trope but I don't think it was tapped that much here, and the romance could have been better as a whole. I wasn't disappointed exactly, I just didn't quite get Beau. I was happy about the happy ending though and the whole book was very entertaining.
Lanyon writes well again. I was hooked: there's mystery and romance. These stories are often very white and upper class with some cliches thrown in, but I enjoy the personalities. I adore cop/suspect trope but I don't think it was tapped that much here, and the romance could have been better as a whole. I wasn't disappointed exactly, I just didn't quite get Beau. I was happy about the happy ending though and the whole book was very entertaining.
March 17, 2025
I enjoyed the Hell out of this. Truly.
It's been way too long since I've read something new from Josh Lanyon and I'm kicking myself for that. This is exactly why I'm a Fan-yon.
The mystery, the second chance romance, gah, the loss and the wee bit of the paranormal. It was all done so well and I couldn't put the book down.
As always with Josh's books, the end was a killer! Just once, ONCE, I'd love more but then, it would be odd wouldn't it?
This was such a great read.
It's been way too long since I've read something new from Josh Lanyon and I'm kicking myself for that. This is exactly why I'm a Fan-yon.
The mystery, the second chance romance, gah, the loss and the wee bit of the paranormal. It was all done so well and I couldn't put the book down.
As always with Josh's books, the end was a killer! Just once, ONCE, I'd love more but then, it would be odd wouldn't it?
This was such a great read.
September 8, 2025
Okay. I actually finished this a few days ago so am trying to put this together. I read this in hours while stuck in bed. Overall, very much enjoyed this. Liked the characters and the atmosphere. The ghost bits were... Interesting. Weird religious inserts came from nowhere but... Again, interesting. Involving ghosts, talking to spirits and rituals. It is very much left open to the reader for what may have happened in those scenarios. And I was definitely not against that. Especially since it was from only Archie's POV. Still figuring everything out, especially after his own trauma from the FBI and then after his godfather.
I loved that it was only through Archie's POV. I am definitely one of the odd ones out where I love just the singular POV. I just love getting the most into a character's head that I can. And damn... So sad.
There was a lot of misunderstanding here. But... It was also understandable. They were only in high school/graduating from, wanting to stay in the same small town or get out - both for long-term goals. Timing and communication sucked, but what do you expect from 17-year-olds?
I liked that there wasn't pressure to do sexual things: Archie falls asleep when they're fooling around (hello, concussion/serious hospitalized trauma) and Beau smiles with we're all tired kinda deal. It was refreshing. As well as Beau not having a problem with his ex-wife marrying a childhood friend, saying they're good for each other and the friend is great towards his child. Again, refreshing.
Now... There were soo many typos. I love this cover so freakin' much and it looks like this is an older version. The typos are likely due to that (hopefully). Can maybe forgive based off that...? Soo many.
The mystery. What mystery? Yeah. Seriously. Wasn't unexpected. But I also didn't hate the way that this played out. Except in the beginning when Beau just seems like an utter asshole and like he was holding onto the past hardcore. Once Beau and Archie figure that shit out, it becomes way smoother and better overall.
Also, though, the big "mystery" portion is given off-page! Archie finds out about it later (after his own "big reveal" that's also obvious) by Beau. Lame.
Part of me really wanted more background info into Archie's FBI op but the other part thought that it was okay leaving it out since we get enough info as to help move things along. That would also be an entirely different book/series. So yeah... More than okay with it not being included. Thought that that portion was done well here to give enough background to understand. And poor Archie.
Anyway, I did enjoy this overall. Especially telling since I literally read this for hours. And then decided to keep on reading. Great writing style.
(The summary is very misleading though with "Archie broke Beau's heart." Think they rather broke each other's. Again, teenagers.)
The simple joy of clean sheets and a comfortable bed.
I loved that it was only through Archie's POV. I am definitely one of the odd ones out where I love just the singular POV. I just love getting the most into a character's head that I can. And damn... So sad.
There was a lot of misunderstanding here. But... It was also understandable. They were only in high school/graduating from, wanting to stay in the same small town or get out - both for long-term goals. Timing and communication sucked, but what do you expect from 17-year-olds?
I liked that there wasn't pressure to do sexual things: Archie falls asleep when they're fooling around (hello, concussion/serious hospitalized trauma) and Beau smiles with we're all tired kinda deal. It was refreshing. As well as Beau not having a problem with his ex-wife marrying a childhood friend, saying they're good for each other and the friend is great towards his child. Again, refreshing.
Now... There were soo many typos. I love this cover so freakin' much and it looks like this is an older version. The typos are likely due to that (hopefully). Can maybe forgive based off that...? Soo many.
The mystery. What mystery? Yeah. Seriously. Wasn't unexpected. But I also didn't hate the way that this played out. Except in the beginning when Beau just seems like an utter asshole and like he was holding onto the past hardcore. Once Beau and Archie figure that shit out, it becomes way smoother and better overall.
Also, though, the big "mystery" portion is given off-page! Archie finds out about it later (after his own "big reveal" that's also obvious) by Beau. Lame.
Part of me really wanted more background info into Archie's FBI op but the other part thought that it was okay leaving it out since we get enough info as to help move things along. That would also be an entirely different book/series. So yeah... More than okay with it not being included. Thought that that portion was done well here to give enough background to understand. And poor Archie.
Anyway, I did enjoy this overall. Especially telling since I literally read this for hours. And then decided to keep on reading. Great writing style.
(The summary is very misleading though with "Archie broke Beau's heart." Think they rather broke each other's. Again, teenagers.)
The simple joy of clean sheets and a comfortable bed.
December 18, 2024
I loved this book, especially the first half. Like the old Josh Lanyon. Wonderful feels for the second chance couple, maybe a little overboard on the Ghosty stuff but I even enjoyed that.
A lot of reviewers were put off by the iffy ending. I think the long term JL readers will be happy they were at least in the same place at the ending. Many of her early books were way worse. There was certainly no sex romps with J&A at first. There was no indication that there will be more in this series, but I certainly hope so. This Chief of Police and FBI man would make a great team.
Still waiting for the Mermaid Murder guys (I can't remember their names right now) to have an HEA. But this one is very close. I love Josh Lanyon.
A lot of reviewers were put off by the iffy ending. I think the long term JL readers will be happy they were at least in the same place at the ending. Many of her early books were way worse. There was certainly no sex romps with J&A at first. There was no indication that there will be more in this series, but I certainly hope so. This Chief of Police and FBI man would make a great team.
Still waiting for the Mermaid Murder guys (I can't remember their names right now) to have an HEA. But this one is very close. I love Josh Lanyon.
December 7, 2024
Set in the charmingly eerie town of Twinkleton, Oregon, this is an enjoyable mix of mystery, paranormal intrigue, and unresolved emotions.
The annual gala hosted by Dr. John Perry, the head of the Twinkleton Paranormal Society, serves as the backdrop for a story filled with twists, secrets, and simmering tensions. The stakes are higher than ever this year as Perry has high hopes that Jacqueline McCabe being the resident ghost of his Victorian domicile formerly known as McCabe House., would make her appearance.
FBI Special Agent Archie Crane, recovering from past traumas, returns to his childhood hometown just in time to be swept up in the chaos of a murder investigation. The twist? Archie himself becomes the prime suspect in the death of his eccentric former guardian. Add to this the fraught relationship between Archie and Police Chief Beau Langham—his ex from a decade ago—and you’ve got a story brimming with suspense and emotional resonance.
The setting is wonderfully atmospheric, capturing the quirky charm of Twinkleton and its otherworldly vibes. The mystery unfolds at a measured pace, with enough red herrings and revelations to keep readers guessing. The strained, complicated history between Archie and Beau adds emotional depth, making their interactions as gripping as the murder investigation.
[image error]
However, the plot occasionally leans too heavily on exposition, and some side characters feel underdeveloped, leaving parts of the story feeling slightly rushed. Even so, the blend of humor, suspense, and romantic tension makes it a compelling read.
A delightful mix of ghosts, grudges, and second chances, this is a perfect pick for fans of paranormal mysteries with a heartfelt edge.
December 30, 2024
It seems to be a trend with Josh’s more recent works, especially the ones not tied to series, that although I enjoy the overall writing and don’t have many truly negative criticisms, the tone of the story leaves me feeling torn on my opinion of it.
Lanyon first began posting this story on Patreon back in February, and I read it chapter by chapter (including rewritten ones) until about the 70% mark. That means I’ve been with Beau and Archie — and consequently all of their angst and misunderstanding — for nearly a year, and that’s a long time to read about two characters arguing.
The nature of this being a second-chance romance and the naturally stubborn approach Lanyon gives her characters meant it takes a very long time for them to start reconnecting and understanding each other, and by the time it happens, the book ended very soon. It’s pointless to say the ending is rushed because that’s the case for about 99% of any Josh book, especially the standalones, but I felt it was even worse than usual here on account of how many unanswered doubts Archie kept raising. Not unexpected, but just sealed the deal on a romance I am certain I will never reread if only because there is so very little romance to think of.
The mystery is solid, as they tend to be, and Archie’s relationship with John and his grief is palpable and very well done. I still think of you enjoy Josh Lanyon, you should pick this up — the experience of reading it all at once will certainly go down easier. Alas, maybe I should hold off on reading the next Patreon book chapter by chapter.
Lanyon first began posting this story on Patreon back in February, and I read it chapter by chapter (including rewritten ones) until about the 70% mark. That means I’ve been with Beau and Archie — and consequently all of their angst and misunderstanding — for nearly a year, and that’s a long time to read about two characters arguing.
The nature of this being a second-chance romance and the naturally stubborn approach Lanyon gives her characters meant it takes a very long time for them to start reconnecting and understanding each other, and by the time it happens, the book ended very soon. It’s pointless to say the ending is rushed because that’s the case for about 99% of any Josh book, especially the standalones, but I felt it was even worse than usual here on account of how many unanswered doubts Archie kept raising. Not unexpected, but just sealed the deal on a romance I am certain I will never reread if only because there is so very little romance to think of.
The mystery is solid, as they tend to be, and Archie’s relationship with John and his grief is palpable and very well done. I still think of you enjoy Josh Lanyon, you should pick this up — the experience of reading it all at once will certainly go down easier. Alas, maybe I should hold off on reading the next Patreon book chapter by chapter.
March 16, 2025
Pretty classic Lanyon vibes -- past relationship with hurty feels, law enforcement MCs and a murder mystery, somewhat abrupt ending (though not her worst by far), and some excellent writing. I'd have like a little more relationship, but I knew what I was getting with Lanyon, and this was a solid read in a sea of mediocrity that is the current MM market.
April 6, 2025
***4.5 Stars
May 7, 2025
Quattro stelline e mezzo.
January 22, 2025
Really enjoyed this book.
I am always down for a second chance romance, I usually prefer dual POV, but becasue Archie is not completely clueless, his single POV works, he is confused by some things, but catches up really quickly without making wild leaps of logic. I enjoy an intelligent character.
I like Beau a lot too, I have not read much Lanyon, but she seems to enjoy her closeted characters, and this book feels a lot like a reworking with a better dynamic than the Adrien/Jake one of the Adrien English Mysteries, but then much would.
I found the timeline of Archie and Beau's relationship a bit on the rocks, somethings did not entirely make sense to me, how angry Beau was, telling Archie he was not the victim, but then actually, yes he sort of was, but this is a short book and it packs a lot of plot in it, so I'll take it, even if I find Beau a bit all over the place.
I am always down for a second chance romance, I usually prefer dual POV, but becasue Archie is not completely clueless, his single POV works, he is confused by some things, but catches up really quickly without making wild leaps of logic. I enjoy an intelligent character.
I like Beau a lot too, I have not read much Lanyon, but she seems to enjoy her closeted characters, and this book feels a lot like a reworking with a better dynamic than the Adrien/Jake one of the Adrien English Mysteries, but then much would.
I found the timeline of Archie and Beau's relationship a bit on the rocks, somethings did not entirely make sense to me, how angry Beau was, telling Archie he was not the victim, but then actually, yes he sort of was, but this is a short book and it packs a lot of plot in it, so I'll take it, even if I find Beau a bit all over the place.
November 26, 2024
The book is good. Josh know how to write a mystery, the character are lovable and I kinda want to read more about them. The plot was also well-made, and I liked the cast of characters.
How will they go forward? What will Archie do with his career?
It's a classic Josh Lanyon book, not my fav, but def not the worst (looking at you ex cop who sent your boyfriend to prison).
(Also a critique after all these years reading Josh Lanyon book, I think I'm getting tired of the rich white character trope her MC seems to all have one way or another).
That being said, I wish the author would put down the AI cover (or usage of AI in general). I can't believe an author would use AI so freely (i've seen her Patreon banners and the cover of the last book). I think we don't need to explain again how AI is hurting artists, but has an environmental impact that's dreadful.
Anyway.
Glad I read this one
How will they go forward? What will Archie do with his career?
It's a classic Josh Lanyon book, not my fav, but def not the worst (looking at you ex cop who sent your boyfriend to prison).
(Also a critique after all these years reading Josh Lanyon book, I think I'm getting tired of the rich white character trope her MC seems to all have one way or another).
That being said, I wish the author would put down the AI cover (or usage of AI in general). I can't believe an author would use AI so freely (i've seen her Patreon banners and the cover of the last book). I think we don't need to explain again how AI is hurting artists, but has an environmental impact that's dreadful.
Anyway.
Glad I read this one
September 11, 2025
dnf @ 93%
should’ve dropped sooner but I haven’t read a Lanyon mystery in years and I wanted to give this a full hearted attempt but I was bored, for all of it. It’s so slow going, I was forcing myself to just keep reading, just keep reading, it’ll get good soon….. right? No. It’s a lot of meaningless inner dialogue and show and tell. The pacing was bad. For mystery-plot and romance alike. Action that starts at the halfway point should’ve started after the initial death. And the mystery is soooooo underwhelming ugh I’m so disappointed 😭😭 this had so many things going for it especially the geriatric ghost club. That’s such a fun idea, I wish it could’ve been more central to the murder plot rather than an aesthetic (bc that cover is so pretty) but ALAS.
Disclaimer: I also did just come off of C.S. Pacat’s “Dark Rise” series and everything pales in comparison but I genuinely believe this story needed more development and editing. At points it felt like I was reading filler :/
should’ve dropped sooner but I haven’t read a Lanyon mystery in years and I wanted to give this a full hearted attempt but I was bored, for all of it. It’s so slow going, I was forcing myself to just keep reading, just keep reading, it’ll get good soon….. right? No. It’s a lot of meaningless inner dialogue and show and tell. The pacing was bad. For mystery-plot and romance alike. Action that starts at the halfway point should’ve started after the initial death. And the mystery is soooooo underwhelming ugh I’m so disappointed 😭😭 this had so many things going for it especially the geriatric ghost club. That’s such a fun idea, I wish it could’ve been more central to the murder plot rather than an aesthetic (bc that cover is so pretty) but ALAS.
Disclaimer: I also did just come off of C.S. Pacat’s “Dark Rise” series and everything pales in comparison but I genuinely believe this story needed more development and editing. At points it felt like I was reading filler :/
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 23, 2025
Again, I was enthralled with the mystery. Lanyon never fails to deliver a compact story that sucks me in from beginning to end. I hope there will be more of Archie and Beau, cause I’d love to see Judith get her comeuppance.
October 2, 2025
4.5 stars from me. I was tempted to round the rating down to 4 stars. But that would bring the average rating down, and I just could
n’t do that. The story, the characters, and the writing are just too good.
Josh Lanyon is on a roll lately. Every time I turn around, it seems she has a new book published. On the one hand, it’s great to read her new work. On the other hand, the editing is less than stellar. Perhaps it's a "rush to publish" problem. I don’t remember Lanyon’s previous work having so many typos and editing errors.
FBI agent Archie Crane returns home to recover from injuries sustained in an undercover op gone sideways. Now, if it’s a JL FBI story…
Archie had a teenage affair with Beau Langham which ended badly. Beau was the popular high school jock and all-around good guy. While Archie left for... San Diego State? Alaska? Beau married, had a kid, and eventually divorced his wife. Now he’s the police chief of—are you ready for it?—
Archie’s guardian/godfather is murdered shortly after his return to Twinkleton. The murder is painful—even more so as the story progresses. At a time when Archie is at his most vulnerable, it’s one more heartbreak he must endure.
Archie's and Beau's reunion gets off to a rocky start when Archie becomes a prime suspect. He's eventually cleared but isn’t allowed to investigate the murder.
What makes this book so good is the slow reveal of Archie's difficult past, the character development, and the re-awakening of Archie’s and Beau's relationship. But a happy ending is not in the cards. Archie's determined to return to Washington, DC (actually Quantico, VA) when he’s fully recovered. Beau is facing his own problems. Although he contemplates a move to the East Coast, he knows his heart isn't in it.
Given time for self-reflection, their relationship grows and awakens something in Archie. He realizes...
Although JL has trouble with character endings, I’m quite happy with this one. One thread is resolved, but not all of them. You could write your own ending. At least until she comes out with a Christmas Coda for Archie and Beau.
Perhaps I’m happy with the ending because it reminds me so much of Stranger on the Shore, my absolutely favorite JL book, and one of my top favorites of all time. I’m satisfied with the ending. Sure, there’s more to the story, but I think Beau and Archie will figure it out.
Hinckley Sou'wester 52
n’t do that. The story, the characters, and the writing are just too good.
Josh Lanyon is on a roll lately. Every time I turn around, it seems she has a new book published. On the one hand, it’s great to read her new work. On the other hand, the editing is less than stellar. Perhaps it's a "rush to publish" problem. I don’t remember Lanyon’s previous work having so many typos and editing errors.
FBI agent Archie Crane returns home to recover from injuries sustained in an undercover op gone sideways. Now, if it’s a JL FBI story…
he wasn’t sure legendary FBI BAU Chief Sam Kennedy would be able to wring much out of this skinny case file.Sam turns up in just about every FBI-related JL story. If you've not heard of him, read Winter Kill and the Art of Murder series. (The The Monuments Men Murders is my favorite.)
Archie had a teenage affair with Beau Langham which ended badly. Beau was the popular high school jock and all-around good guy. While Archie left for... San Diego State? Alaska? Beau married, had a kid, and eventually divorced his wife. Now he’s the police chief of—are you ready for it?—
Twinkleton. When he’d first heard it, he’d thought it was the dumbest possible name for a town.”Me, too, Archie.
Archie’s guardian/godfather is murdered shortly after his return to Twinkleton. The murder is painful—even more so as the story progresses. At a time when Archie is at his most vulnerable, it’s one more heartbreak he must endure.
Archie's and Beau's reunion gets off to a rocky start when Archie becomes a prime suspect. He's eventually cleared but isn’t allowed to investigate the murder.
What makes this book so good is the slow reveal of Archie's difficult past, the character development, and the re-awakening of Archie’s and Beau's relationship. But a happy ending is not in the cards. Archie's determined to return to Washington, DC (actually Quantico, VA) when he’s fully recovered. Beau is facing his own problems. Although he contemplates a move to the East Coast, he knows his heart isn't in it.
Given time for self-reflection, their relationship grows and awakens something in Archie. He realizes...
Beau had been his favorite person in all the world.This is where Lanyon’s writing really shines. She has a way of expressing a character's emotions that feels almost magical.
Archie asked over the lump in his throat, “Did you love her?” (Beau's ex-wife)-
Beau met his eyes. “I loved her as much as I thought I’d be able to love anyone who wasn’t you.”
It was not until the print blurred and he tasted tears that he became aware that he was sobbing in the gently rocking cocoon of the yacht’s cabin. Crying for John, his parents, for Kyle, for the time he and Beau had lost—and a future he wasn’t sure he had the courage to fight for.The book does have its flaws. The mystery could have been solved with solid police work, given a few more pages. Instead, JL chose one of those “character explains everything” endings. It felt like a cop-out (no pun intended; okay, maybe it was).
Although JL has trouble with character endings, I’m quite happy with this one. One thread is resolved, but not all of them. You could write your own ending. At least until she comes out with a Christmas Coda for Archie and Beau.
Perhaps I’m happy with the ending because it reminds me so much of Stranger on the Shore, my absolutely favorite JL book, and one of my top favorites of all time. I’m satisfied with the ending. Sure, there’s more to the story, but I think Beau and Archie will figure it out.
Hinckley Sou'wester 52
December 16, 2024
I can't even tell you how much I loved this book.
The character combination of the self-reliant but secretly vulnerable academic and the brooding, strong brute with a heart of gold once you get to know him is one that works VERY well in books. And Lanyon has mastered these characters like nobody else.
Surprisingly, in Ghosted, it's FBI Special Agent Archie Crane, who was seriously injured during a long-term undercover operation in a terrorism network, taking over the role of a guy in need of a strong shoulder.
Luckily, his former legal guardian, Dr. John Perry, still worries about his well-being and picks him up straight from the hospital to bring him back home to the small, picturesque town of Twinkleton (yes, I laughed at the name too), where Archie is supposed to spend a few weeks recovering.
However, we need to know that Archie lost his parents in his teens, and Dr. Perry assumed legal guardianship for him back then. Archie spent his rebellious teenage years living in Dr. Perry's mansion in the countryside, attending a local high school, and getting involved with the closeted quarterback and chief of police's son, Beau Langham (who, I might add, is repeatedly described as a Disney Prince—if Disney Princes worked as underwear models. I love that thought).
There was a major issue between them that will be revisited in detail during the story, but as Archie sees it, Beau ended things, got married (to a woman), and Archie left Twinkleton to join the FBI—despite Dr. Perry's wish for him to pursue a career in legal counseling.
Now, some ten years later, Archie is back in his old home, recovering from a severe head injury that leaves him weak and dizzy most of the time. He hopes to avoid running into Beau, who has since followed in his father's footsteps as Chief of Police in Twinkleton.
Of course, Archie doesn't have much time to recover before a dead body drops him into the middle of a murder investigation led by none other than the breathtakingly gorgeous but bad-tempered Chief Langham. Beau not only sees Archie as the main suspect in the case but also makes it clear that even a seasoned cop isn't above holding a 10 year long grudge.
These two guys are EVERYTHING. Their chemistry is off the charts. They are so real, so perfectly suited for each other. The misunderstandings between them are simply delicious, and resolving them is like eating one candy after another until the whole box is gone.
I adored them. Their reunion was—coming from someone who doesn't usually enjoy stories about ex-boyfriends getting back together—healing and deeply satisfying. It doesn't take explicit sex scenes to make their intimate moments glow.
Oh, and best of all, this story is filled with quirky characters who organize ghost walks and séances. There’s a touch of the paranormal that may or may not be resolved by the end. I totally enjoyed this book.
It is definitely one of my favorite reads this year.
5 stars!!
The character combination of the self-reliant but secretly vulnerable academic and the brooding, strong brute with a heart of gold once you get to know him is one that works VERY well in books. And Lanyon has mastered these characters like nobody else.
Surprisingly, in Ghosted, it's FBI Special Agent Archie Crane, who was seriously injured during a long-term undercover operation in a terrorism network, taking over the role of a guy in need of a strong shoulder.
Luckily, his former legal guardian, Dr. John Perry, still worries about his well-being and picks him up straight from the hospital to bring him back home to the small, picturesque town of Twinkleton (yes, I laughed at the name too), where Archie is supposed to spend a few weeks recovering.
However, we need to know that Archie lost his parents in his teens, and Dr. Perry assumed legal guardianship for him back then. Archie spent his rebellious teenage years living in Dr. Perry's mansion in the countryside, attending a local high school, and getting involved with the closeted quarterback and chief of police's son, Beau Langham (who, I might add, is repeatedly described as a Disney Prince—if Disney Princes worked as underwear models. I love that thought).
There was a major issue between them that will be revisited in detail during the story, but as Archie sees it, Beau ended things, got married (to a woman), and Archie left Twinkleton to join the FBI—despite Dr. Perry's wish for him to pursue a career in legal counseling.
Now, some ten years later, Archie is back in his old home, recovering from a severe head injury that leaves him weak and dizzy most of the time. He hopes to avoid running into Beau, who has since followed in his father's footsteps as Chief of Police in Twinkleton.
Of course, Archie doesn't have much time to recover before a dead body drops him into the middle of a murder investigation led by none other than the breathtakingly gorgeous but bad-tempered Chief Langham. Beau not only sees Archie as the main suspect in the case but also makes it clear that even a seasoned cop isn't above holding a 10 year long grudge.
These two guys are EVERYTHING. Their chemistry is off the charts. They are so real, so perfectly suited for each other. The misunderstandings between them are simply delicious, and resolving them is like eating one candy after another until the whole box is gone.
I adored them. Their reunion was—coming from someone who doesn't usually enjoy stories about ex-boyfriends getting back together—healing and deeply satisfying. It doesn't take explicit sex scenes to make their intimate moments glow.
Oh, and best of all, this story is filled with quirky characters who organize ghost walks and séances. There’s a touch of the paranormal that may or may not be resolved by the end. I totally enjoyed this book.
It is definitely one of my favorite reads this year.
5 stars!!
November 4, 2025
This one was excellent. As for many readers, Lanyon's Adrien English series my gateway into the m/m detective subgenre. Since then, I've read many Lanyon books: the All's Fair trilogy, Holmes and Moriarity, a couple standalones, and others. My favorites, besides Adrien English, would be the All's Fair trilogy and Come Unto These Yellow Sands.
Lanyon excels at writing second chance scenarios, in which two ex-lovers meet up years after a bitter, failed romance. The attraction is there, but so is the recrimination and hurt. She can use this setup to take us from room temp to blazing in a heartbeat. Lanyon likes to set the love story against a murder mystery/police procedural backdrop. This element usually isn't a strong point, and I sometimes find too many pages devoted to visits with red herring suspects. I'm also not a huge fan of what appears to be TSTL (too stupid to live) choices or lack of self-awareness in characters who are supposed to be quite smart (or at least relatable!). The chatty tone that Lanyon adopts for some of her lighter books can also grate. Finally, the supporting characters can seem flat, especially when they consist of the well-heeled and well-to-do.
Ghosted basically combines all strengths in Lanyon's work and very little of the weaknesses. I wasn't really drawn into the story until about chapter 8, when Beau interrogates Archie over the murder, but from then I dialed into their relationship and felt strongly for both characters' heartache. Archie is one of Lanyon's typically clueless characters, but never to the point of being annoying - Lanyon reiterating Archie's near-concussion state basically every time he threatened to display idiocy helped in this regard. Despite moments of impulsive pigheadedness, both Archie and Beau act like mature adults, which I found refreshing and relatable. The emphasis on Archie's relationship with John, his father figure, was a good touch, bringing in one of my favorite elements of the All's Fair trilogy. The pacing overall was spot on.
In short, Ghosted is vintage Lanyon, with lots of familiar tropes done well.
Lanyon excels at writing second chance scenarios, in which two ex-lovers meet up years after a bitter, failed romance. The attraction is there, but so is the recrimination and hurt. She can use this setup to take us from room temp to blazing in a heartbeat. Lanyon likes to set the love story against a murder mystery/police procedural backdrop. This element usually isn't a strong point, and I sometimes find too many pages devoted to visits with red herring suspects. I'm also not a huge fan of what appears to be TSTL (too stupid to live) choices or lack of self-awareness in characters who are supposed to be quite smart (or at least relatable!). The chatty tone that Lanyon adopts for some of her lighter books can also grate. Finally, the supporting characters can seem flat, especially when they consist of the well-heeled and well-to-do.
Ghosted basically combines all strengths in Lanyon's work and very little of the weaknesses. I wasn't really drawn into the story until about chapter 8, when Beau interrogates Archie over the murder, but from then I dialed into their relationship and felt strongly for both characters' heartache. Archie is one of Lanyon's typically clueless characters, but never to the point of being annoying - Lanyon reiterating Archie's near-concussion state basically every time he threatened to display idiocy helped in this regard. Despite moments of impulsive pigheadedness, both Archie and Beau act like mature adults, which I found refreshing and relatable. The emphasis on Archie's relationship with John, his father figure, was a good touch, bringing in one of my favorite elements of the All's Fair trilogy. The pacing overall was spot on.
In short, Ghosted is vintage Lanyon, with lots of familiar tropes done well.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 114 reviews