Deadly Ghost

Angus Brodie & Mikaela Forsythe #12

by Carla Simpson

Ghosts from the past have the nasty habit of refusing to stay buried.

Returning from an extended stay in Scotland, life for Mikaela and Brodie picks up right back where it left off. Brodie is immediately tasked with a new case for the Agency, while Mikaela must attend a reception for the release of her latest novel. But, as it always does, intrigue has begun to creep its way back in.

While at the reception, Mikaela encounters a mysterious woman who bares a striking resemblance to her. But, before she can ask any questions, the woman disappears.

Days later Mikaela’s sister Lenore sees the same woman, raising more questions and bringing back painful memories. The woman claims to be a long-lost half sister, with old letters and documents that seem to support her claim. And there is that undeniable resemblance.

But is she who she claims to be?

Mikaela sets out to investigate, drawing Brodie in to support her even as he cautions that the woman might be telling the truth.

Their search takes them into the past as old secrets come to light, from a private hospital in the south of France to a grave in Highgate Cemetery, desperate to expose the truth.

But as they both know only too well, awaking old ghosts can be deadly...

Genres: Mystery, Suspense, Historical

205 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 22, 2025

About the author

Carla Simpson also writes as Quinn Taylor Evans.

Reviews

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Haunted by the past

This tale is dark. With the ghost of a neglectful father looming and his secrets come to bear. Mikaela and Brodie have chased the ghosts of his past and now it’s time to chase the ghosts from Mikaela’s. At times disturbing, riveting and all engaging this is unputdownable.

[Jan Goodard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mikaela and Angus are knee deep in mystery once again. This time it is personal. On returning from a respite from the influenza epidemic in London, a woman with a very close resemblance to Mikaela is spotted by Lily. Who is that woman? It does not her long to make her presence known. Victoria Grantham is claiming to be the love child of Mikaela's father. Stating that she just lonely since her mother's death. Recently finding out the truth, she just wants to get to know her family. Is she really a part of the Forsythe family or is her claim a bit more sinister. Of course, Mikaela and Brodie want to know what is real. Ecking out the truth can be dangerous. Their investigations, as usual, can be harmful. As usual this tale is fast paced from beginning to end. You will need to read to see if the Forythes have a new member or not.
With each book in the series the author develops her characters more and more, giving the reader further insight into them, especially Mikaela and Augus' relationship. Certainly, everyone should have a Great aunt Antonia. What an inspiring octogenarian! I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[June Karen Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unfortunately this is the first book I have read by Carla Simpson. I really wished I had found this series before. This is definitely unputdownable. I enjoyed the characters all seemed to gel together. The storyline was fascinating and will hold you enthralled. I definitely would recommend this book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great addition to this already amazing series. Carla is great at drawing us in with tidbits of the past and the ongoing feelings between Mikaela and Angus. Due to an illness in London the whole family has spent time at Aunt Antonia’s hunting lodge in Scotland. Just returning to London in time for Lily, and Mikaela to attend the reception James has set up for her latest book, by Emma Forsythe”. Lily is surprised when she ask’s Mikaela why she was looking around the store instead of being at the front with her books? Mikaela doesn’t understand as she has never left the front of the store. Lily is sure she saw a woman who could be her twin then? When she tells Brodie about it, he tells her there is a lot of women with red hair. The plot thickens when she sees a woman looking like her at the gym, and her sister Linnie sees what the same woman could be later also. Oh, my. When her aunt calls a family meeting, she knows something is up. A woman with the name of Victoria Granthan is claiming to be the daughter of her late father, John Forsythe! She has letters and some documents she has sent by her lawyer. All of this is very upsetting to Mikaela as she has worked hard to put the past events in her life dealing with her father behind her. Digging up the painful memories is very hard for her. Brodie is working on other case but knows she will need a ton of support dealing with this. This is a very deep story, with many secrets from the past brought to light. Some better left alone. As Brodie and her dig into the claim by this woman they will encounter must evil, danger and learn more about the love and understanding they are growing in their new marriage. Lily now almost eighteen has a lot to do with this story and we see how much she has learned living with Aunt Antonia. Some for the good and maybe some not. This is a very fast-moving story and one you will not be able to put down. It is best to read this whole series in order as same characters are in each book with new ones added. Each book lets us learn more about all of them and how each is growing with the others. I received and ARC from the author and wish to thank her. This is my honest opinion and am freely giving it.

[Barbara Rogers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Barbara’s rating: 5 out of 5 Stars
Series: Angus Brodie and Mikaela Forsythe #12
Publication Date: 4/22/25
Period: Victorian London
Number of Pages: 205

A Captivating and Fast-Paced Mystery! Carla Simpson's Deadly Ghost is a thrilling ride that will keep readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. The story takes us deeper into Mikaela's life, revealing important elements of her past while she and Brodie tackle a mysterious case that is both personal and dangerous. As Brodie and Mikaela navigate through the unexpected twists and turns, the stakes get higher, and the suspense becomes almost unbearable.

Simpson does a brilliant job of balancing a gripping plot with strong character development. The fast-paced narrative never loses its momentum, making this book impossible to put down. Each chapter leaves you eager to uncover the next clue, and Simpson's knack for crafting compelling suspense is on full display here.

Mikaela, Brodie, and the rest of their crew have spent the last few months in Scotland while London is in the grip of a deadly influenza outbreak, but their normal life slams in full force upon their return. It seems there is a woman about town who looks just like Mikaela – and makes family claims. Is she truly just a lonely woman seeking family where she thought she had none? Or is there something more sinister going on? When strange things happen, Mikaela and Brodie know they must solve the puzzle before something happens. Does Mikaela have a new family member, or is there a villain in the mix? Could both be true?

This is a must-read for anyone who loves a good mystery—packed with excitement, rich storytelling, and the perfect mix of thrills and character insight. Simpson continues to prove why she's a standout voice in the genre. Highly recommended!

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Fanosse23 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoy all the Angus Brodie and Mikaela Forsythe murder mysteries by Carla Simpson, and this latest installment was no exception.

Once again, ghosts from the past emerge, and Mikaela finds herself confronting the possibility of having a long-lost half-sister who bears a striking resemblance to her, though something seems off. True to her nature, Mikaela dives into the mystery, and sets out to investigate, drawing Brodie in to support her even as he cautions that the woman might be telling the truth.

Victoria Grantham claims to be the love child of Mikaela’s father, stating she only learned of this upon her mother's death. Her professed desire to know her newfound family better appears genuine, but time will tell. As Mikaela and Brodie delve deeper, unexpected twists and turns abound, filled with danger, intrigue, and suspense.

What I love about this series is how each book reveals more about Mikaela and Brodie’s past, deepening their love with each revelation. Simpson masterfully balances a gripping plot with robust character development. The fast-paced narrative never falters, making this book impossible to put down. This series is one that every mystery reader should pick up, Simpson pulls you in with her rich storytelling, and the perfect blend of thrills and character who you will love.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kathleen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Disappointing plot line in the 12th novel

Spoilers

Having speed read the first 12 books in this series of which there are currently 13, much of the backstory is very fresh in my mind. And while these are your typical light stories that are fairly well based on late Victorian times, this one had a sharp enough deviation from how society operates that it's worth commenting on and is a disappointing oversight from the author.

The motive for the antagonist in this book falls short. Michaela's father has gambled away his fortune. That is canon in the series. Even if other people were to claim a relationship to the Forsythes, there's nothing to inherit. Lady Montgomery's inheritance on the other hand is hers to distribute as she wishes. There is no entailment because endowments typically only go through male lines. So the premise of someone claiming to be related to her father and wanting potentially access to that vast wealth is illogical. If the author is attempting to claim it is a case of societal recognition and legitimacy, access to power and influence, or stealing of identities, these cases are not made. Which is disappointing. There could have been a lot of really rich ground cover with one of those as the motivation.

[Charmaine Fernando · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great suspenseful mystery for Brodie and Mikaela to sink their teeth in. This time in the form of a half sibling who turns up and makes a claim. A quick glance out of the corner of Mikaela’s eye while leaving the gym, seems to suggest she might very well be a half sibling. This brings back painful memories of her father. However, Mikaela is still suspicious of this woman and sets out to find documentary proof that this is indeed the case.

This leads to Brodie and Mikaela finding themselves in danger the more they delve into the mystery. Carla Simpson has written another wonderful installment to the series that not only gives us more of the Brodie and Mikaela story but also members of their family and some of their background too. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and stayed up well passed my bedtime on many a night to read this unputdownable mystery. It is exciting, thrilling, nail biting, and will have you engaged from start to finish. I received an ARC from the publishers and Booksprout and submit my honest review voluntarily.

[Pat Robinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mikaela and Brodie find themselves in a very insane affair this time. I loved how the author has expounded on their relationship, seeing them get closer as time goes on. The twists and turns in this story are positively ingenious and I read the entire story in one sitting-it is that enthralling. Lily is growing up and factors well with this story and as always, Aunt Antonia gets in the mix as well. Mikaela has to revisit memories she would rather not and it was rather painful to watch her go through that, but with Brodie by her side, she makes it through. What I like about this series is the author reintroduces the reader to the well developed characters so succinctly that, if you haven’t read the previous novels (but you really should!) you can still keep up with the story and not get lost.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Stephanie Herron · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mikaela and Brodie get back from Scotland and stumble into a case. Brodie takes a case from the Agency, but quickly turns his focus on the woman who is claiming she is Mikaela's half sister. Mikaela is naturally suspicious and finds it difficult to dredge up the circumstances around her father's death and whether he could have had an affair. Brodie understands this and does what he can to help her get through this emotional case. The usual cast of secondary characters are present and help with figuring out who Victoria really is. There is action, adventure, and suspense. The story pulls you in as emotions run high and the price is high if there really is another sister.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Patricia · Rating 5 out of 5]

You can't go wrong with this series by Carla Simpson.
This time round, we get a little more about Mikaela's life before Angus. There's a woman out there who bears a remarkable resemblance to Mikaela. So when Mikaela's aunt calls for a family meeting along with the family lawyer, we know that something is up.
Much to the shock of everyone, there is a woman who claims to be the daughter of Mikaela's father. She says she just wants to get to know her family. But is that the truth? Does she have a darker motive for coming forward?
A little darker than others have been, but still a page-turner as you try to figure out what is happening before Mikaela and Angus do.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Roslyn Stillman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am loving this series. This book is excellent if you have not read any of the books before. She does a lovely catch-up; even if you have read them, it is still a great reminder. The no-so-easy relationship between Brodie and Mikaela makes these murder mysteries so much more interesting. As soon as I get the new book in the series, everything gets put down so I can read it. The characters are wonderful, and especially with this book, it is very close to Mikaela. It had lots of twists and turns, and even though you could see the ending coming, it was a great adventure. I received this as an ARC from Booksprout and freely give my review

[Suzette · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Deadly Ghost" by Carla Simpson is nothing short of a masterpiece! From start to finish, this book captivates with its superb storytelling and fast-paced plot. Simpson has once again proven herself as a master of suspense, weaving a tale that is both nail-biting and easy to read, making it impossible to put down.

The characters are well-developed, each bringing their own unique dynamics to the story. The plot twists kept me on the edge of my seat, eagerly anticipating what would happen next. Simpson’s ability to balance tension with vivid descriptions immerses you in a world where danger lurks around every corner.

"Deadly Ghost" doesn't just entertain; it enthralls. Simpson’s writing style is smooth and engaging, allowing readers to lose themselves in the thrilling mystery. If you're a fan of suspenseful, well-crafted narratives, this book is a must-read. I can't recommend it enough—definitely a five-star experience!

[Sahar's Honest Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ghosts, Secrets, and Deadly Danger
There’s a new woman in town, and she claims to be Mikaela’s half-sister. Looking at her is like looking in a mirror—but is she really who she says she is? Mikaela is suspicious, despite the documents her so-called sister presents. Determined to uncover the truth, Mikaela begins to investigate, and Brodie, of course, won’t let her do it alone. As with all their investigations, this one quickly turns dangerous. Will someone die? You’ll have to read this entertaining historical mystery to find out. I enjoyed this story and would recommend it. I especially appreciated that it’s a shorter read.

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm really enjoying this series...the cast, the plots...just everything about it. And this installment ranks up near the top of the list.

What I especially loved about this story was both the emotional depth conveyed between the two mains and the interesting and unique plotline. Mikaela has to dig deep into past horrific events to confront a current development, and it adds more emotion and introspection than we normally get from her character. And Brodie, as always, gives her the support she needs, but even more so here as he sees how difficult this development is in her life.

Very well done, and as always, I'm looking forward to more.

[Clara Lash · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was provided an early copy of the book in return for an honest review.



This is a very well paced mystery book! I've been trying to read more of the genre and was thrilled to be able to read this one.



This was my first foray into Mikaela's story, but I liked it a lot. Her having the mystery of a possible half sibling to unravel left me on the edge of my seat.

This is a great mystery for anyone new or old to the genre!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Monica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deadly Ghost allows us to see back in time to the most traumatic period of Mikaela’s childhood. This book shows Mikaela at her most vulnerable.

There is a lot of intrigue in this book. There is also more of Mr. Brown who is a very interesting character.

As all of the books in the series, I really enjoyed reading this one.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[NelleRenn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always enjoy the adventures of Angus Brodie and Mikaela Forsythe. This one was especially interesting due to bringing in Mikaela’s father’s past and death. The secondary characters who are in the other stories are very well developed and as intriguing as the main characters. I do appreciate the authors notes at the end to help clarify the historical accuracy.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jo · Rating 4 out of 5]

This author writes some of the best ever historical mysteries. Her talent for drawing the reader into the mystery and then keeping them on tether hooks until the end is so amazing. Once you start, you will not stop to sleep or anything else until the last page. Come journey with Mikaela and Brodie as they continue to be embroiled with suspense and intrigue in this 12th mystery adventure.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Dominique Englebert · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deadly Ghost? Greedy Ghost
When Mikaela and Brodie get back from Scotland, they discover that a woman pretends to be a long-lost half-sister. The resemblance is remarkable, but Mikaela has doubts. The woman is quite interested not only in her family but also their financial assets. Caution and investigation are required.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kelley McGee · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good story but needed more

I was a bit disappointed with this one. It felt rushed. There were quite a few typos, names misspelled, words missing and the plot was a bit thin. The characters kept talking about how disturbing the antagonist’s actions were but I didn’t feel like the reader was given enough to feel the same way. It was a decent installment in the series but rather ho-hum compared to some of the others.

[Deborah Spier · Rating 5 out of 5]

When a young woman appears who claims to be Mikaela's half sister, Mikaela and Angus investigate. Is the woman telling the truth? And if not, why the masquerade? The story is exciting and the investigation involving. The characters all have depth and are enjoyable to spend time with. A great read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Dina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a good book. When you know something is not right, and you don't know exactly what it is, having your husband and his connections there to help is wonderful. Their relationship is such that they know what the other will do in any situation. Their found family is also a great resource in their quest to stop the threat to their family.

[Doreen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!

Terrific and very unusual! Well written, well developed story line, and the usual excellent characters! The story involves the family background twenty years earlier! A woman claiming to be the daughter of Mikaela and Linny's father appears with legal documents. Enjoy this excellent mystery!

[Nancy T Vega · Rating 5 out of 5]

An Uneasy Feeling/A Meeting/Whom Is It?

Like looking into the a mirror-part of the past, a Lady out of nowhere boast a claim & it is unsettling to say the least. Does she have intent to harm? To become one of the family?To ask for money? Secrets to be investigated to learn the truth & at all cost keep the family safe!

[Denise R · Rating 5 out of 5]

Most Interesting

This book shows us that matter how much success we have, we always have doubts. Our broken, lacking childhood haunts us. If we do not do our mental health work our past will consume our present. In the time period of this writing hadn’t the tools to help people this troubled. We are far more blessed now.

[Gina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoy this series. Mikaela and Brodie are a force to be reckoned with. When a woman who looks like Mikaela claims to be a half sibling, something does not seem right. On a journey to find the truth there is danger and intrigue. Very good.

[Sven · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another well written, fast-paced mystery. We see Btodie and Mikaela grow in their relationship and get a view into Mikaelas' past and, of course, a pulse pounding mystery. Cannot wait to read more in this series.

[Lillian Chirichella · Rating 5 out of 5]

they just keep getting better

I have read the entire series and loved every episode. Carla Simpson is an excellent writer. Each character is a unique and the “good guys “are special.

[Amber Fink · Rating 5 out of 5]

amazing

Wow that’s all I got.. definitely ten out of ten stars I could read it again and still love it, Carla Simpson always amazes me with her novels and I can’t wait for the next one in the series and check out her other series she has also.. hands down the best one yet.