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Dead Medium: Not Your Average Ghost Story
"The Strangest Things Happen When You're Dead." - May Elizabeth Trump. The deathly silence is about to be broken. She disliked the company of others and death did little to warm her spirit. She had led an independent life and she faced death in much the same way. She was finally alone, finally free from the mindless babble of others, at least that's what she thought. May Elizabeth Trump was the rarest of spirits and she was none too happy about it either. She was a dead medium, a ghost who can speak with the living, and her services were to become in great demand. Flung into the limelight and smothered with unwanted attention, May soon discovers that it is not only ghosts with long awaited messages that have taken an interest in her. Something dark was lurking in the shadows, stalking her. Even the dead are not left to rest in peace. Dead A humorous, character driven story and a unique vision of life after death. Not your average ghost story.
Reviewed by Lit Amri for Readers' Favorite
"Dead Medium" revolves around seventy-five year old May Elizabeth Trump's life after death. A hermit who doesn't really want to do anything with everybody else during her lifetime, she reluctantly agrees to help Penny Saunders, a woman who dies a few days before her, to solve the debt problem that she leaves behind to her daughter Chloe. With this, May eventually gets involves with a lot of people, both dead and alive, more than she likes. She is after all a dead medium who is capable of talking to the living; her ability is rare and in great demand.
Peter John is such a wonderful author with a brilliant writing skill, which makes the narration of the book somewhat nostalgic and beautiful. May Trump is truly the center of the story and makes the reading captivating and an absolute joy. Her strong, independent quality anchors the other colorful Penny and Chloe Saunders, the mother and daughter with debt problem, Barbara the so-called seer who works part-time at the supermarket, the ghost George Tailor with his Soul Stalkers' theories, and even Mr. Kibbles, the ghost cat. The story itself is marvelous as well as humorous and gives remarkable insight into how the dead deals with the living world and it discusses the mystery of the other side. The ending takes a surprising turn but it ties up everything together nicely in the end. An enjoyable read and I can't wait for the author's next brilliant work.
Reviewed by Lit Amri for Readers' Favorite
"Dead Medium" revolves around seventy-five year old May Elizabeth Trump's life after death. A hermit who doesn't really want to do anything with everybody else during her lifetime, she reluctantly agrees to help Penny Saunders, a woman who dies a few days before her, to solve the debt problem that she leaves behind to her daughter Chloe. With this, May eventually gets involves with a lot of people, both dead and alive, more than she likes. She is after all a dead medium who is capable of talking to the living; her ability is rare and in great demand.
Peter John is such a wonderful author with a brilliant writing skill, which makes the narration of the book somewhat nostalgic and beautiful. May Trump is truly the center of the story and makes the reading captivating and an absolute joy. Her strong, independent quality anchors the other colorful Penny and Chloe Saunders, the mother and daughter with debt problem, Barbara the so-called seer who works part-time at the supermarket, the ghost George Tailor with his Soul Stalkers' theories, and even Mr. Kibbles, the ghost cat. The story itself is marvelous as well as humorous and gives remarkable insight into how the dead deals with the living world and it discusses the mystery of the other side. The ending takes a surprising turn but it ties up everything together nicely in the end. An enjoyable read and I can't wait for the author's next brilliant work.
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First published January 9, 2013
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About the author
Peter John
6 books149 followersPeter John was born in Bromley Kent, England in 1973. He gained an interest in creative writing at the age of 14 and was published during the 1990's in several poetry anthologies. Happily Married to Jo since 1996 and currently living in Sidcup Kent, not so far from the tree.
Editorial Review:
Reviewed by Lit Amri for Readers' Favorite
"Dead Medium" revolves around seventy-five year old May Elizabeth Trump’s life after death. A hermit who doesn't really want to do anything with everybody else during her lifetime, she reluctantly agrees to help Penny Saunders, a woman who dies a few days before her, to solve the debt problem that she leaves behind to her daughter Chloe. With this, May eventually gets involves with a lot of people, both dead and alive, more than she likes. She is after all a dead medium who is capable of talking to the living; her ability is rare and in great demand.
Peter John is such a wonderful author with a brilliant writing skill, which makes the narration of the book somewhat nostalgic and beautiful. May Trump is truly the center of the story and makes the reading captivating and an absolute joy. Her strong, independent quality anchors the other colorful characters: Penny and Chloe Saunders, the mother and daughter with debt problem, Barbara the so-called seer who works part-time at the supermarket, the ghost George Tailor with his Soul Stalkers’ theories, and even Mr. Kibbles, the ghost cat. The story itself is marvelous as well as humorous and gives remarkable insight into how the dead deals with the living world and it discusses the mystery of the other side. The ending takes a surprising turn but it ties up everything together nicely in the end. An enjoyable read and I can't wait for the author's next brilliant work.
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Editorial Review:
Reviewed by Lit Amri for Readers' Favorite
"Dead Medium" revolves around seventy-five year old May Elizabeth Trump’s life after death. A hermit who doesn't really want to do anything with everybody else during her lifetime, she reluctantly agrees to help Penny Saunders, a woman who dies a few days before her, to solve the debt problem that she leaves behind to her daughter Chloe. With this, May eventually gets involves with a lot of people, both dead and alive, more than she likes. She is after all a dead medium who is capable of talking to the living; her ability is rare and in great demand.
Peter John is such a wonderful author with a brilliant writing skill, which makes the narration of the book somewhat nostalgic and beautiful. May Trump is truly the center of the story and makes the reading captivating and an absolute joy. Her strong, independent quality anchors the other colorful characters: Penny and Chloe Saunders, the mother and daughter with debt problem, Barbara the so-called seer who works part-time at the supermarket, the ghost George Tailor with his Soul Stalkers’ theories, and even Mr. Kibbles, the ghost cat. The story itself is marvelous as well as humorous and gives remarkable insight into how the dead deals with the living world and it discusses the mystery of the other side. The ending takes a surprising turn but it ties up everything together nicely in the end. An enjoyable read and I can't wait for the author's next brilliant work.
http://readersfavorite.com/book-revie...
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Dead-Medium-P...
http://deadmediumpeterjohn.webs.com
https://www.facebook.com/DeadMediumby...
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...
http://thetrumpdiary.wordpress.com/
https://twitter.com/AttemptedAuthor
http://www.shelfari.com/deadmedium
https://plus.google.com/u/0/100926177...
http://pinterest.com/deadmedium/boards/
http://www.stumbleupon.com/stumbler/p...
http://www.amazon.com/Peter-John/e/B0...
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Dead-Medium-P...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
May 30, 2013
Not a typical ghost story is right...It is a unique, fresh, funny ghost story... and so heartwarming in the end!
This clever story is told more from the ghost's point of view. May Trump is a stubborn 75 year old woman that has just discovered that she is dead and she can be heard by the living. May had me laughing from the first chapter; she is a colorful, genuine character. Her talking back to the people on 'the gossip shows' on television reminded me of my own Grandmother. May's only soft spot is for Mr. Kibbles her dead cat until she is drawn to help a recently deceased ghost and the ghost's living daughter. May, Penny, Gary and Chloe team up with an equally entertaining group ladies that dabble in the supernatural. The story is full of humor as May and the others try to figure out how to accomplish their goals. I love the cauliflower on the mannequin and May's matter of fact reactions to these odd situations.
The author really brings this story to life with all rich characters and realist interactions. Peter John did an excellent job of making the characters believable, even lovable. George is written just how I would expect him to sound having died so long ago. May's time period in the other realm captivated my attention as well. Then the plot thickens and just when I thought I could predict the direction of the story it went another way! I was thoroughly entertained throughout this book and anxious to know what was going to happen to May in the end. I almost cried during the last chapter; I had a big smile on my face too. The ending is perfect and I had no clue that it was going to happen. This is a brilliant story and I highly recommend it to anyone that loves a great ghost story.
This clever story is told more from the ghost's point of view. May Trump is a stubborn 75 year old woman that has just discovered that she is dead and she can be heard by the living. May had me laughing from the first chapter; she is a colorful, genuine character. Her talking back to the people on 'the gossip shows' on television reminded me of my own Grandmother. May's only soft spot is for Mr. Kibbles her dead cat until she is drawn to help a recently deceased ghost and the ghost's living daughter. May, Penny, Gary and Chloe team up with an equally entertaining group ladies that dabble in the supernatural. The story is full of humor as May and the others try to figure out how to accomplish their goals. I love the cauliflower on the mannequin and May's matter of fact reactions to these odd situations.
The author really brings this story to life with all rich characters and realist interactions. Peter John did an excellent job of making the characters believable, even lovable. George is written just how I would expect him to sound having died so long ago. May's time period in the other realm captivated my attention as well. Then the plot thickens and just when I thought I could predict the direction of the story it went another way! I was thoroughly entertained throughout this book and anxious to know what was going to happen to May in the end. I almost cried during the last chapter; I had a big smile on my face too. The ending is perfect and I had no clue that it was going to happen. This is a brilliant story and I highly recommend it to anyone that loves a great ghost story.
October 17, 2013
I thought it was really good. Colourful characters, brilliant one-liners and an imaginative and captivating story. Well worth spending a couple of quiet evenings with.
May 22, 2013
I like ghost stories, but this book puts a new twist to them!
May Elizabeth Trump was a woman who lived alone and loved her independence. She was 75 years old and didn’t rely on anyone. She wasn’t a social person. Her social skills are a little rusty. When she chokes on a piece of pastry, she passes on. And May faces death the same way, independently. There were so many things she wanted to do before she died. But she must face her life now. And she’s not alone. She has a bushy, ginger cat named Mr. Kibbles that died 10 years ago. May is thrilled to have her but she’s still not sure what she’s supposed to do in this after life. When she meets some newly departed spirits, she starts to get some shocking answers. May learns she has a very special ability that is in high demand.
The plot thickens and you are taken into a unique story filled with memorable characters and lots of humor. Not only did I love May, but I also loved Penny and Chloe. Just awesome supporting characters. I really liked learning about the ‘behind scenes’ of being a ghost. Seeing life from their perspective was really neat.
One of my favorite parts is when May talks about terms of service. It’s so flipping funny. A ghost making deals like this. I couldn’t stop smiling. I LOVED it! May is one heck of a character. I’m telling you, you will fall in love with her!
This is a clever, unique, refreshing, and interesting read, and I found myself captivated by this fantastic story. I anxiously flipped through the pages of my kindle laughing out loud at all the jokes and watching May adjust to her new life.
I absolutely loved this book and would definitely recommend it. 5 stars without a doubt!
May Elizabeth Trump was a woman who lived alone and loved her independence. She was 75 years old and didn’t rely on anyone. She wasn’t a social person. Her social skills are a little rusty. When she chokes on a piece of pastry, she passes on. And May faces death the same way, independently. There were so many things she wanted to do before she died. But she must face her life now. And she’s not alone. She has a bushy, ginger cat named Mr. Kibbles that died 10 years ago. May is thrilled to have her but she’s still not sure what she’s supposed to do in this after life. When she meets some newly departed spirits, she starts to get some shocking answers. May learns she has a very special ability that is in high demand.
The plot thickens and you are taken into a unique story filled with memorable characters and lots of humor. Not only did I love May, but I also loved Penny and Chloe. Just awesome supporting characters. I really liked learning about the ‘behind scenes’ of being a ghost. Seeing life from their perspective was really neat.
One of my favorite parts is when May talks about terms of service. It’s so flipping funny. A ghost making deals like this. I couldn’t stop smiling. I LOVED it! May is one heck of a character. I’m telling you, you will fall in love with her!
This is a clever, unique, refreshing, and interesting read, and I found myself captivated by this fantastic story. I anxiously flipped through the pages of my kindle laughing out loud at all the jokes and watching May adjust to her new life.
I absolutely loved this book and would definitely recommend it. 5 stars without a doubt!
October 1, 2014
I was intrigued to read this book, having for as long as I can remember been fascinated by the subject of a possible afterlife, pondering what form it might take. The idea of a ‘dead medium’ was what drew me in. What could this possible be? A medium who had passed into the spirit realm and found it far different from anticipated, perhaps? In fact, the concept of this original and rewarding book is much sharper, cleverer and at times far funnier than I expected.
The premise is that May Trump, an ordinary, rather curmudgeonly, antisocial 75 year old discovers after her death not simply that she has survived as a ghost – way out of her comfort zone of belief – but that she has the rare gift of making herself heard to those still in this earthly realm. The story unfolds from this point – occasionally farcical, with Peter John’s dry wit poking affectionate fun at all the characters that appear. The novel is clever on so many levels. The author has done his research well, and many of the theoretical models about a possible afterlife are introduced in such a way that they seem for the most part utterly believable.
I particularly liked the fact that with the emergence of other ghosts into the story it became clear that the essence of personality that survived death hadn’t fallen far from the tree. There was nothing mawkishly holier-than-thou about these ethereal survivors of mortality – and not very much ethereal about them, either. They were refreshingly real, as were the neighbours and friends of May Trump, who took in their stride her audible manifestation. I got the impression that Peter John thoroughly enjoyed writing the book and became engaged himself all with the characters – this always conveys itself to a reader, and I soon became captivated.
I was especially interested in the early introduction of May’s cat, Mr Kibbles, and knew that he must be a plot device chosen with good reason. This was borne out by the time the end of the novel was reached, and he is indeed a key player in the drama – but you’ll have to find out for yourself just how. Suffice it to say that Mr Kibbles – a seemingly rare animal resident of the spirit world ever since his death 10 years previously – is the one creature with whom May was able to create a loving bond during her lifetime. This bond is still there now that she herself is a ghost, and yet it is no longer quite so exclusive: an interesting hero’s journey ensues throughout the novel, as May discovers a kinder side to her personality, and a form of altruism that was never present in her while she was alive. Death has changed her in more ways than she could have imagined.
I don’t want to give away any more of the plot than necessary, as the story takes the reader as much as May herself on a journey that ultimately is as touching as it is humorous. There were tears in my eyes at the end – and not from laughing. I also recommend that you read Peter John’s illuminating biography on his Amazon Author’s page, in which he describes his own spiritual beliefs, and his scepticism regarding con artist mediums. I share with him a refusal to be hoodwinked balanced against genuine personal experience which suggests there is far more to life and death than meets the eye. I love the way he has written the novel holding the circumspect perspective of ‘what if...’ which opens the door to imaginative fiction rather than getting bogged down in irrefutable fact. Given the subject matter I believe that is far the best way, and also adds to its charm. I thoroughly recommend this novel and give it 5 stars.
The premise is that May Trump, an ordinary, rather curmudgeonly, antisocial 75 year old discovers after her death not simply that she has survived as a ghost – way out of her comfort zone of belief – but that she has the rare gift of making herself heard to those still in this earthly realm. The story unfolds from this point – occasionally farcical, with Peter John’s dry wit poking affectionate fun at all the characters that appear. The novel is clever on so many levels. The author has done his research well, and many of the theoretical models about a possible afterlife are introduced in such a way that they seem for the most part utterly believable.
I particularly liked the fact that with the emergence of other ghosts into the story it became clear that the essence of personality that survived death hadn’t fallen far from the tree. There was nothing mawkishly holier-than-thou about these ethereal survivors of mortality – and not very much ethereal about them, either. They were refreshingly real, as were the neighbours and friends of May Trump, who took in their stride her audible manifestation. I got the impression that Peter John thoroughly enjoyed writing the book and became engaged himself all with the characters – this always conveys itself to a reader, and I soon became captivated.
I was especially interested in the early introduction of May’s cat, Mr Kibbles, and knew that he must be a plot device chosen with good reason. This was borne out by the time the end of the novel was reached, and he is indeed a key player in the drama – but you’ll have to find out for yourself just how. Suffice it to say that Mr Kibbles – a seemingly rare animal resident of the spirit world ever since his death 10 years previously – is the one creature with whom May was able to create a loving bond during her lifetime. This bond is still there now that she herself is a ghost, and yet it is no longer quite so exclusive: an interesting hero’s journey ensues throughout the novel, as May discovers a kinder side to her personality, and a form of altruism that was never present in her while she was alive. Death has changed her in more ways than she could have imagined.
I don’t want to give away any more of the plot than necessary, as the story takes the reader as much as May herself on a journey that ultimately is as touching as it is humorous. There were tears in my eyes at the end – and not from laughing. I also recommend that you read Peter John’s illuminating biography on his Amazon Author’s page, in which he describes his own spiritual beliefs, and his scepticism regarding con artist mediums. I share with him a refusal to be hoodwinked balanced against genuine personal experience which suggests there is far more to life and death than meets the eye. I love the way he has written the novel holding the circumspect perspective of ‘what if...’ which opens the door to imaginative fiction rather than getting bogged down in irrefutable fact. Given the subject matter I believe that is far the best way, and also adds to its charm. I thoroughly recommend this novel and give it 5 stars.
May 15, 2013
Peter John's twist on a classic ghost story kept me hooked from the first page to the last. The story begins with a nice amount of descriptive details, which give readers a solid introduction of the main character, Ms. May Elizabeth Trump. John allows the readers to travel through a series of comedic moments while drawing the reader closer to the core. Readers will discover there is more than a ghost story; they will enjoy seeing life - and death - from many perspectives.
Well before the end of the first chapter I found myself wanting to meet old lady Trump, and if I could have climbed within the pages to help the supporting characters, Penny and Chloe, I would have happily did it. John did an impressive job of maintaining order in his unusual cast - a task that some authors cannot pull off.
The setting and plot lines snake their way through the pages. They keep readers guessing with what to anticipate. Even though I am not familiar with the locations, John used his words in a careful manner. Thus, I had no real issues with visualizing his story. I don't wish to spoil it for others - just go buy a copy!
I give this story a solid four stars out of five for creativity, plot mastery, character development and delightful twists. The last star was, sadly, not given due to a spray of minor errors. These are common in nearly every author's book; John is certainly not alone. The errors were minor and did not erase my enjoyment of the story.
I highly advise readers to give him a small bit of time to ensure these don't exist in the final copy, and then rush out to purchase this book! I am thankful for the opportunity to read it for review. I plan to add it to my shopping list and give copies as gifts.
Well before the end of the first chapter I found myself wanting to meet old lady Trump, and if I could have climbed within the pages to help the supporting characters, Penny and Chloe, I would have happily did it. John did an impressive job of maintaining order in his unusual cast - a task that some authors cannot pull off.
The setting and plot lines snake their way through the pages. They keep readers guessing with what to anticipate. Even though I am not familiar with the locations, John used his words in a careful manner. Thus, I had no real issues with visualizing his story. I don't wish to spoil it for others - just go buy a copy!
I give this story a solid four stars out of five for creativity, plot mastery, character development and delightful twists. The last star was, sadly, not given due to a spray of minor errors. These are common in nearly every author's book; John is certainly not alone. The errors were minor and did not erase my enjoyment of the story.
I highly advise readers to give him a small bit of time to ensure these don't exist in the final copy, and then rush out to purchase this book! I am thankful for the opportunity to read it for review. I plan to add it to my shopping list and give copies as gifts.
June 7, 2013
Dead Medium - Peter John
Witty throughout!!!
Dead Medium is a fabulous and most unusual story, showing great attention to detail, realistic scenes which draw you into the believable characters. May Elizabeth Trump reminded me of the 1970s when I was a kid and carted around my grandparent's friends- aunts, uncles and the other folk of the time. Memories flooded back from the dark, well kept rooms that nobody but 'guests' would be allowed inside to disturb things.
Peter John provides a witty, fun tale, giving the reader a warm fuzzy feeling while embarking upon the journey. Tea, cake, icing and comfy chairs- from 'ooohs and ahhhs' to ailments and death, the fun begins. Communicating with the living to snarling Smokey clouds- so clever and entertaining.
The scenarios of common people gossiping and grumbling continue to add to the ongoing amusement. The writer has a wonderful sense of humour displayed throughout the book. If you are into the paranormal, tarot, spiritual mediums or just like a good giggle- this one is for you!
Witty throughout!!!
Dead Medium is a fabulous and most unusual story, showing great attention to detail, realistic scenes which draw you into the believable characters. May Elizabeth Trump reminded me of the 1970s when I was a kid and carted around my grandparent's friends- aunts, uncles and the other folk of the time. Memories flooded back from the dark, well kept rooms that nobody but 'guests' would be allowed inside to disturb things.
Peter John provides a witty, fun tale, giving the reader a warm fuzzy feeling while embarking upon the journey. Tea, cake, icing and comfy chairs- from 'ooohs and ahhhs' to ailments and death, the fun begins. Communicating with the living to snarling Smokey clouds- so clever and entertaining.
The scenarios of common people gossiping and grumbling continue to add to the ongoing amusement. The writer has a wonderful sense of humour displayed throughout the book. If you are into the paranormal, tarot, spiritual mediums or just like a good giggle- this one is for you!
December 28, 2015
This is another book that has been on the kindle for months since 28th June 2015, buried beneath my endless downloads. However when flicking through just after Christmas I was caught by the book cover and decided to check it out.
I love this book it's a real page turner, a ghost story like no other. The ghosts cannot be seen but one can be heard 'The Dead Medium' May Elizabeth Trump.
As a living soul May did everything she could to deter others visiting and socialising with her, she is a strong independent hard working woman preferring her own company to that of others. Her death brings about the realisation that other dead people are drawn to her for she has acquired the ability to talk to the living and she helps the dead communicate with their lost living relatives.
However a darkness is coming lurking in the shadows, is it real or a story made up by an ancient ghost who loiters around his grave in the old churchyard?
At times this is rather amusing but flows well and the characters are often bright and colourful (especially for pensioners). May warms to Chloe a young woman who is left alone in the world after her mother Penny dies. May dislikes young people but Chloe helps her to see they are not all bad for Chloe is a hard worker like herself, working hard at her education to move herself up in the world. However, after her mum dies she knows she must do something to keep the family house which is falling apart having been built in 1754.
Enter May and 'The Thursday Night Club' they set up seances in Chloe's house and use May to communicate between the dead and the living hoping to make enough money to help Chloe keep her home. I really could not stop turning the pages. I enjoyed every moment. If you love ghost stories then I urge you to check this out.
I love this book it's a real page turner, a ghost story like no other. The ghosts cannot be seen but one can be heard 'The Dead Medium' May Elizabeth Trump.
As a living soul May did everything she could to deter others visiting and socialising with her, she is a strong independent hard working woman preferring her own company to that of others. Her death brings about the realisation that other dead people are drawn to her for she has acquired the ability to talk to the living and she helps the dead communicate with their lost living relatives.
However a darkness is coming lurking in the shadows, is it real or a story made up by an ancient ghost who loiters around his grave in the old churchyard?
At times this is rather amusing but flows well and the characters are often bright and colourful (especially for pensioners). May warms to Chloe a young woman who is left alone in the world after her mother Penny dies. May dislikes young people but Chloe helps her to see they are not all bad for Chloe is a hard worker like herself, working hard at her education to move herself up in the world. However, after her mum dies she knows she must do something to keep the family house which is falling apart having been built in 1754.
Enter May and 'The Thursday Night Club' they set up seances in Chloe's house and use May to communicate between the dead and the living hoping to make enough money to help Chloe keep her home. I really could not stop turning the pages. I enjoyed every moment. If you love ghost stories then I urge you to check this out.
March 9, 2013
'Dead Medium' is the story of May, an unsociable elderly woman who dies suddenly and then finds out she is a medium.
This was something different for me, it was a bit slower paced than my usual reads and a couple of times I wasn't sure where the story was going but it all tied together in the end and was an enjoyable read overall.
There's a bit of humour in some of the situations as May who isn't used to dealing with people gets a bit annoyed with them at times. I liked the characters, particularly May, and that's what kept me reading.
The plot was fairly simple but the ending was unexpected and I really liked where the story ended up. It's a nice read with some interesting ideas through it.
This was something different for me, it was a bit slower paced than my usual reads and a couple of times I wasn't sure where the story was going but it all tied together in the end and was an enjoyable read overall.
There's a bit of humour in some of the situations as May who isn't used to dealing with people gets a bit annoyed with them at times. I liked the characters, particularly May, and that's what kept me reading.
The plot was fairly simple but the ending was unexpected and I really liked where the story ended up. It's a nice read with some interesting ideas through it.
April 26, 2013
This is a very entertaining and original story peopled with such well-drawn characters, I felt like I got to know them personally. At no point in the story did I know exactly where it was heading, which held my interest as well as the very realistic and witty banter between the characters who each had very well-defined personalities. The ending was such a surprise I had to retrace my steps a bit to see how the author pulled it off without tipping his hand. Very well done, indeed.
May 25, 2013
This is so totally not my normal type of story that I would read. Even with that being said, I don't think I could have given less then a five just based on pure beauty. The story as a whole was almost generous in how it offered up the storytelling. Peter has a brilliant voice as and author and he brought each character to life from the moment they stepped onto the page. They each had definite and unique personalities.
I am a totally fan of any really great ghost story. Ghost Whisperer was one of my favorite shows and I happen to be watching it again. This story is sort of like Ghost Whisperer in reverse. A single ghost, May, can talk to the living and translate ghost to the living.
It is such a great story! Engaging and almost like magic, I even cried at the end. I have to say that if you are a fan of ghosts and paranormal this is the story for you. I will give a warning that this is written in UK English. Having a british husband that writes in this style I LOVED it. I wanted to hug the book when I read the language that this was brought to life in.
Once again, I highly recommend this for light reading to break up your usual genre!
I am a totally fan of any really great ghost story. Ghost Whisperer was one of my favorite shows and I happen to be watching it again. This story is sort of like Ghost Whisperer in reverse. A single ghost, May, can talk to the living and translate ghost to the living.
It is such a great story! Engaging and almost like magic, I even cried at the end. I have to say that if you are a fan of ghosts and paranormal this is the story for you. I will give a warning that this is written in UK English. Having a british husband that writes in this style I LOVED it. I wanted to hug the book when I read the language that this was brought to life in.
Once again, I highly recommend this for light reading to break up your usual genre!
June 13, 2013
This well written story about a recently deceased woman who discovers she can communicate with the living, unlike her new ghost friends, is very original and imaginative; like no other ghost story I have read before! It was really fun to read. I did not want to put the book down and liked the unexpected ending. Hightly recommended!
April 29, 2013
Something different, so interesting. Characters are very authentic. Recommend it to everyone, you won't be disappointed.Dead Medium
May 5, 2014
A cleverly written ghost story...not an ordinary ghost story, mind you. Great characters, especially the ghostly protagonist, May Trump. A fast, funny, entertaining read with some laugh out loud moments.
August 7, 2013
R2R (LoP) Dead Medium
I received a free copy, through LoP, in exchange for a review.
Strict and antisocial in life, May is the epitome is the old crotchy lady, who lives down the road. She has one visitor a week, Margaret, that rubs her the wrong way, but it is a tradition for her to come, for tea and cake. One gathering ends unlike the others and May finds herself on the other side of life or horrifying to her, death, with a mess in the kitchen. She finds herself in the unlikely of situations, helping a fellow ghost, down the street, by trying to come up with a way to speak with her daughter. Through this, May realizes that the living can actually hear her; she is a dead ghost medium and she is in high demand. Ghosts start to come, to have the chance to speak with their loved ones. Get Margaret and her crew of friends to perform seances, with May, throw in some dark tales of a darker force out there and some wine and well, things happen.
“Now calm down and be quiet so I can think,” May ordered. She didn't have the faintest clue of how to resolve Penny's dilemma. She had no real experience with death or its after effects other than when Mr Kibbles had passed away. All she knew about ghosts and ghouls were what she had seen in old Abbot and Costello movies. It seemed that the supernatural never had much trouble snatching the limelight on the silver screen. In the real world it was a different matter entirely.
Great, funny story, with fun and ridiculous characters. I could see this as a play or tv show, almost Monty Python-esque! Loved the way it ended, with the guardian animals watching and waiting. Great job!
I received a free copy, through LoP, in exchange for a review.
Strict and antisocial in life, May is the epitome is the old crotchy lady, who lives down the road. She has one visitor a week, Margaret, that rubs her the wrong way, but it is a tradition for her to come, for tea and cake. One gathering ends unlike the others and May finds herself on the other side of life or horrifying to her, death, with a mess in the kitchen. She finds herself in the unlikely of situations, helping a fellow ghost, down the street, by trying to come up with a way to speak with her daughter. Through this, May realizes that the living can actually hear her; she is a dead ghost medium and she is in high demand. Ghosts start to come, to have the chance to speak with their loved ones. Get Margaret and her crew of friends to perform seances, with May, throw in some dark tales of a darker force out there and some wine and well, things happen.
“Now calm down and be quiet so I can think,” May ordered. She didn't have the faintest clue of how to resolve Penny's dilemma. She had no real experience with death or its after effects other than when Mr Kibbles had passed away. All she knew about ghosts and ghouls were what she had seen in old Abbot and Costello movies. It seemed that the supernatural never had much trouble snatching the limelight on the silver screen. In the real world it was a different matter entirely.
Great, funny story, with fun and ridiculous characters. I could see this as a play or tv show, almost Monty Python-esque! Loved the way it ended, with the guardian animals watching and waiting. Great job!
June 3, 2014
There was a great deal which impressed me about Dead Medium. The first was the fully realised protagonist, May, and the character arc she undergoes. Amazingly it is one that takes place after her own death. As her tea and Bakewell slice friend Margaret notes later on, “death had changed her in ways life never could.” From cynical, hard and distinctly unsociable she becomes someone possessed of altruistic purpose and empathy for others, something all too clear in the way she sets about helping Chloe, the daughter of a deceased acquaintance, Penny.
The humour in the novel is also first class; ironic, whimsical and usually gentle. There were occasions when I was reminded of the late and very, very great P. G. Wodehouse. One instance that springs to mind is when we learn her friend Margaret is someone whose “booming voice “can “make the windows rattle". Another is May reflecting on the undignified posture of her corpse and frustration at leaving the house in a mess. She also grieves and laments her ability to no longer enjoy her morning cup of tea.
It is very hard to fault this one. The high concept premise, well written prose, structure, tone and characters all impress. It is a very original work and one I enjoyed immensely.
The humour in the novel is also first class; ironic, whimsical and usually gentle. There were occasions when I was reminded of the late and very, very great P. G. Wodehouse. One instance that springs to mind is when we learn her friend Margaret is someone whose “booming voice “can “make the windows rattle". Another is May reflecting on the undignified posture of her corpse and frustration at leaving the house in a mess. She also grieves and laments her ability to no longer enjoy her morning cup of tea.
It is very hard to fault this one. The high concept premise, well written prose, structure, tone and characters all impress. It is a very original work and one I enjoyed immensely.
August 28, 2013
The premise of Dead Medium by Peter John, grabbed me right away - a reluctant “ghost” who can communicate with the living. The prologue begins like a classic ghost story but starting with chapter one, we learn the author is more than a very good storyteller, as we are taken by May Elizabeth, one of the great characters I’ve recently encountered. After that, he keeps us turning pages with an exciting plot and a sharp and clever wit. Avoiding spoilers, I must say the ending was the icing on the cake. Well done! Highly recommended.
May 8, 2013
Brilliant book i am partially sighted so choose not to read a lot but just couldn't put it down! :-D
August 1, 2013
I received this book in exchange for an honest review through the Lovers of Paranormal Goodreads Group
A humorous slant on the age-old question of what happens when we die.
Dead Medium is an engaging and funny tale of life after death that is likely to appeal to a wider audience than the usual paranormal genre readers.
For me, the power of this story lies in the simplicity of its telling. These are very ordinary people thrown into extraordinary circumstances, and many comic moments ensue.
The unmistakably British humour reminded me a little of the Ealing Comedy re-runs I watched as a child.
May Trump is very nicely characterised as the fiercely independent, crotchety old cat lady. Her cynical witticisms, suffer-no-fools approach to life, and her stiff upper-lip make her very likeable and identifiable. I have known many such stoical, self-sufficient characters in real life.
A couple of things prevented me from giving this book a higher rating.
I hate to nit-pick, but the book is littered with typos, incorrect word usage and minor punctuation errors (I read the kindle version from Amazon). It could really benefit from the fine-tooth comb of editing to give it that final polish, as it is a great story at its heart.
The first third of the book really worked for me. It was simple, character-driven storytelling at its best. I had laugh out loud moments and quiet snickers and I really engaged with May's character and her journey to adjust to the afterlife.
Where the novel fell down for me was when it began to lose sight of that simplicity. The middle section felt like a bit of a spare tyre, veering into (in my opinion) some unnecessary and occasionally repetitive scenes. The surreal 'Wild West' parts meandered and the plot and humour seemed to lose their way for a time.
I can see how Edwardian ghost George's dialogue might be a sticking point for some readers. It felt forced at times, overly complicated and there were times I was picturing Yoda in plus-fours. (Perhaps that was intentional?)
Towards the end the pacing and the humour picked up again and the finish was both unexpected and satisfying.
Favourite quotes
After May discovers she has died: "There were so many things left undone, there was washing up in the sink for a start."
"She was a harlot in surgical stockings, but she had a fire inside not unlike her own."
Thanks to the author, Peter John, for the opportunity to read your wonderful story.
A humorous slant on the age-old question of what happens when we die.
Dead Medium is an engaging and funny tale of life after death that is likely to appeal to a wider audience than the usual paranormal genre readers.
For me, the power of this story lies in the simplicity of its telling. These are very ordinary people thrown into extraordinary circumstances, and many comic moments ensue.
The unmistakably British humour reminded me a little of the Ealing Comedy re-runs I watched as a child.
May Trump is very nicely characterised as the fiercely independent, crotchety old cat lady. Her cynical witticisms, suffer-no-fools approach to life, and her stiff upper-lip make her very likeable and identifiable. I have known many such stoical, self-sufficient characters in real life.
A couple of things prevented me from giving this book a higher rating.
I hate to nit-pick, but the book is littered with typos, incorrect word usage and minor punctuation errors (I read the kindle version from Amazon). It could really benefit from the fine-tooth comb of editing to give it that final polish, as it is a great story at its heart.
The first third of the book really worked for me. It was simple, character-driven storytelling at its best. I had laugh out loud moments and quiet snickers and I really engaged with May's character and her journey to adjust to the afterlife.
Where the novel fell down for me was when it began to lose sight of that simplicity. The middle section felt like a bit of a spare tyre, veering into (in my opinion) some unnecessary and occasionally repetitive scenes. The surreal 'Wild West' parts meandered and the plot and humour seemed to lose their way for a time.
I can see how Edwardian ghost George's dialogue might be a sticking point for some readers. It felt forced at times, overly complicated and there were times I was picturing Yoda in plus-fours. (Perhaps that was intentional?)
Towards the end the pacing and the humour picked up again and the finish was both unexpected and satisfying.
Favourite quotes
After May discovers she has died: "There were so many things left undone, there was washing up in the sink for a start."
"She was a harlot in surgical stockings, but she had a fire inside not unlike her own."
Thanks to the author, Peter John, for the opportunity to read your wonderful story.
July 31, 2013
I received a copy of Dead Medium from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review. Dead Medium is about a very cranky 75 year old woman who dies a pretty undignified death, choking on dry cake. She comes back as a ghost and she is unique in that capacity as she can speak with the living. Other ghosts, and the living both want to use her for this talent. As she meets another ghost Penny, she agrees to help Penny's living daughter get out of financial trouble by holding seances.
Ok I am probably not the target audience for this book, it really wasn't my cup of tea. About half way through the book I went to check out the reviews because I had a really hard time getting into it. There was a bunch of four and five star reviews all commenting on how sweet and funny the book was. I honestly didn't find it particularly amusing and reading the dialect from one particular character, George just about drove me nuts.
The plot dragged on for me, and honestly I am more an action kinda gal so this really wasn't to my taste. I couldn't connect with any of the characters as they were all geriatric ladies trying to hold a seance. I am not trying to be mean but it was really like reading an episode of the Golden Girls again not my taste. It has a bunch of wonderful reviews so someone likes it so give it a whirl if that's your thing it just wasn't mine.
Ok I am probably not the target audience for this book, it really wasn't my cup of tea. About half way through the book I went to check out the reviews because I had a really hard time getting into it. There was a bunch of four and five star reviews all commenting on how sweet and funny the book was. I honestly didn't find it particularly amusing and reading the dialect from one particular character, George just about drove me nuts.
The plot dragged on for me, and honestly I am more an action kinda gal so this really wasn't to my taste. I couldn't connect with any of the characters as they were all geriatric ladies trying to hold a seance. I am not trying to be mean but it was really like reading an episode of the Golden Girls again not my taste. It has a bunch of wonderful reviews so someone likes it so give it a whirl if that's your thing it just wasn't mine.
August 13, 2013
I received this book in exchange for a honest review, LoP.
I started reading this book over a week ago, and I hate to admit it but, every time I tried to read more than a page or two at a time I fell asleep. After I eventually got past page 60 or so the story became a lot less boring and easier to read. Mary's character grated on me in the beginning, but I came to really appreciate her sarcasm and bluntness. The story became interesting, surrounding May's 'gift' and the people she started to help. I enjoyed Penny's and Gary's little romance and their characters. Do not be put off by the slow start, it does pick up and is worth the read. But DO NOT read it when your tired, you won't be able to get anywhere. Chloe's character is someone you can connect with as well, her struggles and whatnot, are a way to realise what people really do have to endure.
I started reading this book over a week ago, and I hate to admit it but, every time I tried to read more than a page or two at a time I fell asleep. After I eventually got past page 60 or so the story became a lot less boring and easier to read. Mary's character grated on me in the beginning, but I came to really appreciate her sarcasm and bluntness. The story became interesting, surrounding May's 'gift' and the people she started to help. I enjoyed Penny's and Gary's little romance and their characters. Do not be put off by the slow start, it does pick up and is worth the read. But DO NOT read it when your tired, you won't be able to get anywhere. Chloe's character is someone you can connect with as well, her struggles and whatnot, are a way to realise what people really do have to endure.
September 9, 2013
This story opens with a graveyard scene 75 years earlier. We then meet May Elizabeth Trump, 75 year-old spinster, harsh, reclusive and intolerant, who chokes to death on a piece of cake. We then read the scene where, stuck in a limbo after-life, she is looking down on her dead body. She becomes reunited with her long-dead companion, Mr Kibbles…her cat. We also hear of the death of Penny Saunders, electrocuted in a household accident, tragically leaving behind her much-loved daughter, Chloe. May teams up with Penny in a world where the dead can touch and converse with the dead; and May also has the talent of being able to speak to, and be heard by the living. She, together with others, sets up a series of séances where the dead get her to convey messages to their living relatives and loved ones, resolving long-standing problems. This is done to accrue monies that will enable Chloe to have an assured future; May becomes transformed into a person leading an active social life, with plenty of friends and willing to help others. May and others (and the story itself) flits between the “living realm” and the “spiritual realm” in an imaginative, witty and brilliantly-executed plot. And then there are the Soul Stalkers to be wary of…This is a real page-turner where you are eager to find how all the threads of the story are pulled together in a graphic and poignant finale. Not to be missed. A tour-de-force.
August 29, 2013
"Dead Medium" by Peter John is an excellent novel based on the premise that the main character is dead and is trying her best to do some good from the other side.
Our protagonist May chokes on a cake and finds herself in the afterlife, together with another ghost. Unseen and unheard by most they walk around their old environment and wonder what to make of their new existence. Together the two ghosts scheme to help a young woman in the real world.
Much of the story is set in the circles of mediums and the author manages to give an amazingly accurate picture of these circles; the doubters, the kind of messages relayed and so on. As someone who has been to their fair share of seances I must say that this book does an excellent job at portraying these events. If mediums really speak to the dead than this is how I would imagine it to happen, too.
However, this is a work of fiction and as such it works perfectly fine as just a great concept for this amazing story.
I loved the two characters and their dynamics, their attempts to communicate and the goodness in May. The book seemed almost too short, I just had got used to the characters when it was over.
This is a lovely book with a lot to like about it and I wonder what the author has up his sleeve for the next book.
Very well done.
Our protagonist May chokes on a cake and finds herself in the afterlife, together with another ghost. Unseen and unheard by most they walk around their old environment and wonder what to make of their new existence. Together the two ghosts scheme to help a young woman in the real world.
Much of the story is set in the circles of mediums and the author manages to give an amazingly accurate picture of these circles; the doubters, the kind of messages relayed and so on. As someone who has been to their fair share of seances I must say that this book does an excellent job at portraying these events. If mediums really speak to the dead than this is how I would imagine it to happen, too.
However, this is a work of fiction and as such it works perfectly fine as just a great concept for this amazing story.
I loved the two characters and their dynamics, their attempts to communicate and the goodness in May. The book seemed almost too short, I just had got used to the characters when it was over.
This is a lovely book with a lot to like about it and I wonder what the author has up his sleeve for the next book.
Very well done.
September 2, 2013
Dead Medium by Peter John is a new favorite book for me. There was absolutely nothing that I didn't love about this ghost story with a twist. A medium is someone who can speak to the dead but the dead speaking to the living, well this is what May Elizabeth Trump can do.
This is not your average ghost story. May is so funny that I often laughed out loud, from her very first realization, that to her utter horror, she has "passed on" because she choked on a piece of cake and her living room is left in minor disarray. The developing of the story is smooth and the characters have great chemistry as they banter with each other and try to save the home of Chole that has been in her family for generations. To do this, the plan is to act as medium between ghosts and the living and raise money. Can this possibly work with so many things that can go wrong?
This is a fun read where the characters came to life along with their surroundings. Reminding me of my own cantankerous grandma who was also very loving this story kept me turning pages until the end came all too soon.
I was gifted this copy of Dead Medium for an honest review and I highly recommend this ghost story with a clever twist for a great read 5 stars and I can't wait for another book by Peter John.
This is not your average ghost story. May is so funny that I often laughed out loud, from her very first realization, that to her utter horror, she has "passed on" because she choked on a piece of cake and her living room is left in minor disarray. The developing of the story is smooth and the characters have great chemistry as they banter with each other and try to save the home of Chole that has been in her family for generations. To do this, the plan is to act as medium between ghosts and the living and raise money. Can this possibly work with so many things that can go wrong?
This is a fun read where the characters came to life along with their surroundings. Reminding me of my own cantankerous grandma who was also very loving this story kept me turning pages until the end came all too soon.
I was gifted this copy of Dead Medium for an honest review and I highly recommend this ghost story with a clever twist for a great read 5 stars and I can't wait for another book by Peter John.
October 6, 2013
What a breath of fresh air "Dead Medium" turned out to be. May, a grumpy and lonely old lady, dies suddenly and discovers to her dismay that she is "the rarest of ghosts." That is to say, she has become a medium, which is the refreshing twist in this tale, as she is of course dead, and so speaks on behalf of the other ghosts to the living. The story tells us how she uses this new “talent” to help Chloe (alive) keep her house, after meeting Penny on the “other side.” It was a pleasant read told in a humorous tone and I recommend it wholeheartedly.
August 11, 2013
I received this book thru lovers of Paranormal for an honest review. I loved this story it its very unique. I have read many ghost stories but this author put a twist to it. I couldn't put it down. I loved the plot, characters & humor in this book. Thank you again for letting me review it :)
June 3, 2014
So if you think you wouldn't like to read a book where the main character is a cranky old lady, think again. In Dead Medium, May is a seventy-five year old woman who passes away. After death, she finds out she has a gift where she is able to communicate with the living. May didn't like people very much when she was alive - so what would make her want to deal with them now? Well, it turns out even though she was a loner throughout life, she starts to see things differently after she dies. She reminded me of Vicki Lawrence's character, Mama, in the show, Mama's Family (without the family). She has no censor and will speak her mind, no matter how harsh her words come across. But underneath it all, she really does have a good heart.
May meets up with Penny, who had also recently passed away, and she decides to help out Penny's daughter who is now in danger of losing her family's home. Penny's daughter, Chloe, is a young girl in college, and she may have to choose between her education and keeping the house. Then a group of old ladies known as The Thursday Night Club teams up with them so they can hold seances in order to make money for Chloe. These women were a lot of fun, almost like The Golden Girls. (If they were, then Victoria would be Blanche since she's a bit of a slut.)
We also meet other people who have passed away, and one of them warns of the Soul Stalkers... Even after death, they may not be safe. This definitely added a different, more sinister element to it that I wasn't expecting.
Even though I don't believe in anything paranormal, I do find it intriguing in fiction. To reference another show, Medium is one of my favorite shows of all time. So it was definitely interesting to read about a medium who was on the other side instead!
This book was truly entertaining to read, and at times, it was also touching. It honestly brought tears to my eyes when May was reunited with her dead cat, Mr. Kibbles. My beloved kitty passed away last December, so it made me think about how wonderful it would be to be able to see him again. And of course, it would be so nice to think that there is an afterlife, and we may be able to see deceased loved ones after we die. So many of the restless souls had reasons to stick around. They wanted to communicate with the living, and May would be able to give them that opportunity. Even though this may seem like a heavy subject, it was still a fairly light and humorous read for the most part.
I am giving this book five stars for being an enjoyable story with a great cast of characters and for having such a fantastic cover!
May meets up with Penny, who had also recently passed away, and she decides to help out Penny's daughter who is now in danger of losing her family's home. Penny's daughter, Chloe, is a young girl in college, and she may have to choose between her education and keeping the house. Then a group of old ladies known as The Thursday Night Club teams up with them so they can hold seances in order to make money for Chloe. These women were a lot of fun, almost like The Golden Girls. (If they were, then Victoria would be Blanche since she's a bit of a slut.)
We also meet other people who have passed away, and one of them warns of the Soul Stalkers... Even after death, they may not be safe. This definitely added a different, more sinister element to it that I wasn't expecting.
Even though I don't believe in anything paranormal, I do find it intriguing in fiction. To reference another show, Medium is one of my favorite shows of all time. So it was definitely interesting to read about a medium who was on the other side instead!
This book was truly entertaining to read, and at times, it was also touching. It honestly brought tears to my eyes when May was reunited with her dead cat, Mr. Kibbles. My beloved kitty passed away last December, so it made me think about how wonderful it would be to be able to see him again. And of course, it would be so nice to think that there is an afterlife, and we may be able to see deceased loved ones after we die. So many of the restless souls had reasons to stick around. They wanted to communicate with the living, and May would be able to give them that opportunity. Even though this may seem like a heavy subject, it was still a fairly light and humorous read for the most part.
I am giving this book five stars for being an enjoyable story with a great cast of characters and for having such a fantastic cover!
September 1, 2013
Jean-Paul Sartre sprang to my mind the moment I started reading Peter John's "Dead Medium". Like the old existentialist, May Elizabeth Trump is something of a misanthrope, a medium and six feet underground. Well, in the corporal sense. Her spirit, though, is alive, not actually kicking, but in tremendous demand by those lost living souls seeking forgiveness, solace, advice, anything to get them through the dark hours of night when the dead rise from their rest and haunt us. As the old nutshell goes, everyone talks about ghosts but no one has ever seen one; Sartre, of course, ironically replaced the word ghost for love in the same epigram.
I don't want to use the word unique, it is overused, as the Ancient Greeks noted, virtually nothing is unique, but what lifts this unpredictable ghost story from the abyss of the ordinary is that it is funny, I mean laugh out loud and apologize to the woman across from you on the train funny. A slow fizzing giggler. May Elizabeth Trump gets under your skin and in your head. I can't remember what half the girls at school looked like (they all looked the same in their ludicrous red blazers and boating hats), but Ms Trump I could draw from memory. Like Scarlett O'Hara, Lolita and James Bond, she is real - a flesh and blood ghost who we feel for when menacing forces start spooking her - an unexpected plot twist that kept me turning the pages when I should have been sleeping. When I slept, by the way, I didn't have unpleasant dreams and awoke with a silly grin plastered across my face. And that's unique.
I don't want to use the word unique, it is overused, as the Ancient Greeks noted, virtually nothing is unique, but what lifts this unpredictable ghost story from the abyss of the ordinary is that it is funny, I mean laugh out loud and apologize to the woman across from you on the train funny. A slow fizzing giggler. May Elizabeth Trump gets under your skin and in your head. I can't remember what half the girls at school looked like (they all looked the same in their ludicrous red blazers and boating hats), but Ms Trump I could draw from memory. Like Scarlett O'Hara, Lolita and James Bond, she is real - a flesh and blood ghost who we feel for when menacing forces start spooking her - an unexpected plot twist that kept me turning the pages when I should have been sleeping. When I slept, by the way, I didn't have unpleasant dreams and awoke with a silly grin plastered across my face. And that's unique.
April 14, 2014
Most of us have heard of ‘Death by Chocolate’, but poor old May Elizabeth Trump left this world by ‘Death by Pastry’. This old spinster was not your social butterfly, and more of a grumpy old lady throughout most of her life. Poor old biddy choked to death on an English tart in her home. The humour begins when May fails to realize she is really dead. She soon encounters other ghosts who can see her and she can see them. She learns she has one very unique ability. And that is she can speak to the living. She befriends another poor soul who has also recently passed over. May actually finds out she has a heart and helps this woman to communicate with her daughter. More mayhem and mischief follow when May gets hooked up with a scheme from a group of other shoddy mediums to try and solve a problem. Turns out May’s death seems to propel her into stardom in the paranormal world. I was reading this on the plane during a long flight and was bursting with laughter. I had a few strange looks but continued on with this delightful tale which was pure entertainment from beginning to end. Make no mistake though, there were some very poignant scenes here. I commend author Peter John for his ability to weave humour with tender moments.
June 20, 2014
Dead Medium
Peter John
When we first meet May, she’s preparing tea for a visit with her best friend, Margaret. May’s one of those cranky old biddies who looks at the rest of the world with jaded eyes, so I was prepared to hate her right from the start, but I have to say that she turned out to be a sweet old soul (emphasis on the soul part).
Dead Medium is an unusual sort of ghost story. While it didn’t begin particularly scary, it took a turn for the spooky about midway and continued to crank up the tension until I almost chewed off most of my fingernails.
I loved the characters in this book. Mr. John made these people so believable. I could well imagine them as my neighbors, co-workers or friends. Margaret was my favorite. Everyone needs a friend like her.
Dead Medium is a great mixture of ghost story and vaudeville. You will laugh while hiding underneath the covers (with the lights on).
Peter John
When we first meet May, she’s preparing tea for a visit with her best friend, Margaret. May’s one of those cranky old biddies who looks at the rest of the world with jaded eyes, so I was prepared to hate her right from the start, but I have to say that she turned out to be a sweet old soul (emphasis on the soul part).
Dead Medium is an unusual sort of ghost story. While it didn’t begin particularly scary, it took a turn for the spooky about midway and continued to crank up the tension until I almost chewed off most of my fingernails.
I loved the characters in this book. Mr. John made these people so believable. I could well imagine them as my neighbors, co-workers or friends. Margaret was my favorite. Everyone needs a friend like her.
Dead Medium is a great mixture of ghost story and vaudeville. You will laugh while hiding underneath the covers (with the lights on).
September 1, 2013
This is most definitely not your average ghost story. This takes the concept of a medium - someone who can speak to the dead - and flips it around, giving a ghost the ability to speak to the living.
The main character May is an elderly hermit who seems to generally hate people. She's not thrilled about being dead, obviously, but she's even less happy about having to act as an intermediary between the other ghosts she meets and the living.
May has some of the best quips about the people around her, and there is a certain quirky humor in the narrative that reminds me of those British comedy shows on the BBC. I won't get too much into how the plot plays out, because that is something you need to enjoy for yourself, but I can assure you that you will enjoy it.
This is definitely going to be a story that I revisit often!
**I received a copy in exchange for a fair review.**
The main character May is an elderly hermit who seems to generally hate people. She's not thrilled about being dead, obviously, but she's even less happy about having to act as an intermediary between the other ghosts she meets and the living.
May has some of the best quips about the people around her, and there is a certain quirky humor in the narrative that reminds me of those British comedy shows on the BBC. I won't get too much into how the plot plays out, because that is something you need to enjoy for yourself, but I can assure you that you will enjoy it.
This is definitely going to be a story that I revisit often!
**I received a copy in exchange for a fair review.**
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