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Legend Tripping #1
Stumptown Spirits: Legend Tripping, Book 1
A life in hock.
Seven years ago, Logan Conner and his legend tripper college roommate stumbled into the middle of a ghost war. Logan escaped. Trent did not. Guilt has driven Logan to hunt for answers ever since—not only for why Trent was trapped, but how to return and save him.
On the verge of abandoning the search as hopeless, Logan discovers the solution at last thanks to folklorist Riley Morrel, the man he never expected to fall in love with, and the man he’d do anything to keep safe, including leaving him behind.
A life on hold.
When Logan disappeared in a puff of motorcycle exhaust, Riley’s life took a nosedive. After dropping out of school, he’s not entirely sure it’s not still diving. Sure, he has a job—one that’d send his thesis advisor screaming. Still, there are perks to his gig as the researcher for paranormal investigation show Haunted to the He’s in the ideal position to propose projects for the team to tackle.
Like their latest episode in Portland, for instance, where Logan just happens to be bartending. If nothing else, confronting the big jerk will give Riley some closure.
A life’s last hour.
But as the two men take tentative steps toward each other again, they begin to realize that their relationship, the shoot, and Logan’s quest to free Trent are hopelessly entangled with one tragic day at the riverside, over a century and a half in the past.
And when the smoke finally clears? Not everyone will walk away.
Stumptown Spirits is a second-chance, opposites-attract, supernatural suspense romance featuring a TV show one step past jumping the shark, a narcissistic TV personality, a craven ex-ghost, annoying bosses, interfering (but well-meaning) friends, personal redemption, and, of course, an HEA.
This book was previously published. It has been lightly revised and re-edited, but the story remains the same.
Seven years ago, Logan Conner and his legend tripper college roommate stumbled into the middle of a ghost war. Logan escaped. Trent did not. Guilt has driven Logan to hunt for answers ever since—not only for why Trent was trapped, but how to return and save him.
On the verge of abandoning the search as hopeless, Logan discovers the solution at last thanks to folklorist Riley Morrel, the man he never expected to fall in love with, and the man he’d do anything to keep safe, including leaving him behind.
A life on hold.
When Logan disappeared in a puff of motorcycle exhaust, Riley’s life took a nosedive. After dropping out of school, he’s not entirely sure it’s not still diving. Sure, he has a job—one that’d send his thesis advisor screaming. Still, there are perks to his gig as the researcher for paranormal investigation show Haunted to the He’s in the ideal position to propose projects for the team to tackle.
Like their latest episode in Portland, for instance, where Logan just happens to be bartending. If nothing else, confronting the big jerk will give Riley some closure.
A life’s last hour.
But as the two men take tentative steps toward each other again, they begin to realize that their relationship, the shoot, and Logan’s quest to free Trent are hopelessly entangled with one tragic day at the riverside, over a century and a half in the past.
And when the smoke finally clears? Not everyone will walk away.
Stumptown Spirits is a second-chance, opposites-attract, supernatural suspense romance featuring a TV show one step past jumping the shark, a narcissistic TV personality, a craven ex-ghost, annoying bosses, interfering (but well-meaning) friends, personal redemption, and, of course, an HEA.
This book was previously published. It has been lightly revised and re-edited, but the story remains the same.
Audible Audio
First published May 16, 2016
About the author
E.J. Russell
54 books442 followersE.J. Russell –grace, mother of three, recovering actor–writes romance in a rainbow of flavors. Count on high snark, low angst and happy endings.
Reality? Eh, not so much.
Reality? Eh, not so much.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 131 reviews
August 23, 2020
Time of death 33%
Honestly, I was a bit confused... Riley and Logan had only been together a short time (at first I saw a reference to 7 months, but later 1 1/2 years) before Logan takes the cowards way out, playing the martyr? And Riley ditches his education and his ambitions over it? Ok.... I mean, therapy would probably have been a better choice. When the book first started it seemed like they had been together for years, but apparently not.
And when Riley finds Logan a few months later, Logan was unnecessarily cruel, and he continued to be cruel and thoughtless. In his inner musings he's in love with Riley, but actions and all that... He's an asshole to Riley, but Riley rolls over and let's Logan walk all over him and treat him poorly.
I'm not finding anything redeeming here and I'll never get that hour back.
Honestly, I was a bit confused... Riley and Logan had only been together a short time (at first I saw a reference to 7 months, but later 1 1/2 years) before Logan takes the cowards way out, playing the martyr? And Riley ditches his education and his ambitions over it? Ok.... I mean, therapy would probably have been a better choice. When the book first started it seemed like they had been together for years, but apparently not.
And when Riley finds Logan a few months later, Logan was unnecessarily cruel, and he continued to be cruel and thoughtless. In his inner musings he's in love with Riley, but actions and all that... He's an asshole to Riley, but Riley rolls over and let's Logan walk all over him and treat him poorly.
I'm not finding anything redeeming here and I'll never get that hour back.
May 4, 2018
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~possible spoilers in this review~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ What to say about this book? I really liked the premise, it was different. I liked the ghost story/ghost hunter plotline. The writing and dialog were good.
I was hooked into the mystery elements. I just didn't like Logan or Riley that much. Riley was cute, but was kind of a door mat.
And Logan, well how can you like a MC who never chooses the other MC. At the risk of spoiling a main plot point.
Possible spoilers!!!!!!!!!!!!!!~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Logan chooses any thing and every thing over Riley, over and over. Logan chooses Trent again and again. He NEVER CHOOSES Riley. Even at the end of the story, Logan chooses his guilty conscience and saving Trent over being with Riley, even though Riley offers him options and solutions to his big dilemma.
The only reason Riley and Logan end up together at the end of the book is because of the actions/interventions of one of the ghosts involved in the ghost story point. Repeat, Logan never chooses Riley, they end up together due a default. Even though readers are told Logan loves Riley, he chooses misplaced martyrdom over love. To me thats not romance. I'm sorry.
I was hooked into the mystery elements. I just didn't like Logan or Riley that much. Riley was cute, but was kind of a door mat.
And Logan, well how can you like a MC who never chooses the other MC. At the risk of spoiling a main plot point.
Possible spoilers!!!!!!!!!!!!!!~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Logan chooses any thing and every thing over Riley, over and over. Logan chooses Trent again and again. He NEVER CHOOSES Riley. Even at the end of the story, Logan chooses his guilty conscience and saving Trent over being with Riley, even though Riley offers him options and solutions to his big dilemma.
The only reason Riley and Logan end up together at the end of the book is because of the actions/interventions of one of the ghosts involved in the ghost story point. Repeat, Logan never chooses Riley, they end up together due a default. Even though readers are told Logan loves Riley, he chooses misplaced martyrdom over love. To me thats not romance. I'm sorry.
April 2, 2023
2.5 stars
Having read and enjoyed a couple of books by this author recently, I eagerly snapped up Stumptown Spirits for review. It sounded like it would be fun – a second-chance romance, a ghost hunt, a paranormal TV show - but unfortunately, it’s a bit of a mess. The romance is non-existent, the leads are bland (and one of them is downright unlikeable), and while the paranormal/mystery element of the story had potential, it’s poorly executed.
When the man he loved dumped him and disappeared without trace, folklore expert Riley Morrel fell apart, quit his masters course just before finals and is now working as a lowly production assistant on a crappy paranormal investigation TV show. Riley doesn’t usually go on location shoots, but the showrunner has agreed to film one of his story treatments, so he’s accompanied the team to Portland, Oregon, where they’re making a programme about the Witch’s Castle ghost war – and while there, Riley is determined to track down his ex (who is from Portland) to find out exactly why he bailed five months earlier.
For the past seven years, Logan Conner has been ridden with guilt over the disappearance of his college roommate (and sometime fuck-buddy) Trent, and has been searching for a way to make things right. He hadn’t intended or expected to get sidetracked by love, but that’s what happened when he met nerdy folklorist Riley Morrel, and they had a blissful year-and-a-half together before Logan came to his senses and realised he’d have to make a clean break if he was going to be able to do what he needed to in order to atone for his mistake.
So… Riley shows up at the bar where Logan works, Logan is a dickhead to him, they have sex anyway and Logan legs it again afterwards. Later, he tries to convince Riley to get his boss to drop the plans to film the ghost war, but Riley has already worked out that something is up and starts digging, discovering Logan’s links to the ghostly activity around the Witch’s Castle and figuring out what happened during the manifestation of the ghost war seven years earlier.
The mystery is intriguing and had a lot of potential, but it takes the author around half the book to reveal what the blurb gives away immediately, and because I wasn’t able to invest in the romance or the characters, there wasn’t a lot to hold my interest and whole thing just fell flat. I liked Riley well enough – even though he can be a bit of a doormat – but Logan treats him like crap most of the time (despite the author telling us how much Logan luuuurves him!) and I honestly couldn’t see what on earth they saw in each other. Their romance has already happened by the time we meet them, so this is a ‘people still in love get horny and have sex’ story rather than a ‘second chance at love’ story, because there’s no romantic development, no chemistry and no spark – and worst of all, at no point does Logan ever choose Riley over Trent. He beats himself up constantly during the time they’re together because he feels guilty about not looking for Trent; he dumps Riley so that he can martyr himself for Trent; he tries to get Riley to leave, tries to get him booted off the location, so he can go ahead with his plan to rescue Trent and salve his guilty conscience. Even though Riley has come up with options and solutions – which Logan dismisses and even deletes from his computer without permission! (Being a more-than-competent researcher, Riley of course has backups but that’s not the point) - Logan continually belittles his ideas and refuses to consider any of them, choosing to go through with his dumb plan over being with Riley. I was pretty much done with Logan before this point, but that was the last straw. It should have been for Riley as well, if he’d any self-respect, but he doesn’t so he continues trying to pull Logan’s arse out of the fire while Logan is making it perfectly clear that assuaging his guilt is more important to him than the man he supposedly loves.
I did read to the end, mostly because I kept hoping that Logan would redeem himself by at least listening to Riley and accepting his help, but he didn’t, and I just wanted Riley to wash his hands of him. Not ideal in a book that presents itself as a romance.
I admit that I didn’t realise, when I requested this title for review, that it’s a reissue of an older title (from 2016), and as the books I’ve enjoyed by this author have been published over the last two or three years, I can only think that perhaps I should stick to her more recent work. Stumptown Spirits was a big disappointment; the characters are poorly developed, I didn’t like Logan at all, the writing is pedestrian and uninspiring and the romance… isn’t one.
Having read and enjoyed a couple of books by this author recently, I eagerly snapped up Stumptown Spirits for review. It sounded like it would be fun – a second-chance romance, a ghost hunt, a paranormal TV show - but unfortunately, it’s a bit of a mess. The romance is non-existent, the leads are bland (and one of them is downright unlikeable), and while the paranormal/mystery element of the story had potential, it’s poorly executed.
When the man he loved dumped him and disappeared without trace, folklore expert Riley Morrel fell apart, quit his masters course just before finals and is now working as a lowly production assistant on a crappy paranormal investigation TV show. Riley doesn’t usually go on location shoots, but the showrunner has agreed to film one of his story treatments, so he’s accompanied the team to Portland, Oregon, where they’re making a programme about the Witch’s Castle ghost war – and while there, Riley is determined to track down his ex (who is from Portland) to find out exactly why he bailed five months earlier.
For the past seven years, Logan Conner has been ridden with guilt over the disappearance of his college roommate (and sometime fuck-buddy) Trent, and has been searching for a way to make things right. He hadn’t intended or expected to get sidetracked by love, but that’s what happened when he met nerdy folklorist Riley Morrel, and they had a blissful year-and-a-half together before Logan came to his senses and realised he’d have to make a clean break if he was going to be able to do what he needed to in order to atone for his mistake.
So… Riley shows up at the bar where Logan works, Logan is a dickhead to him, they have sex anyway and Logan legs it again afterwards. Later, he tries to convince Riley to get his boss to drop the plans to film the ghost war, but Riley has already worked out that something is up and starts digging, discovering Logan’s links to the ghostly activity around the Witch’s Castle and figuring out what happened during the manifestation of the ghost war seven years earlier.
The mystery is intriguing and had a lot of potential, but it takes the author around half the book to reveal what the blurb gives away immediately, and because I wasn’t able to invest in the romance or the characters, there wasn’t a lot to hold my interest and whole thing just fell flat. I liked Riley well enough – even though he can be a bit of a doormat – but Logan treats him like crap most of the time (despite the author telling us how much Logan luuuurves him!) and I honestly couldn’t see what on earth they saw in each other. Their romance has already happened by the time we meet them, so this is a ‘people still in love get horny and have sex’ story rather than a ‘second chance at love’ story, because there’s no romantic development, no chemistry and no spark – and worst of all, at no point does Logan ever choose Riley over Trent. He beats himself up constantly during the time they’re together because he feels guilty about not looking for Trent; he dumps Riley so that he can martyr himself for Trent; he tries to get Riley to leave, tries to get him booted off the location, so he can go ahead with his plan to rescue Trent and salve his guilty conscience. Even though Riley has come up with options and solutions – which Logan dismisses and even deletes from his computer without permission! (Being a more-than-competent researcher, Riley of course has backups but that’s not the point) - Logan continually belittles his ideas and refuses to consider any of them, choosing to go through with his dumb plan over being with Riley. I was pretty much done with Logan before this point, but that was the last straw. It should have been for Riley as well, if he’d any self-respect, but he doesn’t so he continues trying to pull Logan’s arse out of the fire while Logan is making it perfectly clear that assuaging his guilt is more important to him than the man he supposedly loves.
I did read to the end, mostly because I kept hoping that Logan would redeem himself by at least listening to Riley and accepting his help, but he didn’t, and I just wanted Riley to wash his hands of him. Not ideal in a book that presents itself as a romance.
I admit that I didn’t realise, when I requested this title for review, that it’s a reissue of an older title (from 2016), and as the books I’ve enjoyed by this author have been published over the last two or three years, I can only think that perhaps I should stick to her more recent work. Stumptown Spirits was a big disappointment; the characters are poorly developed, I didn’t like Logan at all, the writing is pedestrian and uninspiring and the romance… isn’t one.
March 27, 2023
When this one popped up on my radar, I knew I had to read it.
Spoilers ahead me matey
Ok so in here we have Riley who was so hurt by being ghosted by his former boyfriend Logan, that he dropped out of college with a week left to get his masters. So he is dingdong number one.
Meanwhile Logan keeps on whitefanging all over the place to try to make it so that Riley wont be stuck on him. Meet dingdong number 2.
Anyways, 5 months after the ghosting, Riley is back in Portland working on a ghost hunter show. The host is horrible. While there, Riley of course looks up Logan and goes to see him. They fight, they eventually have sex, and then fight some more with Logan running away. Repeat this a few times.
Luckily, the actual story and ghosts relating to the whole drama is really good. I won't go into details but I really liked the twist at the end.
I cant wait to start the next book, which is about one of the guys Riley and Logan saved.
This would be awesome in audio, please get someone who does sound effects for the ghost bits.
Spoilers ahead me matey
Ok so in here we have Riley who was so hurt by being ghosted by his former boyfriend Logan, that he dropped out of college with a week left to get his masters. So he is dingdong number one.
Meanwhile Logan keeps on whitefanging all over the place to try to make it so that Riley wont be stuck on him. Meet dingdong number 2.
Anyways, 5 months after the ghosting, Riley is back in Portland working on a ghost hunter show. The host is horrible. While there, Riley of course looks up Logan and goes to see him. They fight, they eventually have sex, and then fight some more with Logan running away. Repeat this a few times.
Luckily, the actual story and ghosts relating to the whole drama is really good. I won't go into details but I really liked the twist at the end.
I cant wait to start the next book, which is about one of the guys Riley and Logan saved.
This would be awesome in audio, please get someone who does sound effects for the ghost bits.
August 3, 2016
I thought this was quite an enjoyable paranormal story. Seven years ago Logan lost his friend Trent in a haunting which took place in a local site known as a place of tragedy and hauntings. Every seven years a ghostly reenactment of a fatal family feud takes place.
Having lost his friend Trent to this ghostly manifestation, Logan sets out to find a way to get him back. Seven years later he has fallen in love with Riley and has hope for his future but troubled by the memories of his lost friend he gives up his love for Riley in order to rescue his long lost friend.
But Riley doesn't give up his love for Logan.
Riley is haunted and hurt by the way Logan abruptly ended their relationship. When the film crew that he is working with decides to film an episode on ghostly hauntings in the town where Logan now lives, Riley see this as a chance for closure.
Logan is shocked to discover that Riley is in Town to film the very ghosts that Logan is about to confront. He does his best to convince Riley to cancel the documentary, but Riley knows that there is something strange about the entire situation especially since the attraction between him and Logan is still strong. As Riley digs into the past he discovers that Logan is somehow involved in the ghostly activities in the area and he is determined to help the man he still loves deeply.
I thought this had a slow start but as the story developed it grabbed me. Although the story has a kind of humorous feel there is a frisson of menace and darkness which seems to increase as the story gathers momentum and it is this sinister edge that had me hooked.
Suddenly there are ghosts and darkness in all corners and I enjoyed this. The story also has a mysterious feel to it. Why do these ghosts reappear every seven years? What happened to Trent seven years ago and can Logan rescue him?
I especially enjoyed the way Riley went from zero to hero. Initially he appears to be a rather nerdy person who is buried in his nooks and his learning but he actually has courage and back bone as he first of all confronts Logan about their relationship, and then rides to Logan's assistance once he realises that there is something deeper and darker that is happening.
I thought this was a really good story with a character who emerges as a hero in the end, a good dose of creepiness and a sequel to look forward too.
Copy provided by Riptide Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
May 29, 2016
As much as I liked the idea of the Ghost War and the effects it had on the MCs, the delivery of the story felt shallow for me.
Individually, Logan and Riley were a nice enough characters. As a not-really-couple though, they were... Meh. I lost count on how many times both of them changed their minds, failed to go through with their resolve then withdrew again.
On the supernatural front, the closure seemed too incidental and happened by chance, it was disappointing. Well. Next time (story) better? I hope?
Individually, Logan and Riley were a nice enough characters. As a not-really-couple though, they were... Meh. I lost count on how many times both of them changed their minds, failed to go through with their resolve then withdrew again.
On the supernatural front, the closure seemed too incidental and happened by chance, it was disappointing. Well. Next time (story) better? I hope?
Read
May 10, 2017Logan was a dick pretty much right to the end (even if he thought he had a valid reason for his dickish behaviour). But once I was over some confusion in the first couple of chapters I really enjoyed this book; the plot more than the relationship.
April 3, 2023
Rating: 4.5 stars
This dang book broke my heart over and over again. I just love a self-sacrificing main character than cuts out their own heart to protect the person they love, only to actually be hurting them even worse. The angst! The drama!
I love Riley. Okay, yes, I know, I'm a total sucker for a nerd with low self-esteem. And it kills me how one of the things that attracted Logan to Riley is his confidence! Which he summarily destroys by being a self-sacrificing dumb-dumb, and then Riley drops out of school and implodes the rest of his life because he is Sad. Meanwhile, Logan is doing his doing his best to live the most miserable life possible so he won't feel bad when he needs to give it up? Idiots in love, for sure, but dangit they're MY idiots!
I really enjoyed the paranormal plotline, and had some vague notions about what was coming for the Big Reveal and Big Plot Twist, but in that way where it was set up really well to give you the breadcrumbs to connect the dots if you so desire. (And yes, I know I just mixed metaphors there, shh.)
This is the first book in the Legend Tripping series and can be read as a standalone. But I'm warning you, you're going to want to come back for book two (Wolf's Clothing)!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are unbiased and my own.
Like this review?
Check out more of my reviews on my blog, Elley the Book Otter
This dang book broke my heart over and over again. I just love a self-sacrificing main character than cuts out their own heart to protect the person they love, only to actually be hurting them even worse. The angst! The drama!
I love Riley. Okay, yes, I know, I'm a total sucker for a nerd with low self-esteem. And it kills me how one of the things that attracted Logan to Riley is his confidence! Which he summarily destroys by being a self-sacrificing dumb-dumb, and then Riley drops out of school and implodes the rest of his life because he is Sad. Meanwhile, Logan is doing his doing his best to live the most miserable life possible so he won't feel bad when he needs to give it up? Idiots in love, for sure, but dangit they're MY idiots!
I really enjoyed the paranormal plotline, and had some vague notions about what was coming for the Big Reveal and Big Plot Twist, but in that way where it was set up really well to give you the breadcrumbs to connect the dots if you so desire. (And yes, I know I just mixed metaphors there, shh.)
This is the first book in the Legend Tripping series and can be read as a standalone. But I'm warning you, you're going to want to come back for book two (Wolf's Clothing)!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are unbiased and my own.
Like this review?
Check out more of my reviews on my blog, Elley the Book Otter
June 30, 2024
Stumptown Spirits is the first book in the Legend Tripping series. This is the story of Logan who wants to rescue his friend Trent who disappeared during a haunting and Riley who works on a paranormal investigation show. Logan comes off as a real jerk and Riley acts like a doormat sometimes. I still enjoyed the story. I love the paranormal aspects so much. I felt it started a little slow but it got better as it continued. I. Loved the twists and turns in the story and how Riley changed my view of him. E.J. Russell is an amazing author and I look forward to the next book in the series. If you get the audio narration, Joel Leslie does a wonderful job of narrating this story. He makes the change in characters seamlessly. I can't wait to listen to the next book. I would definitely recommend this book and series.
January 19, 2026
Rating: 2/5 🌟
Spice: 2.5/5 🌶️
Characters: Logan and Riley
I hated Logan. I was hoping he would stop being such a selfish, asshole, dumbass by the end but nope...he was a POS all the way up until the end.
I have been making an effort to read more new to me author's this year but I'm having pretty terrible luck with it.
Spice: 2.5/5 🌶️
Characters: Logan and Riley
I hated Logan. I was hoping he would stop being such a selfish, asshole, dumbass by the end but nope...he was a POS all the way up until the end.
I have been making an effort to read more new to me author's this year but I'm having pretty terrible luck with it.
March 23, 2023
This book was so good! Angsty and sweet, with the push and pull of "I want him and can't bear to live without him" and "it will hurt him to be with me". Plus a mystery and ghost moment. I loved it. So much! And I cannot wait to get my hands on the sequel
March 25, 2023
This second chance romance had plenty of angst, plenty of fun. It poked fun at reality tv and Hollywood stereotypes. Although the story is all about Riley and Logan, the secondaries are brilliant. Julie is a total badass and Max is an obnoxious, clueless narcissist.
A fun read. But not a quick one. It took it's time building to a climax that was exciting and just a bit unexpected.
A fun read. But not a quick one. It took it's time building to a climax that was exciting and just a bit unexpected.
December 10, 2025
stumptown spirits by ej Russell. this book was fun but it got a bit confusing at times as the time passing between characters was a bit confusing
December 29, 2020
2.5 stars ⭐
March 10, 2023
This is a very dense and well crafted paranormal, thriller romance. I'm not the biggest fan of alpha MC's, but that's a personal preference. EJ artfully weaves past tragedy with present drama, which results in an explosive final confrontation.
July 12, 2024
AUDIO REVIEW
I enjoyed this book, but not as much as E.J. Russell’s other previous works. The plot was engaging, but the relationship between the main characters felt lacking. I felt more interested in the plot and mystery. Overall this book was a nice listen as Joel Leslie is always a joy to listen to. His performances for the characters always feel genuine and spot on.
I look forward to E.J. Russell’s future novels!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this audiobook.
I enjoyed this book, but not as much as E.J. Russell’s other previous works. The plot was engaging, but the relationship between the main characters felt lacking. I felt more interested in the plot and mystery. Overall this book was a nice listen as Joel Leslie is always a joy to listen to. His performances for the characters always feel genuine and spot on.
I look forward to E.J. Russell’s future novels!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this audiobook.
August 1, 2025
I so wanted to like this, and from the blurb it sounds exactly like my sort of book. There was, in fact, quite a lot to like about this book - which was unfortunately overshadowed by the fact that Logan is a complete arse, and treats Riley really poorly, repeatedly, throughout the book. He is cruel as well as inconsistent in his attempt to push Riley away (all in the name of keeping him safe, of course), but he also never really listens to Riley or gives any value to his ideas. Logan has decided on the problem and the only way to solve it, and nothing deviates him from that belief - even his supposed feelings for Riley. Riley doesn't come across much more sympathetically, as he starts off standing firm about not putting up with Logan's closed-off sttitude, but then repeatedly lets him walk all over him. Aside from the characters, the story was pretty good, and I really liked the overall idea of the ghost war, and I enjoyed the first part of the book. But after a while it becomes clear that Logan's behaviour really isn't going to change, and the whole book sours from there. I'll try the next book in the series, but only because it features two different main characters.
May 24, 2016
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.5 stars
Stumptown Spirits is an interesting, contemporary reconnection romance that also features some paranormal elements. While the premise was excellent, I felt as if the execution didn’t quite hit the mark.
Riley and Logan were serious boyfriends—on the verge of a marriage proposal—when Logan disappeared from Riley’s apartment and life in what may have been a staged scene of infidelity. Riley’s life seemed to implode after this incident. He walked away from completing his Master’s degree in folklore studies, only to land a “research” job with his best friend, Julie, a production assistant on a third-rate “Ghost Hunter”-type cable program. Riley is a glorified gofer, but he’s got a great story that might gain him some well-deserved respect: the Stumptown Ghost War, a legend he first heard from Logan, the night they met in fact.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
3.5 stars
Stumptown Spirits is an interesting, contemporary reconnection romance that also features some paranormal elements. While the premise was excellent, I felt as if the execution didn’t quite hit the mark.
Riley and Logan were serious boyfriends—on the verge of a marriage proposal—when Logan disappeared from Riley’s apartment and life in what may have been a staged scene of infidelity. Riley’s life seemed to implode after this incident. He walked away from completing his Master’s degree in folklore studies, only to land a “research” job with his best friend, Julie, a production assistant on a third-rate “Ghost Hunter”-type cable program. Riley is a glorified gofer, but he’s got a great story that might gain him some well-deserved respect: the Stumptown Ghost War, a legend he first heard from Logan, the night they met in fact.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
May 10, 2016
Full review will follow.
The cover, title and blurb of this book really drew me in
I loved the idea of this book and there was a lot of potential, but the execution was not as smooth as I hoped. There was some cheesy dialogue, several plot holes and some character actions that did not make sense to me. There were some nice moments as well and the book was fun at times and had me interested in finding out how the author resolved everything in the end. Still, while I didn't hate the book, it was just okay for me. I had such high hopes and felt disappointed that the book wasn't able to reach its potential.
*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion*
The cover, title and blurb of this book really drew me in
I loved the idea of this book and there was a lot of potential, but the execution was not as smooth as I hoped. There was some cheesy dialogue, several plot holes and some character actions that did not make sense to me. There were some nice moments as well and the book was fun at times and had me interested in finding out how the author resolved everything in the end. Still, while I didn't hate the book, it was just okay for me. I had such high hopes and felt disappointed that the book wasn't able to reach its potential.
*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion*
Did Not Finish
July 23, 2020Rating: DNF
The characters in this book just didn't grab me. It didn't take me very long to realize that I didn't really care what happened to them. Maybe I'll revisit when I'm in a different mind space, but I really don't think this book is for me.
The characters in this book just didn't grab me. It didn't take me very long to realize that I didn't really care what happened to them. Maybe I'll revisit when I'm in a different mind space, but I really don't think this book is for me.
March 28, 2019
Thoroughly enjoyed this story about Riley, Logan, and their adventures into Legend Tripping. Look forward to Trevor's story.
August 24, 2017
2.5 stars
August 7, 2018
3.5 stars. Interesting premise but I couldn’t connect with Logan.
November 28, 2025
'Stumptown Spirits: Legend Tripping' (Book 1) by E.J. Russell, (Audible) narrated by Joel Leslie
A ghostly mystery wrapped into the enigma of Riley's former roomate and boyfriend who disappeared out of his life 5 months ago with no explanation. Yeah, he ghosted him...
Heartbroken, Riley dropped out of college just before completing his final thesis to graduate, joining a "Ghost Hunters" type paranormal investigation "reality" TV show as their researcher, since that had been his focus for his ongoing paranormal research project in college.
I really disliked the way Logan treated Riley! For all the times he kept saying how much he cared about Riley, he continually made decisions that affected Riley without talking things over with him, treating him as if he were a child. He kept saying (to Riley, and in his own mind) "this is for your own good!", but everything he did came from a super focused but misguided martyr stance which actually served no one but himself, even though his warped ego had convinced himself that he's doing this to benefit others, especially Riley. Does he ever listen to what Riley wants or needs or says? Nope! Just plows on through with his single-minded cock-eyed plan to rescue Trent (his old boyfriend) and save Riley from getting caught in the "ghost wars"!
And I believe the author misunderstands how someone works on a Masters Degree, as it's not just 1 final exam and an essay paper (mislabled as a thesis). One's thesis is their focus for about the last couple years of their entire college degree program. For Riley to throw all that research away when he was so close seems unrealistic, unless he was so depressed he couldn't function, but we see no evidence of that because he's working full time, and in the paranormal research venue. And I don't believe he got bored with his work because otherwise he wouldn't have gone to work for the "ghostbusters" TV show. Nope, he's still super invested in that type of work, so why did he quit just before he finished?
They both say they are invested in this "relationship" but it doesn't seem as if they truely are, since they're not really communicating very well even when they are together, although the burden of that falls more onto Logan who's keeping big secrets from Riley. Why hasn't he asked for Riley's help in figuring out the ghost battle, since that's his area of expertise?
And why does Riley keep acting like a doormat for Logan? Even the times he stands up for himself don't last long, because he caves as soon as Logan kisses him or sucks his dick! And then Logan pulls his "walking away from Riley to SAVE him" crap; what a bunch of horse-pucky! Logan is more invested in saving himself and his old boyfriend, Trent, who disappeared in the midst of the ghost wars 7 years ago! He continually puts Riley on the back burner.
(I really disliked Logan for the way he treated Riley, and I was annoyed at Riley for putting up with this arse-hat! )
Five months later in Portland, Oregon, imagine Logan's shock to discover Riley seated at the bar where Logan works, noticing him there just in time to duck out the back door while trying to make sense of everything!
What Riley doesn't know is that Logan is hiding a huge secret...the reason behind his walking away from his former life, and Riley!
Just getting into this on Audible and pleased to find that Joel Leslie is the narrator (he's one of my faves)!
Ghostly revenge is at the crux of this scenario, playing out over 75 years or so, appearing and playing out one fateful night a year, once every 7 years.
Intriguing premise and storyline but I found Logan's character so distasteful that it really put an annoying crimp in this tale; honestly, I was hoping Riley would dump his sorry ass and move on!
Still worth reading for the unusual storyline though, and I do love Joel Leslie's narration.
Note: I already have Book 2 in this series queued-up to listen to because it's Trent's story (Logan's former best friend and f-buddy) about his meet-up with a werewolf. I'm curious to see what happens next!
A ghostly mystery wrapped into the enigma of Riley's former roomate and boyfriend who disappeared out of his life 5 months ago with no explanation. Yeah, he ghosted him...
Heartbroken, Riley dropped out of college just before completing his final thesis to graduate, joining a "Ghost Hunters" type paranormal investigation "reality" TV show as their researcher, since that had been his focus for his ongoing paranormal research project in college.
I really disliked the way Logan treated Riley! For all the times he kept saying how much he cared about Riley, he continually made decisions that affected Riley without talking things over with him, treating him as if he were a child. He kept saying (to Riley, and in his own mind) "this is for your own good!", but everything he did came from a super focused but misguided martyr stance which actually served no one but himself, even though his warped ego had convinced himself that he's doing this to benefit others, especially Riley. Does he ever listen to what Riley wants or needs or says? Nope! Just plows on through with his single-minded cock-eyed plan to rescue Trent (his old boyfriend) and save Riley from getting caught in the "ghost wars"!
And I believe the author misunderstands how someone works on a Masters Degree, as it's not just 1 final exam and an essay paper (mislabled as a thesis). One's thesis is their focus for about the last couple years of their entire college degree program. For Riley to throw all that research away when he was so close seems unrealistic, unless he was so depressed he couldn't function, but we see no evidence of that because he's working full time, and in the paranormal research venue. And I don't believe he got bored with his work because otherwise he wouldn't have gone to work for the "ghostbusters" TV show. Nope, he's still super invested in that type of work, so why did he quit just before he finished?
They both say they are invested in this "relationship" but it doesn't seem as if they truely are, since they're not really communicating very well even when they are together, although the burden of that falls more onto Logan who's keeping big secrets from Riley. Why hasn't he asked for Riley's help in figuring out the ghost battle, since that's his area of expertise?
And why does Riley keep acting like a doormat for Logan? Even the times he stands up for himself don't last long, because he caves as soon as Logan kisses him or sucks his dick! And then Logan pulls his "walking away from Riley to SAVE him" crap; what a bunch of horse-pucky! Logan is more invested in saving himself and his old boyfriend, Trent, who disappeared in the midst of the ghost wars 7 years ago! He continually puts Riley on the back burner.
(I really disliked Logan for the way he treated Riley, and I was annoyed at Riley for putting up with this arse-hat! )
Five months later in Portland, Oregon, imagine Logan's shock to discover Riley seated at the bar where Logan works, noticing him there just in time to duck out the back door while trying to make sense of everything!
What Riley doesn't know is that Logan is hiding a huge secret...the reason behind his walking away from his former life, and Riley!
Just getting into this on Audible and pleased to find that Joel Leslie is the narrator (he's one of my faves)!
Ghostly revenge is at the crux of this scenario, playing out over 75 years or so, appearing and playing out one fateful night a year, once every 7 years.
Intriguing premise and storyline but I found Logan's character so distasteful that it really put an annoying crimp in this tale; honestly, I was hoping Riley would dump his sorry ass and move on!
Still worth reading for the unusual storyline though, and I do love Joel Leslie's narration.
Note: I already have Book 2 in this series queued-up to listen to because it's Trent's story (Logan's former best friend and f-buddy) about his meet-up with a werewolf. I'm curious to see what happens next!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 16, 2024
What price would you pay to rescue a friend from hell?
For Logan Conner, the answer is almost anything. Guilt-ridden over trapping his college roommate in a ghost war rooted in Portland’s pioneer past, Logan has spent years searching for a solution. Then his new boyfriend, folklorist Riley Morrel, inadvertently gives him the key. Determined to pay his debt—and keep Riley safe—Logan abandons Riley and returns to Portland, prepared to give up his freedom and his future to make things right.
Crushed by Logan’s betrayal, Riley drops out of school and takes a job on a lackluster paranormal investigation show. When the crew arrives in Portland to film an episode about a local legend of feuding ghosts, he stumbles across Logan working at a local bar, and learns the truth about Logan’s plan.
Their destinies once more intertwined, the two men attempt to reforge their relationship while dodging a narcissistic TV personality, a craven ex-ghost, and a curmudgeonly bar owner with a hidden agenda. But Logan’s date with destiny is looming, and his life might not be the only one at stake.
Review:
This book was chosen as a buddy read in our group. The good part about it? I finished it within 24 hours and yes, I did manage to get a good night sleep, so basically I started it in the evening and finished on the long commute to and from work. It was very engaging, for that it gets solid three stars. I was entertained, and if the book manages to entertain me, I appreciate that a lot.
The bad part ? Not even bad, because I am sure there are readers who loved Logan and Riley's relationship. Let me just say I am not one of those readers, because Logan made me want to slap him, shake him, yell at him for the pretty much the whole book. Riley gets his part of yelling at too, because man in the last part of the book he gets on his own high horse. Oy.
Very very flawed characters can work perfectly well for me in romance, I certainly do not require perfection and often hate it, but I have to believe at the end of the book that the characters have a future together and sorry but that would be a NO from this reader.
I can just imagine next time the big problem arises that Logan feels only he could solve, is he going to take off again? Because see at the beginning of the book I have had very little problem with Logan taking off actually. Did I wish he actually talk to Riley normally and if he did not want to him a full version of the story, would give him something? I sure did, but I can totally sympathize and relate with you do not leave the close friend ( any friend) in such awful horrible situation that Logan's friend landed. I get the need and guilt and trying to save him by all means possible.
But when Logan and Riley meet again, oh my god. If you want to "protect" Riley, maybe stay away from Riley eh? Do not be such a selfish idiot, who is not thinking except with his dick?
And Riley deciding to save the world and save Logan from himself no matter whether Logan wants it or not. Very little irritates me more in stories than the characters who think they know better than anyone else.
Paranormal storyline was great though and had a nice punch at the end.
For Logan Conner, the answer is almost anything. Guilt-ridden over trapping his college roommate in a ghost war rooted in Portland’s pioneer past, Logan has spent years searching for a solution. Then his new boyfriend, folklorist Riley Morrel, inadvertently gives him the key. Determined to pay his debt—and keep Riley safe—Logan abandons Riley and returns to Portland, prepared to give up his freedom and his future to make things right.
Crushed by Logan’s betrayal, Riley drops out of school and takes a job on a lackluster paranormal investigation show. When the crew arrives in Portland to film an episode about a local legend of feuding ghosts, he stumbles across Logan working at a local bar, and learns the truth about Logan’s plan.
Their destinies once more intertwined, the two men attempt to reforge their relationship while dodging a narcissistic TV personality, a craven ex-ghost, and a curmudgeonly bar owner with a hidden agenda. But Logan’s date with destiny is looming, and his life might not be the only one at stake.
Review:
This book was chosen as a buddy read in our group. The good part about it? I finished it within 24 hours and yes, I did manage to get a good night sleep, so basically I started it in the evening and finished on the long commute to and from work. It was very engaging, for that it gets solid three stars. I was entertained, and if the book manages to entertain me, I appreciate that a lot.
The bad part ? Not even bad, because I am sure there are readers who loved Logan and Riley's relationship. Let me just say I am not one of those readers, because Logan made me want to slap him, shake him, yell at him for the pretty much the whole book. Riley gets his part of yelling at too, because man in the last part of the book he gets on his own high horse. Oy.
Very very flawed characters can work perfectly well for me in romance, I certainly do not require perfection and often hate it, but I have to believe at the end of the book that the characters have a future together and sorry but that would be a NO from this reader.
I can just imagine next time the big problem arises that Logan feels only he could solve, is he going to take off again? Because see at the beginning of the book I have had very little problem with Logan taking off actually. Did I wish he actually talk to Riley normally and if he did not want to him a full version of the story, would give him something? I sure did, but I can totally sympathize and relate with you do not leave the close friend ( any friend) in such awful horrible situation that Logan's friend landed. I get the need and guilt and trying to save him by all means possible.
But when Logan and Riley meet again, oh my god. If you want to "protect" Riley, maybe stay away from Riley eh? Do not be such a selfish idiot, who is not thinking except with his dick?
And Riley deciding to save the world and save Logan from himself no matter whether Logan wants it or not. Very little irritates me more in stories than the characters who think they know better than anyone else.
Paranormal storyline was great though and had a nice punch at the end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 2, 2025
I was already done with this book before the end of chapter one.
Authors, stop writing these books where you include a straight, female, no nonsense Best friend who is mothering and bossy and thinks she knows better.It does not help your story. Not every gay man has a straight female best friend. Let it go. Also, these female characters are always so freakingly annoying, they do not benefit your story.
Now let's get on with the romance aspect of this book. We have Riley, who is apparently the nerdy
one, and Logan, who is the tattooed, motorcycle riding second party.
Logan and Riley are in a relationship before this story begins. One night, they have a fantastic dinner where Riley anticipates Logan is going to propose, but instead, by the next day, Logan has skipped town and ghosted Riley. No explanation, no nothing. Second chance romance?? As if!! this is not a second chance romance. A second chance romance is where the couple is forced to separate bc of a big event and they BOTH decide to part ways. They later reignite that romance and decide to try again. this is not that! Riley was clearly dumped and ghosted. No, explanation, no email, no text message. No telephone call, not even in person. No, letter, nothing, he was just left. There is zero explanations and zero chance of this author spinning this in a manner that would make it seem okay or would give justification for logan's actions. .
This rekindling of this relationship starts with riley wanting closure and seeks out Logan for an explanation.
The story made no sense. First, I’m not sure if the author is aware of what a thesis based masters degree is because they make it seem like it’s an essay when they state Riley just needed to do one exam and then write a thesis. In a thesis based masters degree the entire masters degree is researching for that thesis. This is not like an undergraduate degree or a non-thesis based graduate or masters degree.
Neither of these people are so in love. you would think that Riley could just take a break if heartbroken, then go back to school, but instead, he dumps his entire masters degree because Logan ghosted him. What kind of nonsense is that??? and the reason Logan left is because he feels that a friend’s disappearance was his fault and he’s determined to find said friend. Well, why couldn’t he, if he loved Riley so much, wait until this masters program was finished and ask him to join him in the search or even tell him about this person so they could split amicably? the entire concept of this story falls apart when you apply even a tiny little bit of logic to it.
Authors, stop writing these books where you include a straight, female, no nonsense Best friend who is mothering and bossy and thinks she knows better.It does not help your story. Not every gay man has a straight female best friend. Let it go. Also, these female characters are always so freakingly annoying, they do not benefit your story.
Now let's get on with the romance aspect of this book. We have Riley, who is apparently the nerdy
one, and Logan, who is the tattooed, motorcycle riding second party.
Logan and Riley are in a relationship before this story begins. One night, they have a fantastic dinner where Riley anticipates Logan is going to propose, but instead, by the next day, Logan has skipped town and ghosted Riley. No explanation, no nothing. Second chance romance?? As if!! this is not a second chance romance. A second chance romance is where the couple is forced to separate bc of a big event and they BOTH decide to part ways. They later reignite that romance and decide to try again. this is not that! Riley was clearly dumped and ghosted. No, explanation, no email, no text message. No telephone call, not even in person. No, letter, nothing, he was just left. There is zero explanations and zero chance of this author spinning this in a manner that would make it seem okay or would give justification for logan's actions. .
This rekindling of this relationship starts with riley wanting closure and seeks out Logan for an explanation.
The story made no sense. First, I’m not sure if the author is aware of what a thesis based masters degree is because they make it seem like it’s an essay when they state Riley just needed to do one exam and then write a thesis. In a thesis based masters degree the entire masters degree is researching for that thesis. This is not like an undergraduate degree or a non-thesis based graduate or masters degree.
Neither of these people are so in love. you would think that Riley could just take a break if heartbroken, then go back to school, but instead, he dumps his entire masters degree because Logan ghosted him. What kind of nonsense is that??? and the reason Logan left is because he feels that a friend’s disappearance was his fault and he’s determined to find said friend. Well, why couldn’t he, if he loved Riley so much, wait until this masters program was finished and ask him to join him in the search or even tell him about this person so they could split amicably? the entire concept of this story falls apart when you apply even a tiny little bit of logic to it.
January 30, 2020
Good legend, poor romance
While the legend and myth of this story was fascinating and well played out, the romance that was focused on seemed to fall a bit flat which made the story suffer somewhat.
Riley is a folklorist, actually trained in school for that, so the research of the legend is interesting and well done. From the cycles that seem to be so important in so much myth and history to the connections of family, the legend was intriguing and felt possibly real. The problem was when it came down to Riley and Logan. One time boyfriends, these two clashed for more of the book than they did work together and it became hard to see their potential as a couple.
Riley and Logan were together for a while, almost ready to get married, before Logan fled to sacrifice himself to an old mistake. The time they were together was a bit conflicting, one mention of seven months, another of a year and a half. But the fact that they were living together and imagining a life together was clear. Then Logan finds out that there is a way to save a friend he lost to an impossible circumstance years earlier but it requires him giving up his own life. Well, not wanting to have Riley suffer losing him, he decides the best thing to do is leave unexpectedly, stage a scene that looked like cheating, and never talk again. The fact that Logan didn't realize this would make Riley more determined to talk to him for lack of closure was odd. It continues on this way when they meet, Logan continually being a jerk and trying to be cruel to Riley to push him away. From taking down and pushing him away to being willing to destroy his work and threaten his job, Logan does anything to get Riley out to 'protect' him. The more he does the harder it is to see what Riley sees in him and how they can be together. It was difficult to get past this so the relationship falls flat. An interesting story but with some very poor choices by its characters.
While the legend and myth of this story was fascinating and well played out, the romance that was focused on seemed to fall a bit flat which made the story suffer somewhat.
Riley is a folklorist, actually trained in school for that, so the research of the legend is interesting and well done. From the cycles that seem to be so important in so much myth and history to the connections of family, the legend was intriguing and felt possibly real. The problem was when it came down to Riley and Logan. One time boyfriends, these two clashed for more of the book than they did work together and it became hard to see their potential as a couple.
Riley and Logan were together for a while, almost ready to get married, before Logan fled to sacrifice himself to an old mistake. The time they were together was a bit conflicting, one mention of seven months, another of a year and a half. But the fact that they were living together and imagining a life together was clear. Then Logan finds out that there is a way to save a friend he lost to an impossible circumstance years earlier but it requires him giving up his own life. Well, not wanting to have Riley suffer losing him, he decides the best thing to do is leave unexpectedly, stage a scene that looked like cheating, and never talk again. The fact that Logan didn't realize this would make Riley more determined to talk to him for lack of closure was odd. It continues on this way when they meet, Logan continually being a jerk and trying to be cruel to Riley to push him away. From taking down and pushing him away to being willing to destroy his work and threaten his job, Logan does anything to get Riley out to 'protect' him. The more he does the harder it is to see what Riley sees in him and how they can be together. It was difficult to get past this so the relationship falls flat. An interesting story but with some very poor choices by its characters.
March 23, 2023
Here's the thing, I LOVE a good ghost story, especially one based on fact. I will watch any of those ghost hunter shows even though they scare the life out of me, for the most part. This is all of those things and I am here for it. This is also a second-chance romance which also happens to be something I enjoy. Add in two extremely likable MCs, a fierce best friend and secrets revealed and that's a winning recipe for me.
I adored Riley. He was so sweet and good, and immediately I hated Logan for walking away from him and seemingly ruining his life. (Side note, I sincerely hope he went back and finished off that masters 😂). Then I found out more about Logan, and while I don't really forgive him for running away, I get why he did that. This is one of those situations where you wish they'd just talk to each other, honestly. Logan is carrying around a lot of guilt for what happened 7 years ago, but if anyone would get it, it's Riley.
I loved that the ghost story is partly based on a true story, and the whole thing was really well done. The supporting cast are great too, and I certainly wouldn't want to cross Julie. Nope, no way. She's fierce, and Logan is a brave man to face her 😂. Max is odious, and terrible with zero redeeming qualities, you're supposed to dislike him and I did, intensely. The story moves along at a great pace, I couldn't put it down once I started as I needed to know. There's a little heat, it's more fade to black though which is fine. There's plenty of chemistry between Riley and Logan though and I really was rooting for them. I really enjoyed this and I'm going straight on to the next book now.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
I adored Riley. He was so sweet and good, and immediately I hated Logan for walking away from him and seemingly ruining his life. (Side note, I sincerely hope he went back and finished off that masters 😂). Then I found out more about Logan, and while I don't really forgive him for running away, I get why he did that. This is one of those situations where you wish they'd just talk to each other, honestly. Logan is carrying around a lot of guilt for what happened 7 years ago, but if anyone would get it, it's Riley.
I loved that the ghost story is partly based on a true story, and the whole thing was really well done. The supporting cast are great too, and I certainly wouldn't want to cross Julie. Nope, no way. She's fierce, and Logan is a brave man to face her 😂. Max is odious, and terrible with zero redeeming qualities, you're supposed to dislike him and I did, intensely. The story moves along at a great pace, I couldn't put it down once I started as I needed to know. There's a little heat, it's more fade to black though which is fine. There's plenty of chemistry between Riley and Logan though and I really was rooting for them. I really enjoyed this and I'm going straight on to the next book now.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
September 29, 2024
3.25/5 This had an entertaining supernatural mystery, and I liked Riley a lot from the get-go. I found Logan much more frustrating (in part because he based a huge part of his decision-making on how grief worked for one person he knew. His assumption that Riley would feel exactly the same way and Logan was therefore doing the best thing for him was incredibly annoying. If he knew and cared about Riley enough to be planning the rest of their life together, wouldn’t he understand that “not knowing” would actually be the worst thing for Riley?)
I did enjoy the occasional sweeter moment between Riley and Logan, but I wish that they’d communicated better, that Logan had actually considered listening and trusting. (I know a big part of this was his guilt, which helps, since he’s not behaving rationally, but I would have liked a few more examples of a functional, healthy relationship between Logan and Riley.) I did feel the tension of the feelings between the two of them, but that was almost only ever in Logan’s internal POV. How he treated Riley day to day was usually pretty awful, so it felt a little precarious as a reader to simply trust that once everyone got resolved we’d be back to that apparently great relationship that we heard about but never saw before Logan torched everything and ran.
I enjoyed seeing Riley find more confidence again and work hard to save everyone, not just Logan. I appreciated the lessons that folklore and stories taught, and the way that Riley used them to guide his actions in the present.
I’m not totally sure about the next MC, so I’m looking forward to seeing what I’m guessing will be something of a redemption arc.
I did enjoy the occasional sweeter moment between Riley and Logan, but I wish that they’d communicated better, that Logan had actually considered listening and trusting. (I know a big part of this was his guilt, which helps, since he’s not behaving rationally, but I would have liked a few more examples of a functional, healthy relationship between Logan and Riley.) I did feel the tension of the feelings between the two of them, but that was almost only ever in Logan’s internal POV. How he treated Riley day to day was usually pretty awful, so it felt a little precarious as a reader to simply trust that once everyone got resolved we’d be back to that apparently great relationship that we heard about but never saw before Logan torched everything and ran.
I enjoyed seeing Riley find more confidence again and work hard to save everyone, not just Logan. I appreciated the lessons that folklore and stories taught, and the way that Riley used them to guide his actions in the present.
I’m not totally sure about the next MC, so I’m looking forward to seeing what I’m guessing will be something of a redemption arc.
April 4, 2023
This is my first read by E.J Russell and I enjoyed stepping into the beginning of this new supernatural series.
I really liked Riley and thought his career and love of folklore really interesting. Working on the TV show Haunted to the Max was really beneath him, but he brought a lot to the show and wasn't appreciated by anyone including his so-called best friend, Julie, who got him the job. I thought it was really bad form how everyone treated him and for Julie to treat him the way she did, well, I'm glad he finally called her out on it.
Logan, well he had some issues and he definitely should have been upfront and honest with Riley about his past and his plans to get his friend back from whatever realm it is he has been stuck in. Rather than treating Riley like he meant nothing and with little respect, he could have gained an ally in his quest to save his friend and kept Riley at the same time. But stubborn asses will behave as he did and he made things worse for both of them, really hurting Riley in the process.
Like the supernatural historical side of the story, Logan and Riley's behaviour seemed caught in its own loop and I wondered what it would take to break that loop and either cut things off altogether or for Logan to admit to himself and Riley how he felt.
I really liked the supernatural 'ghost war', historical story and I liked the way folklore was woven into it all. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
I really liked Riley and thought his career and love of folklore really interesting. Working on the TV show Haunted to the Max was really beneath him, but he brought a lot to the show and wasn't appreciated by anyone including his so-called best friend, Julie, who got him the job. I thought it was really bad form how everyone treated him and for Julie to treat him the way she did, well, I'm glad he finally called her out on it.
Logan, well he had some issues and he definitely should have been upfront and honest with Riley about his past and his plans to get his friend back from whatever realm it is he has been stuck in. Rather than treating Riley like he meant nothing and with little respect, he could have gained an ally in his quest to save his friend and kept Riley at the same time. But stubborn asses will behave as he did and he made things worse for both of them, really hurting Riley in the process.
Like the supernatural historical side of the story, Logan and Riley's behaviour seemed caught in its own loop and I wondered what it would take to break that loop and either cut things off altogether or for Logan to admit to himself and Riley how he felt.
I really liked the supernatural 'ghost war', historical story and I liked the way folklore was woven into it all. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
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