Malachi Hunter believes in ghosts. In fact, he’s obsessed with the supernatural, and it’s made him a socially isolated loner. Then a chance encounter with a girl who remembers his dubious reputation from school, and who needs his help, leads him to investigate a haunted house. Although things don’t exactly go according to plan, Mal’s still determined to become a paranormal investigator.
Fiercely independent single mum Teena Maunder believed that she could cope with anything; until a terrifying and baffling haunting starts in her home. Desperate for help, she turns to her policeman brother, who recruits Malachi Hunter. The novice ghost hunter quickly finds himself in real danger, tackling a menacing entity which threatens everyone he cares about!
Author’s Note. Originally published in 2015, ‘The Novice Ghost Hunter’ and ‘A Matter of Faith’ were the first parts of the Ghost Hunter Series. The new edition has been extensively rewritten, and, with the addition of new material, expanded to include both stories.
As a fellow writer, I found "The Novice Ghost Hunter: The 1st Malachi Hunter Story" by Martin J. Best to be a refreshing take on the supernatural genre. The protagonist, Malachi Hunter, is immediately compelling—his obsession with ghosts and his social isolation gives the story an authentic emotional depth that many paranormal tales lack. Best’s portrayal of Malachi’s journey, from outcast to aspiring investigator, is both believable and touching.
Teena Maunder’s storyline adds another layer of realism, showing how the supernatural can intrude on everyday life and push even the most independent people to ask for help. The dynamic between Malachi, Teena, and her brother felt genuine, and the escalating danger kept me invested throughout. As an author, I especially appreciated the way Best balanced atmospheric tension with character development, making the haunting feel personal and unsettling without resorting to clichés. This is a nuanced and engaging read for anyone who enjoys ghost stories with heart.