Adeline is a rarity in her bloodline. A necromancer amongst humans. Her mother swiftly hides her away at Nightshade Academy, a college for the supernatural known for its discretion.Thomas is a centuries old ghost who finds absolute pleasure in haunting Adeline at Nightshade Academy. Her unique ability caught his attention at first, but now there’s so much more he has to gain. His visions of revenge can finally be realized.Perhaps this strange duet can come to some sort of beneficial arrangement.
Savannah Giles Haunt delivers a truly intriguing premise that will captivate fans of paranormal romance and academy settings. The core concept alone is enough to grab your attention: a rare necromancer, Adeline, suddenly thrust into the supernatural world of Nightshade Academy, only to find herself the particular obsession of a centuries-old, vengeful ghost named Thomas.
Adeline is a compelling protagonist. Her journey to understand and harness her unique abilities, all while navigating a brand new, secret world, is both relatable and engaging. She's not just a passive recipient of ghostly attention; she's got agency and a growing curiosity that drives much of the narrative.
Thomas, the spectral tormentor, is equally fascinating. His motivations for haunting Adeline quickly evolve from simple interest in her powers to something far more complex, fueled by visions of revenge. The dynamic between them is undeniably the heart of the story. The "strange duet" promised in the blurb blossoms into a captivating push-and-pull, as their initial adversarial relationship slowly hints at a deeper, more beneficial (and perhaps romantic) arrangement. Their banter and the slow burn of their connection are definitely highlights.
Nightshade Academy provides an excellent, atmospheric backdrop. It's exactly the kind of discreet, magical institution you'd want to get lost in, full of potential for rich world-building and interesting secondary characters (though I would have loved to see a bit more of the academy's broader lore!).
While "Haunt" is a genuinely enjoyable and creative read, keeping me turning pages, there were a couple of minor points that kept it from being a full five-star experience for me. Occasionally, the pacing felt like it lingered a little longer than necessary in certain sections, and while the chemistry between Adeline and Thomas is undeniable, some of their interactions or the progression of their 'arrangement' felt a touch predictable at times.
Despite these small points, Haunt is a very strong and promising debut. Giles has crafted a unique take on supernatural romance, blending mystery, revenge, and burgeoning feelings in an engaging package. If you're looking for a fresh spin on the "chosen one" trope, a compelling ghost story with a romantic edge, and a magical academy setting, you'll definitely want to pick up "Haunt." I'm genuinely excited to see what comes next for Adeline and Thomas!
Oh my goodnessssssss!!! I need more!!! I absolutely gobbled up this book. Savannah hooked me in on the first page, the first PARAGRAPH. Okay, I'm obsessed, LOL! And I am eager for more!! It was extremely interesting to meet Adeline, who is the daughter of the town's current mayor. Someone who had a clear distaste for our MFC. While we're given an explanation on why the wonderful mayor feels this way with her own flesh and blood...y'all, you better buckle up. It's gonna be a WILD ride as Savannah peels back the layers and teases us with both answers & secrets galore. Things took another interesting turn as we're introduced to Thomas (AKA: ?? -- no, I'm not revealing that! LOL. You gotta read and find out!). Where Adaline is sassy and bratty, Thomas has this playful and cocky touch to his personality. I couldn't get enough of reading the chapters done in his POV! He's a man on a mission, but what happens when he crosses paths with someone who might derail...or help solidify its success?? Now I literally gobbled up all their steamy interactions (pretty sure Savannah just unlocked a new area I need to read XD, something I LOVE when it happens!). Could NOT get enough of that. If I'm being honest, I couldn't get enough of everything XD So many twists and turns! So many secrets to form theories for & then uncover the answers! I am extremely sad that I'm done now and I can't WAIT for part 2. Obviously I highly recommend this piece!!! It's sooooo good!!! I'm ready for more of Adeline and Thomas (& all the other incoming surprises ;) ) Fantastic job!!!!!!
This short story was ABSOLUTLY INSANE!!! The plot launched at lightning speed, the characters were introduced seamlessly and developed with surprising depth, and the pacing? Straight-up rocket fuel. I had whiplash from how fast it pulled me in—one second I was reading, the next I was clutching my pearls in the corner. I gasped, smirked, blushed… it gave me everything. The MFC’s supernatural powers? Obsessed. Her dynamic with Thomas? Perfection. And her mom?! Don’t even get me started. That ending?? Ms. Savannah, you did NOT come to play!
Haunt is by far my favorite ghost story I have read.
I will never be able to not think “did I just f*ck a ghost?” The way the characters were written and how sassy the FMC is, is sooo good! There is so many twists and turns in this book, that you never know what’s coming next!
This book ends on a cliffhanger, and I can’t wait for the next one!
Adalina is a necromancer and wants to know who her father is. Her mom sends her to a school for monsters where she meets Thomas, a ghost, and Itsuki, a kitsune. Thomas says Adalina is direct but not sure that is what I would call her personality. This is a short story that ends on a cliffhanger with great spice.
This novella was a quick, captivating read with a good plot and just the right amount of smut. The FMC was extra feisty and the MC came off very classy. They made a fun couple to read about. The twist toward the end took things to another level. I especially loved the shift from MF to MMF. It was unexpected and so well done. I can't wait to see where the story goes next!
A great quick read. I wish there was a little more to the plot, but the ending has me wanting to read the next! This was a unique ghost story, with a good amount of spice. MF to MMF, and a snarky FMC. Can’t wait to see what happens in the next one
This book was everything. I absolutely love the story line and Adeline is by far one of my favorite characters from Sav! A short just read for those that love their dirty ghosts