Veil of Pines: A Dear Celeste Novel

by J.R. Erickson

Kidnapped. Trapped. Haunted.

Celeste wakes in an isolated cabin, imprisoned by the man she once loved. As hours bleed into days, pain and psychological manipulation begin to fracture her sense of reality and her hope of escape.

Detective Harris Mayne knows something is wrong the instant Celeste vanishes. His own brush with death left him sensitive to the unseen—and when logic offers no answers, he is forced to follow cryptic, otherworldly messages instead.

As Celeste searches desperately for a way out, she uncovers a dark decades ago, a brutal murder occurred in the cabin—and the restless dead are stirring once more.

Don't miss this haunting tale of obsession, betrayal, and paranormal suspense.

Genres: Mystery

338 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 13, 2026

About the author

J.R. Erickson writes novels that blend murder mysteries with haunted houses. Her Northern Michigan Asylum series are novels of paranormal suspense inspired by a real former asylum in Traverse City. Her current books, the Troubled Spirits series, are all inspired by real crimes, which she covers in her true crime podcast, Bitter Endings.

Jacki is a lifelong lover of all things spooky, and started penning scary stories in childhood. She grew up in Mason, Michigan and is a graduate of Michigan State University with a B.A. in Psychology. These days, Jacki resides near Traverse City, Michigan with her husband, son, and three cats.

Reviews

[Doreen Fernandes · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Liz asks Celeste to meet her, regarding her old job, she is shocked to be abducted by her killer ex-husband, Jonathan in collusion with Liz. They take her to a remote cabin where there is no chance of escape. Celeste is psychologically and physically tortured by Jonathan and Liz to gain access to her assets. Will her friend, Harris, along with her other team of friends, find her or is she doomed to die at Jonathan's hands? A riveting suspense filled page turner with a touch of the paranormal. The description of the remote cabin surrounded by pines and its dark history is graphic. I was enthralled by the well crafted plot.

[Lyndsey Gollogly · Rating 5 out of 5]

** Spoiler alert previous book **

I have been with Celeste from the start ive been so lucky to have these as Arcs from the author and im so grateful these books have been a pleasure to read. Im a little sad to see it all completed but wow what a ride. This one we follow on from the last books cliffhanger of Jonathan kidnapping Celeste and boy does this get exciting and heartbreaking fast!
Celeste has to keep fighting for her and her unborn baby as Johnathan becomes increasingly erratic and his partner in crime Liz gets spooked by the ghosts celeste can see. Harris is desperately searching to find her and omg this is just the best.
Thank you J.R. Erickson for bringing us this story and i promise i didnt cry at the end.

[Samantha Moran · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to say, I'm sad to see this series end, but it sure did go out with a bang! What a great way to wrap things up. Definitely give it a read!

[Josette Thomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the final book in the Dear Celeste series. When you read a series of books; the characters become very much alive. As you wait for each new book, reminders of the previous story come back and it is quite easy to fall back into the world set up by the author. As soon as I began reading this book I was immediately transported back to what had happened in the last book. I could feel the disillusion that Celeste experienced as she tried to come to terms with person Jonathan had become. She doubted everything about their relationship. I had a lot of sympathy for Celeste because of all she had been put through. Who I felt the most for was Liz. I do not mean that she had excuses for what she did but because of the choices she made. Many people experience setbacks in their life, from childhood and beyond, but this does not excuse what Liz had done at the expense of other people’s lives. Jonathan was very good at hiding his true self and was good at finding a lost soul. One who would do anything for him. I do not think there would have been any other option for what Liz would endure.

This series brought forth many new ideas for me. I always knew there were spirits out there but I had never put to much thought into near death experiences. There really is no way to prove these experiences are real; people can only rely on the stories and the belief that people come back from death. Plus, there is no scientific proof of someone dying, coming back to life and sharing what happens when humans die. The author made so many believable points in the different books that one can most definitely believe in the existence of the afterlife. I was a bit emotional that this series was over but I enjoyed the way the author wrapped up Celeste’s story.

[Deb Barringer]

Veil of Pines is a gripping novel that will grab you by the throat and force you to face your worst nightmare. J. R. Erickson has done it again with her 5th and final Dear Celeste story. Only this time the stakes may be too high. Kidnapped by Jonathan and drugged by Liz, Celeste fears for both her life and that of her unborn baby. Will Harris and the gang rescue her? Will she get away in time to save herself? The storyline is phenomenal, fast-paced and very well written. We see Celeste as she realizes that everything is connected, all of her thoughts and actions have led to this moment. Over the past five books the characters have become very well developed. I felt as if I was standing beside Celeste as she went through this terrible trauma. Overall, Veil of Pines is a very appropriate and fantastic finale to the exceptional Dear Celeste Collection. I know all good things must come to an end, but, Celeste, you will be missed!

[Kristi Schatz · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ An Incredible Finale to an Unforgettable Series!

I absolutely loved Veil of Pines — the perfect way to cap off the Dear Celeste series! This final book delivered everything I hoped for and more: heart-pounding suspense, deep emotional stakes, eerie paranormal twists, and Celeste facing her toughest challenge yet as she finds herself kidnapped, trapped, and haunted in a remote, chilling cabin. From the first page to the very end, I couldn’t put it down. Erickson masterfully weaves together the threads of Celeste’s journey, tying up long-standing mysteries while introducing fresh surprises that kept me hooked. The atmosphere was dark and immersive, the haunting elements genuinely creepy, and the character growth throughout the series makes this finale feel incredibly satisfying and earned.

If you’ve read the previous books, this is exactly the kind of conclusion this amazing series deserves. A truly unforgettable read — I already miss these characters!

[Mrs. Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

well, I told myself not to read this book quickly since its (possibly) the last in this series....but who was i kidding. Ms. Erickson once again created a story that you just cannot stop reading. I realize I say this after everyone of her books, but its true...she is such a talent, you cannot predict the outcome. I won't put any spoilers in, but once again..you're pulled into story and even after you finish...you feel like the characters are real people. She pulls you in, and wraps it all up in ways that leave you eagerly looking forward to more. I truly hope this isn't the last of dear Celeste, hopefully this series will have more to come. I highly recommend this book...Ms. Erickson has become my favorite author of the past, gee, few years of following her. I think I have read everyone of her books, some more than once. She is an author that does not disappoint. Her books are 10 star quality.

[David · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing Conclusion to an Amazing Series

Such an amazing ending to the Dear Celeste series. I love how JR Erickson incorporated everyone Celeste has ever helped and all her friends pulled together to help her. But most if all, I loved the determination of Harris…being an amazing detective, but also searching for his new love in life. So sweet. The grizzly ghost aspect was perfect. So sad, but added such an amazing element to the story. This is a definite re-read for me. My sister and I have read every one of JR Erickson’s books. You cannot go wrong with any of her books, but the Dear Celeste series is on my top list. So many amazing characters that kept being added into the series, just made it more brilliant.
I can’t wait for the audiobook to release, so I can go back and listen to it.

I have no idea what JR Erickson has in store next, but I know it will be amazing. Thank you for sharing your brilliant mind and story telling with us.

[Danielle Lundquist · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Celeste and I’m so sad to see it end!

Celeste always finds herself in trouble, or should I say, trouble finds her lol Harris, who she just started dating realizes she has gone missing and all of her family and friends come together to try to find her. They have a vigil for her with everyone too. Harris is a detective so he’s always looking out for clues. Both him and Celeste have had near death experiences and can see things other people can’t.

Harris insists it’s Celeste’s husband Jonathan who kidnapped her, but was it him or someone putting a hit out on her for her being responsible for getting them locked away?

Will Celeste make it home to Harris? Will her abducter have other plans? This book had me so captivated that the noise in my surroundings didn’t even affect me. This is a great read and last installment of Dear Celeste.

[Red Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank You to the author for this free digital ARC read in exchange for my honest review of Veil of Pines.
This has been an amazing ride and I am sad to see it all completed, but can't wait to read new books from this author. In this one Celste ends up kidnapped, haunted and also captured in this page turning read that had me hooked from the start. We wonder if her friends can save her? If she will ever get away? Will Celeste friend's psychic insights be enough? Make sure to read this book to find out!
The author wrote this well and every character in this was amazing. I was on the edge of my seat the entire time. This was a fantastic finish to an amazing series. I loved this one and would recommend it to any reader, especially to those who love paranormal suspense.

[Myranda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an amazing way to wrap up this series! I have mentioned before that this series could be read as stand alones but there is the underlying story pertaining to Celeste's hit-and-run accident that we get more information about throughout the other books that ultimately need to be read before you jump into this one. The author has done an amazing job as always with her characters and her scenes. We get call backs to characters from other books throughout as well. They're small and a few, I'll be honest, I forgot about but they're kind of brief which makes me think that they weren't like main characters before...but I could be totally wrong since I've read more in the last few years than I have in a long time!

Full review on my website on 2.17.26.
www.mommodeloading.com

[Sheri Corriero · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another story in the series featuring Celeste. Celeste developed the ability to see spirits after almost dying. She has helped so many people using this gift. She seems so good and cares about people. This time, Celeste is the case. She’s been kidnapped. The story starts off with the kidnapping, hooking me and likely other readers in right away. After all the Celeste books I’ve read, I was like what?? JR Erickson’s story telling always captures me. I love the paranormal aspects of it. Celeste and a few of her friends have some special senses. Detective Harris Mayne brings everyone together when he sense that something is wrong and Celeste is missing. The story kept up the tension throughout. This is book 5 of 5. I’m sad that it’s over but I wasn’t disappointed.

[Becka · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a gripping conclusion to the Dear Celeste series. I’m genuinely sad to see it end, and I can only hope we’ll hear from Celeste again someday. In this final installment, Celeste and her friends face their biggest challenges yet—and that’s saying a lot. If you haven’t already, do yourself a favor and read the entire series from the beginning. It’s absolutely worth the journey.

I felt every moment of what Celeste was going through, to the point where I wanted to step into the pages and help her myself. That’s how powerfully written this story is. Mystery, surprises, and heart‑stopping moments fill these final chapters. Happy reading!

[Hannah Ruth Hawley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read an ARC copy of Veil of Pines provided to me by the author.

Veil of Pines is the 5th and final book in the Dear Celeste series, and boy, does it grab you right from the start! I couldn't put the book down. The imagery and storytelling are dark, graphic, and alluring. As much as this story is about the abduction and the horrible truth about the cabin they are in, it is really a culmination of the life Celeste has worked so hard to build for herself and the relationships she has developed and nurtured.

[Tam · Rating 5 out of 5]

FAVORITE BOOK OF 2026, SO FAR! What a fantastic, gripping, journey this book takes you on! This was a very compelling story with a unique, captivating plot and well-developed, multi-faceted characters. I felt every emotion. I did not want to put my Kindle down. Kept me intrigued from the first page to the last. You CANNOT miss out on reading this book!!!

*I received a complimentary ARC of this book in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the Dear Celeste series. I was able to be an Advance Reader and got an early copy of the book. This book did not disappoint! This book reminded me of The Shining in certain places. Veil of Pines grabbed me from the first page and had me on the edge of my seat till the end. While I would love for this series to continue, the author does a great job of wrapping up Celeste’s story that leaves you satisfied.

[Stefanie Silvestri · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novel marks the end of the Dear Celeste series, and I'm feeling rather down about turning the last page. Veil of Pines is an intensely gripping story that takes hold of you from page one and doesn't let go, as Celeste finds herself abducted and tormented in a desperate bid for survival, leaving readers on the edge of their seats, wondering if her friends, aided by their unique psychic insights, can rescue her and unravel the truth.

[Kathleen Becker · Rating 4 out of 5]

Celeste is kidnapped by her ex-husband & former pharmaceutical partner, Liz. They want access to her funds since her ex-husband is released from prison. Haunting, terrifying - how can someone who "loved" you imprison & nearly starve you. Obsession & greed turn each day into agonizing survival.
Celeste can hear & see ghosts. An horrific murder/suicide occurred in the isolated cabin. The mother & son victims give her clues for survival.
This book is not for the faint of heart.

[Kai White · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Great End

From the moment I read Come Home Katie, I knew I liked Celeste and to see the journey come full searching is great and a bit sad too.

What each of these books have is a great mystery couple with actual personal human elements. How the mystery mixes in with reality is what draws you in and it has drawn me in so much

I have absolutely enjoyed every moment of the dear Celeste series 🥹

[Bailey Cruz · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW!!

Veil of the Pines is a MASTERPIECE! J.R Erickson puts the protagonist through a brutal emotional gauntlet. One minute I was certain she’d escape, the next she was captured, and the rescues and uncovered secrets were always heart-pounding. I don't want to spoil the surprises, but the constant suspense makes this a phenomenal read. Truly an addictive read!

[blueyed_cntry_girl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Poor Celeste! She has endured so much but won in the end. The creepiness of the ghosts in this one was amazing and so insightful. To be able to help and be helped like she was, definitely a gift. This was intense at times to the point of not knowing what would happen, which way things would go. Truly a wonderful book and a great ending for Celeste, at least for now. I loved it!

[MGB · Rating 5 out of 5]

Waking up was a horrible experience for Celeste. This was not where she wanted to be.

How would she escape? Could her friends rescue her? Would their “Psychic insights” be enough? Their thoughts can cross the veil to receive insights from beyond. Not always clear, but taken as a whole show the way.

Celeste now knows these connections. She expresses them to Liz: “I realized there are invisible threads tying us all together. One kind act, one choice, reverberates across time and space, linking us to everyone and everything. And the unkind acts work the same way. I experienced every hurt I’d caused and realized it all mattered. Even the most mundane choices matter.”

In the end the story documents "the long, terrible days that had almost ended her life, and the miracle of waking up in Harris’s arms". It a mystery wrapped in the psychic insights that allow Harris to make leaps of faith which are not completely supported by the facts.

[Rhonda Kirtley saiz · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Beautiful Ending

This one had me frantically twirling my hair like I do when i'm nervous. I absolutely loved the ending, or should I say the beginning of a great life for the characters. I highly recommend this entire series to everyone who enjoys mystery and ghost stories.

[Shannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm so sad this series is over but this book was great! I read it in two sittings because I couldn't put it down. The whole series is the perfect mix of spookiness, action, and mystery. I can't wait to see what Erickson does next!

[Kris Frisk · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am really sad this is the last one of this series. This book is as good, if not better than the others! I am so glad Celeste gets everything she deserves and so does Jonathan lol I can't wait to read whatever JR Erickson does next!

[Kyla · Rating 5 out of 5]

sobbing

I’ve been waiting for this book for literal ever and it did not disappoint. I wish I could reread these books for the first time again. Such an amazing ending to an amazing trilogy.

[Jennifer Humphrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book was great it kept my attention and couldn’t put it down once I started. Read it in one day.

[Christy Tardiff · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a good series-I’m sad to see it end! I’ve enjoyed all the books in this series (as well as others from this author).

[KRISTIN Grignani · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am never disappointed when I read a book by this J.R Erickson. This book was interesting and keep my attention all the way though.

[Alison · Rating 5 out of 5]

non-stop from start to finish

I don't think I have read a book so fast! Fast paced that didn't slow down. An incredible end to an incredible series. So sad it's over!