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Something Like Haunted

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Bee Calloway has spent her entire life walking the line between the living and the dead. As a student at the notoriously haunted Thousand Oaks University, she plans to keep her head down, graduate, and disappear into obscurity while ignoring the dead who linger at the edges of her vision. Grumpy, guarded, and chronically caffeinated, Bee has no time for distractions —especially not ones with pretty eyes and warm smiles.

Oliver Everhart has lived in the town of Thousand Oaks his whole life. The ghosts that haunt the town are as familiar to him as old friends. He’s been able to communicate with the dead since the day his father died, under strange and potentially supernatural circumstances. Now back for grad school, Oliver is determined to keep his past buried beneath his gentle charm and sunshine smile.

When Bee and Oliver are paired on a research project about a student who vanished two years ago, they expect academic drudgery, not a trail of occult symbols, buried secrets, and warnings from the other side. Their mutual irritation for each other softens into something deeper as they uncover a mystery the university has worked hard to keep hidden. But just as they begin to trust each other—and maybe start to fall—another student disappears.

As the veil between the living and the dead grows thinner, Bee and Oliver must confront the ghosts of their past before the campus claims another soul.

749 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 1, 2025

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Millie St. Graves

8 books16 followers

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5 stars
16 (36%)
4 stars
20 (45%)
3 stars
5 (11%)
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1 (2%)
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2 (4%)
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
Profile Image for Rhiannon Cheyenne  Cheyenne   .
579 reviews16 followers
September 29, 2025
Something Like Haunted - Millie St. Graves

There are so many things that I love about this book. I really loved this found family friend group. I loved the haunting atmosphere with the college and the mystery and the disappearances. Each of the characters were so intriguing and I loved getting not just the two main characters and love interests Bee and Ollie, but other members of the group as well like Jordan and Hope. And of course I do love the two main characters. Their love story was just so sweet and I would love to see this story become a series with different haunting case cases that this group needs to take on and solve.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / Out of 5 Stars ⭐️

🌶️ / Spice Rating ☀️

# of Pages 🌙 Roughly 749 pages

Release Date 🌟 10/1/2025

Format 💫 Gifted Digital Copy

Series 🌙 Unknown/Not Applicable

Genre/Tropes ✨ murder mystery, ghost hunting, slow burn, found family

Favorite Character ☀️ Ollie

Favorite Line 🌟 “I wouldn’t say I’m into astrology that much. But let me guess
your star sign. You give o ff Virgo energy. Because you’re a little bit scary. Oh, and you seem quite organised.”

“So, naturally, you’re in love. She’s the grumpy academic and you’re the golden retriever boy who’d carry her thesis in your mouth if she asked.”

“If the yearning between the two of you was any thicker, I’d be staging an intervention “

“It’s called being academically haunted and professionally anxious.”
Profile Image for Deni.
463 reviews91 followers
October 30, 2026
Some plot holes here and there and some conveniences instead of development of the plot but I really enjoyed this one nonetheless. The atmosphere was great, the characters were great even though I wish we could've had Bee's character act mean instead of just telling me she's mean bc that girl did not have one mean bone in her body from what I read, the writing was good (but be warned it has some gen-z slang that I personally didn't mind), I adored the Thanksgiving scene and overall it was just a good ol' cozy horror for the season. Bee and Oliver have my heart. I want an Oliver too😭. Jordan and Kenji were incredibly adorable as well. Oh and the autumnal descriptions were amazing!!
Profile Image for nisa.
169 reviews10 followers
October 27, 2026
short and sweet! i thought it would be too short for proper character development but it was actually the perfect length. and the spicy scenes were perfectly balanced. unfortunately i had more icks than things i actually liked so this is gonna be long.

LOTS of gen-z language: mmc describes fmc as “small and curvy in that aphrodite sort of way.”, “Dont ever call me by my government name”, fmc’s roommate is a tiktok influencer, “brain-rotted”, “chaotic scarf energy”, “Oh, he was so fucking cooked.”, “You’ve been down bad since day one.”, AND THEN HE TOLD HER SHE LOOKED LIKE APHRODITE ONE TIME. felt like i was reading conversations i hear in my high school classes. its just plain lazy atp. the overall writing was nothing special and was repetitive at times. the dialogue between Bee and Oliver was like hallmark level cringe.

““I could probably try stick my arm in? I think I’m the skinniest of the three of us. No offence, Bee.”
“None taken.” Bee looked down at herself then back at Jordan. She didn’t think she was that chunky. Besides, Jordan was actually quite skinny.” this weirded me out.

little too archetype-y, mainly for the mmc. he talks about how everyone knows him as the “golden retriever boy” who rescues lost baby birds and cats. right. he is literally called “golden boy” or “sunshiney” 10 TIMES in this. which wouldn’t seem like a lot if this book wasn’t 300 pages.

overall, i really love the quirky-paranormal/occult aspect of this. one of the main reasons i wanted to read it. kinda wish there was more like awe around how they could both see ghosts and shit. like it was mentioned so casually i almost missed it. i also couldn’t tell if the world setting they lived in, it was normal to have that kinda sense. like i know it is at the school but they never really talk about public perception and stuff. i did like Bee and Oliver’s individual background with the supernatural and how they came to having the sight.
35 reviews
September 10, 2025
Thank you to the author for the advanced copy. All opinions are my own.

Things I LOVED:

The internal monologue of the two MCs is totes adorable and the way they slowly fell for each other is so freaking cute. I can’t stand it. It really was such a sweet love story.

The plot. This whole ex-girlfriend gone missing and the other unsolved missing persons mysteries was gripping. The plot was well woven together for the most part, right up to the end.

The MMCs best friends! They are the perfect kind of ride or die friends we all wish we could have. And their romance is also so sweet and adorable. I loved them!

What I didn't love...

Weirdly, the spice. Hear me out... The love story is so sweet and so cute, but then when you get to dirty spicy stuff, it almost feels a little awkward. It almost felt like it didn't really fit the characters. Not really sure exactly how to put my finger on it, but it went from sweet, puppy love to I’m going to grab you by the hair and rail you from behind. It just felt weird to me.

The 11th hour roommate. Also felt awkward and like a convenient plot device. I'd grown to love our MCs and their two besties and then oh here’s a fifth character we’ve mentioned four times who shows up and suddenly knows everything about how to solve your problems.

Finally, some of the plot resolutions felt pretty anti-climatic at times. Yes there were a few big exciting scenes where the MCs were fighting for their lives, but other times problems were solved so quickly it was like, "That's it? Problem solved just like that?", or worse, solved off page.

Overall I'd say a four star read. Not bad for a debut novel. I enjoyed it, but the author has some growing to do. I look forward to seeing her next book and how her writing progresses.
Profile Image for Domna Noctarium.
25 reviews
October 2, 2025
The spooky vibes of this book are perfect for October (or any time of the year, really)
Something Like Haunted has mystery, paranormal activity, dark academia vibes, and an actually cute romance that doesn't feel like an overdose of sugar.

Not gonna lie, there was a big part of the book that I was preparing for the worst, but I'm so glad that I stayed for the ride. The combination of haunted university + mystery to solve hits perfectly, and I LOVED that at the end, there are no big questions unanswered (and we even get the hint of a spin-off with the secondary character? LET A GIRL DREAM!). Spooky in the perfect amount without being scary (if you're on the sensitive side).

The characters are real, with their back stories, without being too dramatic or too heroic. I really like the juxtaposition of both main characters, Oliver, a golden retriever MMC with an ugly upbringing, and Bee, the goth mean girl with a loving, functioning family. They complemented each other so well, they had me rooting all the time for them to get to their happy ending. There's a bit of spice-ish to check the box, but this is not a smutty book.

Overall, very balanced, entertaining and interesting. A totally recommended read. Can't wait to read more about the characters, the potential for the group is great <3
Profile Image for Syn Daye.
Author 2 books18 followers
October 18, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed this. I honestly don't know what I was expecting, but Millie took me through lots of twists and turns throughout. All of which had me turning that page looking for more.
Bee Calloway is an undergrad entering Thousand Oaks University where she will be working on her Masters. Thousand Oaks is a university that is haunted but also one that specializes in the occults.
Oliver has been assigned to give Bee the grand tour of Cormont House, which is their dorm. Bee is not exactly social. In fact, is often quite mean to people, including Ollie. However, Ollie is always positive and despite being opposites in that aspect, develop a deep friendship.
Their joint research project is on the disappearances of students that has occurred since as far back as they could find on the history of the university. The evidence has them investigating the catacombs under the library and they encounter some...surprises. Not of the good kind.
This is where the story starts to make a lot of twists and turns, with more surprising revelations.

I was completely enthralled with this and honestly, it had the feel of dark academia akin to Keri Lake. It was a fabulous read and I look forward to reading more from Millie St Graves.
102 reviews
October 31, 2025
I really enjoyed this! There was a perfect amount of spooky vibes right from the beginning. Thousand Oaks University is described in great detail, from the Gothic spires, bell tower and heavy doors right to the screaming library book - I wish I could walk right into it!

Bee & Oliver's friendship is cute, even if she is a little grumpy and resistant at first. Oliver's cheery attitude (and his good looks, of course) eventually win her over, even if she's not willing to admit it. They bond over the mysteries of Thousand Oaks and their investgations. Their love story is very sweet, steamy and is woven well in between discovering the paranormal secrets of the school.

Also: love love love Kenji and Jordan!! I really adore the way they bloomed throughout the book - Millie does a really good job of adding the right amount of backstory to the supporting cast as a whole, without drawing away from Bee & Oliver's story. The world feels layered and intentional. I genuinely enjoyed the suspense, mystery and sleuthing - perfect read for the spooky season!
Profile Image for Kelly Rose.
145 reviews3 followers
September 13, 2025
This book was EVERYTHING I needed and more! I mean I don’t think there is anything better than a spooky book that’s also spicy at the perfect moments! I needed a book to get me into spooky season and this did the trick! I love Bee as the FMC, she’s so guarded and working hard to protect herself after being hurt in the past. And then there is Oliver who is the perfect FMC golden retriever boy! He’s everything a girl would want, he listens, he treats you right, gives little gifts and even better believes in the things that go bump in the night. When more students start to go missing, it becomes their goal to figure out what is killing them and how they can stop it and protect the rest of the student body. And within the research they are conducting, feelings start to happen and if you want to know what’s living beneath Thousand Oaks University and what spiciness happens between Oliver and Bee this is a must read!
Profile Image for Cas.
85 reviews6 followers
October 1, 2025
** I received this as an ARC and this review is my own opinions and views **

This was such a fun read!

The plot was pretty well done, there were a few moments it felt a bit anti-climatic, but overall there were great twists that the reader doesn't see coming and a storyline that keeps your interest.

The worldbuilding already had me hooked from the first page where the school was described. It was very well done, without an overkill of information, yet enough to picture the full image.

The characters. Each character is interesting, not just the FMC and MMC but also the side characters. They worked together so well. But Oliver was my absolute favorite. He was so sweet and golden retriever like.

The only thing I wasn't really a fan of was the spice. I felt like it was not necessary in this book and kind of clashed with how fun and sweet the story was.

But overall a great and enjoyable read and very very well done for a debut novel.
96 reviews1 follower
October 26, 2026
I swear the physical version of this book must have really small pages cause there is no way in hell I’ve already read 500 pages I swear I only have like 3 hours actually time read. Also I don’t think I like it but at this point i am going to power through. I just don’t like the writing I’m sorry, it’s not good. It’s very choppy like just stating what’s happening and how people feel very blandly like I feel like I could write this. Also the plot is very under developed, I feel like there was a good base to work with but the same things just keep getting mentioned and no progress is being made…. Also I don’t love the characters they r very boring to me.

Omg thank god that is over I’m sorry but this book was horrible. The pacing was insane and the writing was terrible. Also hella cringey sorry
Profile Image for Readwithsamijo .
103 reviews1 follower
October 1, 2025
What a story!

From the haunted college with ghost around every corner, mysterious disappeared students and a cover up, to a final deep dark secret that pull everyone in.

I was completely sold and at one point stopped reading before bed. It wasnt scary scary but jeez it made me think what if?


Vibes I got was the school from Wednesday addams, mixed with supernatural and bee made me think of Maisie from Hotel Transylvania

Thanks to Millie for the advanced copy and im looking forward to reading A vow made in Blood
2 reviews
September 27, 2025
Firstly, thank you to the author for this advance reader copy!

I enjoyed the story. The budding relationships between all the MCs was adorable. I normally am all for the spice, but it was ‘lacking’ i guess for a lack of a better term. it felt like an afterthought & just didn’t mix well imo.

I’m a little disappointed there wasn’t a final battle w the Dean, I was definitely expecting something a little more climatic.

Overall, it was a great book & I look forward to reading more Millie 🫶🏻
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Cassie.
167 reviews2 followers
October 1, 2025
Perfect spooky season read! It has mystery, it has romance, it has demon fights! Check triggers please, there is death (it does have elements of the supernatural!). I finished it in one day, I couldn't put it down! Bee and Oliver were too cute, ugh I wanted to smack them sometimes though lol. This story kept me on my toes and trying to guess what was coming on the next page. Thank you @milliestgraves for the privilage to be part of your ARC team!
Profile Image for FN.
396 reviews7 followers
October 3, 2025
I like the spooky theme of the book, but also felt cozy at the same time (if that makes sense). Maybe because how the main characters and their interactions were crafted - the action, challenges, adventures, mystery are all there, but there's something about them that makes it feel warm and comfort despite some awkwardness. Oh, and the twists are definitely twisting! It's definitely an enjoyable read. Grateful for the ARC opportunity.
Profile Image for Millie Rose.
291 reviews7 followers
October 7, 2025
Ok so i devoured this. Read it in almost one sitting and was just HOOKED. I loved the atmosphere and the characters, the plot was something unique which I really enjoyed. The side characters were amazing too and made me laugh many times 🤭

Ollie may be a golden retriever but the mouth on him?? Absolutely filthy.


Tropes
- Gothic romance
- Haunted university
- Dark academia
- Mystery
- Slow burn romance
Profile Image for Naomi.
697 reviews3 followers
October 8, 2025
A perfect spooky read for October. Bee & Ollie meet in grad school where they attend the haunted Thousand Oaks. Each come with their own melancholic story and experiences with the paranormal. The gothic atmosphere is the perfect background to falling slowly in love and then hunting some demons. More than one character will surprise you.
Profile Image for Jessica McIntyre.
99 reviews8 followers
January 9, 2026
I loved this book so much! It was such a fun story. I loved the descriptions of the college. I felt like I could picture everything so perfectly. I loved Bee and Ollie so much. Reading their story and how it progressed was so sweet. I loved the mystery of the book. It had me guessing what was coming next. It was such a fun and unique book! 5 🌟’s.
33 reviews
October 18, 2026
i have mixed feelings about this one. at times i enjoyed it and thought it was interesting, and at others i thought it was cringy and just not really well-rounded. i thought that the end was very rushed and i hated that suddenly a character came in that knew everything and saved the day. it did match the season tho
Profile Image for Nicholle.
51 reviews
March 29, 2026
really enjoyed. love bee and Ollie. turned out to be spicier then expected.
paranormal romance with humour, heart, and found family. looking forward to next book. (does not end on cliff hanger)
Profile Image for Madison.
171 reviews3 followers
September 30, 2025
*I received an ARC of this and in no way has that influenced my opinion of this book*

This is a really good debut novel, I devoured it. It has everything I love, ghost hunting, mystery, thrill, the unknown, and demon hunting. Great little spooky read for the Halloween season.

I loved this haunting university vibe. you can definitely feel that spooky vide coming off the pages with the way it's written. you can almost feel the saying 'somethings watching you'. In saying that, I'm really impressed. You can feel the shift, when Oliver and Bee leave the university and stay at the Calloway's for thanksgiving, and when they return to the university. The tension and anxiety in the air was heavy.

I'm intrigued by Hope. I did find that the importance in her role and timing of it to be a bit left field. However, I'd be interested in getting to know more of her story.
Jorden and Kenji are adorable.

love the line "let's Sam and Colby this b!tch"
Profile Image for Kim Parham.
177 reviews4 followers
September 27, 2025
Spooky and a tad bit spicy. Loved the MCs and the side characters, loved the storyline. definitely recommend this one if you're looking for spooky, creepy vibes.
Profile Image for Megan.
132 reviews4 followers
September 24, 2025
This book was delightfully spooky with an adorable love story peppered in too. I loved the progression of Bee and Oliver falling for each other, you got to love a cute, golden retriever boy. This was a fun read and I blew through it pretty quick! I'd definitely recommend giving this one a read!
Profile Image for Tawny Xu.
222 reviews7 followers
October 1, 2025
This book had me locked in till the end. I loved the twists and turns, and how when I got an answer, I got another 2 questions at the same time!
The gothic-ey type atmospheric writing is a favourite of mine, and this one delivered.
And can we talk about Jordan and Kenji? Absolutely adorkable and such great side characters. Hope was even a pleasant surprise.
But Oliver! Oh my gosh, Oliver. I absolutely fel head over heels for him.
This was a wonderfully written debut and I cannot wait to follow this authors future works!
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews