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The Haunting Chronicles of Cape May: Hughes Street
280 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 17, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews
April 22, 2026
The Haunting Chronicles of Cape May: Hughes Street is a beautifully atmospheric debut that blends coming-of-age storytelling with chilling supernatural intrigue. Laurin Marie Caruso delivers a haunting tale that feels both intimate and expansive, drawing readers into the shadowy charm of Victorian Cape May.
At the heart of the story is Maya Mey, a relatable and courageous young protagonist whose move to her mother’s hometown quickly turns into something far more mysterious than she ever expected. Caruso does an excellent job capturing Maya’s curiosity and vulnerability, making her journey through grief, discovery, and courage feel authentic and engaging.
The setting is one of the novel’s greatest strengths. Cape May itself feels alive its historic homes, quiet streets, and lingering past create the perfect backdrop for a ghost story. The author’s personal connection to the town adds a layer of realism that enhances the eerie atmosphere. Readers can almost feel the creaking floorboards and sense the unseen presence lurking in the corners of Honeysuckle & Sea.
The mystery surrounding Lily Mey and the Great Fire of 1878 adds depth and intrigue, keeping readers invested as secrets slowly unravel. The pacing strikes a good balance between suspense and character development, making it an enjoyable read for both young adult and adult audiences who appreciate supernatural fiction.
What makes this novel stand out is its emotional undertone beneath the ghostly encounters lies a story about belonging, history, and the ties that connect us to places and people long gone.
Overall, this is a strong and promising start to a series. Fans of ghost stories, small-town mysteries, and atmospheric fiction will find much to love here. Laurin Marie Caruso has created a world that invites readers inand just like Cape May itself, it may be hard to leave.
At the heart of the story is Maya Mey, a relatable and courageous young protagonist whose move to her mother’s hometown quickly turns into something far more mysterious than she ever expected. Caruso does an excellent job capturing Maya’s curiosity and vulnerability, making her journey through grief, discovery, and courage feel authentic and engaging.
The setting is one of the novel’s greatest strengths. Cape May itself feels alive its historic homes, quiet streets, and lingering past create the perfect backdrop for a ghost story. The author’s personal connection to the town adds a layer of realism that enhances the eerie atmosphere. Readers can almost feel the creaking floorboards and sense the unseen presence lurking in the corners of Honeysuckle & Sea.
The mystery surrounding Lily Mey and the Great Fire of 1878 adds depth and intrigue, keeping readers invested as secrets slowly unravel. The pacing strikes a good balance between suspense and character development, making it an enjoyable read for both young adult and adult audiences who appreciate supernatural fiction.
What makes this novel stand out is its emotional undertone beneath the ghostly encounters lies a story about belonging, history, and the ties that connect us to places and people long gone.
Overall, this is a strong and promising start to a series. Fans of ghost stories, small-town mysteries, and atmospheric fiction will find much to love here. Laurin Marie Caruso has created a world that invites readers inand just like Cape May itself, it may be hard to leave.
March 11, 2026
Get Ready for a Great Read
This haunting story is entertaining from start to finish. The characters come to life in this adventure full of mystery and plot twists. The author’s detailing of Cape May, especially Hughes Street, made me feel like I was right there solving the mystery too. Loved this book by first time author, Laurin Marie Caruso! Enjoy the read!
This haunting story is entertaining from start to finish. The characters come to life in this adventure full of mystery and plot twists. The author’s detailing of Cape May, especially Hughes Street, made me feel like I was right there solving the mystery too. Loved this book by first time author, Laurin Marie Caruso! Enjoy the read!
June 30, 2026
An adorable book about a teenage clairvoyant who is returning to her mother’s childhood home in Cape May. With her capabilities and her new found friend group they solve a murder from the late 1800’s. An easy read and would likely become a favorite of middle schoolers- there are some nice Cape May landmark references and mini history lessons thrown in.
April 21, 2026
A great spooky story that takes place in my favorite place! Anyone want to go for a moonlit stroll on Hughes Street with me?
August 8, 2026
It was such a fun book! I believe it is catching the aesthetic of Cape May, NJ perfectly! Great read for anyone!
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews