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ExorSquad

Purrfectly Haunted

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Haunting #412: Lynch Hostel

Number of ghosts: 5. Possibly more?

Location: Lynch Hostel, Old Town Edinburgh, Scotland.

History: Five ghosts have been reported on site for the past century, since Earl Fergus Lynch, the original owner of the house, summoned them during his seances. So far, the residents have tolerated the ghosts, and they became part of Edinburgh’s paranormal history. Apparitions, whispers, drops in temperature... But lately, they have been more active, showing poltergeist-like behaviours and damaging parts of the house.

Wanted: An immediate expulsion of the ghosts on site with limited damage to the building and the customer experience for the guests on location. The ghost hunts are to be conducted late at night, when everyone is asleep.

The ExorSquad Team: James Sato and Ewan Hamilton (new recruits).

Additional notes: The owner of Lynch Hostel asked firmly that our team respect her seven cats living on site. The team can stay for free at the hostel for the duration of the mission. Accommodation has been prepared.



What do a timid rugby player, a tattooed short king, and seven cats have in common?

Ghosts.


Lynch Hostel is one of the most haunted places of Old Town Edinburgh. From the infamous Burning Crone, a witch burned at the stake, to the Lady in Red, a seductress who haunts the quiet library, and the Urchin who grabs people’s ankles in the communal showers. Tourists and ghost hunters flock to the hostel in the hope of getting a glimpse of its spooky dwellers. But the five ghosts have been restless, and their constant attacks threaten the integrity of the house. Help is needed, and who is better appointed for the job than one of the ExorSquad team, UK’s shadiest ghost-busting operation?

ExorSquad, where all your hauntings go to die.

James really needed a job, so he joined ExorSquad reluctantly—ghosts, really? His first mission was a joke, and so his expectations are abysmal when they send him to Edinburgh to hunt a few spirits in a haunted hostel. But he gets more than what he bargained for: a soft giant of a teammate and very real ghosts.

Ewan remembers seeing ghosts when he was a wee kid, but they eventually faded into the background of his childhood in the Scottish countryside, until he could no longer see them. He still has nightmares sometimes. Now the visions of the afterlife are back, and he wonders if he lost his marbles or if there is really a world beyond the veil. On his time off from his rugby training at university, he joins ExorSquad in the hope of finally knowing the truth and facing his fears.

Purrfectly Haunted features an unusual pairing between a soft giant and a white knight top, a cast of weird ghosts, seven cats, a strange house, and a crazy cat lady. It’s the fourth book in the multi-author MM paranormal romance series, the ExorSquad.

Trigger warning available on Mell R. Bright's website.

The ExorSquad Series is a collection of standalone MM romcoms centred around the unfortunate employees of ExorSquad Ltd, the UK’s shadiest ghost-busting operation. Expect supernatural shenanigans, things that go bump in the night, sizzling encounters, and hard-won happy-ever-afters.

296 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 24, 2026

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About the author

Mell R. Bright

17 books226 followers
Mell R. Bright is a book fiend who lives in the French countryside, where life is all about bees and old castles. She spends her days writing science fiction and fantasy books, and her nights writing queer romances.

Follow her on Instagram at @mellrbright to know the latest book news or check out her Patreon page.

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5 stars
205 (62%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 186 reviews
Profile Image for Kitty.
934 reviews31 followers
September 24, 2026
First time reading this author, and I finished it, so that's good! In all fairness I was really enjoying it to start with, I will never not love a big subby bottom and short king combo, and I loved their dynamic. Unfortunately this book is set in the UK and I'm British, and the attempt to write in UK English was not very successful. A lot of word choices and dialect were slightly wrong, and it set my teeth on edge. There were so many mistakes it constantly pulled me out of the story, including the memorable usage as a character 'bottoms up' in his boyfriend's arse. Definitely needs to be looked over by some British editors, and I'm 100% not volunteering.

Despite it being less than 300 pages, the second half dragged terribly and I really struggled to finish. I also wasn't a fan of the ending, I hate time skips and long separations. It's a shame because I enjoyed the characters and the basic set up, but the writing was a mess and the plot took a nosedive. I think they were maybe trying to separate it from a similar plot in another Exorsquad book, but unfortunately it didn't work.
Profile Image for ❀ Jess .
980 reviews116 followers
Did Not Finish
September 24, 2026
Sucks when you don't end up loving the book you've been eagerly waiting to be released.
DNF@9% James is so unlikable, also not liking cats is a red flag. 🤷‍♀️
Profile Image for 369Pages.
982 reviews87 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
September 11, 2026
4.5⭐️
Yet another absolute BANGER from the Exorsquad series. This is seriously shaping up to be an amazing spooky series!

This book was shorter compared to others in the series, but not any less fun. James is totally skeptical when he’s assigned a haunted, cat-infested hostel as his next assignment. But his big, beefy, and sweetheart partner for the assignment, Ewan, definitely sweetens the deal! James quickly learns that, yes, ghosts are real. And Ewan quickly learns that he has a special way with them that others don’t.

This book was something refreshing from Mel, definitely her least serious book, and she killed it! (Hehe)

You’re going to get:
-ghost hunting in a hostel
-a lot of cats
-pretty instant attraction, but feels natural
-big, beefy, crybaby bottom who is the gentlest sweet man you will ever see
-a “shoot first ask questions later” edgy dom that is somehow more afraid of cats than the literal ghosts
-really funny (and sometimes not so funny) ghosts
-badass lady side characters

This book starts out slow in terms of the haunting, but quickly escalates and gets really intense. The plot definitely kept me hooked the whole way.

I also loved the characters. They were hilarious and lovable. They were so different, yet worked together so well. I was obsessed with their dynamic! I loved that the bigger guy was the sub/bottom, breaking stereotypes (that I honestly get tired of sometimes).

The magic of Mel is that she’s able to pack in a fun plot, lovable characters, and a captivating setting within such few pages. It’s honestly a talent.

Don’t skip this book if you’re into paranormal romance. 💘
Profile Image for GiveMeBooksOrGiveMeDeath.
77 reviews14 followers
September 26, 2026
Out of all the Exor Squad series, I was most looking forward to this one. Being the crazy cat lady that I am, I knew this would be an extra appealing book for me personally. Also, I am a huge fan of a big beefy bottom and a small Dom top. And may I just say that Mell did a spectacular job with this one. Fun fact, I share a name with the gorgeous white kitty in the book which is extra awesome. From the beginning of the story, James and Ewan are drawn to one another, and the longer they are together, the harder it gets to resist their feelings. I love their chemistry and that James wants to be Ewan’s bodyguard, despite their size difference because he knows he’s a big softy who could use someone to step up and take care of him for once. Honestly, it was very endearing to see how he took care of his big, sweet man. The spice was delicious and had a few of my favorite things, specifically the peach eating. *hehe* There was a turn in the book that I actually didn’t expect, and that ended up making the ending even more emotional I felt. I enjoyed the side characters as well, mainly the cats, but humans and ghosts as well. So I must say that this book was fantastic and I cannot recommend it enough.

Tropes: Gentle Giant x Short King, 7 Formidable Felines, Crazy Cat Ladies To The Rescue, “Ghost Aphrodisiac”,
Sentient House, Peach Eater Extraordinaire, Possession

Story 5/5
Spice 3/5
Profile Image for Eva.
881 reviews16 followers
Review of advance copy
September 10, 2026
4.75 rounded up!

Ghost boys are back! Oh how I enjoyed this crazy cat filled ride.

I wasn’t expecting to love it this much, I knew it would be fun becuase all ExorSquad has been, but both James and Ewan had me hooked immediately.

Their chemistry was on from the moment they met, oblivious to the flirting and attempts from the other until a ghost meddled and made them look into it. I liked how they gave in, how they trusted and protected the other. James truly fell hard and never got up, he knew Ewan was the one for him and he would have moved heaven and earth for him.

Ewan was such a pure soul. His abilities aside, how he treated those around him, the cats and James was the sweetest. This man was baby girl coded and I don’t need to elaborate cause you can see it in his puppy eyes. He deserves the world and I’m so happy he found it with the girls, cats and James.

And James…he had me with his short king, dom attitude. He was bossy but caring, direct and honest, protective and jealous even when he had no right to be. He wanted a piece of those rugby thighs so bad…The way he folded with the cats, with the job and his beliefs, he knew Ewan was his man and changed his ways to make sure he was safe and by his side.

This was an amazing book, spicy, angsty, funny and even scary! Thank you so much to Mell for this arc!
Profile Image for Cinthya.
83 reviews16 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
September 19, 2026
I love them, I love them, I love them, I love them🥹🥹❤️❤️

I love everything about this book. The main characters give black cat and golden retriever energy, except the golden retriever in this story is more of a little teddy bear. Ewan literally owned my heart from the very beginning. The idea of this big, muscular, intimidating giant being a quick to blush and slightly shy teddy bear was absolutely adorable. James created the perfect contrast. He was more confident, knew what he wanted, was more dominant 👀, and even his tattoos and overall aesthetic made me absolutely love the pairing. And the way he loved teasing Ewan? Yes, please.

The way they went about ghost hunting was very different from the previous books, which I thought was really fun. It was kind of like... I thought I was getting the hang of it, but then they threw us a curveball, and I ended up learning new things right along with them. Even the idea of the cats and the house (which are both included in the title of the book and the description) I didn’t think much of them at first, just a fun title, but they definitely added a whole other layer to the story that I really liked. The other characters were very likable as well. I loved the friendship they developed with Ewan and James.

I was hooked from the beginning! Some couples from the previous books in this series are still in my heart, but man, the minute these two started interacting, I just knew it was gonna be fun and that it was gonna be an awesome story. This is my first time reading a book by this author, and what a great introduction it was!!!
Profile Image for Sharon Elias.
137 reviews10 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
September 19, 2026

Another amazing book in the Exor Squad series! 👻

This was my first book by Mell R. Bright, and it did NOT disappoint!

Another ghost problem? Another Exor Squad team to the rescue! 😏

Oh, I had so much fun with this one! A haunted hostel, found family (Lana and Shirley, you two are AMAZING!), a centuries-old book filled with information about the ghosts haunting the place… and A LOT of cats. Paranormal cats. 🐈‍⬛👻

James and Ewan are both new on the job and have to work together to figure out what’s going on and get rid of the ghosts causing trouble in the hostel.

They’re attracted to each other from the start, but both want to keep things professional…

Until they really, really can’t anymore. 😂
( Thank you for your services Red Lady🤭)

And oh, sweet Ewan. This big guy wants things he’s never had before, and James is more than happy to give them to him. ❤️🥹

The gentle giant and the way these two fit so good together? I loved them!💖

I alsolved the mystery. What is actually going on with the hostel? Why are the ghosts still there? And what the hell is hiding in the basement?! 👀

And I laughed sl much! This book is funny, mysterious, a little spooky, and HOT. 🔥

Another great book in the Exor Squad series, this series is becoming one of my favorites! 👻🖤
Profile Image for Rei.
114 reviews
September 12, 2026
Spooky hauntings, a team of ghost busting kitties and a sweet gentle giant finding his person, you literally couldn’t ask for more.

“Hell hath no fury like an irate cat, I think.”

Y’all, I swear, the excitement I feel heading back into each ExorSquad book! This has been such a great adventure (and thank goodness it isn’t over yet). We’re back and in a new location with a set of new ghost hunters. This haunted hotel is unique in a sense of it almost being a living thing itself. It has its own personality and feelings, along with its own army of kitties residing in it. By the time I finished reading, it had me wishing I could come book a stay. Ya know, minus the malevolent ghosts 😂.

Ewan and James are our new ExorSquad members. Are they experienced? Absolutely not, but neither were the others from the previous books so what could go wrong? LOL we’ll just say that what they lacked in knowledge, they made up for in random moments of courage. Plus, Ewan proves to be a bit of a secret weapon 😉.

“He helps flipping me over like a horny pancake.”

Their connection happens pretty fast, even though they appear to be total opposites. Ewan is a rugby playing wall of a man who’s actually a sweet little angel with major babygirl energy. James is the big personality in a small package. Very grunge, very mouthy, very daddy. Together they make all the magic happen (in and out of bed) and do whatever it takes to clean house of all the spooky energy for their new friends at the hotel.
Profile Image for Cynthia M Brow.
1,718 reviews22 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
September 22, 2026
Purrfectly Haunted is part of the multi author ExorSquad series. Each book can be read as a standalone but why not enjoy the whole series. This is the story of James and Ewan. This was such a fun book and I couldn't put it down once I started it. I loved James and Ewan so much because they compliment each other so well. I loved the story and the cats. I loved watching these two work together to solve the case while building a relationship. I'm looking forward to seeing what Mell R. Bright writes next. I can't wait for the next book in the series. I would definitely recommend this book and series.
received a free review copy
Profile Image for Madam Ra.
423 reviews7 followers
October 1, 2026
Okay at first I wasn’t very sure about James, but by the end he completely won me over. ( it was about him not liking cats 😀 very valid point. And this books has cats 🐈‍⬛ and they are pretty fucking awesome- I should say badass kitties. So we follow James and Ewan who came to this Scottish old (of course it is, hello) house turned hostel by Lana who inherited it. Let me tell you Lana and Shirley are these badass bitches and I loved them. Found family 🥳🙌🏻 Not only the house is packed with ghost, but the house it’s self is sentient!! I won’t spoil anything, but there’s something really really wrong with the basement 🫣 The romance in this book is sweet like candy and I ate it up. I wasn’t very sure I would like smaller top/ bigger bottom, but it was spicyyyy and James was just the right amount of dominant. Ewan was such sweetie 🫠.
The time jump made me really emotional, I get why it was done, but mama it was sad. 😢 Awesome book, no notes 🌸
Profile Image for Carly (carly_reads_queer).
276 reviews19 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
September 20, 2026
A haunting paranormal romance filled with tension, heat, and harrowing ordeals.

Ewan, a giant, submissive, cinnamon roll rugby player and James, a dominant, grumpy, tattooed, short king are thrown together in the heart of Edinburgh to eradicate the Lynch Hostel of its many ghosts. But between navigating meddling cats, staying alive, and their one bed, the tension and heat between them is impossible to ignore.

These two had undeniable chemistry from the very first page. They complemented each other perfectly and witnessing them discover that they were able to embrace their true selves together was delightful.

The cast of characters, which included seven peculiar cats, and quickly became a found family for our couple often stole the show. And between the humor, frights, and shocking turns, was a hauntingly beautiful, scorching hot, and deeply romantic story of love and never giving up.

What you’ll get:
•Queer Paranormal Romance
•Ghost Hunter/Ghost Hunter
•Haunted Mansion turned Hostel
•Grumpy/Sunshine
•Opposites Attract
•Size Difference
•Smaller Dom/Larger Sub
•“Princess” “Good Boy”
•Possessive/Protective
•7 Peculiar Cats
•Found Family
Profile Image for Sabrina Mordini.
647 reviews15 followers
Review of advance copy received from Altro
September 22, 2026
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️

Purrfectly Haunted is the fourth book in the ExorSquad series, a collection of standalone MM romcoms by different authors, all centered around the employees of ExorSquad.

I loved this story, and this haunting. I loved the mystery, the tension inside and out of the bedroom, the weird interactions with the ghosts, and how solving this issue wasn't so straightforward.

The characters were a good mix of contradiction that meshed together beautifully. The love story was sweet, with the right amount of spice without it being overwhelming to the plot. Plus, the side characters should get a story of their own, and they made up a great found family.

So if you are looking for a good haunting story, sweet characters, mystery and cute little sidekicks, give this one a try.
Profile Image for Ashley.
1,484 reviews11 followers
September 24, 2026
🐈A CATASTIC READ!! 🐈‍⬛️

I AM TRULY OBSSESSED WITH THIS MULTI-AUTHOR SERIES!!

EACH BOOK I HAVE READ FROM THE SERIES IS A SOLID REREAD FOR ME!

Ok, let's jump right to it. I absolutely enjoyed this one! From James, Ewan, ghosts and the cats, I found them all outstanding! James and Ewan work at ExorSquad and are sent to deal with the ghosts. Ewan is such a sweetheart and oh so gentle, also he sees the dead. Where as James is feisty and doesn't believe ghosts are real. I loved watching these two fall for each other. I loved the way the story unfold and really loved the writing. I do not want to post spoilers but this is Cat on. Lol, I have to add cat to things. Definitely a great book in this series!
Profile Image for Rae.
382 reviews9 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
September 14, 2026
Another fantastic installment to this spooky, spicy, fun little series! I had a great time reading this and it was so hard to put down!

This book was so funny, and ghost-y, but also a little angsty and heartbreaking (that plot twist towards the end shook me 😭😭) in places. I loved Lana, Shirley and all the kitties. Ewan is the SWEETEST and the cutest, and I loved his and James’s dynamic. I’m a sucker for a bigger bottom/submissive and smaller top/dominate situation. At the beginning I felt a little like James was too flippant towards Ewan, and that our sweet baby boy deserved more but James really came through in the end 🥺🥺🥺
Profile Image for Alyssa .
505 reviews41 followers
September 24, 2026
Every time this series slays!! I honestly really love how all of these books are connected in the same world, but each one feels so different from the others in the best way. You never really know what you're going to get, and I love that about this series.
I thought the twist involving the house and all the cats was SO fun. I was not expecting that. There was something really charming about the whole story, and I loved watching everything come together. It had that perfect mix of creepy, cute, and fun. James and Ewan were so cute. Size different and gentle giant are two of my favorite tropes.
Overall, I really enjoyed this one! It was such a cute and entertaining to read, and I'm already excited to see what comes next in this world!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
Profile Image for Anna Svoboda.
Author 26 books77 followers
September 30, 2026
Yay, cats!
Like, there was a romance and spice and ghosts and mystery and it was funny and sweet and everything, but there were cats! Yes, I'm a cat person.
I'll admit, it took me a while to start liking James. He just isn't the type of MMC you fall in love with on page one. He's more the type that grows on you like a fungus. Ewan, on the other hand? Aww. It's impossible not to like him. He's a huge teddy bear you just want to snuggle up with. The ghosts weren't as fleshed in detail in this book as in the previous ones, but they still had interesting personalities and weren't just flat background characters.
By the half of the book, I thought I knew how the book would end. Boy, was I wrong. The plot twists be twisting in this one!
Profile Image for BookaholicallyBridie.
63 reviews27 followers
September 30, 2026
I have loved every book from this series so far, and this one was so fun, and wholesome and devastating? I adored it.

I was not prepared to get that attached to James and Ewan. Those two were goddamn adorable together, and I loved their dynamic so much.

The cats stole the show with this book, and I want so badly to live in the hostel with Lana, Shirley, James, Ewan and their assortment of cats.

The plot was great, but the last quarter of the book had me distraught (time jumps are not for the weak, and I am the weak).

If you want an adorable paranormal romance with a lot of cats that deal with ghosts, this one is for you!
Profile Image for Perle.
744 reviews20 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
September 13, 2026
What's more perfect than a story with a cat ? A story with SEVEN cats !!! Especially when the fiercest of them all shares a name with you 🤍🐈

I loved all the books in the series so far, the authors did such an amazing job!! And I fell in love with James and Ewan !! Who doesn't love a giant golden retriever and his small black cat!!

I also really liked the found family here : the cats obviously but also the house and Lana and Shirley !!

So far the only complaint I have about these books is that I'm sad we don't have cameos of the other characters even though they are in the same towns (Gerald totally doesn't count, same thing for his very annoying secretary Ted) 
Profile Image for a.masha_.
115 reviews7 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
September 23, 2026
I finally understand why it's called "Purrfectly Haunted" and not "Perfectly Haunted". THE CATS. 😭🐱😂 Those adorable little things deserve their own appreciation post. 🐱🩷

This time, we follow James and Ewan as they investigate the murders at Lynch Hostel, and things get pretty interesting. I did have mixed feelings around the halfway point because the plot felt a little flat for me, and the ghost hunting wasn't hitting quite as well as I'd hoped. BUT THEN THINGS PICKED UP.

The story deals with more powerful and troublesome ghosts this time, which made the haunting feel a little different from the previous books. Overall, it was a slightly creepier installment for me, a good addition to the Exorsquad series.

This took a little time to win me over, but I'm glad I stuck with it. Between the ghostly chaos, those adorable cats, and ofc two Ghostbusters and the spice! 😌
Profile Image for Corey.
166 reviews5 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
September 18, 2026
Purrfectly Haunted by Mell R Bright. 5 Hearts

Synopsis:
James and Ewan are partnered to help exorcise the ghosts of Lynch House. While Ewan has seen ghosts his entire life, James doesn’t believe in them at all. Together, they must unravel the mysteries of this haunted hostel before it comes crumbling down around them.

❤️ MM Paranormal Rom-Com
🧡 Ghost Hunters
💛 Skeptic x Medium
💚 D/s Themes
💙 One Bed
💜 Size Difference

Highlights:
- Smaller Dom / Bigger Submissive
- All the cats love Ewan (who wouldn’t?)
- The ghosts ship them
- Cemetery Dates

Recommend?
YES! Fall is the best time for spooky reads and this one definitely delivered! It’s the perfect mix of comedy, heart, angst, and mystery and kept me hooked from page 1!

❤️🧡💛💚💙💜

"Purrfectly Haunted" by Mell R Bright is an MM Paranormal Rom-Com that follows two ghost hunters: James (A complete skeptic) and Ewan (A medium). They must work together to uncover the mysteries of a haunted hostel, but as they delve deeper into the paranormal; attraction and feelings begin to bloom.

Ratings:
Overall: 5/5 Hearts - I don't think there was one thing I would change about this book. It's just the right amount of scary/spooky for me and has plenty of romance with a wonderful HEA.

Spice Quantity: 2/5 Peppers - I'm going to estimate about 15% of this book is spice. It starts relatively early and is sprinkled throughout the story as little spicy snacks.

Spice Quality: 5/5 - And the spice that's there is so good. I'm a big fan of a smaller Dom with a large submissive. It's just so frickin' hot. There's also plenty of non-size related things to love including James'... appetite for cake and Ewans oral fixation.

Plot: 5/5 -
- Storyline: The pacing in the story was spot on. There were no slow spots and it felt like every scene had its time to shine without feeling rushed.

The mystery plot really keeps things twisting and turning, and while I never really knew what was coming next, I also felt like each reveal made sense and seemed organic.

- Characters: Ewan and James are not only a cute couple, but also interesting people. I loved watching them grow professionally (like James going from skeptic to full ghost hunter) but also how they overcome their fears (Like Ewan overcoming his fear of ghosts).

- Writing Style: I've read a few books by Mell so I wasn't surprised to slip right into this story. Her writing style is very immersive and somehow manages to cram a ridiculous amount of story, heart, and spice into a smaller word count. I still believe it's magic.

Conclusion: "Purrfectly Haunted" is the perfect spooky read for an MM romance lover that wants "spooky vibes" rather than a horror filled mystery. The story feels fun, rather than overwhelmingly scary, but there are some intense scenes, so keep that in mind. Overall, it was a great read and one I'd definitely recommend!

❤️🧡💛💚💙💜

If you enjoyed this review, please follow me over on Instagram: @rainbow.reviews.mm
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Profile Image for Anisha Choudhury |  A Literary Autopsy.
345 reviews8 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
September 22, 2026
4.5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ | 5/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

Disclosure: I received a complimentary eARC of Purrfectly Haunted by Mell R. Bright in exchange for an honest review.

Purrfectly Haunted by Mell R. Bright is a delightful MM paranormal romcom releasing as part of the multi-author ExorSquad series. Set in Old Town Edinburgh’s famously haunted Lynch Hostel—home to poltergeist activity, an eccentric owner, seven resident cats, and five historical ghosts—the story follows two new ExorSquad recruits: James Sato, an inked, optimistic short king with a penchant for pervy glances, and Ewan Hamilton, a timid, sweet-hearted rugby player and soft giant wrestling with the return of childhood ghostly visions. When a malicious spirit possesses Ewan, the team must band together in a high-stakes, feline-assisted rescue mission.

The dynamic between Ewan and James is absolute perfection. Ewan is a breathtakingly tender, big-hearted softie you will instantly want to wrap in a million hugs, while James brings the perfect balance of confidence, ink, and protective white-knight energy. Surrounding them is an unforgettable supporting cast, featuring the quirky hostel owner Lana, Shirley, and a glorious clowder of seven cats who practically steal the show. The narrative effortlessly blends laugh-out-loud supernatural shenanigans with high-angst moments, like Earl Lynch’s terrifying possession of Ewan, proving that found family comes in all shapes, sizes, and species.

Mell R. Bright delivers a masterclass in accessible, engaging storytelling. While the prose is delightfully uncomplicated and lets the concept and characters shine, the emotional beats—from Ewan confronting his childhood fears to the fierce loyalty of the team—hit with genuine weight. Paired with uncomplicated pacing and a blistering spice level that is lipsmackingly hot, every single page is an absolute joy to read.

Purrfectly Haunted is an absolute triumph and lives up to its name in every possible way. If you love ghost-busting romcoms, soft giants, protective short kings, and plenty of cats, this is an unmissable read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Susan (Purplegalaxyreads94).
370 reviews7 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
September 19, 2026
First, I want to thank Mell R. Bright for the gifted eARC of Purrfectly Haunted to read and provide my honest, spoiler free review.

My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5

My Thoughts:
This entire ExorSquad multi-author collab series has been coming after my heart each and every book that I start! James and Ewan were the two characters in this story and I had such a great time with them.

Their entire dynamic was so good! Probably one of my favorite pairs that carried the black cat x golden retriever trope and I just know it’s going to be such a favorite among readers. I’m such a sucker for tattoos so James instantly became a favorite of mine, especially when he was paired with a gentle giant of a man like Ewan. Not only were they coming after my own heart, but I also knew I would really love the cats in this story and I definitely did!

This is my first read from this author so I wasn’t sure what to expect but I’ve really loved the characters that she has created so far! The case that was being handled was an interesting one. I loved the hostel environment and all the different ghosts that haunted the place. Each one had a different story and it was fun learning about all of them. I also really liked that Ewan had visions of ghosts when he was younger. I felt like that played a huge role in the way that he came to ExorSquad and how he goes about hunting the ghosts alongside James.

There was humor, amazing cat characters, spice and just overall an incredible dynamic between our main characters that kept me engaged and wanting more. Yet another amazing installment in the ExorSquad series and I cannot wait to read more from this collab and more from this author.
162 reviews5 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
September 20, 2026
Intro:
This book is an MM romance between James and Ewan, two teammates tasked with eliminating the ghosts at the very haunted Lynch Hostel in Scotland

Tropes/Highlights:
-MM
-Open Door
-Found Family
-Size Difference
-Soft Dom
-Grumpy/Sunshine
-Opposites Attract
-Gentle Giant
-Workplace Romance
-Lots of cats
-HEA


Likes:
-Chapter titles
-Fantastic characters
-Different ghosts
-Spice
-World building
-Library scenes
-James' protectiveness
-Interesting twist
-Kitties
-Ewan's sweet nature


Quotes:
-"Teasing you feels like kicking a puppy"
-"He whimpers. Oh, this man came out of my wet dreams"
-"Maybe home is where your weird friends are"
-"By him, I am undone"
-"He is a king, and all I want to do is swear my allegiance to his crown"
-"I'll be anything you want me to be, baby. Even the rug under your feet if it pleases you"


I have never read Mel R. Bright before, but I will be reading more of their books. This was an adorably fun story that was so cute and sweet. I adore Ewan with his pure soul, shy demeanor and gentle giant personality. James is the opposite of Ewan in the best way because these opposites certainly do attract. James is stupidly brave, nurturing, bossy, protective and will fight the world (even the paranormal one) for the ones he loves. I highly recommend reading this book if you want a sweet, gentle giant used to being perceived in a certain light due to his size who shrinks himself to fit other peoples' molds and a confident short king who dives head first into problems and who would burn the world down protecting his found family (cats included)
Profile Image for Finalgirl.
101 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
September 23, 2026
Talk about a series that doesn't let up, this is the fourth book in the exosquad series, each book has been excellent in its own right. Purrfectly haunted by Mel Bright, doesn't disappoint.

Everything about this book was a surprise from the role reversal: The giant rugby jock (Ewan)is the sweet cinnamon roll submissive bottom, and the grumpy twink (James) is the domain and demanding top, to the story. The book lulls you into a false sense of security, making the reader think it's going to be a sweet goofy story of silly ghosts (a ghost that makes you horny and another that flashes his junk) and funny characters, but over halfway through the script is flip and it gets dark...dark and sad. And I love it.

The love story between the men, is a complete joy to read. These two are purrfect for each other, 2 sides to the same coin. The flirting is awkward and adorable, but when they finally get together is spice city. Although they don't each other for every long it's believable that they develop feelings so fast. The relief and joy of finding your purfect person finally.

Im not sure if this was a fast read or I just plowed through it quickly, not wanting to stop reading. Demanding these boys get their happily ever after, especially after the surprise trauma Mel puts the reader through (did i yell out loud to know one "what the f_ck is this sh_t", yes, yes, I did).

I definitely recommend reading the series, this one might be one of my favorites so far (I say that every time and can't be trusted to rank them), but it might just be the ghost hunting cats that push it over the edge.
Profile Image for Jay T.
75 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
September 21, 2026
Ewan my big softie baby 😍😍😍 I love him and James, this book was so gorgeous and beautifully written 💓

James and Ewan are paired together to investigate a haunted hotel, except James doesn't believe in ghosts and Ewan turns out to be a whole MEDIUM he has no idea about this gift at all.

James is bossy, grumpy and tattooed, while my baby boy Ewan is a big softie and an absolute sweetheart.

Their grumpy × sunshine dynamic and the size difference had me SAT because BABES, I was looking respectfully 😏 these two were perfect for each other 🥺

This book was quite different from other works in the Exorsquad series, it was quite remarkable discovering the house was kind of an entity on its own, it's fast paced and I loved it.

I won't ever get over the Lady in Red in the library what a talent she has 🤭😍😏

The hotel was mysterious, creepy, filled with ghosts and SO MANY CATS and there was something seriously sinister happening in the basement, what an annoying ancestor Lana had 😭😭

The romance was so beautiful, James and Ewan knew what they wanted and went for it, but dare I say that James is such a flirt and jealous man and I loved watching these two go from co-workers to something much more.

The found-family aspect with Lana and Shirley was also so sweet and gave the story an extra layer I really enjoyed.

There was mystery, possession, hello Spicy scenes and enough supernatural chaos to keep me entertained from beginning to end.
Profile Image for Shyandmoodreader.
426 reviews
Review of advance copy
September 20, 2026
✨ ARC Review ✨

If anybody is not aware, I am a HUGE Mell Bright fan. Her books are simply divine and I will lay down my life on this hill defending that. When I found out Mell would be part of the Exorsquad series I was so excited and that excitement was well founded!

This book y'all, it was everything I never knew I needed. Smaller man with black cat energy and a big hulking scot who is a giant softie and cinnamon roll? Yes please 🙌. Grumpy/ Sunshine is definitely a favourite trope of mine and this handled it deliciously 🥵 I mean the subtle Dom/sub vibes undid me y'all 👀😏.

Ewan and James had my heart and mind in a vice grip and didn't let it go until the last word... Actually they may still have it because I am obsessed. I loved how these two complete strangers came together and absolutely slayed at getting rid of ghosts but also how they made a little found family of their own, alongside two amazing women and a whole slew of cats 👀 and magic. Definitely some magic... My heart literally hurts from how much I loved this found family, the house, the town, the cats.. all of it but especially Ewan and James 🫶.

This book kept me at the edge of my seat, had so many delightful and NOT so delightful ones (you know what you did Mell Bright, but I trust the process to the HEA 🤣😘). It's a story of not only finding yourself but allowing others in and the beauty that comes with doing so and I couldn't get enough of it!
Profile Image for SNik.
913 reviews22 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
September 18, 2026
Part of a multi-author series (ExorSquad), but can be read as a standalone. Paranormal. Coworkers. Size difference. Light BDSM. Found family. Slow burn. Dual POV. Heed content warnings.

Paired together at a haunted house/hostel, Ewan and James are in over their heads but manage to muddle through discovering that ghosts are more than real and they can actually help them move along. Mutual attraction aside, there is something very dark haunting the hotel, and as Ewan and James explore the house, and their deepening relationship, they may have something too big to handle.

Take a gentle giant of a rugby player and pair him with a feisty and dominant coworker, and you have the instant chemistry between Ewan and James. The story moves along the haunted storyline in equal parts to the building romance, and throws in some loyal found family and a sentient house full of otherworldly cats which made this a really entertaining read. This was just a really fun and sweet read, with a special connection that isn’t willing to let go. 4.5 rounded up
Profile Image for Emily.
14 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
September 22, 2026
I never thought a time skip header could make me cry. 😭

I absolutely loved the found family vibes of this book. I think Ewan‘s relationship with the hostel group was so beautiful. To watch a group of people be so openly genuine and loving bring Ewan out of his shell made me cry. I think the love James had for Ewan was sweet and spicy don’t get me wrong. But the love everybody had for each other felt like when you go to summer camp and you’re so shy it makes your tummy hurt and then you find a group of people who don’t let you be shy and feel like you’ll be friends forever (but the feeling doesn’t end when you go back home). I just love gentle giants so much. James’s love and passion for Ewan was to die for. To see him be a big cuddle bug and protector and then go to “be a good boy for me”!!!!!!! 🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵

I’ll also gladly sign up for ghost hunting cats who never seem to age or die.
Profile Image for Menoa.
746 reviews25 followers
Review of advance copy received from Auteur
September 15, 2026
Thanks soooo much to Mell for the Arc.

I looooved this book. First of all Ewan and James are my children now. And I want a full serie with just they adventure chasing down ghost with their cat and their friends. Please and thanks.

Im not surprised by how much I loved this one, I've yet to encounter a work from this wonderful author that I dont love. I knew I was going to have a blast and I diiiid.

Ewan is my smol baby. Im very well aware that he is a tall rugbyman. I DONT CARE. HE IS BABY. He was the sweetest baby. So soft and gentle. And KIND. AND LOVEABLE. Listen. I love him. AND HE'S A CAT PERSON. ENOUGH SAID. And he joined Exorsquad because he wanted to understand his power more. Sweet summer child.

James, on the other hand is way more rough and straight headed. He join Exorsquad because why the fuck not. Totally doesn't believe in ghosts at first and seeing him realizes how wrong he was, was amazing.

I loved that they took their time to be together, they're literally made for each other.

I love how they start kind of lonely and ends up in a loving place. Like. Yes pls.

Now I want a sentient house with an army of cats please and thanks.

Anyway. Add this on your tbr you won't regret it 🥹
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