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ExorSquad
Hot Ghost Summer
Haunting #434: Plot 47 (Bowen’s Farm)
Number of ghosts: 76
Location: Clawson & Stoker Land Development Group, Cockfosters, London Borough of Enfield.
History: An incomplete build, Plot 47 is a shell of steel supports and reinforced concrete. Following numerous reports of thundering strong enough to shake the ground, deep and resonant bellows, heavy snort-like vocalisations, an intense burning smell, sightings of a ghostly figure, a short but vicious string of work-related injuries, and the recent death of a foreman, workmen now consider it cursed and have downed tools.
Wanted: A swift and discrete resolution. Bonus offered.
The ExorSquad Team: Hollis Nachtmann (Tech Support), Theo Irving (New Recruit)
The Complication: Theo. He can do as he’s told, he just prefers not to. Especially when that vein in Hollis’s head throbs. Are veins sexy? Theo thinks so. Theo is Hollis’s problem.
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.
Number of ghosts: 76
Location: Clawson & Stoker Land Development Group, Cockfosters, London Borough of Enfield.
History: An incomplete build, Plot 47 is a shell of steel supports and reinforced concrete. Following numerous reports of thundering strong enough to shake the ground, deep and resonant bellows, heavy snort-like vocalisations, an intense burning smell, sightings of a ghostly figure, a short but vicious string of work-related injuries, and the recent death of a foreman, workmen now consider it cursed and have downed tools.
Wanted: A swift and discrete resolution. Bonus offered.
The ExorSquad Team: Hollis Nachtmann (Tech Support), Theo Irving (New Recruit)
The Complication: Theo. He can do as he’s told, he just prefers not to. Especially when that vein in Hollis’s head throbs. Are veins sexy? Theo thinks so. Theo is Hollis’s problem.
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.
365 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 2026
About the author
Sam Northman
10 books70 followersSam Northman: lover of gay romance, Norse mythology, and urban uantasy
Sam loves all things mythological and can get lost for days in old sagas, but what they enjoy most is reimagining these stories for readers looking to escape to another world.
Specifically crafted to touch a reader’s heart, each story is an unforgettable journey filled with romance, mythical creatures and thrilling adventures. Fall in love with compelling characters, be transported to enchanting realms, explore the magic of urban fantasies, and experience the beauty of love and passion in every heartfelt tale.
Sam loves all things mythological and can get lost for days in old sagas, but what they enjoy most is reimagining these stories for readers looking to escape to another world.
Specifically crafted to touch a reader’s heart, each story is an unforgettable journey filled with romance, mythical creatures and thrilling adventures. Fall in love with compelling characters, be transported to enchanting realms, explore the magic of urban fantasies, and experience the beauty of love and passion in every heartfelt tale.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
WHAT IN THE ACTUAL FUCK WAS THIS BOOK?!
I'll tell you what it was. It was CRACK 😂
I thought I was signing up for a paranormal romance about ghost hunters.
Instead, I got supernatural royalty, ghosts, a tattooed brat, an emotional-support cow, workplace incompetence, murder, mystery, supernatural bullshit, and enough chaos to keep me entertained from beginning to end.
I fucking LOVED it.
Hollis was immediately interesting. He's serious, controlled, ridiculously competent and very clearly used to being the one who knows what he's doing. Always in control...
Then Theo shows up.
Poor Hollis never stood a chance 😂
Theo was an absolute menace, and I couldn’t get enough of him. He's cheeky, impulsive, stubborn and constantly getting himself into situations where Hollis has to either rescue him or deal with the consequences of his decisions.
Which is especially funny because Hollis has RULES.
And Theo does not give a single fuck about those rules 😬
The chemistry was instant and the tension was SO GOOD. Hollis has this incredibly controlled, Dom energy, while Theo is just a cute brat waiting for someone to tell him what to do.
Theo's relationship with Brigid absolutely melted me. The way he cares about her and finds comfort in taking care of her was one of those little details that told me exactly what kind of person he is.
And Hollis...man.
There's something really satisfying about watching someone who has spent his entire life living according to duty and expectation slowly realise that he is allowed to want something for himself.
Their relationship becomes about more than attraction. It's about trust. Protection. Acceptance. Finding a home in another person.
And the romance just kept getting better.
The spice? Delicious 🫠
The emotional connection? Even better.
The humour? Perfect.
The supernatural chaos? Give me more.
And the fact that I became emotionally attached to an emotional-support cow was frankly not on my bingo card, but here we are.
I laughed. I cried. I swooned.
I got emotionally attached to a ghost.
And apparently, I now believe that ghost-married is a perfectly legitimate relationship status.
I'll tell you what it was. It was CRACK 😂
I thought I was signing up for a paranormal romance about ghost hunters.
Instead, I got supernatural royalty, ghosts, a tattooed brat, an emotional-support cow, workplace incompetence, murder, mystery, supernatural bullshit, and enough chaos to keep me entertained from beginning to end.
I fucking LOVED it.
Hollis was immediately interesting. He's serious, controlled, ridiculously competent and very clearly used to being the one who knows what he's doing. Always in control...
Then Theo shows up.
Poor Hollis never stood a chance 😂
Theo was an absolute menace, and I couldn’t get enough of him. He's cheeky, impulsive, stubborn and constantly getting himself into situations where Hollis has to either rescue him or deal with the consequences of his decisions.
Which is especially funny because Hollis has RULES.
And Theo does not give a single fuck about those rules 😬
The chemistry was instant and the tension was SO GOOD. Hollis has this incredibly controlled, Dom energy, while Theo is just a cute brat waiting for someone to tell him what to do.
Theo's relationship with Brigid absolutely melted me. The way he cares about her and finds comfort in taking care of her was one of those little details that told me exactly what kind of person he is.
And Hollis...man.
There's something really satisfying about watching someone who has spent his entire life living according to duty and expectation slowly realise that he is allowed to want something for himself.
Their relationship becomes about more than attraction. It's about trust. Protection. Acceptance. Finding a home in another person.
And the romance just kept getting better.
The spice? Delicious 🫠
The emotional connection? Even better.
The humour? Perfect.
The supernatural chaos? Give me more.
And the fact that I became emotionally attached to an emotional-support cow was frankly not on my bingo card, but here we are.
I laughed. I cried. I swooned.
I got emotionally attached to a ghost.
And apparently, I now believe that ghost-married is a perfectly legitimate relationship status.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I would like to thank Sam Northman for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
🐮📱🏗️
ExorSquad stories continue to be a fascinating, wild and silly, sometimes creepy, most times deadly, romp with the supernatural AND the dudes who fk with it.
In Hot Ghost Summer both the death-by-haunting and the ghosties got wilder, and the otherworldly magical phenomena gained some pretty cool complexity. Theo, the ExorSquad newbie, had a cow for a bestie, was a bit bratty and down for a firm hand, but was an overall soft cutie who had to deal with A LOT since moving to London.
Hollis took tech support to a WHOLE other level, and made sexxxxxy time with Theo one of the most unique dynamics I'd read in a while. And even though their kind of heat wasn't my thing, I've been really impressed by how creative the spice could get between bae and his forever man, who may or may not be corporeal!
As always, Gerald and Ted continue to seriously killing meeee with their sketchy work ethic and their facility for handling workplace turnover!
Excited for the next ExorSquad recruit to find their forever love, and it's making me giggle that Gerald and Ted have been bringing all these babes together, even though they're running the most diabolical operation that's entirely an HR nightmare!
I love this series so much and I cannot wait for the next adventure!
🐮📱🏗️
ExorSquad stories continue to be a fascinating, wild and silly, sometimes creepy, most times deadly, romp with the supernatural AND the dudes who fk with it.
In Hot Ghost Summer both the death-by-haunting and the ghosties got wilder, and the otherworldly magical phenomena gained some pretty cool complexity. Theo, the ExorSquad newbie, had a cow for a bestie, was a bit bratty and down for a firm hand, but was an overall soft cutie who had to deal with A LOT since moving to London.
Hollis took tech support to a WHOLE other level, and made sexxxxxy time with Theo one of the most unique dynamics I'd read in a while. And even though their kind of heat wasn't my thing, I've been really impressed by how creative the spice could get between bae and his forever man, who may or may not be corporeal!
As always, Gerald and Ted continue to seriously killing meeee with their sketchy work ethic and their facility for handling workplace turnover!
Excited for the next ExorSquad recruit to find their forever love, and it's making me giggle that Gerald and Ted have been bringing all these babes together, even though they're running the most diabolical operation that's entirely an HR nightmare!
I love this series so much and I cannot wait for the next adventure!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I think this is my favorite of the Exor Squad!
It's so completely novel and interesting. Like if you think you've read anything like this, trust me when I say, hold on to your backwards baseball cap because it's about to get so weird in the best way.
What if you (allegedly) accidentally killed your hot new colleague and then he started haunting your electronics but somehow that didn't make him any less hot?? That's truly the question at the heart of this and I loved it. We have a big beefy himbo with Baby tattooed across his throat because he's just a bratty baby girl looking for the dom of his dreams and an actual Austrian Prince who likes data and spreadsheets and also would really like to see how his hand fits right across that tattoo.
Like I said, it's completely out there at times, but also I was so hooked into figuring out how everything was going to be resolved and I was all in on the relationship because it had so much chemistry from the very beginning. Plus, I'm a sucker for a sweet cow companion.
It's so completely novel and interesting. Like if you think you've read anything like this, trust me when I say, hold on to your backwards baseball cap because it's about to get so weird in the best way.
What if you (allegedly) accidentally killed your hot new colleague and then he started haunting your electronics but somehow that didn't make him any less hot?? That's truly the question at the heart of this and I loved it. We have a big beefy himbo with Baby tattooed across his throat because he's just a bratty baby girl looking for the dom of his dreams and an actual Austrian Prince who likes data and spreadsheets and also would really like to see how his hand fits right across that tattoo.
Like I said, it's completely out there at times, but also I was so hooked into figuring out how everything was going to be resolved and I was all in on the relationship because it had so much chemistry from the very beginning. Plus, I'm a sucker for a sweet cow companion.
Read
October 3, 2026Fill rtc, but I loved this one so much!!
October 12, 2026
I have been SO curious about Hollis, and as usual, Sam Northman delivers characters who completely hook me. Hollis is serious with a capital S, while Theo hasn’t met a rule he doesn’t want to break. Can we say BRAT in all caps, please? These two together are absolute chaos, and I loved every second of it. The tension, the friction and the insta-lust? It all works SO well.
I love the world of the ExorSquad series, and it was so much fun to jump back in for this one. Northman’s world-building really shines, and I loved the lore, the supernatural entities and the mystery woven throughout the story. The way everything ties back to the tragedy that kicks things off was chef’s kiss. And there’s a crossover in here too!
Hollis and Theo have a fantastic dynamic, and even though this is a slow burn, the heat is dialled ALL the way up. Colleagues to enemies to reluctant fuck buddies to ghost marriage in ONE WEEK? What a wild ride!
And can we talk about Brigid, the goats and Theo’s enormous animal-loving heart? Add in an emotional support cow and some very questionable ghostly shenanigans, and I was thoroughly entertained.
If you love paranormal romance with mystery, mayhem, fiery chemistry, wee ghosties and an emotional support cow, you absolutely need to pick this one up. Another fantastic addition to the ExorSquad series!
Hot Ghost Summer can be read as a standalone, so jump in wherever you like!
I love the world of the ExorSquad series, and it was so much fun to jump back in for this one. Northman’s world-building really shines, and I loved the lore, the supernatural entities and the mystery woven throughout the story. The way everything ties back to the tragedy that kicks things off was chef’s kiss. And there’s a crossover in here too!
Hollis and Theo have a fantastic dynamic, and even though this is a slow burn, the heat is dialled ALL the way up. Colleagues to enemies to reluctant fuck buddies to ghost marriage in ONE WEEK? What a wild ride!
And can we talk about Brigid, the goats and Theo’s enormous animal-loving heart? Add in an emotional support cow and some very questionable ghostly shenanigans, and I was thoroughly entertained.
If you love paranormal romance with mystery, mayhem, fiery chemistry, wee ghosties and an emotional support cow, you absolutely need to pick this one up. Another fantastic addition to the ExorSquad series!
Hot Ghost Summer can be read as a standalone, so jump in wherever you like!
October 1, 2026
this book was a trip lmfao
Review of advance copy received from Author
I’m convinced that this entire series is just five star read after read because this book was incredible. I knew it would be good, but wow, did it ever blow me away. My heart was not prepared for all the emotions I would feel reading this. I read this all in one go because I just could not put it down. Hollis is a controlling and snobby paranormal expert, but ends up getting stuck with Theo the newbie who knows nothing about ghost or how to fight them. But the chemistry is instant when these two meet and it only gets hotter from there. This is also the first book I have ever read that had technomancy which was pretty fun and I definitely enjoyed the way that Hollis and Theo used it. We also get to meet Brigid, Theo‘s emotional support cow. Despite the issues between the two, Theo and Hollis end up working together to defeat their ghost problem,however, they discover it it’s more than just ghosts they have to deal with. They faced some pretty intense situations that nearly cost them everything but they find a way and they do get a happy ending. I can’t spoil the story. You’ll have to read it for yourself, but I can assure you it is well worth it. Out of all the books I have read by Sam Northman this has got to be my new favorite one.
Tropes: Brat x Brat Tamer, Forced Proximity, Grumpy x Sunshine, Emotional Support Cow, “Yes Sir”, Technomancy,
“Ghost Married”
Story: 5/5
Spice: 3/5
Tropes: Brat x Brat Tamer, Forced Proximity, Grumpy x Sunshine, Emotional Support Cow, “Yes Sir”, Technomancy,
“Ghost Married”
Story: 5/5
Spice: 3/5
September 15, 2026
4.5 stars!!
I love this whole universe so much!! This story is about Hollis who’s a worker at exorsquad but he’s from a famous family of ghost hunters and Theo a new worker at exorsquad! They are sent to a haunt not knowing how dire it is’ what I liked at the beginning was how attracted to each other they were! Hollis is a dom and he can recognize the brat in Theo! When they get to the site it’s not just one entity! And one of the ghosts hits the gun and bam Hollis is a ghost! Theo is devastated and of course Gerald is no help he tells Theo to leave Hollis’s body! What no one knows is Hollis ends up being a technomancer meaning he can go into technology and electricity so he’s in his phone when he tells Theo you murdered me! I love how Hollis just wreaks havoc on Theos apartment until Theo realizes it’s Hollis! We get some funny moments and the spicy moments when Hollis is watching Theo and then can manifest in front of him!!!
It was so good we get spicy moments emotional moments we get to figure out what happened and we get a best friend who’s a cow!!! The moment though! When Hollis has to save Theo by going into his body as energy and mend what the wraith did!!!!
Another exceptional book in the series!!!
“This is a Picadilly Line service to Cockfosters; this train terminates here. Please mind the gap between the train and the platform edge.”
“How d’ I look?” he asks, beaming broadly. “Like you’d do anything if I called you a good boy first,” I mumble as I settle my glasses back into place.
With a final look around, I whisper, “Please, wee ghostie, if you can hear me, I just want t’ help my friend.”
“I didn’t leave you… I came back. It was a few hours later, I know, but still… I came back.” Why? “Because I was going t’ try t’ put your soul back in your body.” Another video clip plays. I recognise it straightaway as an episode of Supernatural. The one where Death plainly tells Dean that, “You cannot simply put a soul back in a body.”
Rule Three: Theo will obey Hollis. Always.
“That was so hot. So. Fucking. Hot.” A manic laugh bubbles up. “Can you do it again?”
I lick my lips. “Like frozen yoghurt.” Then I give him a wide smile. “Frozen brogurt.”
In order to save him, I have to leave him. To do that, I have to break what binds me. I need to move on.
I’m not religious—don’t believe in deities of any kind—and I’ve never prayed to a higher power, but right now, standing in this tiny flat in north London with Theo’s body on the floor by my feet, that’s exactly what I do. Closing my eyes, I plead my case to whoever might be listening. Theo has to survive this, because I’ve got so much I want to share with him.
“Please, Theo, wake up so I can at least say goodbye.”
“Say something, Baby. Anything. Even a stupid thing. But don’t let it end like this.”
“From the very instant we met,” he continues, voice low and smooth, intimate, as he speaks to me while looking only at Herz. “There was an undeniable connection. I hadn’t even seen him; the only thing I knew was his voice, but that was all I needed to know. My Heart found his way home with a single word.”
“Like a… supernatural pacemaker?” I muse. Herz shrugs. “Pacemaker, heart, same same.” He reaches over and boops Theo on the nose. “But I hope I’m right about you two, Hollis. I think Theo and I could be great friends.”
“When Bowen was expelled, he left behind a gaping hole in your soul, and the only way you could survive is if someone filled it. From the inside.” “Someone…?” “Me, Theo. I did it. To save your life, I repaired the hole in your soul… with mine.”
“Well, Mister Ghost Prince with powerful ghost ancestors, guess what? I’m not mad about it, not even a little. In fact, I’m going t’ insist that you stay right here…” I flatten my palm over my heart. “Forever.”
“To confirm,” he breathes, raising his face to the ceiling as he offers me his neck. “You’re not upset that I’m now bound inside you?” “There’s no going back after this.” I force my eyes to meet his electric ones. “I don’t want t’ go back, Hollis. I only want t’ go forward. With you.”
“You will. It’s who you are, Theo. Selfless and reckless. My beautiful brat. But you have me now.”“I’m your safe space, Theo. Somewhere you can always come home to. Can you feel me?”
“You’re going to hurt the same way I hurt when you brought a revenant home in your body.” Home. Hollis said, “home.” And I know I should be concerned about the threat he just issued, but my mind is infinitely more hooked on that one word. I’m Hollis’s home.
“You saved them, but who was there to save you?” A rush of conflicting feelings threatens to drag me under: guilt, shame, relief, and surrender. “You,” I choke out. “You saved me.” “And I always will. Even from yourself.”
“You’re free t’ be yourself ’ere, Hollis. This is a ghost-friendly farm now.”“How did you know that I…?” “Same way you always know what I need, I reckon.”“Introduce me to your ghost cows, Baby.”
You, Baby, I’d stay for you
“All you need to know is that when I bound my soul to yours, I became your guardian spirit, your quiet night, and your absolute defence against the world.”
“No, Baby. I’m not lost. Not anymore, not since you found me.” His skin is warm under my palm, and his pulse strong. “Thank you for retrieving it, but that’s not why I wanted it.” “It’s not? Then why?” he asks. “Because I took it from my Oma, and we should probably return it when we visit.” Theo’s mouth falls open. “You want t’ take me t’ meet your family? In Austria?” I hook my spectral finger under his chin and gently push up to close his mouth. “Well, we are… what did you call us yesterday? Ghost-married.”
“Which makes you my husband, Theo. Of course I would take my husband home to meet my family. To take tea in the sunroom and meet all the wee ghosties.”
I smile a secret smile. “Click on the App store.” “Type B-R-A-T…”“That top one, with the cartoon logo of a winking devil face. Download that,” “I’ve got a tattoo that looks just like that.” “I know…” I say through a smile. “Bio-Resonance Activity Tracker. The BRAT app is the world’s only digitised ghost-hunting resource. An extensive database, this field guide t’ ghosts and ghouls is…” He comes to a stop in the middle of the street, and his voice drops to a whisper. “Hollis, what did you do?” “I signed my database into your name when I sent it to the developer,” I admit. “I can see that, but… why? This is your legacy, everything you spent your life working toward.” He sniffs, tears building already. “I can’t… I can’t accept this, Hollis.”
Oh, my soft-hearted Baby. “The why is really very simple. Without you, without your kindness and thoughtfulness, this app wouldn’t exist. Without you, I wouldn’t exist. Donating the income from it to you doesn’t even come close to repaying everything you’ve done for me.” Theo wipes his eyes with the back of his hand. “No, I mean, I can’t accept this because you said you signed it int’ my name, but you spelled it wrong. My name is Theo, T-H-E-O, but here you spelled it B-R-A-T.”
“This is our family’s coronation ring. Every generation has worn it since the beginning, and I am no exception.” He opens it, and sinks gracefully onto one knee. My breath lodges in my throat. “Theo Irving,” he begins, eyes crackling violet. “You didn’t just bring me home, you gave me a new life, and in return I want to invite you into mine.”
I love this whole universe so much!! This story is about Hollis who’s a worker at exorsquad but he’s from a famous family of ghost hunters and Theo a new worker at exorsquad! They are sent to a haunt not knowing how dire it is’ what I liked at the beginning was how attracted to each other they were! Hollis is a dom and he can recognize the brat in Theo! When they get to the site it’s not just one entity! And one of the ghosts hits the gun and bam Hollis is a ghost! Theo is devastated and of course Gerald is no help he tells Theo to leave Hollis’s body! What no one knows is Hollis ends up being a technomancer meaning he can go into technology and electricity so he’s in his phone when he tells Theo you murdered me! I love how Hollis just wreaks havoc on Theos apartment until Theo realizes it’s Hollis! We get some funny moments and the spicy moments when Hollis is watching Theo and then can manifest in front of him!!!
It was so good we get spicy moments emotional moments we get to figure out what happened and we get a best friend who’s a cow!!! The moment though! When Hollis has to save Theo by going into his body as energy and mend what the wraith did!!!!
Another exceptional book in the series!!!
“This is a Picadilly Line service to Cockfosters; this train terminates here. Please mind the gap between the train and the platform edge.”
“How d’ I look?” he asks, beaming broadly. “Like you’d do anything if I called you a good boy first,” I mumble as I settle my glasses back into place.
With a final look around, I whisper, “Please, wee ghostie, if you can hear me, I just want t’ help my friend.”
“I didn’t leave you… I came back. It was a few hours later, I know, but still… I came back.” Why? “Because I was going t’ try t’ put your soul back in your body.” Another video clip plays. I recognise it straightaway as an episode of Supernatural. The one where Death plainly tells Dean that, “You cannot simply put a soul back in a body.”
Rule Three: Theo will obey Hollis. Always.
“That was so hot. So. Fucking. Hot.” A manic laugh bubbles up. “Can you do it again?”
I lick my lips. “Like frozen yoghurt.” Then I give him a wide smile. “Frozen brogurt.”
In order to save him, I have to leave him. To do that, I have to break what binds me. I need to move on.
I’m not religious—don’t believe in deities of any kind—and I’ve never prayed to a higher power, but right now, standing in this tiny flat in north London with Theo’s body on the floor by my feet, that’s exactly what I do. Closing my eyes, I plead my case to whoever might be listening. Theo has to survive this, because I’ve got so much I want to share with him.
“Please, Theo, wake up so I can at least say goodbye.”
“Say something, Baby. Anything. Even a stupid thing. But don’t let it end like this.”
“From the very instant we met,” he continues, voice low and smooth, intimate, as he speaks to me while looking only at Herz. “There was an undeniable connection. I hadn’t even seen him; the only thing I knew was his voice, but that was all I needed to know. My Heart found his way home with a single word.”
“Like a… supernatural pacemaker?” I muse. Herz shrugs. “Pacemaker, heart, same same.” He reaches over and boops Theo on the nose. “But I hope I’m right about you two, Hollis. I think Theo and I could be great friends.”
“When Bowen was expelled, he left behind a gaping hole in your soul, and the only way you could survive is if someone filled it. From the inside.” “Someone…?” “Me, Theo. I did it. To save your life, I repaired the hole in your soul… with mine.”
“Well, Mister Ghost Prince with powerful ghost ancestors, guess what? I’m not mad about it, not even a little. In fact, I’m going t’ insist that you stay right here…” I flatten my palm over my heart. “Forever.”
“To confirm,” he breathes, raising his face to the ceiling as he offers me his neck. “You’re not upset that I’m now bound inside you?” “There’s no going back after this.” I force my eyes to meet his electric ones. “I don’t want t’ go back, Hollis. I only want t’ go forward. With you.”
“You will. It’s who you are, Theo. Selfless and reckless. My beautiful brat. But you have me now.”“I’m your safe space, Theo. Somewhere you can always come home to. Can you feel me?”
“You’re going to hurt the same way I hurt when you brought a revenant home in your body.” Home. Hollis said, “home.” And I know I should be concerned about the threat he just issued, but my mind is infinitely more hooked on that one word. I’m Hollis’s home.
“You saved them, but who was there to save you?” A rush of conflicting feelings threatens to drag me under: guilt, shame, relief, and surrender. “You,” I choke out. “You saved me.” “And I always will. Even from yourself.”
“You’re free t’ be yourself ’ere, Hollis. This is a ghost-friendly farm now.”“How did you know that I…?” “Same way you always know what I need, I reckon.”“Introduce me to your ghost cows, Baby.”
You, Baby, I’d stay for you
“All you need to know is that when I bound my soul to yours, I became your guardian spirit, your quiet night, and your absolute defence against the world.”
“No, Baby. I’m not lost. Not anymore, not since you found me.” His skin is warm under my palm, and his pulse strong. “Thank you for retrieving it, but that’s not why I wanted it.” “It’s not? Then why?” he asks. “Because I took it from my Oma, and we should probably return it when we visit.” Theo’s mouth falls open. “You want t’ take me t’ meet your family? In Austria?” I hook my spectral finger under his chin and gently push up to close his mouth. “Well, we are… what did you call us yesterday? Ghost-married.”
“Which makes you my husband, Theo. Of course I would take my husband home to meet my family. To take tea in the sunroom and meet all the wee ghosties.”
I smile a secret smile. “Click on the App store.” “Type B-R-A-T…”“That top one, with the cartoon logo of a winking devil face. Download that,” “I’ve got a tattoo that looks just like that.” “I know…” I say through a smile. “Bio-Resonance Activity Tracker. The BRAT app is the world’s only digitised ghost-hunting resource. An extensive database, this field guide t’ ghosts and ghouls is…” He comes to a stop in the middle of the street, and his voice drops to a whisper. “Hollis, what did you do?” “I signed my database into your name when I sent it to the developer,” I admit. “I can see that, but… why? This is your legacy, everything you spent your life working toward.” He sniffs, tears building already. “I can’t… I can’t accept this, Hollis.”
Oh, my soft-hearted Baby. “The why is really very simple. Without you, without your kindness and thoughtfulness, this app wouldn’t exist. Without you, I wouldn’t exist. Donating the income from it to you doesn’t even come close to repaying everything you’ve done for me.” Theo wipes his eyes with the back of his hand. “No, I mean, I can’t accept this because you said you signed it int’ my name, but you spelled it wrong. My name is Theo, T-H-E-O, but here you spelled it B-R-A-T.”
“This is our family’s coronation ring. Every generation has worn it since the beginning, and I am no exception.” He opens it, and sinks gracefully onto one knee. My breath lodges in my throat. “Theo Irving,” he begins, eyes crackling violet. “You didn’t just bring me home, you gave me a new life, and in return I want to invite you into mine.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 5, 2026
I have been so curious about Hollis and as usual Northman delivers on characters who will hook you. Hollis is serious with a capital S and Theo hasn’t met a rule he doesn’t want to break - can you say brat in all caps please. Their interactions are just the right side of tension and friction and with insta lust mixed in it works fabulously.
I love this world of the Exor squad series and i loved going back in for Hot Ghost Summer. Each book is a standalone and comes with its own tone and flavour unique to the author. Northman’s strong suit of epic world building is quite apparent in the lore and entities we encounter! Oh also expect a cross over - no spoilers but you’re going to love it
Hollis and Theo have a phenomenal dynamic - the heat is dialed right upto 10 in this one even though it’s a slow burn.
I adored Brigid and the goats 🤣! And the herd and Theo’s huge animal loving heart.
There is an overarching mystery built in as a sub plot which is so well done and the how it ties into the tragedy that kicks everything off is just chefs kiss
If you’re looking for wee ghosties, an emotional support cow, mystery and mayhem and a fiery romance look no further
I love this world of the Exor squad series and i loved going back in for Hot Ghost Summer. Each book is a standalone and comes with its own tone and flavour unique to the author. Northman’s strong suit of epic world building is quite apparent in the lore and entities we encounter! Oh also expect a cross over - no spoilers but you’re going to love it
Hollis and Theo have a phenomenal dynamic - the heat is dialed right upto 10 in this one even though it’s a slow burn.
I adored Brigid and the goats 🤣! And the herd and Theo’s huge animal loving heart.
There is an overarching mystery built in as a sub plot which is so well done and the how it ties into the tragedy that kicks everything off is just chefs kiss
If you’re looking for wee ghosties, an emotional support cow, mystery and mayhem and a fiery romance look no further
Review of advance copy received from Author
MM romance | Ghost/Human | Brat x Brat Tamer | Forced Proximity | Grumpy x Sunshine | Emotional Support Cow | Opposites attract | Blow jobs | rimming
Okay, definitivamente me ha gustado muchísimo esta historia!
Theo (nuestro bebé salvaje 🤭) y Hollis fueron todo lo que esperaba y un poco más. El tira y afloja de su relación me encantó por completo y de verdad que la personalidad de Theo se llevó toda mi atención... y la de Hollis también jjjaja 😂
Si bien esta es la segunda oportunidad que tengo de leer algo del autor, puedo decir que se está convirtiendo en uno de mis descubrimientos favoritos del año ✨🔥.
〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️
Okay, I absolutely adored this story!
Theo (our feral baby 🤭) and Hollis were everything I hoped for and so much more. I completely loved the push-and-pull dynamic of their relationship, and Theo’s personality single-handedly stole the entire show... and Hollis’s sanity too lol😂
Even though this is only my second time reading this author, I can easily say they are quickly becoming one of my absolute favorite auto-buy authors ✨🔥.
Okay, definitivamente me ha gustado muchísimo esta historia!
Theo (nuestro bebé salvaje 🤭) y Hollis fueron todo lo que esperaba y un poco más. El tira y afloja de su relación me encantó por completo y de verdad que la personalidad de Theo se llevó toda mi atención... y la de Hollis también jjjaja 😂
Si bien esta es la segunda oportunidad que tengo de leer algo del autor, puedo decir que se está convirtiendo en uno de mis descubrimientos favoritos del año ✨🔥.
〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️
Okay, I absolutely adored this story!
Theo (our feral baby 🤭) and Hollis were everything I hoped for and so much more. I completely loved the push-and-pull dynamic of their relationship, and Theo’s personality single-handedly stole the entire show... and Hollis’s sanity too lol😂
Even though this is only my second time reading this author, I can easily say they are quickly becoming one of my absolute favorite auto-buy authors ✨🔥.
Review of advance copy received from Author
👻 HOT GHOST SUMMER by Sam Northman — ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Okay… Hollis and Theo. THAT'S the book. 😂
This one takes the whole “enemies to lovers” situation and throws it straight into a paranormal blender because how do you even begin a romance when one of you accidentally killed the other one?!
Hollis Nachtmann is the tech expert of ExorSquad—the guy who knows what he's doing, keeps everyone organised and probably has approximately zero patience for Theo Irving's particular brand of chaos.
Theo is the new recruit, and somehow manages to accidentally kill Hollis during a ghost-hunting mission.
Yep.
Killed him.
And instead of that being the end of their story, it becomes the beginning of the most ridiculously complicated relationship imaginable because Hollis is now a ghost, Theo is still very much alive, and the two of them are forced to work together to deal with a dangerous haunting.
I absolutely LOVE the setup.
There's something so deliciously chaotic about Hollis being forced to spend time with the man responsible for his death. You'd expect nothing but anger and resentment, but being trapped together gives them the chance to actually see beneath all that irritation.
And the forced proximity works brilliantly because they literally cannot escape each other. 😂
The paranormal side gives the romance plenty of tension too. They're not just trying to figure out their feelings—they're dealing with a genuinely dangerous haunting while Hollis is trying to adjust to his new existence as a ghost.
And underneath all the supernatural chaos is that surprisingly emotional question:
What happens when the person who took your life becomes the person you can't imagine losing?
That was the part that got me.
Their dynamic gives the story plenty of humour, but there's enough emotional weight underneath it that their relationship doesn't feel like a joke.
It's basically:
“You killed me.”
“I'm sorry.”
“…Fine. Help me solve this haunting.”
“…Also, why am I falling for you?”
😂😭
The whole concept is wonderfully ridiculous in the best possible way.
It's paranormal, it's romantic, it's chaotic, and it's got that ExorSquad flavour of supernatural disasters happening to people who probably should have chosen literally any other career.
And honestly? Hollis being the ghost while Theo is the living one is such a fun reversal.
Sam Northman really looked at the classic “how did you two meet?” question and went:
“Well… technically, Theo killed him.” 😂
Okay… Hollis and Theo. THAT'S the book. 😂
This one takes the whole “enemies to lovers” situation and throws it straight into a paranormal blender because how do you even begin a romance when one of you accidentally killed the other one?!
Hollis Nachtmann is the tech expert of ExorSquad—the guy who knows what he's doing, keeps everyone organised and probably has approximately zero patience for Theo Irving's particular brand of chaos.
Theo is the new recruit, and somehow manages to accidentally kill Hollis during a ghost-hunting mission.
Yep.
Killed him.
And instead of that being the end of their story, it becomes the beginning of the most ridiculously complicated relationship imaginable because Hollis is now a ghost, Theo is still very much alive, and the two of them are forced to work together to deal with a dangerous haunting.
I absolutely LOVE the setup.
There's something so deliciously chaotic about Hollis being forced to spend time with the man responsible for his death. You'd expect nothing but anger and resentment, but being trapped together gives them the chance to actually see beneath all that irritation.
And the forced proximity works brilliantly because they literally cannot escape each other. 😂
The paranormal side gives the romance plenty of tension too. They're not just trying to figure out their feelings—they're dealing with a genuinely dangerous haunting while Hollis is trying to adjust to his new existence as a ghost.
And underneath all the supernatural chaos is that surprisingly emotional question:
What happens when the person who took your life becomes the person you can't imagine losing?
That was the part that got me.
Their dynamic gives the story plenty of humour, but there's enough emotional weight underneath it that their relationship doesn't feel like a joke.
It's basically:
“You killed me.”
“I'm sorry.”
“…Fine. Help me solve this haunting.”
“…Also, why am I falling for you?”
😂😭
The whole concept is wonderfully ridiculous in the best possible way.
It's paranormal, it's romantic, it's chaotic, and it's got that ExorSquad flavour of supernatural disasters happening to people who probably should have chosen literally any other career.
And honestly? Hollis being the ghost while Theo is the living one is such a fun reversal.
Sam Northman really looked at the classic “how did you two meet?” question and went:
“Well… technically, Theo killed him.” 😂
October 4, 2026
Nothing Screams Romance Quite Like Accidentally Murdering Your Mentor!
📚Book = Interconnecting Standalone (bk 5),
🔥Burn = Slow,
🎭OW/OM Drama = No,
🌶️Heat/spice = 6/10,
😬Angst = Low,
💔Third Act Breakup = No,
🤥Cheating = No,
🌈MM/FF = MM,
🤷🏻♀️RH/ Poly = Neither,
🔹Writing = 1st Person / MultiPOV,
🔸Genre = Paranormal Romance,
🔹Tropes = MM, Dark Rom-Com, Stern Ghosts, Bratty Farm boy, Grumpy x Sunshine, Forced Proximity, Accidental Murder “He Killed Me”, Ghost x Living Romance, Workplace / Office Romance, Emotional Support Cows, Technomancy, Murder Mystery / Investigative Partnership, Found Family, HEA.
‼️Triggers - My POV only = Low. (Please check before reading)
Ok so, picture this: a bloke named Hollis, a tech wizard who handles support for ExorSquad, which is comfortably the dodgiest paranormal investigation company in the UK, but im so here for this. He's trying to sort his custom ghost-hunting app, but he gets lumped with Theo Irving, a brand-new recruit who used to be a country farm boy but now plays the flashy city boy. They go to investigate an incomplete concrete shell called Plot 47 in Cockfosters, things go tits up with a terrifying apparition, and Theo accidentally blasts Hollis into the afterlife with a plasma ray. Yes, he actually kills his own mentor. So Hollis is a fresh ghost, Theo's a complete mess, and they have to team up to finish the job.
It is an absolutely wild setup, and I am entirely here for it. The dynamic between Hollis being a stern, grumpy ghost who can literally manipulate electrical currents as a technomancer, and Theo being this bratty, attention-seeking little nightmare is pure gold. Theo is definitely my favourite character because his country-bumpkin-turned-city-slicker facade cracks in the best possible ways, especially when dealing with the spooky occurrences at the construction site. The ExorSquad's overall management is so ridiculously reckless that you want to shake some sense into them, but that's the whole point and complete charm of this dark ExorSquad romcom series.
The burn is beautifully slow as they sort out the zaps between them, but when the heat hits, it really delivers. The pacing is brilliant, written in an incredibly witty British voice that matches the dreary London setting perfectly. Ultimately, it works beautifully. It is an incredibly fun, high-heat paranormal MM romance that manages to pull off a ridiculous premise with genuine heart. This one is perfect for anyone who loves grumpy-meets-sunshine, forced proximity, and completely bizarre supernatural workplace comedies, you’ll love it!
📚Book = Interconnecting Standalone (bk 5),
🔥Burn = Slow,
🎭OW/OM Drama = No,
🌶️Heat/spice = 6/10,
😬Angst = Low,
💔Third Act Breakup = No,
🤥Cheating = No,
🌈MM/FF = MM,
🤷🏻♀️RH/ Poly = Neither,
🔹Writing = 1st Person / MultiPOV,
🔸Genre = Paranormal Romance,
🔹Tropes = MM, Dark Rom-Com, Stern Ghosts, Bratty Farm boy, Grumpy x Sunshine, Forced Proximity, Accidental Murder “He Killed Me”, Ghost x Living Romance, Workplace / Office Romance, Emotional Support Cows, Technomancy, Murder Mystery / Investigative Partnership, Found Family, HEA.
‼️Triggers - My POV only = Low. (Please check before reading)
Ok so, picture this: a bloke named Hollis, a tech wizard who handles support for ExorSquad, which is comfortably the dodgiest paranormal investigation company in the UK, but im so here for this. He's trying to sort his custom ghost-hunting app, but he gets lumped with Theo Irving, a brand-new recruit who used to be a country farm boy but now plays the flashy city boy. They go to investigate an incomplete concrete shell called Plot 47 in Cockfosters, things go tits up with a terrifying apparition, and Theo accidentally blasts Hollis into the afterlife with a plasma ray. Yes, he actually kills his own mentor. So Hollis is a fresh ghost, Theo's a complete mess, and they have to team up to finish the job.
It is an absolutely wild setup, and I am entirely here for it. The dynamic between Hollis being a stern, grumpy ghost who can literally manipulate electrical currents as a technomancer, and Theo being this bratty, attention-seeking little nightmare is pure gold. Theo is definitely my favourite character because his country-bumpkin-turned-city-slicker facade cracks in the best possible ways, especially when dealing with the spooky occurrences at the construction site. The ExorSquad's overall management is so ridiculously reckless that you want to shake some sense into them, but that's the whole point and complete charm of this dark ExorSquad romcom series.
The burn is beautifully slow as they sort out the zaps between them, but when the heat hits, it really delivers. The pacing is brilliant, written in an incredibly witty British voice that matches the dreary London setting perfectly. Ultimately, it works beautifully. It is an incredibly fun, high-heat paranormal MM romance that manages to pull off a ridiculous premise with genuine heart. This one is perfect for anyone who loves grumpy-meets-sunshine, forced proximity, and completely bizarre supernatural workplace comedies, you’ll love it!
October 1, 2026
Disclosure: I received a complimentary eARC of
Hot Ghost Summer
by Sam Northman in exchange for an honest review.
Hot Ghost Summer by Sam Northman is a delightfully unhinged MM paranormal dark romcom releasing as part of the EXORSQUAD series. Set at an incomplete London construction site (Plot 47) plagued by violent shakes, bellows, and stern ghosts, the story follows Hollis Nachtmann—a straight-laced tech expert trying to finish his ghost-hunting app—and Theo Irving, an untrained, infuriatingly confident, and bratty country-bumpkin-turned-city-boy. When Theo accidentally blasts Hollis to death with a plasma ray on their very first mission, Hollis returns as a ghost tethered to Theo. Utilizing technomancy, electrical zaps, and a whole lot of forced proximity, this grumpy/sunshine duo must navigate a dangerous haunting and a fiery hate-to-love dynamic.
The dynamic between Hollis and Theo is absolute perfection. Hollis is the ultimate stern, upright Dom, while Theo is a chaotic, big-hearted sunshine brat full of life and provocative energy. Even though Hollis’s untimely demise isn't ideal, it forces these two together into an explosive chemistry that drips from start to finish. Sam Northman brilliantly integrates technomancy, electrical systems, and character growth as Hollis gains power over time to protect his brat—culminating in a deeply emotional, beautiful turning point where Hollis binds himself to Theo to keep him alive.
Northman delivers an exceptionally well-crafted story packed with unique elements: a haunted sex toy, elite spice, and Brigid the emotional support cow. The prose, pacing, and blend of dark comedy with high-stakes supernatural romance create a brilliantly immersive experience.
Hot Ghost Summer is an absolute triumph of paranormal romcom storytelling. If you love ghost-human dynamics, grumpy/sunshine pairings, technomancy, and chaotic charm, this is an unmissable read.
Hot Ghost Summer by Sam Northman is a delightfully unhinged MM paranormal dark romcom releasing as part of the EXORSQUAD series. Set at an incomplete London construction site (Plot 47) plagued by violent shakes, bellows, and stern ghosts, the story follows Hollis Nachtmann—a straight-laced tech expert trying to finish his ghost-hunting app—and Theo Irving, an untrained, infuriatingly confident, and bratty country-bumpkin-turned-city-boy. When Theo accidentally blasts Hollis to death with a plasma ray on their very first mission, Hollis returns as a ghost tethered to Theo. Utilizing technomancy, electrical zaps, and a whole lot of forced proximity, this grumpy/sunshine duo must navigate a dangerous haunting and a fiery hate-to-love dynamic.
The dynamic between Hollis and Theo is absolute perfection. Hollis is the ultimate stern, upright Dom, while Theo is a chaotic, big-hearted sunshine brat full of life and provocative energy. Even though Hollis’s untimely demise isn't ideal, it forces these two together into an explosive chemistry that drips from start to finish. Sam Northman brilliantly integrates technomancy, electrical systems, and character growth as Hollis gains power over time to protect his brat—culminating in a deeply emotional, beautiful turning point where Hollis binds himself to Theo to keep him alive.
Northman delivers an exceptionally well-crafted story packed with unique elements: a haunted sex toy, elite spice, and Brigid the emotional support cow. The prose, pacing, and blend of dark comedy with high-stakes supernatural romance create a brilliantly immersive experience.
Hot Ghost Summer is an absolute triumph of paranormal romcom storytelling. If you love ghost-human dynamics, grumpy/sunshine pairings, technomancy, and chaotic charm, this is an unmissable read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 3, 2026
3.75⭐️
Theo is new at Exorsquad, and is paired up with ghost expert Hollis for a supposedly “easy mission”. The “easy mission” ends up getting Hollis killed, and stuck haunting his own cell phone 😱 now Theo is on his own to figure out the haunting on the sketchy farm. Or so he thinks~
This book has:
-ghost x human
-a ghostly mystery / adventure to solve
-D/S vibes
-very cool electricity-based ghost mechanics
-an emotional support cow
I really like this series and have been having such a blast reading through the books from all of the different authors. Unfortunately, for me, this one didn’t hit quite as hard as the other ones that I’ve read so far, but it still had a really unique story, which I found interesting.
I think my main reason for not falling in love with this book is the fact that I feel like this book could have almost been better if the main characters were actually just friends rather than in a relationship. The relationship felt almost forced or not natural if that makes sense? Like there’s some initial attraction, then it feels like there’s not really any romance until you get halfway through the book, then it suddenly feels like romance is starting up almost out of nowhere? I didn’t really click with the romantic aspects of the book, I guess is what I’m trying to say.
However, other than that, I thought that the idea for this book was really cool, and I have never read a ghostly book where a character is haunting electronics. That was really cool. The author definitely had some really cool and creative ideas that I really enjoyed reading about. I also really loved the cow and how the cows were a big part of the story. It was kind of charming and cute and again, not like anything I’ve ever read before.
I really like this series and I can’t wait to finish it! These are really great for October and Halloween season.
Theo is new at Exorsquad, and is paired up with ghost expert Hollis for a supposedly “easy mission”. The “easy mission” ends up getting Hollis killed, and stuck haunting his own cell phone 😱 now Theo is on his own to figure out the haunting on the sketchy farm. Or so he thinks~
This book has:
-ghost x human
-a ghostly mystery / adventure to solve
-D/S vibes
-very cool electricity-based ghost mechanics
-an emotional support cow
I really like this series and have been having such a blast reading through the books from all of the different authors. Unfortunately, for me, this one didn’t hit quite as hard as the other ones that I’ve read so far, but it still had a really unique story, which I found interesting.
I think my main reason for not falling in love with this book is the fact that I feel like this book could have almost been better if the main characters were actually just friends rather than in a relationship. The relationship felt almost forced or not natural if that makes sense? Like there’s some initial attraction, then it feels like there’s not really any romance until you get halfway through the book, then it suddenly feels like romance is starting up almost out of nowhere? I didn’t really click with the romantic aspects of the book, I guess is what I’m trying to say.
However, other than that, I thought that the idea for this book was really cool, and I have never read a ghostly book where a character is haunting electronics. That was really cool. The author definitely had some really cool and creative ideas that I really enjoyed reading about. I also really loved the cow and how the cows were a big part of the story. It was kind of charming and cute and again, not like anything I’ve ever read before.
I really like this series and I can’t wait to finish it! These are really great for October and Halloween season.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Technomancy??? Freakin’ technomancy?
As someone who loves reading about different magic systems, I was thrilled to see this ExorSquad entry feature technomancy. I was locked in from page one and read Hot Ghost Summer in one sitting!
First, I loved that Hollis Nachtmann was a paranormal expert! It was fun to have someone who (mostly) knew what they were doing and thought Gerald was a twit. And Theo Irving was a perfect bratty, new recruit.
From their first interaction, their chemistry is hot because the dom in Hollis recognizes the brat in Theo. Their relationship was fun, especially as they navigated Hollis’s ghost state and their communication. Theo had me cracking up the entire book, and I especially loved that Brigid was his emotional support cow.
The technomancy bits were absolutely brilliant. I don’t want to go into it in depth to keep it spoiler-free, but seeing how they utilize technology and electricity to solve the haunting is really neat.
It is so cool to see how each author brings their own lore to the ExorSquad world. I absolutely loved Sam’s book in the GriMM Tales series, Rumpelstilzchen, and I was excited to see the German/Austrian ghost lore woven into Hot Ghost Summer.
Also, I still have so many questions about Ted!
---
I received an advance copy of this book from the author at no charge. This is my honest, voluntary review.
As someone who loves reading about different magic systems, I was thrilled to see this ExorSquad entry feature technomancy. I was locked in from page one and read Hot Ghost Summer in one sitting!
First, I loved that Hollis Nachtmann was a paranormal expert! It was fun to have someone who (mostly) knew what they were doing and thought Gerald was a twit. And Theo Irving was a perfect bratty, new recruit.
From their first interaction, their chemistry is hot because the dom in Hollis recognizes the brat in Theo. Their relationship was fun, especially as they navigated Hollis’s ghost state and their communication. Theo had me cracking up the entire book, and I especially loved that Brigid was his emotional support cow.
The technomancy bits were absolutely brilliant. I don’t want to go into it in depth to keep it spoiler-free, but seeing how they utilize technology and electricity to solve the haunting is really neat.
It is so cool to see how each author brings their own lore to the ExorSquad world. I absolutely loved Sam’s book in the GriMM Tales series, Rumpelstilzchen, and I was excited to see the German/Austrian ghost lore woven into Hot Ghost Summer.
Also, I still have so many questions about Ted!
---
I received an advance copy of this book from the author at no charge. This is my honest, voluntary review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Hot Ghost Summer 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 Hollis and Theo. I couldn't put this book down once I started it because it was so good. Theo is chaos from the start and Hollis is serious, competent, and in control. I loved these two and how perfect they are for each other. I loved the chemistry between them also. The plot was very entertaining and full of great moments. This series gets better with each book in it and I can't wait for the next book. Sam Northman has a great writing style and sense of humor and I'm looking forward to seeing what they write next. I would definitely recommend this book and series as 5 star reads.
received a free review copy
received a free review copy
October 7, 2026
I guess Gerald learnt his lesson with Gary’s podcast and help with a police investigation ;) that’s why he amended the Exorsquad contract AGAIN😂 and yassssssss also mentioning a rival ghost hunting company 😏 IYKYK! But let’s be real, we’d rather go ghost hunting with them and the cats 🥹🥹 than work for some old, dodgy grump.
Classic sign of Gerald just throwing his employers face first into situations they have no experience before. I thought Theo was too easy breezy in his job and actions. Well a brat mainly but never in my life would I see him killing Hollis on their first job together💀 but who knew that could have been the best and worst thing of their lives. I say lives because they’re one after all 💁🏽♀️
The mass destruction of lightbulbs and probably the electricity bill would be 💀 good thing Hollis is an Austrian prince ;) I love how he only uses Austrian words in cursing at things and mainly Theo, but it’s still nice to see his heritage through that but also his family history within the paranormal community. Having read the other ones, this was so interesting to learn about a technomancy spirit but also other levels like a revenant. It was explained so well and it was another great way to show another form of haunting and from the actual spirits perspective.
The moment Theo put that cup in the microwave I cringed immensely. Boy was I glad when Hollis blew up his microwave and types ‘Only heathens make tea in the microwave’ is the only right way to react!!!!! That’s a sin! Get a kettle and boil the water the normal way, what is wrong with him?!?
The dynamics between them both are very prominent but it works so well! Hollis is Austrian royalty, all prim and proper and highly disciplined. Then you get Theo who is a country boy through and through with his cute little accent! But they both share the same lifestyle. And yes Theo is a brat but he’s just what Hollis needs! Someone to order around and DOMinate…. I love how brattish Theo is but at the same time when he actually listens to him, he still ends up doing the opposite of what he’s told 😂😂
Theo is so cuuuute! Him and Brigid the cow is adorable and how passionate he is about helping Jayne and the farm. Including the evil goat Theodore who has something against him 😂😂 I just love how you can’t take the farm boy out of him and who would want to? And yes he’s dopey but he’s actually pretty intelligent too, with putting things together and learning when he needs to. Sad for this story to end but I’m so happy I got to read it! Another 5 star for the 5th book in the Exorsquad collab!💚
Classic sign of Gerald just throwing his employers face first into situations they have no experience before. I thought Theo was too easy breezy in his job and actions. Well a brat mainly but never in my life would I see him killing Hollis on their first job together💀 but who knew that could have been the best and worst thing of their lives. I say lives because they’re one after all 💁🏽♀️
The mass destruction of lightbulbs and probably the electricity bill would be 💀 good thing Hollis is an Austrian prince ;) I love how he only uses Austrian words in cursing at things and mainly Theo, but it’s still nice to see his heritage through that but also his family history within the paranormal community. Having read the other ones, this was so interesting to learn about a technomancy spirit but also other levels like a revenant. It was explained so well and it was another great way to show another form of haunting and from the actual spirits perspective.
The moment Theo put that cup in the microwave I cringed immensely. Boy was I glad when Hollis blew up his microwave and types ‘Only heathens make tea in the microwave’ is the only right way to react!!!!! That’s a sin! Get a kettle and boil the water the normal way, what is wrong with him?!?
The dynamics between them both are very prominent but it works so well! Hollis is Austrian royalty, all prim and proper and highly disciplined. Then you get Theo who is a country boy through and through with his cute little accent! But they both share the same lifestyle. And yes Theo is a brat but he’s just what Hollis needs! Someone to order around and DOMinate…. I love how brattish Theo is but at the same time when he actually listens to him, he still ends up doing the opposite of what he’s told 😂😂
Theo is so cuuuute! Him and Brigid the cow is adorable and how passionate he is about helping Jayne and the farm. Including the evil goat Theodore who has something against him 😂😂 I just love how you can’t take the farm boy out of him and who would want to? And yes he’s dopey but he’s actually pretty intelligent too, with putting things together and learning when he needs to. Sad for this story to end but I’m so happy I got to read it! Another 5 star for the 5th book in the Exorsquad collab!💚
Review of advance copy received from Author
Intro:
This book is an MM romance between Hollis, an Exorsquad employee working on a ghost hunting app who's forced to go on a mission and Theo, a new recruit with zero training who loves to push Hollis to his limits
Tropes/Highlights:
-MM
-Open Door
-Brat/Brat Tamer
-Opposites Attract
-Forced Proximity
-Ghost/Human
-Grumpy/Sunshine
-Technomancy
-Emotional Support Cow
-HEA
Likes:
-Theo's brattiness/personality
-Plot 47 entity
-First day on the job
-Spice
-Electrical manipulation
-Explosive temper, literally
-Characters
-World building
-Rescue farm
-Theo's heart/kindness
-Hollis' protectiveness
Quotes:
-"Keep that up and find out what happens, brat"
-"The Dom in me is already wondering if his arse will match the colour of his vest when I'm done with him"
-"A sexually frustrated brat is easier to teach. And Theo needs to learn"
-"The way he fights is exquisite, but the way he submits sets my soul on fire"
-"You've forgotten who's in charge here, Baby"
-"I'm your safe space, Theo. Somewhere you can always come home to. Can you feel me?"
-"I want to live in a world where every path leads me back to you"
I am always down to read a book about brats and Sam did not disappoint. I love how sweet and caring Theo was, even at the risk of himself. He has the sweetest heart and the cheekiest personality. Hollis is the definition of grump with all work and business most of the time. Hollis wasn't afraid to put Theo in his place when he stepped out of line, and those were very fun lessons. I loved these two together and the development of their relationship was perfect. From barely tolerating each other's existence to not wanting to live without each other, was such a joy to experience. I recommend this book if you love a bit of tragedy mixed with your love stories and a playful brat with a kind soul and a recently deceased ghost trying to solve the mystery of plot 47 without succumbing to the brat's charms.
This book is an MM romance between Hollis, an Exorsquad employee working on a ghost hunting app who's forced to go on a mission and Theo, a new recruit with zero training who loves to push Hollis to his limits
Tropes/Highlights:
-MM
-Open Door
-Brat/Brat Tamer
-Opposites Attract
-Forced Proximity
-Ghost/Human
-Grumpy/Sunshine
-Technomancy
-Emotional Support Cow
-HEA
Likes:
-Theo's brattiness/personality
-Plot 47 entity
-First day on the job
-Spice
-Electrical manipulation
-Explosive temper, literally
-Characters
-World building
-Rescue farm
-Theo's heart/kindness
-Hollis' protectiveness
Quotes:
-"Keep that up and find out what happens, brat"
-"The Dom in me is already wondering if his arse will match the colour of his vest when I'm done with him"
-"A sexually frustrated brat is easier to teach. And Theo needs to learn"
-"The way he fights is exquisite, but the way he submits sets my soul on fire"
-"You've forgotten who's in charge here, Baby"
-"I'm your safe space, Theo. Somewhere you can always come home to. Can you feel me?"
-"I want to live in a world where every path leads me back to you"
I am always down to read a book about brats and Sam did not disappoint. I love how sweet and caring Theo was, even at the risk of himself. He has the sweetest heart and the cheekiest personality. Hollis is the definition of grump with all work and business most of the time. Hollis wasn't afraid to put Theo in his place when he stepped out of line, and those were very fun lessons. I loved these two together and the development of their relationship was perfect. From barely tolerating each other's existence to not wanting to live without each other, was such a joy to experience. I recommend this book if you love a bit of tragedy mixed with your love stories and a playful brat with a kind soul and a recently deceased ghost trying to solve the mystery of plot 47 without succumbing to the brat's charms.
October 3, 2026
I was fortunate enough to receive an ARC of this book. The couple at the center of this story Theo and Hollis were absolutely delightful. They had such great chemistry throughout the novel. I think this fourth installment of the ExorSquad series may be my favorite.
In this grumpy x sunshine novel Hollis, an Austrian prince born into a family of ghost experts is working for the ExorSquad company to build a compendium on spirits to benefit his family. He is paired with Theo a self-procalimed “Brat” who makes no bones about this aspect of his personality - neck tattoo.
When the two are paired to investigate a haunting at a construction site things go horribly wrong. Without giving too much away, this leads to us learning more about Theo, his life, his family, his friends. Everything we learn is more and more endearing.
Hollis undergoes a drastic change and becomes a “technomancer” directly connected to Theo. As the story unfolds we watch Theo unravel the mystery and develop more confidence as his relationship with Hollis continues to develop.
For me the selling point in this story is the relationship between Theo and Hollis. The story is whimsical and the mystery of the haunting comes on fast and is solved a bit anti-climactically but the relationship is what I found most appealing. That is what kept me reading and wanting to find out what happened. I really loved that the two were so different and well-developed.
A delightful read.
In this grumpy x sunshine novel Hollis, an Austrian prince born into a family of ghost experts is working for the ExorSquad company to build a compendium on spirits to benefit his family. He is paired with Theo a self-procalimed “Brat” who makes no bones about this aspect of his personality - neck tattoo.
When the two are paired to investigate a haunting at a construction site things go horribly wrong. Without giving too much away, this leads to us learning more about Theo, his life, his family, his friends. Everything we learn is more and more endearing.
Hollis undergoes a drastic change and becomes a “technomancer” directly connected to Theo. As the story unfolds we watch Theo unravel the mystery and develop more confidence as his relationship with Hollis continues to develop.
For me the selling point in this story is the relationship between Theo and Hollis. The story is whimsical and the mystery of the haunting comes on fast and is solved a bit anti-climactically but the relationship is what I found most appealing. That is what kept me reading and wanting to find out what happened. I really loved that the two were so different and well-developed.
A delightful read.
October 14, 2026
This book took me by surprise! I came into not having read anything by the author before, nor having any inclination one way or the other. I hadn't picked up on any vibes. Until now. It didn't take long for me to become fully engaged in this story. I stopped conversations to go read some of it. I procrastinated my to-do lists to read some of it. I wanted to know what was going to happen to Brigid, Hollis, and Theo. I also wanted to deck Gerald. More than once. Being someone who is greyaroace and s*x indifference, k*nk isn't something I read much of. Some may show up in books I read, but they are not what drives the story. At first I was hesitant because of not knowing how their use of 'Dom' and 'sub' was going to play out - as a major plot point, outshining the actual plot, or something that is lighter, but ever present in their physically intimate scenes. What is my findings? It was done in such a way that it enhanced the story, not drove the story. If that makes sense. And that's how I like it. Don't worry, they definitely liked it!
And, by the end of the book, it was apparent to me that this is one of my favorites from the series. I'm even looking forward to reading it again!
And, by the end of the book, it was apparent to me that this is one of my favorites from the series. I'm even looking forward to reading it again!
October 6, 2026
ARC Read
I never know what to expect with this series and I absolutely love that! Each book, even though they’re all set in the same world, is wonderfully different from the last.
I loved the idea of a ghost stuck in a phone! Then add in a small town and a farm and it was just such a fun read. I was obsessed with the cow. I loved seeing where this story went, and all the paranormal weirdness made it so much fun.
I also really loved Hollis and Theo! They were not only so sweet together, but has the perfect spice too, and I really enjoyed watching their romance develop. I have never been so obsessed with a human and ghost romances before, but apparently this is my new favorite trope! Their relationship was just so fun to read.
This is honestly one of my favorite collab series because every book feels different, but they all still fit together so well. You really never know what you’re going to get next!
I def recommend! And honestly, October is the perfect month to start the Exor Squad Series if you haven’t already!
I never know what to expect with this series and I absolutely love that! Each book, even though they’re all set in the same world, is wonderfully different from the last.
I loved the idea of a ghost stuck in a phone! Then add in a small town and a farm and it was just such a fun read. I was obsessed with the cow. I loved seeing where this story went, and all the paranormal weirdness made it so much fun.
I also really loved Hollis and Theo! They were not only so sweet together, but has the perfect spice too, and I really enjoyed watching their romance develop. I have never been so obsessed with a human and ghost romances before, but apparently this is my new favorite trope! Their relationship was just so fun to read.
This is honestly one of my favorite collab series because every book feels different, but they all still fit together so well. You really never know what you’re going to get next!
I def recommend! And honestly, October is the perfect month to start the Exor Squad Series if you haven’t already!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Another really great addition to the ExorSquad series, I am loving them all so far.
Theo and Hollis were great even with an accidental death in the mix. They had really good chemistry and a dom Hollis, damn he was swoony. The whole being a ghost in the electrics...it was so good and funny. Theo comes across as a bit daft at times but is genuinely a sweetheart with a love of the cows. Hollis is a lot more serious, thinks about ghost hunting properly and has an interesting background. Honestly these 2 shouldn't work but they really do.
Like the other books, it has the romance side but also the ghost story which wasn't as scary as previous instalments but still just as entertaining. Also love the cows especially Brigid!!! Also loved shout out to Gary!!
Can't wait to see what is next for ExorSquad
Can't wait to
Theo and Hollis were great even with an accidental death in the mix. They had really good chemistry and a dom Hollis, damn he was swoony. The whole being a ghost in the electrics...it was so good and funny. Theo comes across as a bit daft at times but is genuinely a sweetheart with a love of the cows. Hollis is a lot more serious, thinks about ghost hunting properly and has an interesting background. Honestly these 2 shouldn't work but they really do.
Like the other books, it has the romance side but also the ghost story which wasn't as scary as previous instalments but still just as entertaining. Also love the cows especially Brigid!!! Also loved shout out to Gary!!
Can't wait to see what is next for ExorSquad
Can't wait to
October 1, 2026
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Hot Ghost Summer is the fifth book in the ExorSquad series, a collection of standalone MM romcoms by different authors, all centered around the employees of ExorSquad.
This one felt quite different from the other books in the series. It was a darker read, showing a less merry-go-round side of ExorSquad. Here, the ghosts are angry, and lives are on the line. I must admit, I wasn't so sure about the story at first. It took me a while to get into the story and the MMCs.
But then things took a wild turn, and I was hooked. The haunting was complex, and the mystery kept me intrigued until the very end. And in the midst of all this, the romance was the perfect counterbalance to the darker themes, especially with all the uncertainty surrounding it.
Special mention to Bridget, now my absolute favourite cow. 🐄
Overall, this was a great addition to the series. The common thread running through these books is starting to paint a really intriguing bigger picture, and I'm hopeful we'll see it come together by the end of the series.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Hot Ghost Summer is the fifth book in the ExorSquad series, a collection of standalone MM romcoms by different authors, all centered around the employees of ExorSquad.
This one felt quite different from the other books in the series. It was a darker read, showing a less merry-go-round side of ExorSquad. Here, the ghosts are angry, and lives are on the line. I must admit, I wasn't so sure about the story at first. It took me a while to get into the story and the MMCs.
But then things took a wild turn, and I was hooked. The haunting was complex, and the mystery kept me intrigued until the very end. And in the midst of all this, the romance was the perfect counterbalance to the darker themes, especially with all the uncertainty surrounding it.
Special mention to Bridget, now my absolute favourite cow. 🐄
Overall, this was a great addition to the series. The common thread running through these books is starting to paint a really intriguing bigger picture, and I'm hopeful we'll see it come together by the end of the series.
Review of advance copy
There was a lot I liked with this book. It was overall entertaining and interesting. Hollis being a technomancer was different and it solved the human ghost relationship well, especially when you naturally think about how a human x ghost relationship would work as the human ages. He had a lot to figure out and work through once he realized what he was. And hey, if you are going to be a ghost, a technomancer might be the way to go. Hollis was pretty powerful once he came into his own and the stuff he could do? Yeah.
I also really liked Theo and Hollis characters and their personalities. I loved how different they were. Hollis is so serious and such an adult and Theo, while I wouldn't say is irresponsible (okay maybe kinda, lol), is carefree, unequivocally himself and fiercely loyal. I thought the dom/sub relationship with them was fun and added a little something to their relationship and the spice between them...yes sir may I have some more?
I loved Theo's relationship with the animal rescue farm. His friendship with Brigid the cow was so adorable and his love for her and the place in general was one of my favorite things. The plot 47 story got a little dark, and I don't want to give anything away but I totally get why Theo would risk himself to save Brigid. She must be protected!
Overall, a fun unique read and if you love animals, you will especially enjoy Brigid and her friends.
I also really liked Theo and Hollis characters and their personalities. I loved how different they were. Hollis is so serious and such an adult and Theo, while I wouldn't say is irresponsible (okay maybe kinda, lol), is carefree, unequivocally himself and fiercely loyal. I thought the dom/sub relationship with them was fun and added a little something to their relationship and the spice between them...yes sir may I have some more?
I loved Theo's relationship with the animal rescue farm. His friendship with Brigid the cow was so adorable and his love for her and the place in general was one of my favorite things. The plot 47 story got a little dark, and I don't want to give anything away but I totally get why Theo would risk himself to save Brigid. She must be protected!
Overall, a fun unique read and if you love animals, you will especially enjoy Brigid and her friends.
October 12, 2026
Hot Ghost Summer by Sam Northman
ExorSquad
Length: 366 pages
Source: Author-direct
Publication date: Oct. 1, 2026
5 ⭐
WHAT TO EXPECT
MM paranormal dark rom-com
Ghost x human
One-sided enemies to lovers (hate to love)
Technomancy
Forced proximity
Grumpy x sunshine
‘Daddy’ x ‘brat’ dom/sub dynamic
MY THOUGHTS
I really delighted in both of these characters and what they brought to the story! They were an absolute match on and off the clock. Hollis is straight-laced, the serious figure to Theo’s more relaxed, comic relief. He’s detached and coolly analytical at the beginning of the book, and I love seeing how he retains those aspects of himself even as Theo teaches him how to lighten up a bit. I do also enjoy a good daddy temperament, and oooh, does Hollis have that going on in spades!
Theo, meanwhile, is an excellent brat, and I adored him. He at times comes across as a himbo, which is part of his appeal, but for me, it was always a case of inexperience and lack of exposure to things vs. a lack of intelligence. Theo’s truly emotionally intelligent throughout the book, which completely counteracts Hollis’ extreme intelligence but lack of emotion. Basically, Theo's the very definition of "wears his heart on his sleeve," which balances out Hollis' stoic nature. He’s especially empathetic to people and things around him, and as they work to solve their haunting, that intuition allows Theo to more than keep up with Hollis’ technomancy skills.
What I liked the most, I think, is how romantic this dark comedy turned out to be. (That’s been a theme of all the ExorSquad books for me so far.) Like, seriously romantic! Hollis is a total softy for Theo, and both men are so protective of one another that I found myself “Awww!”-ing repeatedly while reading. Their feelings for one another are flowery and powerful and all encompassing. Neither Theo nor Hollis ever expected to find their person, and that they did in the most awful of circumstances is rewarding.
BOTTOM LINE
This is the first book I’ve read by Sam Northman, and it’s 100% not my last.
— A🩷
Thanks to Sam Northman for an eARC of this book. All opinions are mine. Reviews posted regularly on StoryGraph, Goodreads, Instagram, BookBub, and Amazon.
ExorSquad
Length: 366 pages
Source: Author-direct
Publication date: Oct. 1, 2026
5 ⭐
WHAT TO EXPECT
MM paranormal dark rom-com
Ghost x human
One-sided enemies to lovers (hate to love)
Technomancy
Forced proximity
Grumpy x sunshine
‘Daddy’ x ‘brat’ dom/sub dynamic
MY THOUGHTS
I really delighted in both of these characters and what they brought to the story! They were an absolute match on and off the clock. Hollis is straight-laced, the serious figure to Theo’s more relaxed, comic relief. He’s detached and coolly analytical at the beginning of the book, and I love seeing how he retains those aspects of himself even as Theo teaches him how to lighten up a bit. I do also enjoy a good daddy temperament, and oooh, does Hollis have that going on in spades!
Theo, meanwhile, is an excellent brat, and I adored him. He at times comes across as a himbo, which is part of his appeal, but for me, it was always a case of inexperience and lack of exposure to things vs. a lack of intelligence. Theo’s truly emotionally intelligent throughout the book, which completely counteracts Hollis’ extreme intelligence but lack of emotion. Basically, Theo's the very definition of "wears his heart on his sleeve," which balances out Hollis' stoic nature. He’s especially empathetic to people and things around him, and as they work to solve their haunting, that intuition allows Theo to more than keep up with Hollis’ technomancy skills.
What I liked the most, I think, is how romantic this dark comedy turned out to be. (That’s been a theme of all the ExorSquad books for me so far.) Like, seriously romantic! Hollis is a total softy for Theo, and both men are so protective of one another that I found myself “Awww!”-ing repeatedly while reading. Their feelings for one another are flowery and powerful and all encompassing. Neither Theo nor Hollis ever expected to find their person, and that they did in the most awful of circumstances is rewarding.
BOTTOM LINE
This is the first book I’ve read by Sam Northman, and it’s 100% not my last.
— A🩷
Thanks to Sam Northman for an eARC of this book. All opinions are mine. Reviews posted regularly on StoryGraph, Goodreads, Instagram, BookBub, and Amazon.
September 6, 2026
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
I’d like to start this review by saying that if my best friend was a cow, I’d definitely risk my life to save her! Also, I now need a best friend cow. 🐮 Part of the ExorSquad series, this book follows Theo, a human, and Hollis, a technomancer, as they try and un-haunt a haunted land development plot. Let’s also not forget that Brigid the cow is in this book. I absolutely loved this book! Theo is absolutely precious and I loved the dom/sub dynamic between him and Hollis. It was so beautifully written.
I’d like to start this review by saying that if my best friend was a cow, I’d definitely risk my life to save her! Also, I now need a best friend cow. 🐮 Part of the ExorSquad series, this book follows Theo, a human, and Hollis, a technomancer, as they try and un-haunt a haunted land development plot. Let’s also not forget that Brigid the cow is in this book. I absolutely loved this book! Theo is absolutely precious and I loved the dom/sub dynamic between him and Hollis. It was so beautifully written.
October 1, 2026
AN UTTERLY GOOD TIME OF A READ!!
I KEEP SAYING THIS, BUT I WILL KEEP REPEATING THIS IS A GREAT MULTI-AUTHOR SERIES!
Hollis is determined in his mission and can be serious. Theo, oh he is definitely a brat and is quite different from Hollis. I adore that his bestie is a cow. These two have fantastic chemistry. I think they do quite well together. I liked when they got closer. Very good read.
I KEEP SAYING THIS, BUT I WILL KEEP REPEATING THIS IS A GREAT MULTI-AUTHOR SERIES!
Hollis is determined in his mission and can be serious. Theo, oh he is definitely a brat and is quite different from Hollis. I adore that his bestie is a cow. These two have fantastic chemistry. I think they do quite well together. I liked when they got closer. Very good read.
October 5, 2026
The book started out decent, but then fell a little flat for me. I would’ve liked to see some further character development and progression. It had decent traction, then just had me lose interest because it felt somewhat very repetitive.
September 4, 2026
ARC REVIEW
This was a great addition to the series! I liked the power dynamic between Theo and Hollis, and how it progressed into a loving (mostly) relationship. I enjoyed reading the perspective of a techromancer dom with control problems. Especially when his goal was to manage an unruly himbo brat with BABY tattooed across his throat.
Expect:
-workplace romance
-forced proximity
-power play
-sunshine/grumpy
-emotional support cow
-lots of exploded lightbulbs
This was a great addition to the series! I liked the power dynamic between Theo and Hollis, and how it progressed into a loving (mostly) relationship. I enjoyed reading the perspective of a techromancer dom with control problems. Especially when his goal was to manage an unruly himbo brat with BABY tattooed across his throat.
Expect:
-workplace romance
-forced proximity
-power play
-sunshine/grumpy
-emotional support cow
-lots of exploded lightbulbs
Review of advance copy received from Author
I love cows 🐄 Theo is right they have feelings and friends, they are basically very big dogs 🤍🖤
(NGL I was not expecting all the hatred from Hollis at the beginning but I'm glad they figured it out hahaha)
(NGL I was not expecting all the hatred from Hollis at the beginning but I'm glad they figured it out hahaha)
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