Books, Banshees, and Beginnings

The Hauntings of Red Oaks Library #1

by C.L. McClellon

247 pages, ebook

Published August 8, 2026

Reviews

[Krystal Caloia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book as an ARC from the author.

This is the first in the start of a new series and ended with appropriate cliffhanger that has me drawn in for Book 2!

I really liked this. FMC was older but this book showed that just because you are older doesnt mean your life is over (quirky side character/best friend really drives this point home in the best ways). I loved every character and I loved the growth of the FMC, she stumbled but still pick herself back up and it was a great thing to read about.

This was a cozy small town mystery with a some Paranormal thrown in. The twists and turns kept me guessing until the end.

-Older FMC
-Starting over in a new place
-Ghost MMC
-Lumberjack-esque Handyman MMC
-Cozy Small Town
-Paranormal Mystery
-Halloween Ball
-Quirky bestie

I liked this book alot. Highly recommend it! Be prepared to be just as excited about Book 2 as I am!

[Sandra Aranda · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars!!! or in this case 5 old scary books and a banshee!
Let me start off by saying what a joy it was to read such a wonderful book free of editing errors! As a retired Speech-Language Pathologist, and Home Editor myself, reading books with many errors is often very frustrating. This book was pure enjoyment from the cover! No taking me out of my head as I visited this wonderful place.

This book is set in the small town of Bannon Mills in the fall. Think Halloween, pumpkins, warm feelings, nip in the air, and add in ghosts! These are all my favorite things! Dawn Keen, a 42-year-old librarian, has moved here after her recent divorce. She was the Assistant Librarian at a much bigger library yet the joy of working there was tainted by all that had happened in her personal life. Dawn wants a fresh start, to find who she is again, and perhaps some new friends.

When she arrives in Bannon Mills she is still unsure if she is making the right decision. Her self-esteem is in the toilet after the verbal abuse from her ex. Her beloved daughter is a continent away and while she hears from her, Dawn is truly on her own for the first time in a very long time. What is a middle-aged woman to do? Pull on her boots and cardigan and head to the library.

The library in Bannon Mills is very old and statuesque, and in fact it used to be a monastery. It has been around for a very, very long time and been loved by many. When Dawn arrives on her first official day she meets her quirky assistant Mabel Thornwick, or Mae as she prefers. Mae is an older woman and full of stories. Are the stories true or made-up? Who is to know. Yet Dawn quickly finds a true friend in Mae. Dawn also meets a very enchanting gentleman her first day. Suave, debonair, handsome, swoon worthy to the extreme. The problem? He is a ghost! Wait!! She sees him? Yup! Dawn learns that she is the first in a long time that can see Charles Rennick.

Can she handle this? Yet as she ponders this very important question she smells lavender and hears crying, later on wailing. What is that? Well that is Moira Quinn, a young woman who disappeared in the 1940s. Can Dawn handle two ghosts? Will she help Moira pass on before Moira scares everyone away? Oh, and add in save a library that is running out of money and needs fixing?

But WAIT AGAIN! Add in Ethan Callahan. He is a real life human being and he is the handyman in town. Dawn sees him almost daily with everything that needs fixing in the library. Their connection is quick and Dawn is scared to trust if it is real or not. For who could lover her as she is?

READ THIS BOOK! Follow along as Dawn learns a lesson we all need to learn from time to time, to trust her gut and believe she is worthy of being happy AS SHE IS. Read the story of how a small town comes together to save a beloved library, and how Dawn and her new friends help solve the case of Moira. And what of the connection between Charles and Dawn and Dawn and Ethan? Well read and see in this amazing book!

I received a free copy of this book as an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.

AMAZON AVAILABLE 8/24/2026!! https://a.co/d/06BPiHxg
https://sandrabooksbooksbooks.com/

[Tommy Moreau · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you love mystery novels with a touch of fantasy, a female lead, and a few unexpected twists, Books, Banshees, and Beginnings is a wonderful choice.

Life can be difficult, and sometimes those challenges lead us toward an unexpected new chapter. For Dawn, that new chapter begins with a divorce, her daughter moving across the pond, and a move to a new city to take on a new position as head librarian. However, there is one catch Dawn soon discovers: the library is haunted by ghosts.

I really enjoyed following Dawn as she adjusted to her new life and discovered more about the library, its history, and the ghosts who inhabit it. It was especially interesting to see her develop feelings for someone new and navigate those emotions while still finding her footing after her divorce.

One of the things I loved most about this book is how light and enjoyable it is. The story is accessible to a wide range of readers, and the characters are easy to connect with. I found myself relating to them and thinking about people I know in my own life.

As someone who grew up spending a lot of time in libraries, both at school and in my hometown, I especially loved the setting. I would have enjoyed spending time in a library like Red Oaks, particularly with its fascinating history and the secrets it holds.

I also appreciated the way C.L. McClellon develops Dawn as a character. Her story offers a hopeful reminder that, even after experiencing difficult or painful changes, there is always a possibility for a new beginning. Life may come with darkness and challenges, but with the right support, it is possible to overcome those obstacles and accomplish great things—even when taking that first step feels frightening.

By the time I finished the book, I was excited to learn that a second book is coming. I’m definitely looking forward to returning to Dawn’s story and seeing what comes next!

Overall, Books, Banshees, and Beginnings is a charming, lighthearted read with mystery, fantasy, romance, and a wonderful message about starting over. I would recommend it to anyone looking for an entertaining and uplifting story.

[Allison Kay · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a cute, cozy fall mystery!

Dawn is starting over after a divorce and moves from the city to a small town to become the head librarian at the historic Red Oaks Library. I REALLY liked that Dawn is an older FMC who has actually lived some life. It was refreshing to read about a more mature woman starting over and figuring out what she wants next.

She quickly discovers her new library has two pretty big problems: it’s struggling financially…and it’s HAUNTED.

And apparently Dawn can see and hear the ghosts!

There’s Moira, a wailing banshee with a tragic past and a mystery Dawn is determined to solve. Then there’s Charles—the handsome, brooding and charming ghost Dawn finds herself VERY attracted to despite the slight problem that he is, you know…dead.

But we also have Ethan, the very much ALIVE, handsome handyman who has some sadness in his own past.

Handsome ghost or handsome handyman? Decisions, decisions.

I loved following Dawn, her hilarious assistant Mae, Ethan and the rest of the town as they tried to uncover the library’s secrets, help its spirits find peace AND figure out how to save the library itself.

This had such a warm, cozy feeling while still having enough mystery to keep me wanting to know what happened next. I also really enjoyed getting to know Dawn and learning more about her past as she settled into her new life.

“If I was going to lose my grip on reality, I might as well look cute while doing it.” LOVE IT

Books, ghosts, a historic library, small-town characters, a mystery AND a little romance made this such a fun read. This would be perfect to curl up with heading into fall and Halloween.

I’m definitely looking forward to seeing what happens next at Red Oaks Library!

[BookishDogMamaKate · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read Books, Banshees and Beginnings by author C.L. McClellon.

The quaint town of Bannon Mills has a new head librarian at the Red Oaks Library. Dawn Keen has left the city, post divorce, to start a new life. Not what she expected in her early 40s but she is trying to stay positive, make some friends, and build a sense of belonging.

Dawn finds more than she bargained for at her new employment home. A quirky but lovable assistant, an easy on the eyes kind handyman, a classically dressed gentleman ghost and one wailing banshee with baggage. And it’s as if the haunted energy has been patiently waiting for her. If that wasn’t enough…no one said in the interview that library was having financial problems. And wouldn’t you know it…a slimy potential buyer keeps trying to push his way in.

Can Dawn navigate the world on both sides of the curtain, save the library and not get her heart broken?

This is a sweet story that is cozy and mysterious. It weaves humor, emotional complicated feels, and a sense of suspense throughout. I love that the female main character is over 40 with true to life insecurities. The other characters are easy to invest in. The fall atmosphere is all around.

It’s the perfectly pleasant read for a breezy pre-Halloween day with some cider, a powdered donut and a fuzzy soft blanket.

Definitely recommend.

I received an advanced reader copy from the author. This is my voluntary and honest review.

[Leah Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't know about you, but this book is my dream life. Leave everything behind, move to a quiet cottage in the middle of nowhere and work at a library. This is exactly what Dawn ends up doing. She is looking for some peace and quiet, and a place to start over. What she doesn't realize is that the library she is going to work at is actually haunted. I absolutely love the Dawn and how she embodies an older woman starting her life over.

While working in the library, she meets Mae, who has so many fun stories to share along the way. She has a copious amount of ex-husbands, and the memories Mae has will make you laugh, through the sadness that seems to be at the backdrop of the Red Oaks library. There seems to be a story for anything that Mae and Dawn deal with.

Of course you cannot have a book with ghost, and not have a mystery to go along with it. The ghosts within the walls of the library carry so much sadness along with their stories, it gives the book another side to it, not just a cozy mystery. "Red Oaks was built on layers of memory and emotion. Maybe that’s why the spirits come here, and maybe that’s why they stay.” If you love a small town cozy mystery, with ghosts and maybe some love along the way, this is a must read!

[Sandy Nelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book immediately drew me into its world with an engaging mystery and intriguing storytelling. From the opening pages, the author captures your attention and maintains a steady pace that keeps you invested until the very end and so involved in the character’ journey and eager to uncover the truth.

The novel is well written, with a storyline that consistently builds suspense and encourages readers to keep turning the pages. The mystery unfolding within the library is particularly captivating, creating a sense of curiosity and excitement as the characters search for answers. The small-town setting feels authentic and familiar, adding warmth and charm while enhancing the intrigue surrounding the unfolding events. This book is hard to put down.

The satisfying blend of mystery, suspense, and small-town charm creates a memorable experience, and the ending inspires excitement for the continuation of the series. If you enjoy paranormal mysteries with likable characters and immersive settings will likely find themselves looking forward to this book and when completed looking forward to the second book.

[Elanda Birch · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a cute, cozy fall mystery. With just a hint of ghostly hauntings! Our FMC has a new job as a librarian in the Red Oaks Library. I liked that she was older, and had some experience in life, more mature. It's refreshing to read a book with a nice, older FMC. This library has been around for a long time, and has a rich history. This history comes to life for our FMC, in the shape of ghosts! That she can see and hear. There is the brooding and handsome Charles, who she can't stop having feelings for even though he is is non-corporal. Then there is Moira, the wailing ghost with a tragic past. While trying to solve the mystery of Moira, Dawn enlists the help of a strapping handyman Ethan, whose past is also full of sadness. Will she solve the mystery of the library? Will she be able to choose between the handsome ghost and the strapping handyman? This book was so much fun to read and I enjoyed myself thoroughly. It did seem to slow down in places, but all in all, it was a solid read. 3.75 stars from me.

[roo reads here · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dawn moves herself from the city to an old town following her divorce, taking the job as head librarian. However as she starts her new job, she finds out the library is financially struggling, and it’s also haunted. Mainly a charming man and a banshee have unfinished business, and Dawn might be the only one who can help them. With the help of her assistant Mae, and handyman Ethan, and a committee trying to help them save the library, they unlock secrets and try to help the spirits find peace.

This book gave a warm cosy feeling, an ideal read as we head towards Fall and Halloween. It had me gripped and every chapter had me wanting to find out more about Dawn as she found herself, the ghosts and their stories - and Mae who was a funny character. I enjoyed the way the book flowed and it was an easy read. I look forward to the next one.

I read this book as an ARC, and this is my own personal and honest review.

[Stephanie Nelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’re looking for Halloweentown meets cozy soft-blanket vibes, this is the book for you!

Dawn has some spunk and she’s going to need it to deal with permanent residents she’s found in the library.

Being the newest Librarian in Bannon Mills she quickly learns there’s more to this place than what meets the eye. Which I think is also true about Dawn since getting divorced and starting fresh. It’s more about discovering who she is NOW after the divorce than rediscovering herself.

And umm..I mean the cute handyman in town doesn’t hurt either.

I was sucked in by the second or third paragraph and felt like the author took us on a journey with her throughout Bannon Mills with the final stop being the Red Oaks Library.

Man, I love it there!!

[Ingrid Gail · Rating 5 out of 5]

First book in a new series by a new (to me) author.

Favorite quote: “If I was going to lose my grip on reality, I might as well look cute while doing it.”

The writing pulled me in from the start. It is very well written and I loved the deep dive into Dawn's character and past as well as the extensive descriptions of her new home and the people who live there.

I loved the growth Dawn is going through in the book and I felt myself rooting for her and cheering her on. That to me says: great writing!

The mysteries are an ongoing red thread throughout the book and it kept me engrossed in wanting to find out more and more!
I hope for many more books in this series and I will surely want to read them!

[L.M. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dawn is a 40-something divorcee that moves to the quaint town of Bannon Mills and starts a job as the new librarian. Of course it’s not just any old regular library. This one has ghosts, and Dawn can see them and communicate with them. In this charming and cleverly crafted story, we get to meet a slew of various characters. Mae, a fellow librarian and quirky friend. Ethan, a cute local handyman. Judith, the local retired principal. And the ghosts, Charles and Moira. The characters are endearing and relatable.
Together, they form a plan to help the library financially. What ensues is a cozy, mysterious and delightful story! I highly recommend this book. It’s a perfect Fall read 🍂

**Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read this ARC**

[Demi · Rating 5 out of 5]

“This book wraps you in its story and doesn’t let go and neither do the library's permanent tenants” I stepped into this little town, through the library doors and didn't want to leave! This story has everything! The twists, some romance, mystery, history, found family, and and such a fun FMC! She is spunky and determined! It's a must Read!! I could say so much more, but without spoilers I will say don't hesitate!!
I can't wait for the next!!

This story is well written, and I loved the pov!

Well Done!

[Jasmine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review of an advanced copy received by the author.

This was such an enjoyable read. I was immediately sucked into the story and loved the characters. Dawn Keen is a recently divorced 42 year old librarian starting over in a small town. She quickly discovers that her new library is haunted with mysteries to uncover. Dawn builds new friendships as she helps to save the library from being sold while also figuring out the story behind the wailing banshee of a ghost of Moira. I would definitely recommend reading Books, Banshees, and Beginnings.

[Katie Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wonderful quick mystery that pulls you in from the beginning. Dawn is starting over after a divorce and finds more than friends when she starts her job as head librarian. A couple of ghosts get her attention on very different ways and the paranormal mysteries just keep going. A read an early copy and really enjoyed getting to know all the characters in this small town.

I highly recommend this read and look forward to the next one!

[Samantha Goodholm · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author captured my attention from the very first chapter. By chapter 2, I couldn't put it down. The descriptive writing was captivating and I could picture every detail of the library. I can not wait for more books from this series

[Emma Frost · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this book on a Facebook ARC page and I’m so glad I did cause this book grabs you from the start and keeps you guessing until the end, the characters are very believable even the supernatural ones! I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.

[Raminta · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's a fun paranormal mystery and a good opening to the series. There is always something cooking, and you never know what twist is coming. The set up works, and while it took me a bit to get into it, it's an intriguing short read.

[Zoe Vosper · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it! 5 stars and I’d give more if I could. I was wrapped up like a cosy blanket in this story. Love, found family and a library, what more could you want. I felt like I was in red oaks and could smell the floorboards and the coffee. I want to go back there immediately!!

[Sarah Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ohhh how I’ve fallen in love with Red Oaks Library! And Mae, I want to be her friend so badly! Such a good story that kept the pages turning. Can’t wait for the next book to find out what else happens in Bannon Mills

[ALYSA HORSMAN · Rating 5 out of 5]

All Dawn wanted was a new beginning. One of peace, books and no worries. But that would not be in her new home town.

As Dawn starts her new job at the local library, things become a little spooky in ways no one has been able to solve. Dawn sets out to figure out what happens while helping to save the library.

Follow Dawn and her friends as they work to save the libray and she works an unsolved mystery of a missing worker.

[Brianne Sisk · Rating 5 out of 5]

Books, Banshees & Beginnings was such a cozy, spooky read. As someone who always dreamed of being a librarian, I loved the library setting, the found family, and the atmosphere of this story.

I wasn’t rushing to finish it or dying to find out what happened next. I just really enjoyed sitting with it and getting lost in the plot and the vibes, which made it such an easy, feel-good read.

I’m definitely curious to see where the love triangle goes in the next book, although there is one character I’m keeping my eye on! Overall, this was a solid five stars for me and a book I can see myself coming back to. Definitely one I’d recommend for a cozy fall read.

[Naomi kimbrell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is truly amazing.  This is a fun book about someone starting a new part of their life and really getting a new beginning.   Not the one she thought she would get, but the one she needed.  This is a story of love, heart break, healing, ghosts, found family and mystery.  It kept me wanting to read to see what would happen next and I was not disappointed.  This book has no spice and it and would be a fun read for all ages, but especially the middle age ladies out there.  I am excited to see what the book has in store.