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Life in Heron Creek is looking up for Graciela Harper, despite the fact that every ghost within a fifty mile radius seems intent on sticking to her like glue - and not the weak Elmer's kind, either But with a sexy boyfriend, her old friends back in her life, and a great job prospect at one of the oldest plantations in the country, it's hard to complain...even if her new boss is said boyfriend's mother.

It doesn't stay uncomplicated for long as not one ghost, but two show up at Drayton Hall. One wants closure, which Gracie thinks she can handle, but the other seems to know more than she should about the centuries old voodoo curse on Gracie's own family.

As she digs deeper into the past of not only the plantation grounds, but Beau's family tree, surprising secrets claw their way to the surface. With Mrs. Drayton breathing down her neck, a shift in her abilities, Amelia's custody case taking a turn for the worse, and the sudden appearance of her decidedly not dead father, Gracie has her hands full.

She might be able to tackle all of those things with the help of a friend or two—some breathing, some not—but there’s one crossroads Gracie doesn’t see coming. It’s the choice between family and romance, and she’s not the only one being forced to make it.

Unknown Binding

First published August 14, 2015

27 people are currently reading
140 people want to read

About the author

Lyla Payne

39 books855 followers
I've been publishing New Adult romance novels for a little over a year, starting with Broken at Love and continuing with the rest of the Whitman University series. I adore telling stories, discovering the little reasons people fall in love, and uncovering hidden truths in the world around us – past and present.

In my spare time I cuddle my two dogs, pretend to enjoy exercising so that I can eat as much Chipotle as I want, and harbor a deep and abiding hope that Zac Efron likes older women. I loves reading, of course, along with movies, traveling, and Irish whiskey.

I'm hard at work, ALWAYS, and hope to bring you more Whitman University antics and at least one more Lowcountry ghost tale before the end of the year.

If you want to know more, please visit me at http://lylapayne.com

If you’re a fan of Young Adult fiction—science fiction or otherwise—please check out my work that’s published under the name Trisha Leigh. http://trishaleigh.com


I'm represented by Kathleen Rushall at Marsal Lyon Literary Agency.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
Profile Image for Jamie Davis.
91 reviews27 followers
November 11, 2015
One More Reason to Love Lowcountry

I can’t get enough Gracie and Lowcountry! The mere mention of an upcoming Lowcountry book has me impatiently anticipating until the day I flip that first page open on my iPad! Not Quite Gone is no exception, and I thoroughly enjoyed every turn of the page and every new chapter! It was so hard to put down, and I found myself thinking about the story even when I had to step away.

Lyla has such a fantastic way of continuing this story with new storylines while letting you spend time with old favorites like Henry Woodward! Gracie’s newest ghost is anything but predictable, and the mystery surrounding her death is ANYTHING but predictable. I love the mix of historical details along with fiction that Lowcountry brings. I can’t help but fall in love with the Charleston area simply through the details that come with each book.

Gracie’s work with Beau’s mother brings an entirely new set of problems, and Cordelia Drayton is no one to be trifled with. While she’s one of those characters you love to root against, you can’t help but wonder what makes her be so cold and driven.

I was excited for the added element of learning more about Gracie’s origins and love watching Gracie grow as she learns to accept her role with the ghosts as part of who she is. Working with Daria is sure to continue expanding her abilities, and I can’t wait to see what trouble they get into together!
Lyla’s books are always full of great quotes and phrases that make you stop and say, “HEY! ME TOO!” And Gracie, Beau, Leo, Amelia, Dylan, Henry, Dara … they can all relate to this quote: “People always have secrets, no matter how much they want to believe they don’t …” Gracie’s stories will ALWAYS be a favorite of mine, and I can’t wait to see where Lyla takes us next!
Profile Image for Wendy.
2,371 reviews45 followers
August 24, 2015
"Not Quite Gone" the fourth book in the fascinating "Lowcountry" series begins when Gracie Harper accepts a job archiving historical family records at Drayton Hall. A magnet for any ghost within a fifty mile radius Gracie stumbles onto the apparition of a ghostly fourteen year old girl with a noose around her neck on the estate grounds where she supposedly committed suicide years before. Digging into Nanette Robbins' past to bring her peace not only uncovers a connection to Brick Drayton but into conflict with Cordelia Drayton , a woman who will do anything to protect her family even if that means destroying Gracie and her friends and family.

Threads of this well-written paranormal mystery not only follow Gracie's stubborn determination to unravel the mystery of Nanette's death, the sudden emergence of her father, but also her struggle to put the family curse to rest. In descriptive detail Lyla Payne brings the Lowcountry to life especially Draydon Hall and the surrounding landscape. The mood is dark and uncertain especially as Gracie not only has to grapple with temperamental spirits, severe pressure on her romance, the volatility of Amelia's custody case but also the instability of her friends' lives. Only humor and witty banter break the tension as the emotional-intensity escalates.

The plot with its multiple twists and turns is a page turner from beginning to the end. And just when you think all the threads of the plot converge, the novel climaxes in a startling ending that begs for another chapter in Gracie's ghost hunts.

Like the plot the characters are well-developed and complex as they confront all the troubles that threaten to ensnare them. Graciela Harper the archivist trying to find herself after a messy breakup that prompted her return to Heron Creek is family-oriented, loyal, sensible and positive about the changes in her life. Handsome, sexy Beau Drayton the local mayor is a listener and an anchor for Gracie with his calm demeanor and level-headedness. Although they love each other, troubles and secrets in the Drayton family may cost them their relationship.

Of the other personalities that add to the passion, depth and suspense of the story Amelia Cooper is Gracie's insecure, anxious cousin; Leo her curious, astute and adventurous friend; Daria an eccentric ghost-chaser; Jenna a young, precocious preservationist; and Brick Drayton who hides the pain of his past behind arrogance and disdain. Yet of all the characters it is the ruthless and conniving bully Cordelia Drayton who adds a chill to the unfolding drama as she uses her power and influence to get what she wants and doesn't care who's hurt in the crossfire.

I thoroughly enjoyed "Not Quite Gone" as Gracie faces a decision that places her family and her romance in danger.
Profile Image for Melanie.
570 reviews16 followers
October 18, 2019
I was drawn in with this book and the ending leaves you hanging on so I felt I had to immediately download book 5.

Profile Image for Iza Brekilien.
1,579 reviews131 followers
October 23, 2015
Reviewed for http://theereaderjunkie.wordpress.com

Oh wow ! Now I'm anxiously waiting for the 27th, I need to know what's next ! This is an addictive series whose quality doesn't waiver one. single. bit.

I'm always happy to go back to Lowcountry and Gracie's friends and family - I know, I'm repeating myself. I love all the characters - well, except for the nosy neighbor/library patron and Amelia Drayton. Could Amelia be the next person you'll love to hate after reading this ? Nah, you'll just hate her, period, she's a major manipulative bitch. Brick, on the other hand, you won't hate as much as you previously did. Did I really see some evolution in how Leo behaves with Gracie ? Gracie, who not only still has to manage to break the family curse, but also finds a way to gain some control over her abilities, finally gets to meet her father who has some major news to break to her, has to deal with two ghosts - including one really scary, and must find out how to react with an old mystery that might have repercussions on her, her family and her friends, via the Drayton family... Poor Gracie, she really has a lot on her plate ! But she faces it with wit and bravery.

Just like always, I devoured this novel. There's a lot happening in there, new problems arising on top of the old problems, and Gracie has to consider what to make of her future. You can never get bored while reading this. Lowcountry mysteries reminds me why I used to raid freebies at one time, book #1 was for free and that's how I discovered it : I never regretted it !

Highly recommended series ! And counting the days until the 27th...
Profile Image for Beth.
38 reviews1 follower
August 11, 2015
This series just keeps getting better and better....by leaps and bounds. This installment in the Lowcountry Mysteries is by far my favorite! This book is a pager turner, you do not want to pass it up! First, we have our whole host of characters back from previous books, including Henry Woodward, that ghost just loves hanging around. Plus we have some new folks who play into the storyline quite a bit, including Daria - Gracie's paranormal mentor and Cordelia Drayton - Beau's mom and Gracie's boss. Daria is one interesting character and she really helps Gracie understand more about her "gift" and how to use it more effectively...they get caught up in some interesting predicaments for sure. You do not want to get on the wrong side of Cordelia Drayton, she's one powerful woman and can inflict some serious repercussions so you know Gracie's interactions with her will be nothing short of dramatic. Of course there are new ghosts - that's right, plural! The ghosts in this book both have ties to the Drayton family, one is a sad tale of a young girl, while the other is one who can have a powerful impact as the story continues. We also meet Gracie's dad, who helps her to learn more about herself, but Gracie does a lot of growing on her own and discovers her gift can grow and evolve along with her relationships and life in Heron Creek. I enjoyed the interactions with Amelia, Leo, Melanie, Dylan, Brick, and of course Clete...it's all shaping up to be an exciting continuation of the story in the next installment. I cannot wait!
109 reviews
December 26, 2017
Read the novella before you read this one

I picked this up and started reading, only to find that I was missing chunks of detail. Sure enough, there is a novella that you need to read before starting this book, so I stopped reading this to buy and read it first. Then it made way more sense. I wish the novella (there may be another one in the series, not sure) was mentioned in the list of books in this series. In any case, I’m off to buy the next book...
168 reviews
April 20, 2023
Loved it! The story line for this book answers more questions of the uppity Drayton clan. Words and content wasn’t wasted. I love books that get to the point and doesn’t add in fluff just to make it longer. I could do without the semi clean sex scene since that has nothing to do with my taste in books. Lyla does keep it short and sweet so it’s easy to go through. I’ve been to a few of the locations in this story which makes all the more interesting! On to book 5!
34 reviews
May 24, 2021
You would think that by book 4 the series would be wrapping up. However, the character development seems to be unraveling more and more, like peeling an onion. There are so many layers to each character. The back stories, the ghosts, the scenery the author paints, all keep me wanting more of this series.
Profile Image for Jess Conley.
215 reviews
July 16, 2022
What a story

This book is my favorite so far. I really get VC Andrews vibes from the writing and I just love it. This would make such a good tv show! I'm so invested in Graciela Harper.
12 reviews
August 7, 2022
Great series

I stumbled upon this series and I'm so glad I did. They have all the elements I like to read about...history, mystery, ghost and a little romance.
Profile Image for Lisa Shower.
665 reviews5 followers
Read
December 10, 2022
Fast pacedm

This series has some unusual aspects but it grabs you from the start and does not let go. Fun read!
Profile Image for Bonnie.
234 reviews8 followers
April 23, 2016
I originally read this title nearly six months ago. I've just re-read it since there's going to be a new release in less than a week.

At one point Gracie Harper says she feels depleted. That's about how I feel for her. Lyla Payne does a wonderful job of pulling you in and making you feel what her characters feel. Each installment of this Low Country Mystery series seems to get heavier. More laden with stress, grief, and despair. I know there's a light at the end of the tunnel, and so far it's been a crazy journey!

Cordelia rates VERY high on my list of fictitious characters I despise. She's as wicked as high-class money can get. Brick is a character I never expected to somewhat like, but I do. Lyla managed to make him a little more human. Do I trust him? No. Do I feel just a little bit sorry for him? Yes. Nan's story was completely heart wrenching. There's not much else I can say on her without divulging spoilers.

I thoroughly enjoyed seeing Gracie begin to take control of her abilities. The best has yet to come. Daria is a fascinating character and I really want to learn more about her. I don't trust her one iota. Beau? He's too perfect, and he and Gracie are entirely too over the top. I suppose that's what makes them so much fun to read. I'm actually sad for Gracie and Beau and where they leave off.

Finally, the curse: The ending left me wanting so much more. Is there really a resolution? It'll be fascinating to see where it goes. I loved that this installment's mysteries weren't entirely random. Everything is connected and I can't wait to see how! *****FIVE STARS*****
Profile Image for Sandra Lancaster.
335 reviews
August 30, 2015
My FAVORITE of the series so far!! I loved how Gracie is learning to accept her ghost seeing ability and wanting to use it to help. She is a strong woman who stands up for what she believes is right and those she loves and that is put to the test in this book. I loved how she handled everything in the end.

This book encompases all emotions. There is drama, humor, love and suspense. Lyla is an excellent writer, who draws the reader in and makes you feel what the characters are going through. I want to know are her and Beau going to make it??? I can feel the love they have and I love how supportive Beau is about the whole ghost seeing thing. But there sure seems to be a lot of obstacles between them. I'll be impatiently waiting for the next book to find out.

The cliffhanger ending had me gasping. I hope October gets here fast so I can find out what happens next.

I highly recommend you read this series, you will not be disappointed.
Profile Image for Kelly Mccurdy.
899 reviews38 followers
August 8, 2015
*****YOU NEED TO READ QUITE CURIOUS BEFORE YOU READ THIS ONE*****!

~~I received this in exchange for my honest opinion~~

Where do I even begin!! Lyla has written genius in the book. I know that doesn't make sense, but once you read this book, you too, will say the same thing! In this book Gracie has an unexpected visitor. She doesn't know what to believe. Gracie is up to her old ghost seeing antics again, only this time, she has a little help from a new friend. Beau and her have a tough road ahead, the road leads to trouble in paradise. Can Beau and Gracie make it through?

Lyla is a genius, I know I said that before, but the way that she writes this book, this series, she makes what she writes genius! Get this book now!!!
Profile Image for little 'ole me.
250 reviews4 followers
August 18, 2015
I seriously cannot get enough of Graciela and her pals. I love how Lyla Payne can set the series and with the paranormal featuring so heavily but not so much it becomes unbelievable. I can't wait to read Low country no 5, can Gracie and Beau survive with their very different upbringing s always lurking in the background of their relationship. not forgetting the curse of the male line and finding out what Gracie will have to sacrifice in order to keep her nephew living past 13yrs. the introduction of her newly confirmed father is also not a coincidence especially as everyone seems to already know who he is! these are all enthralling threads I can't wait to see develop.
Profile Image for Elisa.
3,231 reviews44 followers
June 2, 2016
Oh my, Powerful is my word for this book. Another Gracie triumph in a really well written masterpiece with a pointed message on teen suicide and depression that really hits the mark for me.
Gracie is coming into her own more and more, I am delighted to have a new book heroine and even though I'm sure Gracie would argue that she is no heroine, to me she is because of her unfailing loyalty to those she loves and the ghosts who ask for her help, Gracie is an inspiring character, one I can't wait to know better.
Profile Image for Ashlee Lau.
244 reviews
August 18, 2015
This is the 4th book in the series, and picks right up. The story is well written, and while it has many plot lines intersecting, it never becomes confusing or overwhelming. It will have you going through every emotion possible - laughing, crying, worried, angry, even slightly indignant. You will be on the edge of your seat, anxious to turn the next page and see what happens next....and it will leave you wanting more!
Profile Image for Jenn.
288 reviews
August 10, 2015
I truly love this series. It is as simple as that. I love the characters, the setting, the mystery, all of it. This was the most intense book so far and I was on the edge of my seat the entire way through. I cannot wait to see what is yet to come for Gracie in the next book.

* I received and ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for Teresa Sambrook.
133 reviews3 followers
February 28, 2016
Oh My Goodness! This book has me even more pulled into Gracie's world. The Dayton World? Um... Mrs. Dayton has a few things to say about that. Beau and Gracie turning out to be star crossed lovers or soul mates?

I love way Lyla pulls history into these novels. Ancestry, ghosts, curses, and dark secrets all mixed together in this series! I'm completely hooked and ready to read the next one!
Profile Image for Kandy.
262 reviews4 followers
March 9, 2016
Oh for peats sake!! This one takes the entire cake!!! It had me so on edge, routing for Travis and Millie, Hoping for Will and Mel!! I was laughing at Gracie's smart mouth and crying at the sheer emotion that she feels, her own or otherwise!!! What a griping story line and flow continuing with the series!! Well done!!
Profile Image for Stella Kiel.
99 reviews
August 24, 2015
Oh Man... October, really! I'm being very greedy and mean, I know, but I want more right now! I very much enjoyed Not Quite Gone and can not wait until the next book comes out. Thank you Lyla for taking me away into the world of Gracie and her life. I'm very much hooked :-)
18 reviews1 follower
Read
August 31, 2015
Such great characters whom I LOVE

I love Gracie and all her friends in Heron Creek. This installment introduced some new faces and developed some old ones. The writing is easy and enjoyable! I loved these books!!
Profile Image for Bailie.
17 reviews
November 7, 2015
Prefect! that's what this book was! Thrilled for Gracie to be seeing more of Beau's family, but not too happy with how they are with her. Love this series, can't wait to read the 5th book, and am hoping for a 6th. Everyone should read this series, there is nothing not to love about it!
Profile Image for Brandy Barber.
969 reviews23 followers
November 17, 2019
This is the best

I always love a Lowcountry book. Being from SC I now want to go to all the places in the book. I think these books have just enough scare to keep a light on when reading. Never disappointed
665 reviews
August 14, 2016
The stories in this series keep getting better. Gracie stills doesn't make the smartest decisions , but she seems to think a little more about the consequences before she jumps in. I am happy to find out that there are more books in this series. Love this low country series. Keep them coming Lyla!!
Profile Image for CM.
119 reviews1 follower
June 11, 2016
Holy smoke and mirrors!
When I started this series it was interesting but not really, I even thought to cancel. Oh I would have done a grave mistake. The story has evolved a lot and the writing is oh so much better!
Fantastic read, really.
Profile Image for Kelly Williams.
244 reviews1 follower
June 14, 2016
So much turmoil..yet I can't put it down. Love it when a series keeps me guessing. Book 5 is going to be an interesting mix of choices for Graciela. I see where it's going and it's making me sad!!
Profile Image for Barbara.
82 reviews
September 14, 2015
Another cliffhanger...I will definitely be reading the next one when it is released in October 2015. I usually get tired of a book series by now, but this one is pretty entertaining.
Profile Image for Cecelia.
7 reviews
September 28, 2015
I really enjoyed it. it had a couple of surprises in it but very good reading.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews

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