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The Ghost Files #3
The Ghost Files 3
This is an alternate cover edition ISBN: 1499393946 (ISBN13: 9781499393941)
One, two, the ghosts are coming for you…
Three, four, better salt your door…
Five, six, death and hatred mix…
Seven, eight, help will come too late…
Nine, ten, never reap again…
Seventeen year old, Mattie Hathaway, has enough on her plate without having to deal with the latest teenage ghost drama. The ghosts of eight murdered girls are out for her blood. They blame Mattie for their deaths. She has to figure out what happened to them before they make sure she ends up just like them…dead and angry.
Not only that, but she has to face the greatest fear of her young life, the death of the only person she’s ever loved. Can she let nature take its course or will she interfere and cause the balance of life and death to spiral out of control?
She’s out of time, and doesn’t know if she should trust Silas, the demon who has taken a very disturbing interest in her or her father, a man just as evil as Silas.
Either way, she has to make a choice. But what will it cost her and those she loves?
One, two, the ghosts are coming for you…
Three, four, better salt your door…
Five, six, death and hatred mix…
Seven, eight, help will come too late…
Nine, ten, never reap again…
Seventeen year old, Mattie Hathaway, has enough on her plate without having to deal with the latest teenage ghost drama. The ghosts of eight murdered girls are out for her blood. They blame Mattie for their deaths. She has to figure out what happened to them before they make sure she ends up just like them…dead and angry.
Not only that, but she has to face the greatest fear of her young life, the death of the only person she’s ever loved. Can she let nature take its course or will she interfere and cause the balance of life and death to spiral out of control?
She’s out of time, and doesn’t know if she should trust Silas, the demon who has taken a very disturbing interest in her or her father, a man just as evil as Silas.
Either way, she has to make a choice. But what will it cost her and those she loves?
360 pages, Paperback
First published June 9, 2014
378 people are currently reading
1345 people want to read
About the author
Apryl Baker
79 books1,826 followersSo who am I? Well, I'm the crazy girl with an imagination that never shuts up. I LOVE scary movies. My friends laugh at me when I scare myself watching them and tell me to stop watching them, but who doesn't love to get scared? I grew up in a small town nestled in the southern mountains of West Virginia where I spent days roaming around in the woods, climbing trees, and causing general mayhem. Nights I would stay up reading Nancy Drew by flashlight under the covers until my parents yelled at me to go to sleep.
Growing up in a small town, I learned a lot of values and morals, I also learned parents have spies everywhere and there's always someone to tell your mama on you. So when you get grounded, what is there left to do? Read! My Aunt Jo gave me my first real romance novel. It was a romance titled "Lord Margrave's Deception." I remember it fondly. But I also learned I had a deep and abiding love of mysteries and anything paranormal. As I grew up, I started to write just that and would entertain my friends with stories featuring them as main characters.
Now, I live Huntersville, NC where I entertain my family and watch the cats get teased by the birds and laugh myself silly when they swoop down and then dive back up just out of reach. The cats start yelling something fierce...lol.
I love books, I love writing books, and I love entertaining people with my silly stories.
You can reach me at any of these places:
Blog: http://apryl-baker.blogspot.com/
Twitter:@AprylBaker
The Promise Book Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YO2zTi...
PS: DO NOT GET IN MY WAY IF THERE IS A SALE ON AT TARGET - my home away from home!
Growing up in a small town, I learned a lot of values and morals, I also learned parents have spies everywhere and there's always someone to tell your mama on you. So when you get grounded, what is there left to do? Read! My Aunt Jo gave me my first real romance novel. It was a romance titled "Lord Margrave's Deception." I remember it fondly. But I also learned I had a deep and abiding love of mysteries and anything paranormal. As I grew up, I started to write just that and would entertain my friends with stories featuring them as main characters.
Now, I live Huntersville, NC where I entertain my family and watch the cats get teased by the birds and laugh myself silly when they swoop down and then dive back up just out of reach. The cats start yelling something fierce...lol.
I love books, I love writing books, and I love entertaining people with my silly stories.
You can reach me at any of these places:
Blog: http://apryl-baker.blogspot.com/
Twitter:@AprylBaker
The Promise Book Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YO2zTi...
PS: DO NOT GET IN MY WAY IF THERE IS A SALE ON AT TARGET - my home away from home!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 305 reviews
November 20, 2014
I will be anxiously awaiting book 4 of this series.
I truly could not put down these books once I started reading. Starting with page one, I develop relationships with the characters. I felt as if I were part of the story, but more than that, I felt as if I became a part of Matties family. I read all three books in two days and now feel the emptiness of having to wait for the next chapter in the lives of the characters I have come to love and those I've come to hate. I'm the type of reader that becomes emotionally involved with the books I read when they are well written and have a good plot. It's as if I'm actually there and experiencing the story with them. This will definitely be a series I read more than once and I would recommend it to anyone I know that loves to read this genre of books. Thank you for bringing this story and these characters to life and please hurry with the next installment so I can get my fix!
I truly could not put down these books once I started reading. Starting with page one, I develop relationships with the characters. I felt as if I were part of the story, but more than that, I felt as if I became a part of Matties family. I read all three books in two days and now feel the emptiness of having to wait for the next chapter in the lives of the characters I have come to love and those I've come to hate. I'm the type of reader that becomes emotionally involved with the books I read when they are well written and have a good plot. It's as if I'm actually there and experiencing the story with them. This will definitely be a series I read more than once and I would recommend it to anyone I know that loves to read this genre of books. Thank you for bringing this story and these characters to life and please hurry with the next installment so I can get my fix!
November 7, 2014
OMG good read!!!! BUT I hate when the ending leaves you hanging!!! I got over being mad with officer Dan because now I believe him and Mattie have a totally different relationship they still aren't aware of! This is a series you need to read in order, very much worth it!!!!! :-)
February 17, 2018
HIGHLY ADDICTIVE AND HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
"Secrets tend to get found out no matter how hard you try to hide them."
-Officer Dan
+When I first read this story (book 1 in wattpad) I got this feeling!
LOL IT was awesome! I didn't expect it to be this great, I love the plot storyline! Fast read, page-turner! I like how the characters are bonded, and developed their skills throughout the story.
+These series is perfect! It made me laugh, sad and everything in between. Mixed emotions. I even had nightmares! It affects me in a way I didn't expect it to be.
+The series keeps getting better and better! The only thing I didn't really like about the story is Mattie's always hurting and crying, redundantly, sometimes it feels annoying, LOL
+The ending is extravagant, It left me hanging! Urgggh, resulting of wanting more from Ms. Baker! I can't wait to read the book 4! Of course the MOVIE or SERIES! :) Yayy!
+There's nothing more I can say about the book! I highly recommend these series to everyone!
"Secrets tend to get found out no matter how hard you try to hide them."
-Officer Dan
+When I first read this story (book 1 in wattpad) I got this feeling!
LOL IT was awesome! I didn't expect it to be this great, I love the plot storyline! Fast read, page-turner! I like how the characters are bonded, and developed their skills throughout the story.
+These series is perfect! It made me laugh, sad and everything in between. Mixed emotions. I even had nightmares! It affects me in a way I didn't expect it to be.
+The series keeps getting better and better! The only thing I didn't really like about the story is Mattie's always hurting and crying, redundantly, sometimes it feels annoying, LOL
+The ending is extravagant, It left me hanging! Urgggh, resulting of wanting more from Ms. Baker! I can't wait to read the book 4! Of course the MOVIE or SERIES! :) Yayy!
+There's nothing more I can say about the book! I highly recommend these series to everyone!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 3, 2019
How does this series keep getting better and better??!?!?! There was so much jam packed into this book that the end yet again caught me off guard and the cliff-hanger has my dying (no pun intended) for the next book. Time will tell where it all does. I am so invested in this story now I cannot wait to see where it all goes, the author continually manages to surprise me. Usually the amount of drama in this series is too much for me but damn if the circumstances and paranormal aspects doesn't make it all the more fascinating and un-put-downable.
July 5, 2015
This might sound really dumb, but I'm still shocked by how good Apryl Baker's The Ghost Files series is. I was hooked from the very first page of the first book and that "hooked" sensation has definitely stuck around through my reading of this third installment in the series.
Although these books have their fair share of annoyances (especially this third one as the plot morphed and deepened in ways that I'm afraid could turn cheesy), there is something about them that really appeals to me. Mattie as a main character can be immensely immature and a bit of a cocky delinquent, but at the same time I really like her. When a book series has a main character for whom I, as the reader, want to protect and see happy, it is easy to become really invested in the story. As is explained in the first book, when she was four, Mattie's mother brutally stabbed her eight times before she took her own life. This brush with death gave Mattie the ability to see and communicate with spirits and she spent her childhood in loveless foster homes, pretending she couldn't see the dead souls begging for her help. In The Ghost Files 3, Mattie delves deeper into this horrific story and I felt myself opening up to her character's feisty attitude all over again.
I won't go into details about what happens in this particular book, but as I mentioned before, the plot continued to thicken as other entities and forces came into play (if you want to know, READ IT! For your sake of course). There is still a murder-mystery and plenty of vividly described ghosts of mutilated teenage girls who got too close to a serial killer. I wouldn't say this is a "scary" series, but there were plenty of times that I found myself looking over my shoulder. I also enjoyed the further development of a romance for Mattie and look forward to seeing where it leads. As far as the plot twists, I think if you enjoyed The Mortal Instruments, you should be open to the idea here. As I mentioned before, I am a little worried it could get cheesy, but I think that with Apryl's writing style, the future books of the series will be every bit as addictive as the previous ones.
☆☆☆☆
Although these books have their fair share of annoyances (especially this third one as the plot morphed and deepened in ways that I'm afraid could turn cheesy), there is something about them that really appeals to me. Mattie as a main character can be immensely immature and a bit of a cocky delinquent, but at the same time I really like her. When a book series has a main character for whom I, as the reader, want to protect and see happy, it is easy to become really invested in the story. As is explained in the first book, when she was four, Mattie's mother brutally stabbed her eight times before she took her own life. This brush with death gave Mattie the ability to see and communicate with spirits and she spent her childhood in loveless foster homes, pretending she couldn't see the dead souls begging for her help. In The Ghost Files 3, Mattie delves deeper into this horrific story and I felt myself opening up to her character's feisty attitude all over again.
I won't go into details about what happens in this particular book, but as I mentioned before, the plot continued to thicken as other entities and forces came into play (if you want to know, READ IT! For your sake of course). There is still a murder-mystery and plenty of vividly described ghosts of mutilated teenage girls who got too close to a serial killer. I wouldn't say this is a "scary" series, but there were plenty of times that I found myself looking over my shoulder. I also enjoyed the further development of a romance for Mattie and look forward to seeing where it leads. As far as the plot twists, I think if you enjoyed The Mortal Instruments, you should be open to the idea here. As I mentioned before, I am a little worried it could get cheesy, but I think that with Apryl's writing style, the future books of the series will be every bit as addictive as the previous ones.
☆☆☆☆
August 26, 2015
First, HOLD THE F UP
THERE'S GOING TO BE A TGF MOVIE????
I read the acknowledgements of this book (partially..) and just
*breathes heavily*
Alright..
Damn, Baker, why must you end with cliffhangers? Is it really that necessary?
It's no secret that I love this series, and I can't freaking wait for V4!
Is the date already clear? X3
THERE'S GOING TO BE A TGF MOVIE????
I read the acknowledgements of this book (partially..) and just
*breathes heavily*
Alright..
Damn, Baker, why must you end with cliffhangers? Is it really that necessary?
It's no secret that I love this series, and I can't freaking wait for V4!
Is the date already clear? X3
December 7, 2019
Okay another sick and twisted set of events. These books are so addictive as you need to know who it is and how to stop them. Poor Mattie has one hell of a life. In this one she meets her dad but I think his going to cause her more pain I just don't know how yet. Silas is around more and we don't know his ultimate plan either. I just don't know what can happen next.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 13, 2014
Mattie Hathaway has survived more than her fair share of scary, bizarre incidences. Safety seems like an illusion, even with Dan and Eli there to protect her. After returning from a trip to help Dr. Ollivet de-ghost a house in the south, Mattie is reeling from everything she learned about herself, Eli's family, and Dan's true past. Coming home to a horde of angry spirits who all blame Mattie for their deaths and are hell-bent on revenge really wasn't the homecoming she hoped for.
Having read volumes one and two of The Ghost Files series, I was eager to get my hands on this one. The turmoil Mattie was left in at the end of book two made it impossible to resist. I've come to expect deep characters and captivating storylines from Apryl, and I wasn't disappointed in this volume.
While the series as a whole has an overarching story, each volume focuses on a plot specific to that book as well. The mystery of who the drowned girls are and why they want to see Mattie pay for their deaths was well crafted. Readers are kept guessing throughout the book as to who or what is responsible for the girls' deaths, and I was surprised when the truth was revealed, which I loved.
In addition to the main storyline, readers also get more information on Mattie's past. They don't get the whole story, of course. Baker had to hold something back for the rest of the series! Readers do learn quite a bit, though, including who Mattie's father is. That brings up a whole host of problems, as the truth is hardly a warm and fuzzy reunion. Figuring out who to trust has never been easy, but when major players make promises and reveal true intentions, Mattie is left to struggle on her own.
One of the best aspects of this book was the emotion packed into every chapter. It's not often that a book gets to me so much that it makes me cry, but watching Mattie and Dan as they are faced with a heart wrenching decision truly hit me hard. It's going to be difficult for readers not to get completely sucked into their story, and when you have the added bonus of the ever-sexy Eli, putting this down will prove completely impossible. I can't recommend this series enough.
Having read volumes one and two of The Ghost Files series, I was eager to get my hands on this one. The turmoil Mattie was left in at the end of book two made it impossible to resist. I've come to expect deep characters and captivating storylines from Apryl, and I wasn't disappointed in this volume.
While the series as a whole has an overarching story, each volume focuses on a plot specific to that book as well. The mystery of who the drowned girls are and why they want to see Mattie pay for their deaths was well crafted. Readers are kept guessing throughout the book as to who or what is responsible for the girls' deaths, and I was surprised when the truth was revealed, which I loved.
In addition to the main storyline, readers also get more information on Mattie's past. They don't get the whole story, of course. Baker had to hold something back for the rest of the series! Readers do learn quite a bit, though, including who Mattie's father is. That brings up a whole host of problems, as the truth is hardly a warm and fuzzy reunion. Figuring out who to trust has never been easy, but when major players make promises and reveal true intentions, Mattie is left to struggle on her own.
One of the best aspects of this book was the emotion packed into every chapter. It's not often that a book gets to me so much that it makes me cry, but watching Mattie and Dan as they are faced with a heart wrenching decision truly hit me hard. It's going to be difficult for readers not to get completely sucked into their story, and when you have the added bonus of the ever-sexy Eli, putting this down will prove completely impossible. I can't recommend this series enough.
February 12, 2015
This book was a rip-off of the Mortal Instruments series (a combo of Clockwork Angel and the modern series)
The main character - Mattie was very similar to the heroine in Clockwork Princess:
1. Special powers that cannot be explained
2. Has two guys destined be with her
3. Was created for a special purpose with some demon interference
4. The looks are even similar
5. Similar mystery surrounding family and connections
The Plot is also very similar:
1. Demon slaying part-Angel part-Human knights/warriors
2. Angel comes down to speak to them (so naff)
3. Sacrifices
Anyway there are more but it'll give away the plot to list them.
I'm ok with renditions of over books. But this series is beginning to get up my nerves. Not only does the author:
1. spend so much time explaining what occurred in the previous books (we don't need a re-hash -write index for those new to the series!).
2. The relationship between Dan and Mattie was becoming annoying and I lost interest
3. The serial killer incident was ridiculous -just too pat and unoriginal - it was like rehashing the previous story with a pathetic spin
4. The writing style and angst was beginning to grate
I give up!
ANNOYING. STUPID. DUMB
DUMB. DUMB. DUMB.
The main character - Mattie was very similar to the heroine in Clockwork Princess:
1. Special powers that cannot be explained
2. Has two guys destined be with her
3. Was created for a special purpose with some demon interference
4. The looks are even similar
5. Similar mystery surrounding family and connections
The Plot is also very similar:
1. Demon slaying part-Angel part-Human knights/warriors
2. Angel comes down to speak to them (so naff)
3. Sacrifices
Anyway there are more but it'll give away the plot to list them.
I'm ok with renditions of over books. But this series is beginning to get up my nerves. Not only does the author:
1. spend so much time explaining what occurred in the previous books (we don't need a re-hash -write index for those new to the series!).
2. The relationship between Dan and Mattie was becoming annoying and I lost interest
3. The serial killer incident was ridiculous -just too pat and unoriginal - it was like rehashing the previous story with a pathetic spin
4. The writing style and angst was beginning to grate
I give up!
ANNOYING. STUPID. DUMB
DUMB. DUMB. DUMB.
June 26, 2020
I read about half of this one and then I picked it on audio and started it over. This installment was gut wrenching! How many concussions are too many concussions? #AskingForAFriend Poor Mattie cannot catch a break in this one. Between constant head trauma, meeting her bio dad, and the death of someone close to her, the author did everything she could to destroy Mattie and quite frankly me. This one packed the feels. I seriously balled like a baby at one point.
This is a phenomenal series from Apryl Baker and the narrator Krista Kurtzberg was fantastic at bringing the story to life.
This is a phenomenal series from Apryl Baker and the narrator Krista Kurtzberg was fantastic at bringing the story to life.
February 26, 2018
💘
I love this series!! I will be starting 3.5 as soon as this review is finished. Thank you Apryl Baker!!
I love this series!! I will be starting 3.5 as soon as this review is finished. Thank you Apryl Baker!!
August 21, 2024
Why did the ghost girls just disappear in the end? They torture her through the whole story, and then....just nothing? Nope, not possible. 3.5 stars as that just left me upset....
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 8, 2015
In "Ghost Files # 3" Apryl Baker continues to blend the paranormal, murder, mystery and romance into a story that keeps her readers on the edge of their seats. Spine-tingling and exciting it begins with Mattie Hathaway's return home from New Orleans only to be accosted in the airport by a vengeful spirit who's out for blood. One of eight girls killed by a man spouting Mattie's name over and over, the young reaper is determined to help the ghost after she gets out of the hospital with another bump on the head and a concussion.
But a storm of troubles are swirling around Mattie as she faces the sudden presence of a wealthy, loving but dangerous father; the guilt of Dan's past; her passionate feelings for Eli Malone; and Silas an evil, deal-making demon who's taken an alarming interest in her. This time she can't run from her problems, but has to confront them head on if she wants to keep her sanity and survive.
The stage is set when Mattie is accused by one of eight angry ghosts of being responsible for their deaths. With the only clues her drawings of two of the battered girls and a link to Lake Norman, Mattie and her friends try to find a resolution to a case that "makes her life a terrorfest". Into a mysterious and chilling plot with twists and turns that keep you enthralled from the first page to the last add the appearance of Mattie's estranged father Ezekiel (Zeke) Crane a charming southern gentleman who masks a ruthless, calculating and sinister nature and Silas a demon whose benevolence hides an evil plan for Mattie's future.
The plot is fast-paced as events unfold that have Mattie and Dan trying to resolve their differences over his betrayal, and the arrest of his adoptive mother for kidnapping. Cleverly Apryl Baker weaves threads of a story that begin to connect their families and even to introduces a fascinating new twist to Mattie's past at the end. Technically I thought the addition of Mattie and Dan's short emotional perspectives as he faces death in the hospital took away from the flow of the plot . It might have been better to present the emotional incident in a future a novella. I would have preferred more of a build-up, clues and motives for the killings in the murder case, although the tension and suspense does mount when Mattie stumbles into the serial killer's cemetery at Lake Norman.
The romance between Eli and Mattie begins to sizzle with electricity and passion in this story. When Mattie discovers that Eli's her "Guardian Angel" bound to protect her, she immediately becomes frustrated, uncertain and tries to run away from the knowledge only to find the alpha male hot on her trail. Even Dan continues to be Mattie's staunch guardian trying to stem her impulsive actions but remains staunchly in love with backstabbing Megan.
The characters continue to be complex, realistic and unforgettable as they deal with the challenges that pulsate in Mattie's life. Mattie Hathaway (aka Emma Rose Crane) is the tough, uncertain, insecure foster kid who's tenacious, smart and has a bizarre sense of humor. Mary Crane is her outspoken , feisty and loyal sister in spirit freed by Mattie from Mrs. Olsen's torture. Scarred and limping she's drawn to arrogant, and confident Caleb Malone but not self-assured enough to pursue that attraction. A ghost hunter like his father and brothers Eli Malone is dangerous and temperamental but is protective and vulnerable when it comes to Mattie. In contrast Dan Richards, the kidnapped son of James Malone is a mature and responsible peacemaker, putting others first especially Mattie. Rich and handsome Zeke Crane is a conundrum; devoted and loving to his daughter, but dangerous and sinister in his business dealings with others. Silas a painter and demon is another mystery; kind and caring to Mattie but hiding an evil, threatening nature.
I enjoyed Ghost Files #3 with its scary world that terrifies and intrigues Mattie. I look forward to seeing where Apryl Baker takes this story next.
But a storm of troubles are swirling around Mattie as she faces the sudden presence of a wealthy, loving but dangerous father; the guilt of Dan's past; her passionate feelings for Eli Malone; and Silas an evil, deal-making demon who's taken an alarming interest in her. This time she can't run from her problems, but has to confront them head on if she wants to keep her sanity and survive.
The stage is set when Mattie is accused by one of eight angry ghosts of being responsible for their deaths. With the only clues her drawings of two of the battered girls and a link to Lake Norman, Mattie and her friends try to find a resolution to a case that "makes her life a terrorfest". Into a mysterious and chilling plot with twists and turns that keep you enthralled from the first page to the last add the appearance of Mattie's estranged father Ezekiel (Zeke) Crane a charming southern gentleman who masks a ruthless, calculating and sinister nature and Silas a demon whose benevolence hides an evil plan for Mattie's future.
The plot is fast-paced as events unfold that have Mattie and Dan trying to resolve their differences over his betrayal, and the arrest of his adoptive mother for kidnapping. Cleverly Apryl Baker weaves threads of a story that begin to connect their families and even to introduces a fascinating new twist to Mattie's past at the end. Technically I thought the addition of Mattie and Dan's short emotional perspectives as he faces death in the hospital took away from the flow of the plot . It might have been better to present the emotional incident in a future a novella. I would have preferred more of a build-up, clues and motives for the killings in the murder case, although the tension and suspense does mount when Mattie stumbles into the serial killer's cemetery at Lake Norman.
The romance between Eli and Mattie begins to sizzle with electricity and passion in this story. When Mattie discovers that Eli's her "Guardian Angel" bound to protect her, she immediately becomes frustrated, uncertain and tries to run away from the knowledge only to find the alpha male hot on her trail. Even Dan continues to be Mattie's staunch guardian trying to stem her impulsive actions but remains staunchly in love with backstabbing Megan.
The characters continue to be complex, realistic and unforgettable as they deal with the challenges that pulsate in Mattie's life. Mattie Hathaway (aka Emma Rose Crane) is the tough, uncertain, insecure foster kid who's tenacious, smart and has a bizarre sense of humor. Mary Crane is her outspoken , feisty and loyal sister in spirit freed by Mattie from Mrs. Olsen's torture. Scarred and limping she's drawn to arrogant, and confident Caleb Malone but not self-assured enough to pursue that attraction. A ghost hunter like his father and brothers Eli Malone is dangerous and temperamental but is protective and vulnerable when it comes to Mattie. In contrast Dan Richards, the kidnapped son of James Malone is a mature and responsible peacemaker, putting others first especially Mattie. Rich and handsome Zeke Crane is a conundrum; devoted and loving to his daughter, but dangerous and sinister in his business dealings with others. Silas a painter and demon is another mystery; kind and caring to Mattie but hiding an evil, threatening nature.
I enjoyed Ghost Files #3 with its scary world that terrifies and intrigues Mattie. I look forward to seeing where Apryl Baker takes this story next.
October 6, 2015
There were various plots and sub-plots involved in this third book, and none really took dominance, so overall it felt disjointed. The ending was left for the next book in the series to continue, unfortunately there is no indication so far as to when that might be.
The character of Mattie Hathaway has developed, although she seems to have lost much of her independent streak, which seems a pity. There seemed to be more threads left hanging/unexplained than in the previous two books of the series, and the pacing of the story-line was inconsistent.
Others have said that all in all this series seems to have borrowed heavily from a series by someone else, having never read those other works I can't form an opinion. For those who have the jury is undecided as to which is the better series. I daresay if I ever unearth book 4 I will read it, just to find out the conclusion, but I can't say that I will actively seek it out.
The character of Mattie Hathaway has developed, although she seems to have lost much of her independent streak, which seems a pity. There seemed to be more threads left hanging/unexplained than in the previous two books of the series, and the pacing of the story-line was inconsistent.
Others have said that all in all this series seems to have borrowed heavily from a series by someone else, having never read those other works I can't form an opinion. For those who have the jury is undecided as to which is the better series. I daresay if I ever unearth book 4 I will read it, just to find out the conclusion, but I can't say that I will actively seek it out.
August 13, 2014
Oh my God!!
Another excellent read!!
Am absolutely loving Mattie, she's certainly had it rough since she actually started talking to the ghosts but she's such a strong character. Dan... What can I say about Dan?! I love him too :) again an amazing character who is loyal and fiercely protective.
Eli, Caleb also are great characters, and I love the intensity between Mattie and Eli, I have my own personal thoughts about their relationship, but I'll keep quiet!
Dr Olivet is interesting... Not sure about him, but at the end of this he's about to make a bigger impact in Matties life!
Zeke has been introduced and that's gonna be a great piece of the puzzle me thinks!!
Can't decide about this painter dude... Especially after he does something awful to Dan.
Once again Apryl Baker, you have floored me! Please don't make me wait to long for the fourth book... PLEASE!! Lol
Another excellent read!!
Am absolutely loving Mattie, she's certainly had it rough since she actually started talking to the ghosts but she's such a strong character. Dan... What can I say about Dan?! I love him too :) again an amazing character who is loyal and fiercely protective.
Eli, Caleb also are great characters, and I love the intensity between Mattie and Eli, I have my own personal thoughts about their relationship, but I'll keep quiet!
Dr Olivet is interesting... Not sure about him, but at the end of this he's about to make a bigger impact in Matties life!
Zeke has been introduced and that's gonna be a great piece of the puzzle me thinks!!
Can't decide about this painter dude... Especially after he does something awful to Dan.
Once again Apryl Baker, you have floored me! Please don't make me wait to long for the fourth book... PLEASE!! Lol
August 21, 2022
Number 3 in the series is chock full of drama and reveals ..... and I couldn't have put it down if I tried! I gobbled it in one huge bite.
The underlying theme, apart from obviously solving the ghostie stuff, is that the series of events surrounding Mattie's life has been set in motion long ago and things are coming to the fore. Everything is connected and everyone has their part to play ..... and trying to alter the outcome creates a dangerous state of affairs.
I won't give a synopsis as there are far too many reveals in this book and it will spoil the drama and excitement of it all. All I will say is that I'm thoroughly hooked and waiting for the release of Part 1 of the 4th novel in the very near future.
The underlying theme, apart from obviously solving the ghostie stuff, is that the series of events surrounding Mattie's life has been set in motion long ago and things are coming to the fore. Everything is connected and everyone has their part to play ..... and trying to alter the outcome creates a dangerous state of affairs.
I won't give a synopsis as there are far too many reveals in this book and it will spoil the drama and excitement of it all. All I will say is that I'm thoroughly hooked and waiting for the release of Part 1 of the 4th novel in the very near future.
February 6, 2017
Another entertaining read. Im surprised that this series is so good.
Again, Mattie's behaviour infuriates me. This "hit first, talk later" attitude is getting old, there's no real development there in this aspect of her life; however, she has come a long way in trusting people in her life.
I still do not like that she forgave Dan much quicker than she forgave her best friend Meg, I find it highly unfair to Meg.
Looking forward to book 4.
Again, Mattie's behaviour infuriates me. This "hit first, talk later" attitude is getting old, there's no real development there in this aspect of her life; however, she has come a long way in trusting people in her life.
I still do not like that she forgave Dan much quicker than she forgave her best friend Meg, I find it highly unfair to Meg.
Looking forward to book 4.
August 10, 2015
Total. Book. Hangover. I literally read all three books in this series in less than three days. Book one, page one? SUCKED IN!!!! The endings? Holy Hannah!!! My only regret? Not waiting til the fourth book is out before starting the series. With the plot twists in this book, I just couldn't put it down. It was THAT suspenseful.
February 20, 2015
Book three
Ugh! Wicked good, but there's a fourth book! Is it available yet? I wanna start while it's fresh in my mind, not months from now, this is why I hate series, unless the whole thing is available...
Ugh! Wicked good, but there's a fourth book! Is it available yet? I wanna start while it's fresh in my mind, not months from now, this is why I hate series, unless the whole thing is available...
May 12, 2015
Excellent read! I can't wait till the 4th. book comes out!
July 25, 2016
Loved it
Absolutely love this book, I can't wait to start part 4. I would recommend it to anyone who likes a good read.
Absolutely love this book, I can't wait to start part 4. I would recommend it to anyone who likes a good read.
July 27, 2016
Awesome read
Love the characters in the book. I can't stop reading, didn't want it to end! Looking forward to next chapter.
Love the characters in the book. I can't stop reading, didn't want it to end! Looking forward to next chapter.
October 5, 2016
Another great!
Read the 1st 3 in no time! Bring on book 4! Good job, from a fellow West Virginia girl! :-)
Read the 1st 3 in no time! Bring on book 4! Good job, from a fellow West Virginia girl! :-)
May 24, 2020
Continuing the unfortunate trend from last book, asshole Dan continues to asshole. It's like his maturity level drops by 20% each book.
“Why does that matter?” I ask. “You’re with Meg. And if I do like him, then you’re going to have to deal with it.”
“Like you’re dealing with me and Meg?” he counters.
Which makes absolutely no sense. Mattie only met Eli *after* Dan started dating Meg. He forfeited his right to make judgments about who she enters into a relationship with when he decided he and Mattie weren't an item. Again, you can't have it both ways. You can't date someone's best friend without telling them, and then try to stop them from dating who they want to after they find out. There's a big difference between stringing someone along while you're secretly dating someone else, and openly dating someone else after a relationship ends before it can get started.
As for Eli being his brother, they're only half brothers, and only half brothers by blood. They weren't raised in the same house, they literally didn't even know each other existed until last book.
There's also: "I know. It wasn’t cool. It stunk. It hurt." referring to Eli calling the cops on Dan's adoptive mom for having killed both their biological mom's. Which is just absurd. Eli deserved justice for his mom a whole lot more than Dan deserved to give his adoptive mom a chance to get away. You can't just choose not to have your murderous parent arrested, or even to wait until *you're* ready. Does it suck for Dan? Sure. Did Eli do the wrong thing? Absolutely not, he found out his mom was murdered!
There's also the issue where Mattie is mad at Meg because Meg broke a promise, there's an element of betrayal, of broken trust. Dan was mad at Eli because Eli wouldn't put Dan's adoptive mom over his own mother, Eli had barely even met Dan, and owed him nothing. The level of false equivalency is astonishing.
Of course Eli eventually turns into a misogynist psycho jealous controlling bastard who ought to be locked up at best, so there's that. Here's hoping Silas eats his entrails. Or Mattie gets sick of him and tosses his ass into the Beyond. Or Zeke does... whatever bad thing it is Zeke does to people. Seriously, I'm sick and tired of abusive "alpha male" boyfriends in paranormal novels.
Even the interesting elements were marred by weird/gross nonsense. I'd say having the main character describe a close relative as extremely hot was a new low for the series. Though Silas has not formally been confirmed to be related to Mattie, it's pretty obvious.
And finally the quote that lost the book any stars it could have had due to sheer repugnancy:
"I never understood how girls could get so drunk they didn't remember ANYTHING. Don't they know how dangerous that is? It's how they end up being raped, killed or both. They should have more self-respect than that." Which is both victim blaming, and extremely hypocritical, given how often the protagonist wanders off into danger by herself and ends up in the hospital. Chasing after a murderer on your own is way more foolish than getting drunk. Even if you get blackout drunk you won't get raped/murdered unless there's a rapist/murderer around, in which case being sober is no guarantee of safety. There have always been hints of "not like other girls" and general disrespectful attitudes towards women, but this is a new low. On a milder note her tirades against corsets were pretty unintentionally ironic considering that she was wearing high heels.
Hitting a new low was pretty much the common denominator. At this point the only genuinely likable characters are Mary, her mom, that one nurse, Nancy, and Zeke. Silas doesn't get to be on the likable list, he's entertaining, but not really likable.
“Why does that matter?” I ask. “You’re with Meg. And if I do like him, then you’re going to have to deal with it.”
“Like you’re dealing with me and Meg?” he counters.
Which makes absolutely no sense. Mattie only met Eli *after* Dan started dating Meg. He forfeited his right to make judgments about who she enters into a relationship with when he decided he and Mattie weren't an item. Again, you can't have it both ways. You can't date someone's best friend without telling them, and then try to stop them from dating who they want to after they find out. There's a big difference between stringing someone along while you're secretly dating someone else, and openly dating someone else after a relationship ends before it can get started.
As for Eli being his brother, they're only half brothers, and only half brothers by blood. They weren't raised in the same house, they literally didn't even know each other existed until last book.
There's also: "I know. It wasn’t cool. It stunk. It hurt." referring to Eli calling the cops on Dan's adoptive mom for having killed both their biological mom's. Which is just absurd. Eli deserved justice for his mom a whole lot more than Dan deserved to give his adoptive mom a chance to get away. You can't just choose not to have your murderous parent arrested, or even to wait until *you're* ready. Does it suck for Dan? Sure. Did Eli do the wrong thing? Absolutely not, he found out his mom was murdered!
There's also the issue where Mattie is mad at Meg because Meg broke a promise, there's an element of betrayal, of broken trust. Dan was mad at Eli because Eli wouldn't put Dan's adoptive mom over his own mother, Eli had barely even met Dan, and owed him nothing. The level of false equivalency is astonishing.
Of course Eli eventually turns into a misogynist psycho jealous controlling bastard who ought to be locked up at best, so there's that. Here's hoping Silas eats his entrails. Or Mattie gets sick of him and tosses his ass into the Beyond. Or Zeke does... whatever bad thing it is Zeke does to people. Seriously, I'm sick and tired of abusive "alpha male" boyfriends in paranormal novels.
Even the interesting elements were marred by weird/gross nonsense. I'd say having the main character describe a close relative as extremely hot was a new low for the series. Though Silas has not formally been confirmed to be related to Mattie, it's pretty obvious.
And finally the quote that lost the book any stars it could have had due to sheer repugnancy:
"I never understood how girls could get so drunk they didn't remember ANYTHING. Don't they know how dangerous that is? It's how they end up being raped, killed or both. They should have more self-respect than that." Which is both victim blaming, and extremely hypocritical, given how often the protagonist wanders off into danger by herself and ends up in the hospital. Chasing after a murderer on your own is way more foolish than getting drunk. Even if you get blackout drunk you won't get raped/murdered unless there's a rapist/murderer around, in which case being sober is no guarantee of safety. There have always been hints of "not like other girls" and general disrespectful attitudes towards women, but this is a new low. On a milder note her tirades against corsets were pretty unintentionally ironic considering that she was wearing high heels.
Hitting a new low was pretty much the common denominator. At this point the only genuinely likable characters are Mary, her mom, that one nurse, Nancy, and Zeke. Silas doesn't get to be on the likable list, he's entertaining, but not really likable.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 12, 2019
Not only does Mattie have to deal with ghosts popping up whenever they feel like it, she is now experiencing their excruciating death. Mattie is now thrown into reliving each girls death, and each ghost specifically wants Mattie to endure the pain. The one occurring theme of their murders being Mattie Hathaway is the reason they're dead.
Mattie meets her father Zeke - a dangerous, secretive and endearing man. He appears to either scare or draw in others around him. But Mattie is faced with not only fear, but comfort knowing she has found her father. However with Silas in her ear telling her Zeke is not to be trusted, where does that leave Mattie.
I found this book slower than the previous two, not so much ghost drama, but more of a book based on Mattie's discovery and journey to find herself. Relationships were a heavy plot, I only wish the ghosts of the murdered girls were focused on more instead of the teenage drama.
The story really kicked off about 60% of the way through, with spooks, chills and murders. At this point I was engrossed, it's a shame it took that long but I am glad I kept reading because that cliffhanger has me wanting to read the next instalment. Which might I add is already downloaded on my kindle.
Perhaps Apryl Baker didn't do as well with this instalment, however it is a crucial part of the series, and leaves more questions than answers.
I still stand by my previous reviews of this series that these books are a must read, and I would read again. On the other hand, even though Apryl Baker is skilled at writing, I wish this book was perhaps thought out better with a focused plot line, rather than jumping in and out of relationships.
I gave this book 3/5 stars - it was likeable but tedious. Please meet my hopes of the next instalment being better.
Mattie meets her father Zeke - a dangerous, secretive and endearing man. He appears to either scare or draw in others around him. But Mattie is faced with not only fear, but comfort knowing she has found her father. However with Silas in her ear telling her Zeke is not to be trusted, where does that leave Mattie.
I found this book slower than the previous two, not so much ghost drama, but more of a book based on Mattie's discovery and journey to find herself. Relationships were a heavy plot, I only wish the ghosts of the murdered girls were focused on more instead of the teenage drama.
The story really kicked off about 60% of the way through, with spooks, chills and murders. At this point I was engrossed, it's a shame it took that long but I am glad I kept reading because that cliffhanger has me wanting to read the next instalment. Which might I add is already downloaded on my kindle.
Perhaps Apryl Baker didn't do as well with this instalment, however it is a crucial part of the series, and leaves more questions than answers.
I still stand by my previous reviews of this series that these books are a must read, and I would read again. On the other hand, even though Apryl Baker is skilled at writing, I wish this book was perhaps thought out better with a focused plot line, rather than jumping in and out of relationships.
I gave this book 3/5 stars - it was likeable but tedious. Please meet my hopes of the next instalment being better.
April 15, 2021
You can find my review of book one over at www.readbookrepeat.wordpress.com
This instalment once again ramped the story up. Mattie finds herself back home but not out of danger. The spirits of 8 murdered girls are haunting her, and they're getting pretty hardcore about it. They don't just want to scare her, they want her to feel what they felt, and they want their revenge; because Mattie is the reason that they're dead, and she needs to pay.
While trying to protect herself and those that she loves, Mattie finds herself trusting Silas, a demon, to help her deal with what's going on, even though she knows she really shouldn't. He is a demon after all. What Mattie ends up finding is that life is not fair, and she'll struggle to deal with losing the one person that she truly can't live without. Will she be able to let nature take it's course, or will she fight tooth and nail, not caring that to do otherwise will upset the balance between life and death?
This instalment once again saw an intriguing story line that kept me guessing and I honestly didn't see the twist coming, which is rare these days so it was a nice surprise. We're getting deeper into Mattie's story and Eli and the rest of the Malones are along for the ride. Having the cast fleshed out a bit is nice, and the character development is still going strong. Mattie is still a whiney teenager at times, but I feel like it adds authenticity to the character as, after all, she is a teenager.
This instalment once again ramped the story up. Mattie finds herself back home but not out of danger. The spirits of 8 murdered girls are haunting her, and they're getting pretty hardcore about it. They don't just want to scare her, they want her to feel what they felt, and they want their revenge; because Mattie is the reason that they're dead, and she needs to pay.
While trying to protect herself and those that she loves, Mattie finds herself trusting Silas, a demon, to help her deal with what's going on, even though she knows she really shouldn't. He is a demon after all. What Mattie ends up finding is that life is not fair, and she'll struggle to deal with losing the one person that she truly can't live without. Will she be able to let nature take it's course, or will she fight tooth and nail, not caring that to do otherwise will upset the balance between life and death?
This instalment once again saw an intriguing story line that kept me guessing and I honestly didn't see the twist coming, which is rare these days so it was a nice surprise. We're getting deeper into Mattie's story and Eli and the rest of the Malones are along for the ride. Having the cast fleshed out a bit is nice, and the character development is still going strong. Mattie is still a whiney teenager at times, but I feel like it adds authenticity to the character as, after all, she is a teenager.
April 27, 2021
I really wanted to give this book more stars, but the writing and non relevant story lines really brought this book down for me.
Warning spoilers ahead:
The synopsis of this book gives hint to the teen ghosts that bring haunting to a whole new level for Mattie Hathaway as she is supposedly the root cause of their demise. All is well with this story line until the author almost completely abandons it and instead delves into the blooming/dreaded relationship with her new found father, and his/ her connection with the demon Silas and his ever unfolding fascination and control of her. With this second story line taking precedent over the first for the rest of the book until the last two chapters when the author seems to remember her original story line and rushes to end the first story line with two briefly mentioned characters as the "serial killers" of the poor ghost girls. It was a very poorly executed book ending and story line ending.
I found it frustrating that she had two interesting story lines but was not able to mesh and intermingle them both into a more intricate single story line. Its quite obvious she wants to continue on with the demon story line which just leave readers like myself wondering- why not focus on that instead of rambling on for ten chapters about a hoard of teen ghosts who actually have no relevance to the story or even to character development?
Warning spoilers ahead:
The synopsis of this book gives hint to the teen ghosts that bring haunting to a whole new level for Mattie Hathaway as she is supposedly the root cause of their demise. All is well with this story line until the author almost completely abandons it and instead delves into the blooming/dreaded relationship with her new found father, and his/ her connection with the demon Silas and his ever unfolding fascination and control of her. With this second story line taking precedent over the first for the rest of the book until the last two chapters when the author seems to remember her original story line and rushes to end the first story line with two briefly mentioned characters as the "serial killers" of the poor ghost girls. It was a very poorly executed book ending and story line ending.
I found it frustrating that she had two interesting story lines but was not able to mesh and intermingle them both into a more intricate single story line. Its quite obvious she wants to continue on with the demon story line which just leave readers like myself wondering- why not focus on that instead of rambling on for ten chapters about a hoard of teen ghosts who actually have no relevance to the story or even to character development?
December 10, 2016
Mixed emotions during this book; had a love-hate relationship with the book and the characters throughout nr 3. At one stage I was very annoyed with Mattie. She acts like a brat and then just says "it is what it is" - come one Mattie grow up!
Did not like one bit how she reckoned she had power over life and death.......not on girl! But hey, gotta love Mattie in the end.
Did not like the new developments with Mattie's family though. There are a few things that are very unbelievable with how she reacts to person entering her life when she knows her instincts are right. Seriously everything screams "danger!" and she just walks into it with open eyes and (gasp!) trust? Really? The oh-so-not-trusting-Mattie?
Also she and Dan and that strange love-thing they have going? I just find that extremely hard to believe; cannot get around their weird co-dependency.
So yes, a few things that annoyed me. However, this IS fantasy - why not stretch the imagination, right? Kept me on the edge of my seat.
Seeing that the 3rd installment in the series is also fast-paced and easy to read with never one dull moment it gets a thumbs up from me. This series is still spellbinding and for better or for worse I am hooked.
Did not like one bit how she reckoned she had power over life and death.......not on girl! But hey, gotta love Mattie in the end.
Did not like the new developments with Mattie's family though. There are a few things that are very unbelievable with how she reacts to person entering her life when she knows her instincts are right. Seriously everything screams "danger!" and she just walks into it with open eyes and (gasp!) trust? Really? The oh-so-not-trusting-Mattie?
Also she and Dan and that strange love-thing they have going? I just find that extremely hard to believe; cannot get around their weird co-dependency.
So yes, a few things that annoyed me. However, this IS fantasy - why not stretch the imagination, right? Kept me on the edge of my seat.
Seeing that the 3rd installment in the series is also fast-paced and easy to read with never one dull moment it gets a thumbs up from me. This series is still spellbinding and for better or for worse I am hooked.
September 14, 2017
Hush little children, all snug in your beds, Safe in your dreams, tucked away in your heads. But he is watching and wants to be fed. Don’t try to run…say a prayer instead, Because, little children, you’ll soon be dead. Children all over the city of Charlotte, North Carolina are vanishing and turning up dead exactly one week after their disappearance. The city is in a panic, parents terrified to let their children out of their sights, but it’s simply not enough. You can’t hide from the Devourer of Souls. Mattie has endured a lot over the last year, but now she’s faced with something even her nine lives can't survive. As old secrets are brought to light, she must confront her destiny—and a curse that may cost her everything. Throw in a fallen angel serial killer who specializes in little kids, and Mattie may have to seek help from the one person she swore she never would. Silas. The real question is will she come out the other side the same person she was, or will Silas finally get what he wants—her soul…?
It took me 2 hours to read this...and that's not reading non stop. Not much was actually told in it, other than the last chapter. I'm a huge fan of a good, well told ghost story and with a title like "Ghost Files" I quiet frankly expected more.
It took me 2 hours to read this...and that's not reading non stop. Not much was actually told in it, other than the last chapter. I'm a huge fan of a good, well told ghost story and with a title like "Ghost Files" I quiet frankly expected more.
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