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Tradd Street #5
The Guests on South Battery
With her extended maternity leave at its end, Melanie Trenholm is less than thrilled to leave her new husband and beautiful twins to return to work, especially when she’s awoken by a phone call with no voice on the other end—and the uneasy feeling that the ghostly apparitions that have stayed silent for more than a year are about to invade her life once more.
But her return to the realty office goes better than she could have hoped, with a new client eager to sell the home she recently inherited on South Battery. Most would treasure living in one of the grandest old homes in the famous historic district of Charleston, but Jayne Smith would rather sell hers as soon as possible, guaranteeing Melanie a quick commission.
Despite her stroke of luck, Melanie can’t deny that spirits—both malevolent and benign—have started to show themselves to her again. One is shrouded from sight, but appears whenever Jayne is near. Another arrives when an old cistern is discovered in Melanie’s backyard on Tradd Street.
Melanie knows nothing good can come from unearthing the past. But some secrets refuse to stay buried....
But her return to the realty office goes better than she could have hoped, with a new client eager to sell the home she recently inherited on South Battery. Most would treasure living in one of the grandest old homes in the famous historic district of Charleston, but Jayne Smith would rather sell hers as soon as possible, guaranteeing Melanie a quick commission.
Despite her stroke of luck, Melanie can’t deny that spirits—both malevolent and benign—have started to show themselves to her again. One is shrouded from sight, but appears whenever Jayne is near. Another arrives when an old cistern is discovered in Melanie’s backyard on Tradd Street.
Melanie knows nothing good can come from unearthing the past. But some secrets refuse to stay buried....
352 pages, Hardcover
First published January 10, 2017
1327 people are currently reading
7417 people want to read
About the author
Karen White
42 books7,541 followersWith more than 2 million books in print in fifteen different languages, Karen White is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of 34 novels, including the popular Charleston-set Tradd Street mystery series.
Raised in a house full of brothers, Karen’s love of books and strong female characters first began in the third grade when the local librarian issued her a library card and placed The Secret of the Old Clock, a Nancy Drew Mystery, in her hands.
Karen’s roots run deep in the South where many of her novels are set. Her intricate plot lines and compelling characters charm and captivate readers with just the right mix of family drama, mystery, intrigue and romance.
Not entirely convinced she wanted to be a writer, Karen first pursued a career in business and graduated cum laude with a BS in Management from Tulane University. Ten years later, in a weak moment, she wrote her first book. In the Shadow of the Moon was published in August, 2000. Her books—referred to as “grit lit” (Southern Women’s Fiction)—have since been nominated for numerous national contests including the SIBA (Southeastern Booksellers Alliance) Fiction Book of the Year.
Karen’s next book, THAT LAST CAROLINA SUMMER, will be published by Park Row Books in July, 2025.
When not writing, Karen spends her time reading, scrapbooking, playing piano, and avoiding cooking. Karen and her husband have two grown children and currently live near Atlanta, Georgia with two spoiled Havanese dogs.
- See more at: http://www.karen-white.com/bio.cfm#st...
Raised in a house full of brothers, Karen’s love of books and strong female characters first began in the third grade when the local librarian issued her a library card and placed The Secret of the Old Clock, a Nancy Drew Mystery, in her hands.
Karen’s roots run deep in the South where many of her novels are set. Her intricate plot lines and compelling characters charm and captivate readers with just the right mix of family drama, mystery, intrigue and romance.
Not entirely convinced she wanted to be a writer, Karen first pursued a career in business and graduated cum laude with a BS in Management from Tulane University. Ten years later, in a weak moment, she wrote her first book. In the Shadow of the Moon was published in August, 2000. Her books—referred to as “grit lit” (Southern Women’s Fiction)—have since been nominated for numerous national contests including the SIBA (Southeastern Booksellers Alliance) Fiction Book of the Year.
Karen’s next book, THAT LAST CAROLINA SUMMER, will be published by Park Row Books in July, 2025.
When not writing, Karen spends her time reading, scrapbooking, playing piano, and avoiding cooking. Karen and her husband have two grown children and currently live near Atlanta, Georgia with two spoiled Havanese dogs.
- See more at: http://www.karen-white.com/bio.cfm#st...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,036 reviews
February 7, 2017
4.5 Stars!
Hi, my name is KAS,
and I am a Tradd Street-Aholic
While the paranormal realm is not my usual genre of choice, The Tradd Street series pulled me in like a magnet from book one and has held me hostage ever since. This is book five in the series, and while it is a stand alone, I strongly encourage reading the others in order to get the 'full monty' experience.
I connected immediately with Melanie, one of the two main characters, who can see and interact with the dead, although it is a "gift" she wishes she did not possess. For whatever reason, I personally have had three encounters with 'ghosts' over my lifetime, call me crazy, but it is what it is. So I feel a real kinship with Melanie and all the spirits represented throughout this delightful series.
When the first book "The House on Tradd Street" was released, we were introduced to Melanie Middleton, a real estate agent specializing in selling historic mansions in Charleston, SC. She personally loathes the old relics, which are money pits, but mainly because they inhabit restless souls who refuse to pass on to the other side. Melanie was single and perfectly content with her life, albeit a boring and extremely organized life, when out of the blue, she inherits an old mansion from a virtual stranger. The owner of the house knew she could see the ghosts of his family who still reside on the premises and are in need of her help. While undergoing extensive renovations on the mansion, the spirits were insistent and persistent in having conversations and interactions with Melanie. Also during the remodeling process, she meets Jack, a charming specimen of a man whom women can't help but gravitate to.
Jack Trenholm is a bestselling author who writes about unsolved mysteries and is a total hottie! He and Melanie had an instant attraction to one another, but also knew how to push each other's buttons and are as different as night and day. Their tumultuous relationship evolved in amusing and entertaining fashion over the course of this series, which was an epic slow burn I could not get enough of.
Since their much anticipated nuptials, they are now the proud parents of one year old twins. Jack's teenage daughter, Nola, whom he never even knew existed until she showed up on his doorstep a few years back, also lives with them.
When this book begins, it has been a year since the dead have tried to communicate with Melanie, much to her delight. She has high hopes they are finally going to leave her in peace, but of course, they have other ideas!
Melanie is commissioned to sell a pre-Revolutionary War mansion on South Battery in downtown Charleston. As soon as she walks inside, flashes of white pass through the thick walls of the home, she hears the pitter pattering of a small child's footsteps on the floorboards, followed by unwelcoming, heavy footfalls of an adult close behind and then the ominous voice of a woman whispering in her ear to "Go. Away." Ah yeah, no doubt about it, her year reprieve has ended.
Well, and then there is the beautiful, trim and fit nanny who comes to live with she and Jack. Of course, nothing could possibly go wrong in Melanie's marriage to one of the most gorgeous men in all of the south's low country region. Right?
I expected another engaging and satisfying read, and that is exactly what I received. This book and series is completely sweet, light and humorous, featuring a few unsettled spirits to spice it up!
Karen White, IMHO, writes Women's Fiction at its best. Because of her love for these characters and the enthusiasm of her readers for this series, she will be writing two more additional books releasing in the next year or so. There is even talk of a tv series.
Hi, my name is KAS,
and I am a Tradd Street-Aholic
While the paranormal realm is not my usual genre of choice, The Tradd Street series pulled me in like a magnet from book one and has held me hostage ever since. This is book five in the series, and while it is a stand alone, I strongly encourage reading the others in order to get the 'full monty' experience.
I connected immediately with Melanie, one of the two main characters, who can see and interact with the dead, although it is a "gift" she wishes she did not possess. For whatever reason, I personally have had three encounters with 'ghosts' over my lifetime, call me crazy, but it is what it is. So I feel a real kinship with Melanie and all the spirits represented throughout this delightful series.
When the first book "The House on Tradd Street" was released, we were introduced to Melanie Middleton, a real estate agent specializing in selling historic mansions in Charleston, SC. She personally loathes the old relics, which are money pits, but mainly because they inhabit restless souls who refuse to pass on to the other side. Melanie was single and perfectly content with her life, albeit a boring and extremely organized life, when out of the blue, she inherits an old mansion from a virtual stranger. The owner of the house knew she could see the ghosts of his family who still reside on the premises and are in need of her help. While undergoing extensive renovations on the mansion, the spirits were insistent and persistent in having conversations and interactions with Melanie. Also during the remodeling process, she meets Jack, a charming specimen of a man whom women can't help but gravitate to.
Jack Trenholm is a bestselling author who writes about unsolved mysteries and is a total hottie! He and Melanie had an instant attraction to one another, but also knew how to push each other's buttons and are as different as night and day. Their tumultuous relationship evolved in amusing and entertaining fashion over the course of this series, which was an epic slow burn I could not get enough of.
Since their much anticipated nuptials, they are now the proud parents of one year old twins. Jack's teenage daughter, Nola, whom he never even knew existed until she showed up on his doorstep a few years back, also lives with them.
When this book begins, it has been a year since the dead have tried to communicate with Melanie, much to her delight. She has high hopes they are finally going to leave her in peace, but of course, they have other ideas!
Melanie is commissioned to sell a pre-Revolutionary War mansion on South Battery in downtown Charleston. As soon as she walks inside, flashes of white pass through the thick walls of the home, she hears the pitter pattering of a small child's footsteps on the floorboards, followed by unwelcoming, heavy footfalls of an adult close behind and then the ominous voice of a woman whispering in her ear to "Go. Away." Ah yeah, no doubt about it, her year reprieve has ended.
Well, and then there is the beautiful, trim and fit nanny who comes to live with she and Jack. Of course, nothing could possibly go wrong in Melanie's marriage to one of the most gorgeous men in all of the south's low country region. Right?
I expected another engaging and satisfying read, and that is exactly what I received. This book and series is completely sweet, light and humorous, featuring a few unsettled spirits to spice it up!
Karen White, IMHO, writes Women's Fiction at its best. Because of her love for these characters and the enthusiasm of her readers for this series, she will be writing two more additional books releasing in the next year or so. There is even talk of a tv series.
September 6, 2018
4.5 fun and endearing stars to The Guests on South Battery! ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️.5
I once lived within a short driving distance of Charleston, South Carolina. I never tired of my time there, the people, food, history, and architecture. The Tradd Street series by Karen White gives me the opportunity to visit those historic streets again.
If you have followed the Tradd Street series, you’ll be familiar with Melanie, one of the two main characters. She is a real estate agent in Charleston whose main sales are of the old, stately homes in the Battery. She is not thrilled to be working with these homes and for good reason. She sees and can communicate with spirits, and these historic homes have more than their share of spirits. That’s just a taste of the backstory. Melanie is now married to Jack, and the two have twins.
At the start of the story, Melanie is returning to work after her maternity leave, and it has been over a year since she has heard from any spirits; however, that quickly changes with an eerie phone all she receives.
Nonetheless, Melanie goes back to work with a bang as a home on South Battery is offered to her for a quick sale. The owner, Jayne, wants to be rid of the house as soon as possible, but whenever she is near Melanie, a spirit is as well.
The past is explored, and secrets are squandered, while Karen White’s signature storytelling is at its finest. I believe this book could be read as a standalone because in and of itself it’s a complete and fulfilling story. That said, there is a richness to reading the full series that cannot be beat. Melanie’s story is engaging and delightful, and the spirits add their usual … levity. I know some are not fans of paranormal in books, and I definitely understand that; however, here it’s done with a light hand and manages to add to the charm of the storytelling. A reader can tell when the author loves the characters as much she does, and that is certainly the case here with Karen White and Tradd Street.
Thank you to Berkley for the invitation to join the blog tour and for the complimentary ARC. All opinions are my own.
I once lived within a short driving distance of Charleston, South Carolina. I never tired of my time there, the people, food, history, and architecture. The Tradd Street series by Karen White gives me the opportunity to visit those historic streets again.
If you have followed the Tradd Street series, you’ll be familiar with Melanie, one of the two main characters. She is a real estate agent in Charleston whose main sales are of the old, stately homes in the Battery. She is not thrilled to be working with these homes and for good reason. She sees and can communicate with spirits, and these historic homes have more than their share of spirits. That’s just a taste of the backstory. Melanie is now married to Jack, and the two have twins.
At the start of the story, Melanie is returning to work after her maternity leave, and it has been over a year since she has heard from any spirits; however, that quickly changes with an eerie phone all she receives.
Nonetheless, Melanie goes back to work with a bang as a home on South Battery is offered to her for a quick sale. The owner, Jayne, wants to be rid of the house as soon as possible, but whenever she is near Melanie, a spirit is as well.
The past is explored, and secrets are squandered, while Karen White’s signature storytelling is at its finest. I believe this book could be read as a standalone because in and of itself it’s a complete and fulfilling story. That said, there is a richness to reading the full series that cannot be beat. Melanie’s story is engaging and delightful, and the spirits add their usual … levity. I know some are not fans of paranormal in books, and I definitely understand that; however, here it’s done with a light hand and manages to add to the charm of the storytelling. A reader can tell when the author loves the characters as much she does, and that is certainly the case here with Karen White and Tradd Street.
Thank you to Berkley for the invitation to join the blog tour and for the complimentary ARC. All opinions are my own.
February 10, 2017
The Guests on South Battery ( Tradd Street #5) is a 2017 Berkley publication.
All our familiar friends, family, and frenemies are gathered together once again. We also make a few new friends along the way too.
This series has been a delight from the very beginning and is one my very favorites.
I do recommend reading the previous installments to understand the dynamic between Melanie and Jack, as well as the supporting cast. For those who are following along, this is a solid addition to the series and I think you are going to enjoy it immensely.
This review is the copyrighted property of Night Owl Reviews. To read the full review, click on this link:
https://www.nightowlreviews.com/v5/Re...
All our familiar friends, family, and frenemies are gathered together once again. We also make a few new friends along the way too.
This series has been a delight from the very beginning and is one my very favorites.
I do recommend reading the previous installments to understand the dynamic between Melanie and Jack, as well as the supporting cast. For those who are following along, this is a solid addition to the series and I think you are going to enjoy it immensely.
This review is the copyrighted property of Night Owl Reviews. To read the full review, click on this link:
https://www.nightowlreviews.com/v5/Re...
December 16, 2016
Fun, fun, fun! This fifth novel in Whites Tradd Street series is my favorite so far. The plot is well thought out & the characters are as endearing as ever. Fans of this series will love this... and it leaves a few threads hanging which makes me very hopeful for more novels to come. 4.5 stars.
February 6, 2017
This breaks my heart a bit to review. I love Karen White. I remain a devoted fan of Karen White. I was crushed reading the latest book in one of my favorite series. Have you ever read a book where a quarter to midway through you began to see where it is going and wish fervently you are wrong? As you keep reading you realize you aren't wrong and begin the act of bracing yourself for the inevitable? That was my experience with this one. I'll try to keep my review spoiler free; so you will read my reactions for the most part below...
My Thoughts:
-What happened to the Tradd Street characters we know and love?!! I picked up on all the drops that Melanie is trying to be the "new, married Melanie".... I liked the "old Melanie" she was quirky, unique, and great. Why try to change her?
-Who the "new" character ends up being... seriously.. what a lazy plot. I think Young and the Restless did something similar a few times. This alone makes me so angry. I truly believe the author is better than this. I'm still in a state of shock (so yeah, I get this is an emotionally driven review).
-The twins are adorable and I loved catching up on Nola's life.
-The "ghost" plot. It was so loose, scattered, and not explored as deeply as the previous four books explored their ghost plots. Maybe because the introduction of the "new" character wasn't needed!!
-I hate that Melanie is beating herself up for her suspicions. She had some material to go on and Jack wasn't forthcoming. She should have known right away from him and not find out secondhand via an album. WTF. (I mean that one too!) To end it with her saying it was something she will always regret... She doesn't deserve that.
-Why is it accepted that Jack, the nanny, her mother, her friends, etc. all start to ignore her concerns, her wishes, and basically begin treating her in a condescending manner? This isn't at all how the characters act in the previous books.
-I miss the "old" Melanie.
-What happened to solving her classmate's sister's murder???? Ball drop.
-It's probably for the best Netgalley turned me down for an Advanced Readers Copy of this one.
What's it About:
Briefly, we catch up with Melanie and Jack as they parent their twins and teenage daughter Nola in Charleston. A haunted young woman seeks Melanie's help in selling a home she inherited mysteriously from a woman she never met. Melanie sees similarities in her story and this woman's. Her client also becomes her nanny and Melanie picks up on the fact that this woman has secrets. The home is haunted by two entities, one of which is powerful. So powerful that Melanie ends up bearing the marks of a vicious attack. She begins to piece together a mystery that involves a historic house, two ghosts, a nanny, and a cat. The favorite characters return, the lovely Charleston sites are mentioned, and I miss the city already.
My Thoughts:
-What happened to the Tradd Street characters we know and love?!! I picked up on all the drops that Melanie is trying to be the "new, married Melanie".... I liked the "old Melanie" she was quirky, unique, and great. Why try to change her?
-Who the "new" character ends up being... seriously.. what a lazy plot. I think Young and the Restless did something similar a few times. This alone makes me so angry. I truly believe the author is better than this. I'm still in a state of shock (so yeah, I get this is an emotionally driven review).
-The twins are adorable and I loved catching up on Nola's life.
-The "ghost" plot. It was so loose, scattered, and not explored as deeply as the previous four books explored their ghost plots. Maybe because the introduction of the "new" character wasn't needed!!
-I hate that Melanie is beating herself up for her suspicions. She had some material to go on and Jack wasn't forthcoming. She should have known right away from him and not find out secondhand via an album. WTF. (I mean that one too!) To end it with her saying it was something she will always regret... She doesn't deserve that.
-Why is it accepted that Jack, the nanny, her mother, her friends, etc. all start to ignore her concerns, her wishes, and basically begin treating her in a condescending manner? This isn't at all how the characters act in the previous books.
-I miss the "old" Melanie.
-What happened to solving her classmate's sister's murder???? Ball drop.
-It's probably for the best Netgalley turned me down for an Advanced Readers Copy of this one.
What's it About:
Briefly, we catch up with Melanie and Jack as they parent their twins and teenage daughter Nola in Charleston. A haunted young woman seeks Melanie's help in selling a home she inherited mysteriously from a woman she never met. Melanie sees similarities in her story and this woman's. Her client also becomes her nanny and Melanie picks up on the fact that this woman has secrets. The home is haunted by two entities, one of which is powerful. So powerful that Melanie ends up bearing the marks of a vicious attack. She begins to piece together a mystery that involves a historic house, two ghosts, a nanny, and a cat. The favorite characters return, the lovely Charleston sites are mentioned, and I miss the city already.
October 29, 2018
Melanie Trenholm is back to work from maternity leave as a real estate agent in Charleston. Her life seems very normal but her past is very unique due to her ability to communicate with ghosts. This past year her life has been ”spirit free” while spending time bonding with her twins. Her steady life starts to change when she begins to feel unsettled on her way to work. Her sleep was disturbed by a phone call that felt like a ghost. What is the significance of this new connection?
Her first day back at work went better than expected when she lands a client who wants to sell a home that she recently inherited. The client is not from the area and is not interested in owning a historical home. When the pair arrives to inspect the property, Melanie can sense an overwhelming amount of spirits. Through this connection, she convinces the new owner to renovated before selling. The mystery behind the unsettled spirits begins to unfold during the construction as Melanie encounters strange occurrences.
This book is the fifth in the series and can be read as a stand-alone. The Guests On South Battery is a very enjoyable read with elements of paranormal and mystery. I expect a further continuation of this series from Karen White.
Her first day back at work went better than expected when she lands a client who wants to sell a home that she recently inherited. The client is not from the area and is not interested in owning a historical home. When the pair arrives to inspect the property, Melanie can sense an overwhelming amount of spirits. Through this connection, she convinces the new owner to renovated before selling. The mystery behind the unsettled spirits begins to unfold during the construction as Melanie encounters strange occurrences.
This book is the fifth in the series and can be read as a stand-alone. The Guests On South Battery is a very enjoyable read with elements of paranormal and mystery. I expect a further continuation of this series from Karen White.
June 11, 2020
3.5 stars rounded down
This was definitely my least favorite book in the series. Melanie really bugged me in this book, and I saw the "twist" coming from miles (and miles) away.
Will definitely keep reading the series because I did enjoy it.
This was definitely my least favorite book in the series. Melanie really bugged me in this book, and I saw the "twist" coming from miles (and miles) away.
Will definitely keep reading the series because I did enjoy it.
December 8, 2016
I have read quite a few Karen White stories and she never disappoints. This book was a great read. This story is a little paranormal, a little mystery and a whole lot a family thrown into a good story. She references her other stories a bit but you do not have to read her other books to enjoy this one. Melanie has just returned to work after her pregnancy leave and has been approached to sell a house that her family has history with. Since her pregnancy her ability to see spirits has not been working and she always thought she would prefer not to have this gift but now that it is gone she is kind of missing it, When Melanie enters the house she feels someone is blocking her visions but keeps getting glimpses. First of a cat no one else can see, then shadows and feelings. Jayne Smith who inherited the house does not even want to enter it she just wants Melanie to sell it. Meanwhile Melanie and her husband are looking for a new nanny and Jayne is hired for the position. She quickly becomes a part of the family and is living with Melanie while she has decided to remodel the house she inherited to get more money from the sale. Now the real problems start to arise and Melanie is not sure if she can she help the spirit she feels residing in Jayne's house because her abilities are still not working. Great read.
November 30, 2016
3.5 stars
The Tradd Street series is always fun to read. Charleston is one of my favorites places to visit, and Karen White does a wonderful job incorporating the beautiful old homes there into her novels in this series. While the plots are very entertaining, the setting is what I enjoy reading about the most – details about the architecture, the history, the hidden passages, the moldings, and the other fixtures found in historic homes.
As the series progresses, Melanie’s character continues to mature although she struggles significantly in this novel. Series appeal to me because seeing the characters develop from novel to novel is an added benefit and that holds true here The one section of the story that didn’t not ring true to me was the relationship between Jack and Jayne.
Thanks to Berkley Publishing for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The Tradd Street series is always fun to read. Charleston is one of my favorites places to visit, and Karen White does a wonderful job incorporating the beautiful old homes there into her novels in this series. While the plots are very entertaining, the setting is what I enjoy reading about the most – details about the architecture, the history, the hidden passages, the moldings, and the other fixtures found in historic homes.
As the series progresses, Melanie’s character continues to mature although she struggles significantly in this novel. Series appeal to me because seeing the characters develop from novel to novel is an added benefit and that holds true here The one section of the story that didn’t not ring true to me was the relationship between Jack and Jayne.
Thanks to Berkley Publishing for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 5, 2017
The Guests on South Battery is the first book I have read by Karen White. Since I love paranormal stories and the American South did this book seem very promising. I also was curious to read something by Karen White, to see if her books were my cup of tea. And, I can say after this book that it worked on some levels, but it also had for me some flaws that I had problems with.
Let's start with the good things about the book. I loved the setting and the idea of the story. Old houses, ghosts, a mystery ready to be solved and family rivalry. That was great. Many of the supporting characters were quite nice, I especially liked Sophie. I think that's because we share a love for old houses. And, Melanie's mother Ginny is pretty cool. And, at first, Melanie was not so bad herself. However, and here come some things that bothered me, and it all started with Melanie. I love quirky characters, but Melanie's OCD was more annoying than quirky. I have battled my own OCD (Still do in some way) and I feel that I perhaps should have some sympathies. But, it was, to be honest mostly annoying to read about her control issues. I think she has a lot of issues she should deal with to let go of her anxiety. As my fellow buddy reader wrote about her when she discussed the book: "she's a bit uptight". Spot on that was my thought as well while reading the book.
However, I did in some way enjoy the book, but the plot was extremely predictable. Not surprised me since I had already predicted what would happen. Or perhaps I'm just psychic? I did like the cliffhanger ending, and I have the first book in the series so I will definitely read more by the author, despite my problems with the book. However, I do hope the next book I will read will be more to my liking.
I want to thank the publisher for providing me with a free copy through NetGalley for an honest review!
Let's start with the good things about the book. I loved the setting and the idea of the story. Old houses, ghosts, a mystery ready to be solved and family rivalry. That was great. Many of the supporting characters were quite nice, I especially liked Sophie. I think that's because we share a love for old houses. And, Melanie's mother Ginny is pretty cool. And, at first, Melanie was not so bad herself. However, and here come some things that bothered me, and it all started with Melanie. I love quirky characters, but Melanie's OCD was more annoying than quirky. I have battled my own OCD (Still do in some way) and I feel that I perhaps should have some sympathies. But, it was, to be honest mostly annoying to read about her control issues. I think she has a lot of issues she should deal with to let go of her anxiety. As my fellow buddy reader wrote about her when she discussed the book: "she's a bit uptight". Spot on that was my thought as well while reading the book.
However, I did in some way enjoy the book, but the plot was extremely predictable. Not surprised me since I had already predicted what would happen. Or perhaps I'm just psychic? I did like the cliffhanger ending, and I have the first book in the series so I will definitely read more by the author, despite my problems with the book. However, I do hope the next book I will read will be more to my liking.
I want to thank the publisher for providing me with a free copy through NetGalley for an honest review!
June 11, 2020
A disappointing book in the Tradd Street series. The first three-quarters of the book focuses on Melanie’s OCD tendencies, and her utter cluelessness about her life. She now has twin babies, and has their whole existence controlled on spreadsheets, including how they are dressed each morning, whether Sarah has the right bows in her hair, and how many diapers they fill each day, complete with description of contents. (Mercifully, the reader is spared said descriptions. That's pretty much the only redeeming feature.) If she’s not worrying about spreadsheets, she’s trying to find out how the dry cleaner could have shrunk her entire wardrobe. After giving birth to twins. Seriously?
Melanie’s obsession with controlling the twins’ lives is unhealthy, but the casual way that Jack and the nanny blow off her preferences is both disrespectful and disturbing. They just nod and agree, and then do what they think is best, laughing at her behind her back. Jack keeps telling Melanie how much he loves her, but is caught with the nanny in a couple of suspicious circumstances that he blows off later by saying he “didn’t want to hurt Melanie." That’s insulting and paternalistic. If there really isn’t anything going on, why not tell her the truth to begin with? For that matter, everyone else laughs at her behind her back, too. If all these people, including her mother, her step-daughter, and her best friend, believe that she needs help, why don’t they talk to her instead of laughing at her or giving her strange looks?
The actual plot takes a backseat to all these goings on, and nothing much happens until the last few chapters. Any spooky thrills are very rare, and over almost before they get started, so the haunted house theme gets lost in the grand shuffle. There’s a modified cliffhanger ending, so you can look for another book in the series. I’m not sure that I will.
Melanie’s obsession with controlling the twins’ lives is unhealthy, but the casual way that Jack and the nanny blow off her preferences is both disrespectful and disturbing. They just nod and agree, and then do what they think is best, laughing at her behind her back. Jack keeps telling Melanie how much he loves her, but is caught with the nanny in a couple of suspicious circumstances that he blows off later by saying he “didn’t want to hurt Melanie." That’s insulting and paternalistic. If there really isn’t anything going on, why not tell her the truth to begin with? For that matter, everyone else laughs at her behind her back, too. If all these people, including her mother, her step-daughter, and her best friend, believe that she needs help, why don’t they talk to her instead of laughing at her or giving her strange looks?
The actual plot takes a backseat to all these goings on, and nothing much happens until the last few chapters. Any spooky thrills are very rare, and over almost before they get started, so the haunted house theme gets lost in the grand shuffle. There’s a modified cliffhanger ending, so you can look for another book in the series. I’m not sure that I will.
February 7, 2017
So good and entertaining!!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This book was very entertaining and the author knows how to write a great mystery. With the backdrop in Charleston and surrounding all of the old houses there, the author has crafted another book full of mystery and intrigue, along with some history of the area too.
There's plenty of research that was done for the writing of this book and it's evident with the love of history, antiques, and old homes that shines through in this story. The characters are strong, the relationships are tested, and it's just a great read all around.
There are a few things in this story that made me a little nuts. For one was the issue between Melanie and Jake. It was a pretty big issue but yet once the truth came to light, it was all glazed over. Then the wrap up of story and the ending felt pretty rushed. Another annoyance is that it seems that everyone controls Melanie and she has a little input in her own well being. That was frustrating to me!
These books are very easy to read on their own but obviously reading them in order is a plus. Highly entertaining, easy to read, and easy to get engrossed in, The Guests on South Battery is a winner in my book!
Enter the giveaway for the complete Series!! http://amidlifewife.com/the-guests-on...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This book was very entertaining and the author knows how to write a great mystery. With the backdrop in Charleston and surrounding all of the old houses there, the author has crafted another book full of mystery and intrigue, along with some history of the area too.
There's plenty of research that was done for the writing of this book and it's evident with the love of history, antiques, and old homes that shines through in this story. The characters are strong, the relationships are tested, and it's just a great read all around.
There are a few things in this story that made me a little nuts. For one was the issue between Melanie and Jake. It was a pretty big issue but yet once the truth came to light, it was all glazed over. Then the wrap up of story and the ending felt pretty rushed. Another annoyance is that it seems that everyone controls Melanie and she has a little input in her own well being. That was frustrating to me!
These books are very easy to read on their own but obviously reading them in order is a plus. Highly entertaining, easy to read, and easy to get engrossed in, The Guests on South Battery is a winner in my book!
Enter the giveaway for the complete Series!! http://amidlifewife.com/the-guests-on...
April 18, 2019
I love the Tradd St series and Charlston SC. All the old beautiful houses are exactly as Karen White describes, which I enjoyed seeing while I on a road trip South spending time visiting Charleston, SC. This way an easy read that I definatly enjoyed.
September 10, 2018
Karen White is known for her creepy stories that will keep you up at night but I must say she outdid herself in her latest release.
White knows how to write an atmospheric story rich in Charleston history, with ghosts, both benign and malevolent around every spooky dark corner that will constantly keep you both engrossed in the storyline and on edge constantly jumping at small sounds and looking over your shoulder making sure no one is there.
Even though I haven't read the other books in the series, it took me no time at all to sink into the story comfortably without feeling like I was missing huge gaps on background or character development and I love that I was able to do that with such ease.
This story truly was done so well with mysteries unraveling as quickly as the ghosts were appearing. One that had me stopping every now and then simply because I had to turn on more lights and reassure myself that no one was breathing over my shoulder watching me.
A creepy delight that had me turning the pages and left me wanting more from Melanie and her friends and family.
*ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
White knows how to write an atmospheric story rich in Charleston history, with ghosts, both benign and malevolent around every spooky dark corner that will constantly keep you both engrossed in the storyline and on edge constantly jumping at small sounds and looking over your shoulder making sure no one is there.
Even though I haven't read the other books in the series, it took me no time at all to sink into the story comfortably without feeling like I was missing huge gaps on background or character development and I love that I was able to do that with such ease.
This story truly was done so well with mysteries unraveling as quickly as the ghosts were appearing. One that had me stopping every now and then simply because I had to turn on more lights and reassure myself that no one was breathing over my shoulder watching me.
A creepy delight that had me turning the pages and left me wanting more from Melanie and her friends and family.
*ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
August 22, 2017
What an entertaining read! Ghost filled Charleston at it's finest.
November 8, 2016
3.5 stars
I didn’t like this book nearly as much as the last two. Things are different now that Melanie and Jack are married with kids. Despite them finally being a couple, they still didn’t feel like a team. They didn’t work together as much as they did in the other books. Jack didn’t make as many witty comments that get Melanie all flustered. He is my favorite character in the series, and I wanted more of him. Melanie is anal retentive and obsessive compulsive about certain things, but it’s funny and endearing. It’s expected that there will be some drama since no one can live up to her lofty standards. But does there have to be a quasi love triangle in every book? The other man/woman never goes anywhere serious as a potential love interest, and it’s obvious it won’t. I’m okay with them having problems, but I want them to be sure that they are 100% committed to each other for a whole book.
Although I love the cast of characters which made the book worth reading, this wasn’t the best mystery ever. About half way through I figured out what really happened to Hasell and who Jayne really was. The clues about Jayne were numerous and obvious. There wasn’t anyone else whose child she could possibly be. I wasn’t thrilled with the plot, but I’m not a fan of secret baby storylines. A few other minor things were easy to figure out. It got annoying after awhile that the characters weren’t figuring any of this stuff out. More things got on my nerves than normal, but I will gladly read the next book if there is one.
I received this from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I didn’t like this book nearly as much as the last two. Things are different now that Melanie and Jack are married with kids. Despite them finally being a couple, they still didn’t feel like a team. They didn’t work together as much as they did in the other books. Jack didn’t make as many witty comments that get Melanie all flustered. He is my favorite character in the series, and I wanted more of him. Melanie is anal retentive and obsessive compulsive about certain things, but it’s funny and endearing. It’s expected that there will be some drama since no one can live up to her lofty standards. But does there have to be a quasi love triangle in every book? The other man/woman never goes anywhere serious as a potential love interest, and it’s obvious it won’t. I’m okay with them having problems, but I want them to be sure that they are 100% committed to each other for a whole book.
Although I love the cast of characters which made the book worth reading, this wasn’t the best mystery ever. About half way through I figured out what really happened to Hasell and who Jayne really was. The clues about Jayne were numerous and obvious. There wasn’t anyone else whose child she could possibly be. I wasn’t thrilled with the plot, but I’m not a fan of secret baby storylines. A few other minor things were easy to figure out. It got annoying after awhile that the characters weren’t figuring any of this stuff out. More things got on my nerves than normal, but I will gladly read the next book if there is one.
I received this from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 12, 2022
I treasure the “Tradd Street” series. Paranormal mysteries are rare in the “standard mystery” tone. I found the first hardcover on a town charity table in about 2012. I clued into this niche in 2015, when I was sick of “cozy mysteries” but avoid “horror”. Serious mysterious about spirits are precious and I hit the jackpot! It took two years to obtain the second hardcover. A following grew after the third. It feels wonderful to be riveted in an eerie but non-violent paranormal mystery. These all receive five star feedback from me, because my few quibbles are overshadowed easily.
I am disappointed some women interpret Melanie as quarrelsome. At forty she was cautious about marrying a man until he had said “I love you”, wisely choosing a fulfilling life for herself. I do not blame her for making certain that he initiated none of the flirting she observed from women. When her housekeeper and friend overstepped so far as to tell a bakery not to sell Melanie donuts, she objected rightly! What some call “bitchy”, I call speaking-up! Karen needs to cut these two sidebars out. I want to see her happy, alongside the surreal adventures of ghosts and treasure-hunting.
I notice and savour how sublime Karen White’s writing is. Every minor character is distinctly recognizable as a person. The mysteries are original and compelling. They are tied to Melanie’s family so intimately, their revelations are emotional and empowering. This series crafts growth that is rewarding. We met Melanie as a colourless career woman who felt no attachment to her alcoholic Dad, absent Mom, or houses. By the time of “The Guests On South Battery” in 2017, her large family and friend circle glows with the warmth of belonging. The secrets of this novel manifest spookily, in suspense that explodes!
I am disappointed some women interpret Melanie as quarrelsome. At forty she was cautious about marrying a man until he had said “I love you”, wisely choosing a fulfilling life for herself. I do not blame her for making certain that he initiated none of the flirting she observed from women. When her housekeeper and friend overstepped so far as to tell a bakery not to sell Melanie donuts, she objected rightly! What some call “bitchy”, I call speaking-up! Karen needs to cut these two sidebars out. I want to see her happy, alongside the surreal adventures of ghosts and treasure-hunting.
I notice and savour how sublime Karen White’s writing is. Every minor character is distinctly recognizable as a person. The mysteries are original and compelling. They are tied to Melanie’s family so intimately, their revelations are emotional and empowering. This series crafts growth that is rewarding. We met Melanie as a colourless career woman who felt no attachment to her alcoholic Dad, absent Mom, or houses. By the time of “The Guests On South Battery” in 2017, her large family and friend circle glows with the warmth of belonging. The secrets of this novel manifest spookily, in suspense that explodes!
February 2, 2017
I have now read all of the Tradd Street series and have to say this latest one is the best. I found myself loving and hating it at the same time. There were times when I wanted to throw the book across the room because of the newest character but refrained from doing so. There was a lot more humor in this book. I will be waiting patiently for the next one....I know there will be :)
July 11, 2018
I always look forward to reading books in this cozy, paranormal, mystery series. The characters are endearing and the stories are original and engaging. A light and fun series that should be started with book one but can also be read as stand alones.
February 7, 2017
The queen of the South, Karen White returns following Flight Patterns (2016) landing on my Top 50 Books of 2016 list and (2014) Return to Tradd Street (Tradd Street, #4) with the continuation THE GUESTS ON SOUTH BATTERY (#5) with more mystery, history, spirits, a twist of paranormal and dark family secrets.
"There is always a way to look past the bad to see the good."
Set in the Holy City - historic Charleston, SC, we pick up from the last book with Melanie (Middleton) and Jack Trenholm, settling into marriage with a busy lifestyle and twins, Sarah and JJ (Jack, Jr), and Jack’s daughter, Nola, a sophomore at Ashley Hall. Nola is also interested in a boy named Cooper which Jack must warm up to.
They are the owners of a historic home on Tradd Street (an interesting story from previous books), with its quirks and their dogs. The restless dead had left her along for almost a year as Melanie settled into her new life as wife and mother without the distraction of spirits needing her for something.
Jack is a bestselling author (charming, funny, and irresistible) and Melanie, a successful Realtor, is returning to work after her maternity leave. They are coming up on their first year as parents. Melanie is having a hard time finding and keeping a nanny since she likes things a certain way with her routines. This has been the reason she has been delayed getting back to work, much later than she planned.
Melanie’s first day back, feeling a bit insecure, not having lost all the baby weight, she lands a new client, Jayne Smith from Alabama, who has recently inherited a prominent historic home, the Pinckney mansion. Being an orphan, she is not related to the owner and hates old homes and has never been to Charleston.
She wants Melanie to sell it and find her a new one. Something fresh and new with lots of metal, glass, and stone. Ironically, she is a qualified nanny and does not mind Melanie’s attention to order and details. A match made in heaven.
However, Jayne is not so sure she wants to move into Melanie and Jack’s house since it is also old and historic until she decides about her own living arrangements. However, she soon learns it feels like a home and feels comfortable there.
Melanie and her mom (both with psychic gifts) decide they want to try and discover the past of the house, to warn off the spirits for Jayne to possibly decide to hold on to the home since there was a lot of history. After all, it was on South Battery near the corner of Legare, a huge white house with the portico and columns.
Button Pinckney was an acquaintance of Melanie’s and a good friend of both her mother and mother-in-law. They all went to school at Ashley Hall years ago, and her mom had attended the funeral.
Why would Jayne inherit a home from a stranger? Jayne was raised in the foster care system and was never adopted. Melanie liked her and wants to help. If they can warn off and rid the house of spirits, evil, and ghosts- maybe Jayne will decide to keep the house.
Melanie had a flash of déjà vu, since a man Vanderhorst had left her his crumbling old home that she did not want or need either, not so long ago. She knows all too well about an albatross of a house left to an unsuspecting stranger.
We meet up with Dr. Sophie Wallen-Arasi, professor of historic preservation at the College of Charleston, and Melanie’s mom, Ginette, as well as Melanie’s annoying cousin and Jack’s ex-girlfriend, Rebecca—plus her husband, Marc Longo who stole Jack’s book idea, the story of a disappearance and a murder that occurred in the twenties in her house and made it into a runaway bestseller (with Jack being dropped by his publisher as a result).
An ongoing mystery of the Pickney house. Button never married. She had an older brother-Sumter. He married Anna, another classmate and they had a daughter. She died when she was a child. Anna and Sumter divorced shortly afterward and Anna remained in the house with Button. She died about ten years later. Sumter never remarried and moved to New York after his divorce.
Melanie’s parents have recently remarried and have a good relationship. In the meantime, Melanie lets her old insecurities get in the way making her jump to the wrong conclusions. We also meet up with Detective Thomas Riley and he helps Melanie run a background check on Jayne for the nanny job and he seems to like Jayne. Melanie and Ginette are curious why a generous philanthropist decided to give her entire estate to a deserving orphan.
However, Melanie and Ginette get more than they bargained for with ghosts of the past at the old Pickney mansion. From chilling spirits, haunting ghosts, a cat, a disturbing antique doll, a hanging, a past mental illness, warnings to go away, and desperate cries of help— Jayne, Melanie, and Jayne may have more in common than they may know.
Under the mold, falling plaster, spirits of the past, and its sadness, they soon realize there must have been happiness before the tragedy within the walls. It may be worth the chance of a new beginning. Houses are like people. They all deserve a second chance at happiness.
Old secrets which have been buried, all come to the surface. A decades-old mystery to be solved with a shocking conclusion.
As always, Karen White is multi-talented, writing southern women’s fiction, mystery, suspense, paranormal, romance, literary, and historical, crossing many genres. Always love her tales of Charleston and the dark family secrets of the South. I especially loved the reference to Wendy Wax (very cool) —another favorite.
Charleston is such a beautiful city with its historic architecture, and always love catching up with familiar landmarks. Well-crafted and engaging. An intriguing twisty mystery with paranormal elements, enjoy catching up with familiar characters. I enjoy Jack and Melanie’s relationship and the dramas of their lives. If you love history, southern fiction, and ghost stories you will enjoy the series.
Having read and enjoyed all the books in the series, highly recommend them all! In addition to the reading copy, also listened to the audio version (nicely done as always), narrated by Aimée Bruneau, with a charming southern accent.
Looking forward to the next- hoping we hear more about Jayne's mysterious past.
Cannot wait for The Night the Lights Went Out (cover love), Coming April 11, 2017.
A special thank you to Berkley and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
JDCMustReadBooks
"There is always a way to look past the bad to see the good."
Set in the Holy City - historic Charleston, SC, we pick up from the last book with Melanie (Middleton) and Jack Trenholm, settling into marriage with a busy lifestyle and twins, Sarah and JJ (Jack, Jr), and Jack’s daughter, Nola, a sophomore at Ashley Hall. Nola is also interested in a boy named Cooper which Jack must warm up to.
They are the owners of a historic home on Tradd Street (an interesting story from previous books), with its quirks and their dogs. The restless dead had left her along for almost a year as Melanie settled into her new life as wife and mother without the distraction of spirits needing her for something.
Jack is a bestselling author (charming, funny, and irresistible) and Melanie, a successful Realtor, is returning to work after her maternity leave. They are coming up on their first year as parents. Melanie is having a hard time finding and keeping a nanny since she likes things a certain way with her routines. This has been the reason she has been delayed getting back to work, much later than she planned.
Melanie’s first day back, feeling a bit insecure, not having lost all the baby weight, she lands a new client, Jayne Smith from Alabama, who has recently inherited a prominent historic home, the Pinckney mansion. Being an orphan, she is not related to the owner and hates old homes and has never been to Charleston.
She wants Melanie to sell it and find her a new one. Something fresh and new with lots of metal, glass, and stone. Ironically, she is a qualified nanny and does not mind Melanie’s attention to order and details. A match made in heaven.
However, Jayne is not so sure she wants to move into Melanie and Jack’s house since it is also old and historic until she decides about her own living arrangements. However, she soon learns it feels like a home and feels comfortable there.
Melanie and her mom (both with psychic gifts) decide they want to try and discover the past of the house, to warn off the spirits for Jayne to possibly decide to hold on to the home since there was a lot of history. After all, it was on South Battery near the corner of Legare, a huge white house with the portico and columns.
Button Pinckney was an acquaintance of Melanie’s and a good friend of both her mother and mother-in-law. They all went to school at Ashley Hall years ago, and her mom had attended the funeral.
Why would Jayne inherit a home from a stranger? Jayne was raised in the foster care system and was never adopted. Melanie liked her and wants to help. If they can warn off and rid the house of spirits, evil, and ghosts- maybe Jayne will decide to keep the house.
Melanie had a flash of déjà vu, since a man Vanderhorst had left her his crumbling old home that she did not want or need either, not so long ago. She knows all too well about an albatross of a house left to an unsuspecting stranger.
We meet up with Dr. Sophie Wallen-Arasi, professor of historic preservation at the College of Charleston, and Melanie’s mom, Ginette, as well as Melanie’s annoying cousin and Jack’s ex-girlfriend, Rebecca—plus her husband, Marc Longo who stole Jack’s book idea, the story of a disappearance and a murder that occurred in the twenties in her house and made it into a runaway bestseller (with Jack being dropped by his publisher as a result).
An ongoing mystery of the Pickney house. Button never married. She had an older brother-Sumter. He married Anna, another classmate and they had a daughter. She died when she was a child. Anna and Sumter divorced shortly afterward and Anna remained in the house with Button. She died about ten years later. Sumter never remarried and moved to New York after his divorce.
Melanie’s parents have recently remarried and have a good relationship. In the meantime, Melanie lets her old insecurities get in the way making her jump to the wrong conclusions. We also meet up with Detective Thomas Riley and he helps Melanie run a background check on Jayne for the nanny job and he seems to like Jayne. Melanie and Ginette are curious why a generous philanthropist decided to give her entire estate to a deserving orphan.
However, Melanie and Ginette get more than they bargained for with ghosts of the past at the old Pickney mansion. From chilling spirits, haunting ghosts, a cat, a disturbing antique doll, a hanging, a past mental illness, warnings to go away, and desperate cries of help— Jayne, Melanie, and Jayne may have more in common than they may know.
Under the mold, falling plaster, spirits of the past, and its sadness, they soon realize there must have been happiness before the tragedy within the walls. It may be worth the chance of a new beginning. Houses are like people. They all deserve a second chance at happiness.
Old secrets which have been buried, all come to the surface. A decades-old mystery to be solved with a shocking conclusion.
As always, Karen White is multi-talented, writing southern women’s fiction, mystery, suspense, paranormal, romance, literary, and historical, crossing many genres. Always love her tales of Charleston and the dark family secrets of the South. I especially loved the reference to Wendy Wax (very cool) —another favorite.
Charleston is such a beautiful city with its historic architecture, and always love catching up with familiar landmarks. Well-crafted and engaging. An intriguing twisty mystery with paranormal elements, enjoy catching up with familiar characters. I enjoy Jack and Melanie’s relationship and the dramas of their lives. If you love history, southern fiction, and ghost stories you will enjoy the series.
Having read and enjoyed all the books in the series, highly recommend them all! In addition to the reading copy, also listened to the audio version (nicely done as always), narrated by Aimée Bruneau, with a charming southern accent.
Looking forward to the next- hoping we hear more about Jayne's mysterious past.
Cannot wait for The Night the Lights Went Out (cover love), Coming April 11, 2017.
A special thank you to Berkley and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
JDCMustReadBooks
September 10, 2018
Review can be found on my blog here: https://booksonthebookshelf.wordpress...
This is a paranormal book that follows the life of the main character Melanie. She is about to return to work at a realty office as a realtor after being off work on an extended maternity leave. She has been getting phone calls, that when she picks up the phone there appears to be no one on the other end, and she fears that the ghostly apparitions that have remained silent for a year have returned.
She is tasked with selling a home for a woman named Jayne, who has inherited the house and wants to sell it. The house appears to be haunted by ghosts and spirits inside. Why is the house haunted?
This was the first book I have read by Karen White and although this book is part of a series, none of which I have read previously, it was not hard to keep up with what was going on in the storyline. After reading this book I am definitely interested in reading the other books in this series.
I enjoyed the storyline in this book and I loved the haunted, paranormal feel of the book. The book was written in a way to keep the reader interested from beginning to end. I found myself wanting to know what would happen next as I continued reading along and quite enjoyed reading about the various characters you meet in the book.
Why do there appear to be spirits nearby? What do they want?
You’ll have to read this book to find out.
This is a paranormal book that follows the life of the main character Melanie. She is about to return to work at a realty office as a realtor after being off work on an extended maternity leave. She has been getting phone calls, that when she picks up the phone there appears to be no one on the other end, and she fears that the ghostly apparitions that have remained silent for a year have returned.
She is tasked with selling a home for a woman named Jayne, who has inherited the house and wants to sell it. The house appears to be haunted by ghosts and spirits inside. Why is the house haunted?
This was the first book I have read by Karen White and although this book is part of a series, none of which I have read previously, it was not hard to keep up with what was going on in the storyline. After reading this book I am definitely interested in reading the other books in this series.
I enjoyed the storyline in this book and I loved the haunted, paranormal feel of the book. The book was written in a way to keep the reader interested from beginning to end. I found myself wanting to know what would happen next as I continued reading along and quite enjoyed reading about the various characters you meet in the book.
Why do there appear to be spirits nearby? What do they want?
You’ll have to read this book to find out.
December 26, 2019
I just love this series! Making my way through this series to finish just in time for the newest 2019 release!
January 3, 2017
The Guests on South Battery (Tradd Street #5) by Karen White With her extended maternity leave at its end, Melanie Trenholm is less than thrilled to leave her new husband and beautiful twins to return to work, especially when she’s awoken by a phone call with no voice on the other end—and the uneasy feeling that the ghostly apparitions that have stayed silent for more than a year are about to invade her life once more. But her return to the realty office goes better than she could have hoped, with a new client eager to sell the home she recently inherited on South Battery. Most would treasure living in one of the grandest old homes in the famous historic district of Charleston, but Jayne Smith would rather sell hers as soon as possible, guaranteeing Melanie a quick commission. Despite her stroke of luck, Melanie can’t deny that spirits—both malevolent and benign—have started to show themselves to her again. One is shrouded from sight, but appears whenever Jayne is near. Another arrives when an old cistern is discovered in Melanie’s backyard on Tradd Street. Melanie knows nothing good can come from unearthing the past. But some secrets refuse to stay buried..
I really enjoyed this book enough that I'm interested in picking up the previous installments to the Tradd Street series but I was quite a bit lost in where the story seems to pick up where it left off from the previous book which I haven't read. That aside, it was fairly easy to keep up.
Despite missing out on the previous books in the series I loved the cast, I loved the journey, and the plot.
Although Melanie is hard to like because her exactness is a tad extreme at some points I did like the course of the mystery and how determined she was.
I felt that Karen White's writing is similar to that of Belva Plain's which I enjoy so if you are a fan of Plain's you may like White's books as well if you haven't read her before.
Karen White
This title will be available January 10th 2017!
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Krissy's Bookshelf Reviews received a digital copy. All thoughts, comments and ratings are my own.
Krissy's Bookshelf Reviews received a digital copy in exchange for an honest review from the publisher via Netgalley.
If any of Krissy's Bookshelf Reviews has been helpful please stop by to like my post or leave a comment to let me know what you think. I love hearing from followers!
Thank you so much for stopping by!
I really enjoyed this book enough that I'm interested in picking up the previous installments to the Tradd Street series but I was quite a bit lost in where the story seems to pick up where it left off from the previous book which I haven't read. That aside, it was fairly easy to keep up.
Despite missing out on the previous books in the series I loved the cast, I loved the journey, and the plot.
Although Melanie is hard to like because her exactness is a tad extreme at some points I did like the course of the mystery and how determined she was.
I felt that Karen White's writing is similar to that of Belva Plain's which I enjoy so if you are a fan of Plain's you may like White's books as well if you haven't read her before.
Karen White
This title will be available January 10th 2017!
Krissys Bookshelf Reviews has a QR code for your phone!
Krissy's Bookshelf Reviews received a digital copy. All thoughts, comments and ratings are my own.
Krissy's Bookshelf Reviews received a digital copy in exchange for an honest review from the publisher via Netgalley.
If any of Krissy's Bookshelf Reviews has been helpful please stop by to like my post or leave a comment to let me know what you think. I love hearing from followers!
Thank you so much for stopping by!
February 3, 2017
I’ve been an avid fan of Karen White stories for years but this was the first I'd read in her Tradd Street series. (Leave it to me to start at the end and work my way backward.) Now, however, I understand what all of the hype is about. Her stories are always so rich and full of character and emotion and this book is no different -- but with a sprinkling of paranormal activity.
Melanie, a new mother of twins is reeling with self-doubt and approaching her time to return to work as a realtor, sets out to find a nanny that can live up to her expectations and OCD processes. Melanie’s husband, Jack, is an author and has accepted his wife’s “abilities” to sometimes see or feel things that others cannot. Melanie’s gift is apparently an inheritance from her mother.
Jayne, a newcomer to Charleston, arrives at the realty company where Melanie works and informs her she has received word she inherited an old manor on Guest Street from someone she never met nor heard of. Having no regard for big old homes, she wishes to sell the house, sight unseen, and hopes to employ Melanie for the task. Needless to say there is a story twisted so deep in the home with a dusting of secrets yet to be revealed to others, and this is not going to be a quick or easy sale.
I’ll be honest and say that it actually did take me a few chapters to really get my feet wet in this story. But once I got used to the water temperature, I couldn’t escape its grasp on me, even when I could hear the rapids calling in the later chapters. Another excellent story telling by an exceptional author. I can’t wait to see what she’ll come up with to top this one.
Melanie, a new mother of twins is reeling with self-doubt and approaching her time to return to work as a realtor, sets out to find a nanny that can live up to her expectations and OCD processes. Melanie’s husband, Jack, is an author and has accepted his wife’s “abilities” to sometimes see or feel things that others cannot. Melanie’s gift is apparently an inheritance from her mother.
Jayne, a newcomer to Charleston, arrives at the realty company where Melanie works and informs her she has received word she inherited an old manor on Guest Street from someone she never met nor heard of. Having no regard for big old homes, she wishes to sell the house, sight unseen, and hopes to employ Melanie for the task. Needless to say there is a story twisted so deep in the home with a dusting of secrets yet to be revealed to others, and this is not going to be a quick or easy sale.
I’ll be honest and say that it actually did take me a few chapters to really get my feet wet in this story. But once I got used to the water temperature, I couldn’t escape its grasp on me, even when I could hear the rapids calling in the later chapters. Another excellent story telling by an exceptional author. I can’t wait to see what she’ll come up with to top this one.
November 21, 2016
The latest book in the Trade Street Houses series to be released. This book can be read as a standalone but earlier books will help understand the characters. Melanie and the other characters have grown with the book. Melanie's insecurities surface at times causing her problems.
Melanie has given birth to twins and is returning to work after a maternity leave. She is having trouble keeping a nanny as they leave shortly after being hired. Her first client, Jayne has inherited a house on South Battery Street. It was a complete surprise surprise to her. Jayne grew up in foster homes. She wants to sell it at once and buy a condo. She is looking for work as a nanny. The house must be upgraded before it can be sold. Melanie and her Mother both feel friendly and a malevolent spirits present is present at the house. The twists and turns will keep those pages turning. I did guess a part of The solution but I miss the ending. I highly recommend this book. The other three are high on my END list.
Disclosure: I received a free copy from Penguin Group through NetGalley for an honest review. I would like to thank them for this opportunity to read and review the book.The opinions expressed are my own.
Melanie has given birth to twins and is returning to work after a maternity leave. She is having trouble keeping a nanny as they leave shortly after being hired. Her first client, Jayne has inherited a house on South Battery Street. It was a complete surprise surprise to her. Jayne grew up in foster homes. She wants to sell it at once and buy a condo. She is looking for work as a nanny. The house must be upgraded before it can be sold. Melanie and her Mother both feel friendly and a malevolent spirits present is present at the house. The twists and turns will keep those pages turning. I did guess a part of The solution but I miss the ending. I highly recommend this book. The other three are high on my END list.
Disclosure: I received a free copy from Penguin Group through NetGalley for an honest review. I would like to thank them for this opportunity to read and review the book.The opinions expressed are my own.
December 9, 2019
This is the 5th book in the Tradd Street series by Karen White. I enjoy this author. She does southern women well. In this series it is all about Southern women and the ghosts around them. Paranormal stories have never been a 'go-to' genre for me but I've stayed with this series because I like the author.
I like the way the author has created fun and quirky characters and yet she has managed to instill a certain amount of normalcy, if not directly to the characters, then it is somewhere around them. She tethers it down for plausibility. (That is always appreciated because when dealing with ghost stories I am always looking for the hokey.) Melanie is still annoying, but she also has her endearing qualities as well. I think the other characters balance it all out. So for the fluff and fun, 4 stars.
I like the way the author has created fun and quirky characters and yet she has managed to instill a certain amount of normalcy, if not directly to the characters, then it is somewhere around them. She tethers it down for plausibility. (That is always appreciated because when dealing with ghost stories I am always looking for the hokey.) Melanie is still annoying, but she also has her endearing qualities as well. I think the other characters balance it all out. So for the fluff and fun, 4 stars.
September 26, 2019
The Guests on South Battery
4 Stars
Returning to work following her maternity leave, Melanie Trenholm is pleased to have a new client determined to sell the historic home that she has recently inherited. Unfortunately, the ghostly guests within are determined to have their say and Melanie has no choice but to listen ...
Although the mystery is quite predictable, there are several very compelling twists and turns. While the explanation of Hazel Pickney's death is rather obvious, it is entertaining to follow along as Melanie and Jack uncover the clues and expose the secret that will have a profound effect on their lives.
Melanie is a very appealing heroine even though her insecurities are still getting the better of her. Jack has obviously found his niche as a husband and father, but he really needs to be more forthcoming both with his feelings for Mellie and with keeping her informed about important issues that affect their family. In fact, this is the most problematic aspect of the story as Jack's reticence leads to an annoying misunderstanding that almost ruins the book.
Nevertheless, the latest installment in the Tradd Street series is wonderfully engaging and the Southern Gothic atmosphere of the setting continues to be a highlight. It will be interesting to see what happens next as there are two ongoing mysteries that remain unresolved.
4 Stars
Returning to work following her maternity leave, Melanie Trenholm is pleased to have a new client determined to sell the historic home that she has recently inherited. Unfortunately, the ghostly guests within are determined to have their say and Melanie has no choice but to listen ...
Although the mystery is quite predictable, there are several very compelling twists and turns. While the explanation of Hazel Pickney's death is rather obvious, it is entertaining to follow along as Melanie and Jack uncover the clues and expose the secret that will have a profound effect on their lives.
Melanie is a very appealing heroine even though her insecurities are still getting the better of her. Jack has obviously found his niche as a husband and father, but he really needs to be more forthcoming both with his feelings for Mellie and with keeping her informed about important issues that affect their family. In fact, this is the most problematic aspect of the story as Jack's reticence leads to an annoying misunderstanding that almost ruins the book.
Nevertheless, the latest installment in the Tradd Street series is wonderfully engaging and the Southern Gothic atmosphere of the setting continues to be a highlight. It will be interesting to see what happens next as there are two ongoing mysteries that remain unresolved.
July 14, 2017
I have read the other books in this series and liked them, but this story I just found to be constantly annoying me. First off Tom (her police detective friend) asks Melanie to help her with a cold case, we meet the family that is affected by this case ( an old school acquaintance, her daughter and husband). Melanie declines helping because as a working mother who recently had twins she is too busy. Then her mother gets her to agree to help. Then 'the husband' of the woman with a murdered sister warns her off. Then the plot line disappears never to be heard from again.
The main mystery is so obvious as to be pathetic.
So much of this plot is rehashed, e.g. long lost relative, stranger inheriting a mansion, Melanie's insecurities ad nauseum.
One of my pet peeves is when seemingly intelligent characters do stupid things in order to advance the plot. Did all of these characters suddenly become morons? Every Single Person who meets Jayne, the new nanny, asks her if they have met before. "No I just have that kind of face" Give me a break; the kind of face she has is the same kind as the woman she is working for and that woman's mother. But No One Notices That. I thought for sure that when they were all out shopping together a stranger might mistake them for family as they were all trying on makeup together. They all have the same deep-set eyes, but no one sees a resemblance. To make this worse the 'long lost relative' plot line was used in a previous book as was the inheriting a mansion from a stranger.
When Jayne is nearby Melanie can't see ghosts, Jack can't write, Nola can't write. No one figures out that Jayne is causing this. There is a ghost cat that only some people ever see and they don't figure out it is a ghost. Melanie's clothes don't fit after her pregnancy but she assumes the dry cleaner has started shrinking her clothes and that something in the closet is shrinking her shoes. No one is so stupid that they can't figure out they have gained weight or not lost all the weight after pregnancy. Maybe this was an attempt at humor.
We are beat over the head with Melanie's OCD, which no one will actually call OCD in front of her; even though she wants nannies to keep spread sheets of her childrens' pee and poop schedules!
All that aside, I couldn't recommend this book because of the constant body shaming. Melanie's favorite bakery won't sell her donuts, her mom buys her a baby jogger, her best friend nags her to go running. It goes on so constantly that one would presume that Melanie is too fat to live. Here is the kicker, her mom tells her that she isn't fat, and that is what we have to go on so I assume that she isn't fat. A woman who has recently, or ever, given birth, let alone to twins, isn't necessarily going to have the same figure as before so why is Melanie constantly having it implied to her that she is too fat? I find this particularly odd coming from her laid back 'Birkenstock wearing' best friend. It just seemed out of character to me.
Then there is Melanie's marriage 'crisis'. She goes to a fancy party for people she doesn't even like then finds her husband in a freezer or pantry or something in the kitchen with the nanny crying on his shoulder being comforted and somehow Melanie is the bad guy because this bothers her. What!? It turns out he had some upsetting news for said nanny and no one thinks that this is an inappropriate time or place for this reveal. Not to mention that the nanny is also dressed up for a fancy party because she is on a date so this seems like a particularly crappy time for a big reveal.
I'm not sure if this catastrophe will turn me off for any future books in this series. I know I won't be buying them.
The main mystery is so obvious as to be pathetic.
So much of this plot is rehashed, e.g. long lost relative, stranger inheriting a mansion, Melanie's insecurities ad nauseum.
One of my pet peeves is when seemingly intelligent characters do stupid things in order to advance the plot. Did all of these characters suddenly become morons? Every Single Person who meets Jayne, the new nanny, asks her if they have met before. "No I just have that kind of face" Give me a break; the kind of face she has is the same kind as the woman she is working for and that woman's mother. But No One Notices That. I thought for sure that when they were all out shopping together a stranger might mistake them for family as they were all trying on makeup together. They all have the same deep-set eyes, but no one sees a resemblance. To make this worse the 'long lost relative' plot line was used in a previous book as was the inheriting a mansion from a stranger.
When Jayne is nearby Melanie can't see ghosts, Jack can't write, Nola can't write. No one figures out that Jayne is causing this. There is a ghost cat that only some people ever see and they don't figure out it is a ghost. Melanie's clothes don't fit after her pregnancy but she assumes the dry cleaner has started shrinking her clothes and that something in the closet is shrinking her shoes. No one is so stupid that they can't figure out they have gained weight or not lost all the weight after pregnancy. Maybe this was an attempt at humor.
We are beat over the head with Melanie's OCD, which no one will actually call OCD in front of her; even though she wants nannies to keep spread sheets of her childrens' pee and poop schedules!
All that aside, I couldn't recommend this book because of the constant body shaming. Melanie's favorite bakery won't sell her donuts, her mom buys her a baby jogger, her best friend nags her to go running. It goes on so constantly that one would presume that Melanie is too fat to live. Here is the kicker, her mom tells her that she isn't fat, and that is what we have to go on so I assume that she isn't fat. A woman who has recently, or ever, given birth, let alone to twins, isn't necessarily going to have the same figure as before so why is Melanie constantly having it implied to her that she is too fat? I find this particularly odd coming from her laid back 'Birkenstock wearing' best friend. It just seemed out of character to me.
Then there is Melanie's marriage 'crisis'. She goes to a fancy party for people she doesn't even like then finds her husband in a freezer or pantry or something in the kitchen with the nanny crying on his shoulder being comforted and somehow Melanie is the bad guy because this bothers her. What!? It turns out he had some upsetting news for said nanny and no one thinks that this is an inappropriate time or place for this reveal. Not to mention that the nanny is also dressed up for a fancy party because she is on a date so this seems like a particularly crappy time for a big reveal.
I'm not sure if this catastrophe will turn me off for any future books in this series. I know I won't be buying them.
April 11, 2021
3.5 stars rounded down
This was my least favorite book in the series. Melanie got on my nerves, and I saw the twist coming from far away.
Will definitely keep reading the series because I do love it. Just disappointed in this one, but not enough to break up.
This was my least favorite book in the series. Melanie got on my nerves, and I saw the twist coming from far away.
Will definitely keep reading the series because I do love it. Just disappointed in this one, but not enough to break up.
March 20, 2017
The Guests on South Battery is the second Tradd book that we have featured at Writer’s Corner. Josephine reviewed the last book in the series. I will be sharing this one with you. I received no financial compensation for this review.
Synopsis:
Melanie is looking forward to getting back to work after having twins. There is only one problem she has no nanny. Is it a problem that she has spreadsheets for all her children’s activities? A mother must keep track of her children. So as she heads to the office she learns that she has a new client Jayne. She is from Alabama and has recently inherited the Pinckney place on South Battery. Jayne wants to sell but Melanie and Sophie try to convince her otherwise. There might be a small problem of a ghost or two. This is nothing new for Melanie and her family as they have dealt with the paranormal before. Everything could change when Jack starts researching an idea for a new book.
My Thoughts:
I enjoyed this book. Melanie’s quirks are entertaining. I did not realize that there was a paranormal element to the Tradd series. I loved how the mystery is woven around this element. The author left room for a couple more mysteries to take place yet. So readers have something to look forward to in the following Tradd Street books.
Charleston South Carolina is a beautiful city! I had the opportunity to visit once. It is a city that is worth visiting again and again.
Synopsis:
Melanie is looking forward to getting back to work after having twins. There is only one problem she has no nanny. Is it a problem that she has spreadsheets for all her children’s activities? A mother must keep track of her children. So as she heads to the office she learns that she has a new client Jayne. She is from Alabama and has recently inherited the Pinckney place on South Battery. Jayne wants to sell but Melanie and Sophie try to convince her otherwise. There might be a small problem of a ghost or two. This is nothing new for Melanie and her family as they have dealt with the paranormal before. Everything could change when Jack starts researching an idea for a new book.
My Thoughts:
I enjoyed this book. Melanie’s quirks are entertaining. I did not realize that there was a paranormal element to the Tradd series. I loved how the mystery is woven around this element. The author left room for a couple more mysteries to take place yet. So readers have something to look forward to in the following Tradd Street books.
Charleston South Carolina is a beautiful city! I had the opportunity to visit once. It is a city that is worth visiting again and again.
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