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Rest in Peace Roz, Book 1 in The R.I.P. Series
Fifteen year old Rosalind Ines Pastrano has lived her entire life neglected, tormented, and abused by her parents. However, all that changes one night when Roz’s mother is murdered and she escapes a vicious attempted assault, thanks to Jimmy.
Jimmy is her protector, and he is also a spirit. For unknown reasons, Jimmy’s ghost has attached itself to Roz, and she is the only one who can see him.
Time and again, Jimmy proves he is a gentle, loving protector. He is unfailingly there for Roz as she battles inner demons brought about by years of living with her drug-addicted mother. He comforts her when the nightmares begin. He soothes her as she begins a new life in a foster home. He reassures her when she loses hope. He even watches over her each and every night, with the promise, “I’m always here.”
When a dangerous student takes an unexpected liking to Roz, however, forces stronger than Jimmy are brought into play, and no one is prepared for the motive and magic behind it all. With every terrifying, mysterious event that unravels, Roz and Jimmy develop an unbreakable bond and their feelings soon turn into more than “Protector-Victim.” Which would be perfect except for one small thing:
She's alive.
He's dead.
And Jimmy must work harder than ever to make sure she doesn't end up dead, too.
***FOR MATURE YA READERS*** This book is not intended for readers age 13 and younger. While it does not contain sexual scenes or strong profanity, it does have scenes which may be triggers for more sensitive readers, such as illegal drug use, child abuse, and attempted sexual assault.
Jimmy is her protector, and he is also a spirit. For unknown reasons, Jimmy’s ghost has attached itself to Roz, and she is the only one who can see him.
Time and again, Jimmy proves he is a gentle, loving protector. He is unfailingly there for Roz as she battles inner demons brought about by years of living with her drug-addicted mother. He comforts her when the nightmares begin. He soothes her as she begins a new life in a foster home. He reassures her when she loses hope. He even watches over her each and every night, with the promise, “I’m always here.”
When a dangerous student takes an unexpected liking to Roz, however, forces stronger than Jimmy are brought into play, and no one is prepared for the motive and magic behind it all. With every terrifying, mysterious event that unravels, Roz and Jimmy develop an unbreakable bond and their feelings soon turn into more than “Protector-Victim.” Which would be perfect except for one small thing:
She's alive.
He's dead.
And Jimmy must work harder than ever to make sure she doesn't end up dead, too.
***FOR MATURE YA READERS*** This book is not intended for readers age 13 and younger. While it does not contain sexual scenes or strong profanity, it does have scenes which may be triggers for more sensitive readers, such as illegal drug use, child abuse, and attempted sexual assault.
- GenresYoung AdultRomance
318 pages, ebook
Published September 20, 2016
35 people are currently reading
207 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
June 24, 2017
This is the third book from Author Kris Johnston, a departure from the norm, and that is what makes this book so good. This mature young adult book has emotional triggers, but has that real life story feel.
This book spoke to my heart on so many levels. The story line is well written, makes you feel as your living her story right along with her.
I absolutely love, Roz. She is the typical teenage girl, experiencing the normal ups and downs... Then add in extra hardships of family, life and the bad decisions of her mother, and it was a recipe for disaster. After a tragedy, Roz must learn to trust in new people. Thinking that her life was over, Jimmy appeared when she needed someone the most. Their relationship is so different from anything she has experienced. Sweet, passionate and unique. This is a suspenseful ride.... diving into a world of the beyond, ghosts and witches and magic. Rest In Peace Roz has a little something for everyone. It will leave you on the edge of your seat until the very end, and yes there is a cliffhanger you won't see coming... Your gonna have to read to find out.
This book spoke to my heart on so many levels. The story line is well written, makes you feel as your living her story right along with her.
I absolutely love, Roz. She is the typical teenage girl, experiencing the normal ups and downs... Then add in extra hardships of family, life and the bad decisions of her mother, and it was a recipe for disaster. After a tragedy, Roz must learn to trust in new people. Thinking that her life was over, Jimmy appeared when she needed someone the most. Their relationship is so different from anything she has experienced. Sweet, passionate and unique. This is a suspenseful ride.... diving into a world of the beyond, ghosts and witches and magic. Rest In Peace Roz has a little something for everyone. It will leave you on the edge of your seat until the very end, and yes there is a cliffhanger you won't see coming... Your gonna have to read to find out.
September 9, 2016
I received the ARC in exchange for a honest review.
At the start of this, I thought this would be a coming of age story. I had no idea it would turn into a paranormal romance. Then when I found out Jimmy was a ghost it turned into a very addicting story. I didn't want to put it down at all! This story was much more than I imagined and I loved every minute of it! I was a tad upset at the end but it looks like I'll definitely have to read the second in the series as soon as it comes out. Definitely a five star read!
At the start of this, I thought this would be a coming of age story. I had no idea it would turn into a paranormal romance. Then when I found out Jimmy was a ghost it turned into a very addicting story. I didn't want to put it down at all! This story was much more than I imagined and I loved every minute of it! I was a tad upset at the end but it looks like I'll definitely have to read the second in the series as soon as it comes out. Definitely a five star read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 22, 2016
I was fortunate enough to received an ARC in exchange for an honest review
When i first read the blurb for RIP Roz, I had to read the book so when I won an arc I was super excited. I went head first into reading a new author's work and I'm completely happy that I did. Roz is a 15 year old girl living in a harsh household with her mother and her mother's boyfriend. She once seek to be loved by her mother, but then she no longer wanted that love. In one night her entire world is shifted and a boy saves her from danger. Yet she is the only one who can see him and when he tells her the truth of what he really is, she isn't even scared just curious. As she adjusts to her new house, a new threat comes into her life. She doesn't know if the threat is real or not, but a lot of things don't make sense to her. Luckily she has people in her corner this time to help her fight the darkness.
I absolutely loved this book, Roz had to experience so many hardships in her childhood that was out of her control. I wanted to kill her mother and the boyfriend myself like how could a mother allow this to happen. Jimmy was such a sweetheart throughout the whole book. Their relationship was like on honeymoon phase, it was so sweet nothing crazy but passionate and sweet. Parker was such a buzz kill like pretty face, but nothing else to him. This was a true trust your gut feeling and not the image of what something appears to be. By the end, I really thought that Roz would get to live her new start in life without anything happening but that ending has me wanting the next book already. Like come on! You cant leave me hanging, but it's cool I wasn't ready to say goodbye yet.
When i first read the blurb for RIP Roz, I had to read the book so when I won an arc I was super excited. I went head first into reading a new author's work and I'm completely happy that I did. Roz is a 15 year old girl living in a harsh household with her mother and her mother's boyfriend. She once seek to be loved by her mother, but then she no longer wanted that love. In one night her entire world is shifted and a boy saves her from danger. Yet she is the only one who can see him and when he tells her the truth of what he really is, she isn't even scared just curious. As she adjusts to her new house, a new threat comes into her life. She doesn't know if the threat is real or not, but a lot of things don't make sense to her. Luckily she has people in her corner this time to help her fight the darkness.
I absolutely loved this book, Roz had to experience so many hardships in her childhood that was out of her control. I wanted to kill her mother and the boyfriend myself like how could a mother allow this to happen. Jimmy was such a sweetheart throughout the whole book. Their relationship was like on honeymoon phase, it was so sweet nothing crazy but passionate and sweet. Parker was such a buzz kill like pretty face, but nothing else to him. This was a true trust your gut feeling and not the image of what something appears to be. By the end, I really thought that Roz would get to live her new start in life without anything happening but that ending has me wanting the next book already. Like come on! You cant leave me hanging, but it's cool I wasn't ready to say goodbye yet.
February 3, 2017
I am in no way a reader of paranormal fantasy, but this book was gifted to me, so....................
May I say, "wow?" I had a hard time putting it down each night (but a girl does need her beauty sleep). I laughed. I cried. I got goosebumps. I was intrigued. I was fully committed to this book.
Ms. Johnston takes us on a tour of a young girl who grew up in a bad existence and we follow her through a new life of changes, love, friendships, nightmares, dreams, and hope. The hope is what keeps you reading. Knowing that the hope is good and good always wins over evil.
I tip my hat to the author. When you can get a reader who does not read your genre to be totally invested in it, you have done your job and done it well.
May I say, "wow?" I had a hard time putting it down each night (but a girl does need her beauty sleep). I laughed. I cried. I got goosebumps. I was intrigued. I was fully committed to this book.
Ms. Johnston takes us on a tour of a young girl who grew up in a bad existence and we follow her through a new life of changes, love, friendships, nightmares, dreams, and hope. The hope is what keeps you reading. Knowing that the hope is good and good always wins over evil.
I tip my hat to the author. When you can get a reader who does not read your genre to be totally invested in it, you have done your job and done it well.
August 21, 2017
Unique, gripping fantasy
Yes, gripping. Like from the first page. The story of Roz is told with skill, the characters have incredible depth, the premise is unique, and the emotions---like one long rollercoaster ride. The necromancy angle was new to me and I loved it.
There were moments when I was freaked out, that is how well developed each and every scene is. The interactions between Roz and her new family felt genuine and really tugged on my heart. I cried a few times and giggled lots.
Excellent YA fantasy series. Moving on to book two and already anticipating more from this amazingly talented author.
Yes, gripping. Like from the first page. The story of Roz is told with skill, the characters have incredible depth, the premise is unique, and the emotions---like one long rollercoaster ride. The necromancy angle was new to me and I loved it.
There were moments when I was freaked out, that is how well developed each and every scene is. The interactions between Roz and her new family felt genuine and really tugged on my heart. I cried a few times and giggled lots.
Excellent YA fantasy series. Moving on to book two and already anticipating more from this amazingly talented author.
January 16, 2017
*I received an ARC for an honest review of Rest in Peace: Book 1 of the R.I.P Series.*
I really liked this emotional read; it was so good. It's different than what I usually read and that's what drew me into it.
The main character goes through some trying events. You'll be on the edge of your seat with this suspenseful ride. It really has a little bit of something for everyone.
This is a cliffhanger that leave you wanting to dive into the second one now.
I really liked this emotional read; it was so good. It's different than what I usually read and that's what drew me into it.
The main character goes through some trying events. You'll be on the edge of your seat with this suspenseful ride. It really has a little bit of something for everyone.
This is a cliffhanger that leave you wanting to dive into the second one now.
September 5, 2017
This was my first read from this author and I really enjoyed it. Fresh take on PNR. Roz is the kind of character I felt protective of from the first chapter and Jimmy was everything I love in a book boyfriend. Interesting storyline with plot twists, betrayals and great secondary characters. I binged this story in one session and moved right into book 2. The ending - gah! Was so glad I had book 2 ready.
June 26, 2017
Rest In Peace Roz, by Kris Johnston, is absolutely amazing! Johnston brings all the elements together in this YA Paranormal, and has you on the edge of your seat throughout the entire book.
Roz is a 15 yo girl, who has faced more in her young life than many of us can imagine. Through a horrific incident she finds out how strong she truly is, and that's she is not alone.
"A true family wasn't one that forced you into the darkness, they were the ones who guided you out of it"
I loved reading all the supporting characters and basking in all the feels!
4.5 Stars!!!!
Roz is a 15 yo girl, who has faced more in her young life than many of us can imagine. Through a horrific incident she finds out how strong she truly is, and that's she is not alone.
"A true family wasn't one that forced you into the darkness, they were the ones who guided you out of it"
I loved reading all the supporting characters and basking in all the feels!
4.5 Stars!!!!
November 27, 2016
Good book
I enjoyed the book. I took a chance and read a book I normally wouldn't have. I surprised myself and enjoyed this book. Can't wait to read more about Roz and Jimmy.
The Pastels surprised me. So glad they were there to help Roz. Good vs Evil love it
I enjoyed the book. I took a chance and read a book I normally wouldn't have. I surprised myself and enjoyed this book. Can't wait to read more about Roz and Jimmy.
The Pastels surprised me. So glad they were there to help Roz. Good vs Evil love it
January 26, 2017
Absolutely amazing story. I could not get enough and can't wait to read the next one. This Author is incredible.
April 24, 2017
Kris Johnston is an absolutely amazing author. This book had me in tears at times...The story line is amazing and kept my interest from the very first page....The characters are so real and relatable. Their emotions are so well described that you actually feel what they are feeling...The entire book is amazing but the end surprised me and made me want to read more...I can not wait to read book two!!!
March 9, 2017
Loved this book. A bit of mystery, misery and magic .... all the lovely juicy things that make for an interesting story. I want to know more about the characters and their origins and Jimmy *swoon*Brilliant protagonist who I easily identified with. She was damaged but strong. She faces her demons and kept going rather than falling in a heap. And that ending. Woah! Excellent ! Can't wait to see how poor Roz deals with that in book 2. I'm a pretty slow reader but once I hit half way I was done in two days which tells me I was hooked. Fabulous job Kris Johnston
December 7, 2016
I really loved this story. For some reason Jimmy’s ghost is drawn to Roz, this ends up him becoming her protector. As Roz grows, he is always there for her. Situations start occurring, which can result in someone’s death, this book takes a crazy turn. I cannot wait for the next book, as I was left wanting so much more. Who doesn’t love a little roller coaster ride of emotions ☺ I would recommend this book to those who love the forbidden love aspect (He’s dead, she is alive), YA, powers, and unexpected forces. This should be an interesting series that I am looking forward too.
March 23, 2017
What can I possibly say about this story other than it was an emotionally charged read with all the paranormal elements for extra flavor. This book was beautifully written, where someone, Rosalind (Roz), restarts her life after so much trauma and heartache, then ventures into a world that embraces and loves her. While healing, she experiences something in which she doesn't quite understand and is set on a path to discovering an unknown side of the world she thought she was living in.
Without giving too many details away, I'd just like to say that Odie is my spirit animal and Jimmy is downright adorable. I have a bad knack for salivating over bad boys, and Parker is definitely a bad boy.
If you like anything related to discovery after tragedy or surviving a horrible childhood and finding yourself, or you enjoy elements of magic and traditional occult, or if you just want a beautifully written, powerful read that will give you all the giggles, the sniffles, and a truly empowering experience, then you MUST read this!!!
Without giving too many details away, I'd just like to say that Odie is my spirit animal and Jimmy is downright adorable. I have a bad knack for salivating over bad boys, and Parker is definitely a bad boy.
If you like anything related to discovery after tragedy or surviving a horrible childhood and finding yourself, or you enjoy elements of magic and traditional occult, or if you just want a beautifully written, powerful read that will give you all the giggles, the sniffles, and a truly empowering experience, then you MUST read this!!!
June 25, 2017
Otherworldly love
This is a story that has plenty of appeal for readers of all ages. It is a clear demonstration of the need for death to balance out a seemingly inner chaos suffered by our main protagonist Rosalind in order for her true purpose in life to be revealed. Her stepfather in this case is the much needed catalyst; for the appearance of Jimmy, and the changes that come with his "sudden" arrival.
This is a story that has plenty of appeal for readers of all ages. It is a clear demonstration of the need for death to balance out a seemingly inner chaos suffered by our main protagonist Rosalind in order for her true purpose in life to be revealed. Her stepfather in this case is the much needed catalyst; for the appearance of Jimmy, and the changes that come with his "sudden" arrival.
September 5, 2017
Oh wow! I purchased this book a while ago and didn't get round to reading until recently... the book cover kinda put me off a little, but I'm so happy I read this!!
I love Roz, she is a wonderful character and brilliantly written. All the characters are an integral part of the story, and I was hooked from the first page. Sorry this review won't be a long one, I need to go read the next book!
I will say this, would definitely recommend if you love a supernatural story.
I love Roz, she is a wonderful character and brilliantly written. All the characters are an integral part of the story, and I was hooked from the first page. Sorry this review won't be a long one, I need to go read the next book!
I will say this, would definitely recommend if you love a supernatural story.
July 27, 2017
I recently read the supernatural young adult novel, Rest In Peace Roz, and I have to say, it was a very enjoyable read. The book starts off with a bang, with Roz being a girl who lives a far less than pleasant life with an uncaring drug addicted mother and a step dad who's lustful gaze has shifted from Roz's mother, to Roz as she goes through the struggles and bodily changes that come with puberty.
Through a terrifying scene described in vivid detail, Kris instills in us the horror of a girl waking up to a step father trying to take advantage of her, while across the hall her mother lays dead behind a closed bedroom door. As she struggles against her step father, someone else appears in the room and ends up killing Roz's step dad, becoming her savior. Her savior is a ghost, and through the rest of the book we follow along as Roz is put into the perfect foster home and begins to start her life anew, while learning more about her hero Jimmy. Of course, things aren't all so fine and dandy with her new life. She makes a great friend quickly in her new High School, but a mysterious boy has Roz in his sights and wants her for a special purpose.
The book has a great writing style to it that is easy to fall into and enjoy. Everything in the book is very well thought out, and the slow rise to the climax of the book manages to keep your attention with speckles of humor amongst the waves of changes in Roz's life, and the dark splotches that start off with a few lost hours and night terrors. The only thing that I wasn't feeling so much was a piece of imagery that kapt being brought up by the main character. She describes herself, her soul and heart, as being this big bruised up thing, and as good things happen to her, she likes to go back to that imagery with picturing the dark bruise brightening as she heals from her life leading up to living with her foster family. I understood the analogy and enjoyed it at first, but felt like it became a tad bit over used. Other than that little bit, which really wasn't that bad, the book was a great read.
If you are still into the whole supernatural love story thing like Twilight, or want to give the genre another try, this is the book for you. If you want a taste of something based around the supernatural that dives into dreams and plays around with the idea of spirits and ghosts, definitely check this one out.
Through a terrifying scene described in vivid detail, Kris instills in us the horror of a girl waking up to a step father trying to take advantage of her, while across the hall her mother lays dead behind a closed bedroom door. As she struggles against her step father, someone else appears in the room and ends up killing Roz's step dad, becoming her savior. Her savior is a ghost, and through the rest of the book we follow along as Roz is put into the perfect foster home and begins to start her life anew, while learning more about her hero Jimmy. Of course, things aren't all so fine and dandy with her new life. She makes a great friend quickly in her new High School, but a mysterious boy has Roz in his sights and wants her for a special purpose.
The book has a great writing style to it that is easy to fall into and enjoy. Everything in the book is very well thought out, and the slow rise to the climax of the book manages to keep your attention with speckles of humor amongst the waves of changes in Roz's life, and the dark splotches that start off with a few lost hours and night terrors. The only thing that I wasn't feeling so much was a piece of imagery that kapt being brought up by the main character. She describes herself, her soul and heart, as being this big bruised up thing, and as good things happen to her, she likes to go back to that imagery with picturing the dark bruise brightening as she heals from her life leading up to living with her foster family. I understood the analogy and enjoyed it at first, but felt like it became a tad bit over used. Other than that little bit, which really wasn't that bad, the book was a great read.
If you are still into the whole supernatural love story thing like Twilight, or want to give the genre another try, this is the book for you. If you want a taste of something based around the supernatural that dives into dreams and plays around with the idea of spirits and ghosts, definitely check this one out.
August 4, 2017
This a book that I would suggest everyone to read it had so many twist in this book.
I give this book a 5 star rating. This book will having you wanting to read more. This was a really good book.
I give this book a 5 star rating. This book will having you wanting to read more. This was a really good book.
October 23, 2019
The RIP Series created by Kris Johnston has a dark element that is seamlessly intertwined with the light of day, the awkwardness of adolescence, and the bitter reality of sarcasm and wit. Roz is a MC that evolves and endears herself to the reader. I am excited to follow her story as it progresses.
December 13, 2019
Amazing
This book was amazingly written. I was surprised and every turn. I loved the dynamics between the characters. So many times I was frightened for Roz. I would recommend this book to everyone.
This book was amazingly written. I was surprised and every turn. I loved the dynamics between the characters. So many times I was frightened for Roz. I would recommend this book to everyone.
June 3, 2017
I absolutely loved this book!!! Kris is such a wonderful writer and Author!!! I would absolutely recommend this book to anyone who loves Paranormal YA Romance!!
December 22, 2017
Hauntingly beautiful.
Love stories are beautiful but this one starts with a lot of sadness and pain. Then it ends with hope.
Love stories are beautiful but this one starts with a lot of sadness and pain. Then it ends with hope.
June 27, 2022
Absolutely beautiful and compelling, that's all I have to say. Definitely one of my favorite reads of this year.
June 8, 2017
This book starts with a bang! Saved by Jimmy, a spirit only she can see, Roz is finally swept away from her lonely childhood home to a family that allows her to experience love and happiness for the first time in her life. But then strange things start to happen.
I was completely captivated by this YA paranormal novel, on edge every time Roz fell asleep, I loved the feel of this story and woah what an ending!! Cant wait for part 2!
I was completely captivated by this YA paranormal novel, on edge every time Roz fell asleep, I loved the feel of this story and woah what an ending!! Cant wait for part 2!
March 2, 2017
Love this series! I was lucky enough to win the first book in the series and bought the second before I started the first (and one day before it was released). Every time you think you've figured out where this series is taking you, the author takes you somewhere else even better than you imagined. As I began the first book, it seemed like a sweet book about an abused child that found a forever family to love her. While that is exactly what it was, it was also so very much more. Each character pulls you in to either love or despise them (and sometimes both!). While I love Roz, my favorite character is Bonnie. I highly recommend this series and cannot wait for the next in the series!
February 26, 2017
RIP Roz was such a delight to read. I was unsure about reading a paranormal style book as I am such a scaried cat. But what a awesome surprise of characters and emotions. I would get so nervous about each chapter and I took great delight and cherished each one.. This is a must read for any age. You cant go wrong with any of Kristy Johnston books. Keep them coming I can't wait!
September 24, 2017
Draws you in with every breath
Roz's story is breathtaking. Once a child of abuse, brought in to a loving, some would say hippy type home. She finds comfort in the arms of a man only she can sense. Kris Johnston knows his to bring you in with her writing and makes you never want to leave.
Roz's story is breathtaking. Once a child of abuse, brought in to a loving, some would say hippy type home. She finds comfort in the arms of a man only she can sense. Kris Johnston knows his to bring you in with her writing and makes you never want to leave.
April 15, 2017
RIP Roz's ending! OMG! I will need to download book two stat! I wish we could have seen more Jimmy, but that's because when you have a character that is mysterious, you want to solve the mystery. Ms. Johnston knows how to bring him into the story in a perfect moment (BAM!) and then hide him out a little while, give you a sneak peek and then the ending! Twist! Cliffhanger! Must read. Lovely. Hopeful.
Oh shoot! I didn't even talk about Roz! Sorry Jimmy, it's her turn! Roz comes from somewhere dark...dark isn't even the word. But where she is taken is fantastic and uplifting. But there are stranger things lurking. Parker gave me chills. What in the world does that guy even want!? Anyway, love the characters. Book two will rock!
Oh shoot! I didn't even talk about Roz! Sorry Jimmy, it's her turn! Roz comes from somewhere dark...dark isn't even the word. But where she is taken is fantastic and uplifting. But there are stranger things lurking. Parker gave me chills. What in the world does that guy even want!? Anyway, love the characters. Book two will rock!
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews