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The Crossings Trilogy #1
Crossing Into the Mystic
Chanticleer Book Reviews, Paranormal Awards Finalist
Three years after losing her family in a car crash, Grace MacKenna is set to inherit her stepfather's ancestral estate among the mountains of West Virginia. Seeking solace and healing, Grace discovers the ghost of William Kavanaugh, a dashing Civil War captain in Virginia's 17th Infantry, haunts the property. When William charms Grace into investigating the mystery that led to his death a hundred and fifty years ago, she finds herself drawn into a world of chivalry and honor, but also deception with secrets too dark to speak aloud.
Meanwhile, Clay Baxter, home from service in Afghanistan, fights his own demons and ghosts. When Clay senses Grace falling deeper into the realm of the dead, he seeks to pull her back. But is he too late?
Torn between her love for two mysterious young men - one living and one dead - Grace stands in the shadows of the Antietam Battlefield with a choice: one that could leave Grace lost forever, "crossing into the Mystic."
Three years after losing her family in a car crash, Grace MacKenna is set to inherit her stepfather's ancestral estate among the mountains of West Virginia. Seeking solace and healing, Grace discovers the ghost of William Kavanaugh, a dashing Civil War captain in Virginia's 17th Infantry, haunts the property. When William charms Grace into investigating the mystery that led to his death a hundred and fifty years ago, she finds herself drawn into a world of chivalry and honor, but also deception with secrets too dark to speak aloud.
Meanwhile, Clay Baxter, home from service in Afghanistan, fights his own demons and ghosts. When Clay senses Grace falling deeper into the realm of the dead, he seeks to pull her back. But is he too late?
Torn between her love for two mysterious young men - one living and one dead - Grace stands in the shadows of the Antietam Battlefield with a choice: one that could leave Grace lost forever, "crossing into the Mystic."
252 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 21, 2014
81 people are currently reading
2500 people want to read
About the author
D.L. Koontz
7 books61 followersD.L. Koontz was a management consultant and college instructor in the Washington DC area before trading it all for ranch life and writing. Now, she breathes easier and learns something new every day.
An award-winning writer and former journalist, she believes story trumps structure. As such, she's been published in a variety of genres, using whichever format/style best relays the story.
D.L. has been published in seven languages, and loves to keep her readers up all night.
Besides writing, she is passionate about hiking, photography, traveling, history, flea market discoveries, and British miniseries.
She’s a confirmed autodidact, having deep-dived into the food-lifestyle-health connection. She lives with her husband on their small ranch in coastal Georgia.
She welcomes readers to her beautiful, crazy, writing corner of the world at www.dlkoontz.com.
Her mantra: "There's always an upside - find it!"
An award-winning writer and former journalist, she believes story trumps structure. As such, she's been published in a variety of genres, using whichever format/style best relays the story.
D.L. has been published in seven languages, and loves to keep her readers up all night.
Besides writing, she is passionate about hiking, photography, traveling, history, flea market discoveries, and British miniseries.
She’s a confirmed autodidact, having deep-dived into the food-lifestyle-health connection. She lives with her husband on their small ranch in coastal Georgia.
She welcomes readers to her beautiful, crazy, writing corner of the world at www.dlkoontz.com.
Her mantra: "There's always an upside - find it!"
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
March 18, 2014
Crossing into the Mystic drew me in from the start and wouldn't let me go until I'd consumed the entire story in one sitting. Whew! An incredible ride that captivated me and left me thinking about love that is stronger than death. I'm already hungry for the sequel.
December 13, 2014
Oh my.
WHAT did I just read?!
I don't even know where to start! I'll not be doing my normal review layout for this because I'd run out of room on here.
Okay, in the Acknowledgements at the very beginning the author writes "Crossing into the Mystic is a work of pure fiction. While there are elements some might find open to interpretation, it should not be misconstrued as hindering Biblical truths. Instead, its storyline is intended to open a door of dialogue and an exploration of God's word. Isaiah 8:19-22 says to look to God for answers, not to the dead, and that God will judge those who pursue the occult."
Funny enough, Isaiah 8:22 happens to be one of my favorite Scriptures, let's read:
{19} When someone tells you to consult mediums and spiritists, who whisper and mutter, should not a people inquire of their God? Why consult the dead on behalf of the living? {20} Consult God’s instruction and the testimony of warning. If anyone does not speak according to this word, they have no light of dawn. {21} Distressed and hungry, they will roam through the land; when they are famished, they will become enraged and, looking upward, will curse their king and their God. {22} Then they will look toward the earth and see only distress and darkness and fearful gloom, and they will be thrust into utter darkness. {NIV}
What I get out of this Scripture is DON'T TALK TO THE SPIRIT WORLD. And what does the main character, Grace, do? She can talk, hear and see souls of those who have died in a horrible fashion (like War and murder, those are two HUGE topics in this book) after coming to Crossings. Yeah, Um, that Scripture should be at the front and back of this book.
The War and blood and gross scenes in this book were nasty. The Civil War is most likely the hardest part of history for me to read about, I barely made it through this book. Very, very, very detailed and awful. {And yes, I get the whole "It's what really happened!" But hello?! I read FICTION for a reason! I don't need nastiness in my head! The Scripture my blog is based on! Philippians 4:8 "Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things." {NASB} bold mine}
And then the language! I can't believe how many times the Lord's Name was taken in vain! Between characters saying "Oh gawd", "Lordy" and "Oh my God" I was SHOCKED! It made me want to throw my iPad across the room! I still can't believe it! I mean, REALLY!?
And other words used were "dang", "heck", "what the heck", "shush", "bloody", "crimeny", "crude", "What the devil", "blasted", "blast it", "stupid", "idiot", "a royal pain in the butt", "had a devil of a time", many many "oh my gosh"s, "witch", "blimey", and "curse you!" to name a few.
Lots of sarcasm, and curses are said but not written. {Did I mention Blood?! I mean, like creepy, icky, looking-at-it-right-now, detailed.}
Put the whole demons, angels and ghost mix into it and it's worse then those freaky campfire stories that leave everyone wake till the morning!
And did it get steamy! A very gross, very,very detailed, could have been a you-know-what-scene if not interrupted. Add a few more detailed & semi detailed kisses and a scene where they fall asleep together in his car and you got one grossed-out Lindsey.
I bashed another book for messing with the Spirit World earlier this year and I'm disappointed I had to do it again.
*I received this book for free from a review group for an honest review, which I did.
WHAT did I just read?!
I don't even know where to start! I'll not be doing my normal review layout for this because I'd run out of room on here.
Okay, in the Acknowledgements at the very beginning the author writes "Crossing into the Mystic is a work of pure fiction. While there are elements some might find open to interpretation, it should not be misconstrued as hindering Biblical truths. Instead, its storyline is intended to open a door of dialogue and an exploration of God's word. Isaiah 8:19-22 says to look to God for answers, not to the dead, and that God will judge those who pursue the occult."
Funny enough, Isaiah 8:22 happens to be one of my favorite Scriptures, let's read:
{19} When someone tells you to consult mediums and spiritists, who whisper and mutter, should not a people inquire of their God? Why consult the dead on behalf of the living? {20} Consult God’s instruction and the testimony of warning. If anyone does not speak according to this word, they have no light of dawn. {21} Distressed and hungry, they will roam through the land; when they are famished, they will become enraged and, looking upward, will curse their king and their God. {22} Then they will look toward the earth and see only distress and darkness and fearful gloom, and they will be thrust into utter darkness. {NIV}
What I get out of this Scripture is DON'T TALK TO THE SPIRIT WORLD. And what does the main character, Grace, do? She can talk, hear and see souls of those who have died in a horrible fashion (like War and murder, those are two HUGE topics in this book) after coming to Crossings. Yeah, Um, that Scripture should be at the front and back of this book.
The War and blood and gross scenes in this book were nasty. The Civil War is most likely the hardest part of history for me to read about, I barely made it through this book. Very, very, very detailed and awful. {And yes, I get the whole "It's what really happened!" But hello?! I read FICTION for a reason! I don't need nastiness in my head! The Scripture my blog is based on! Philippians 4:8 "Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things." {NASB} bold mine}
And then the language! I can't believe how many times the Lord's Name was taken in vain! Between characters saying "Oh gawd", "Lordy" and "Oh my God" I was SHOCKED! It made me want to throw my iPad across the room! I still can't believe it! I mean, REALLY!?
And other words used were "dang", "heck", "what the heck", "shush", "bloody", "crimeny", "crude", "What the devil", "blasted", "blast it", "stupid", "idiot", "a royal pain in the butt", "had a devil of a time", many many "oh my gosh"s, "witch", "blimey", and "curse you!" to name a few.
Lots of sarcasm, and curses are said but not written. {Did I mention Blood?! I mean, like creepy, icky, looking-at-it-right-now, detailed.}
Put the whole demons, angels and ghost mix into it and it's worse then those freaky campfire stories that leave everyone wake till the morning!
And did it get steamy! A very gross, very,very detailed, could have been a you-know-what-scene if not interrupted. Add a few more detailed & semi detailed kisses and a scene where they fall asleep together in his car and you got one grossed-out Lindsey.
I bashed another book for messing with the Spirit World earlier this year and I'm disappointed I had to do it again.
*I received this book for free from a review group for an honest review, which I did.
March 22, 2014
A hefty trust fund, an SUV, and an ancestral estate – all for Grace, a 16-year-old orphan anxious to leave Boston, alone, to live three months in the ancient manor home nestled in the Blue Ridge mountains. No one has been in the mansion for centuries except for Grace’s stepfather – something has prevented the intrusions. The feisty heroine develops extraordinary relationships – both with the living and the dead. Grace, as well as the reader, must delve into her own belief system as the author creates an interweaving tale of suspense; a tale tossed with paranormal phenomena, geography, history, religious, and love elements – topped with a bit of humor. Vivid descriptions engage the senses as Grace explores the beautiful mountain areas, the Shenandoah Valley, and the abandoned estate house; experiences life during the Civil War era and the Battle of Antietam through the eyes of the soldiers; feels the turmoil and joy of real-life young love; struggles to understand death and the life thereafter; and learns that life is defined by the decisions one makes. Koontz has created a gripping story with a few unanswered details that entice the reader to yearn for a sequel.
March 12, 2014
D.L. Koontz' writing is incredibly compelling! I started yesterday afternoon, read as late as I could last night - had to talk myself out of calling in sick to work in order to finish it this morning - and missed Downton Abbey to keep reading. (I don't think there can be much higher praise than giving up Downton Abbey!)
I finished it just as soon as I got home from work this evening. There were so many times when I almost squealed out loud - I LOVE THE WAY SHE SAID THAT! The language and descriptions, the characterization, the powerful verbs...her craft is superb! The story is complex and unexpected and I enjoyed the twists of plot. I liked the way she wove in the history both of Grace's life, Clay's background, and the history of the Civil War.
If you love a great story with mystery, some adrenalin, a little romance, history and the supernatural - or maybe if you like any of the above - you will LOVE Crossing into the Mystic.
The only question that remains is - when will book two be coming out because I can't wait to hear what happens next!
(In the interest of full disclosure, I was provided a Reader's Advance copy of this book to review but have not been compensated in any other way and receipt of the book was not dependent upon a positive review. The opinions expressed herein are my own and have not been influenced except by the story itself.)
I finished it just as soon as I got home from work this evening. There were so many times when I almost squealed out loud - I LOVE THE WAY SHE SAID THAT! The language and descriptions, the characterization, the powerful verbs...her craft is superb! The story is complex and unexpected and I enjoyed the twists of plot. I liked the way she wove in the history both of Grace's life, Clay's background, and the history of the Civil War.
If you love a great story with mystery, some adrenalin, a little romance, history and the supernatural - or maybe if you like any of the above - you will LOVE Crossing into the Mystic.
The only question that remains is - when will book two be coming out because I can't wait to hear what happens next!
(In the interest of full disclosure, I was provided a Reader's Advance copy of this book to review but have not been compensated in any other way and receipt of the book was not dependent upon a positive review. The opinions expressed herein are my own and have not been influenced except by the story itself.)
August 1, 2016
Cannot wait for book two! The thought process of this author is amazing. It's both comforting and disturbing, exciting and thrilling with a pinch of fear. Quite a story and well worth the read.
Grace has inherited a house Crossings from her stepfather who passed away along with her mother and sister in an automobile accident. She has been living with her aunt, not the nicest lady and her husband and cousin Michael.
She is going for a summer to "renovate" the home for her senior project. Michael is trying to help her get away. Her aunt doesn't know she doesn't plan to return.
When she gets into the small town she learns just how different people are here. She also finds many who knew Jack, her stepfather, and is shocked at how much she didn't know about him. She also finds out he had a very big secret at Crossings and she is learning why.
She also meets Clay and right off the bat they both know something is there between them but Clay is there to "help watch out for her" under the guise that she is Jack's daughter. This becomes much more complicated.
This book is the beginning of Grace learning her true gifts and the beginnings of her and Clay's relationship. It is a wonderful book and again I cannot wait for #2.
Grace has inherited a house Crossings from her stepfather who passed away along with her mother and sister in an automobile accident. She has been living with her aunt, not the nicest lady and her husband and cousin Michael.
She is going for a summer to "renovate" the home for her senior project. Michael is trying to help her get away. Her aunt doesn't know she doesn't plan to return.
When she gets into the small town she learns just how different people are here. She also finds many who knew Jack, her stepfather, and is shocked at how much she didn't know about him. She also finds out he had a very big secret at Crossings and she is learning why.
She also meets Clay and right off the bat they both know something is there between them but Clay is there to "help watch out for her" under the guise that she is Jack's daughter. This becomes much more complicated.
This book is the beginning of Grace learning her true gifts and the beginnings of her and Clay's relationship. It is a wonderful book and again I cannot wait for #2.
March 11, 2014
Crossing into the Mystic is a fast-moving story of a young girl in search of roots after her family dies suddenly. When Grace McKenna is orphaned by an accident that claims the lives of her mother, sister, and stepfather, she strikes out on her own to spend the summer in her stepfather's ancestral estate. It is there in the Blue Ridge Mountains that she discovers a whole other world of possibilities. Her journey teaches her about love, grace, and friendship.
I thoroughly enjoyed Crossing into the Mystic and found myself wanting to jump right into the next story. D.L. Koontz has done an amazing job of taking a controversial subject and weaving it into a book that is undergirded by the truth of God's grace and redemption.
I thoroughly enjoyed Crossing into the Mystic and found myself wanting to jump right into the next story. D.L. Koontz has done an amazing job of taking a controversial subject and weaving it into a book that is undergirded by the truth of God's grace and redemption.
August 12, 2021
Koontz delivers surprise after fun surprise in a page-turning ghost story full of heart and a perfect level of creepiness.
April 8, 2014
Crossing Into The Mystic is a fascinating and engrossing story. D.L Koontz has created a unique tale of life, death, ghosts, other dimensions and mystery. From the beginning of the book, I found myself taken in and I read it in a short number of days. While many other things were demanding my attention, I wanted to get back to it.
In Crossing Into The Mystic, D.L. Koontz makes a very different world real. Her rich characters, through fascinating discussions and experiences, bring us into a world of life and after-life with ease. As I read, I let my mind ponder the mysteries of life and grew in the process. We witness the main character, Grace’s journey towards faith as she experiences great tragedy and asks questions of life and death and mystery. The book takes the reader into a vivid history of the Civil War, and you feel you are there. The book has many unexpected twists and turns, keeping you engaged.
The book ends with words of wisdom on the meaning of life and death and what is unknown to us here. You want more and I believe D.L. Koontz has left some doors open, so we may have just that.
In Crossing Into The Mystic, D.L. Koontz makes a very different world real. Her rich characters, through fascinating discussions and experiences, bring us into a world of life and after-life with ease. As I read, I let my mind ponder the mysteries of life and grew in the process. We witness the main character, Grace’s journey towards faith as she experiences great tragedy and asks questions of life and death and mystery. The book takes the reader into a vivid history of the Civil War, and you feel you are there. The book has many unexpected twists and turns, keeping you engaged.
The book ends with words of wisdom on the meaning of life and death and what is unknown to us here. You want more and I believe D.L. Koontz has left some doors open, so we may have just that.
March 22, 2014
Crossing Into the Mystic takes one girl’s struggle with fear and loss and creates a world where death isn’t so final and love isn’t so far away.
From the first few pages, I cared about Grace.
Her spunk and bravado and ability to conjure up tons of quotes on facing fear kept me wanting the best for her and reflecting on how I often let my anxiety determine too much for me. So many of her struggles are familiar to most of us at some point or another (except for the scary ghost part), and Koontz artfully crafted a paranormal world around a mostly normal girl.
A story painted inside another story bringing two worlds to light, Mystic takes a good look at death and life, exploring the spirit world in a fresh and trustworthy way. Koontz handles the unknowns carefully and keeps the story moving. Her description and wit are refreshing, and she maintains the pace planting little gems along the way. Great job!
From the first few pages, I cared about Grace.
Her spunk and bravado and ability to conjure up tons of quotes on facing fear kept me wanting the best for her and reflecting on how I often let my anxiety determine too much for me. So many of her struggles are familiar to most of us at some point or another (except for the scary ghost part), and Koontz artfully crafted a paranormal world around a mostly normal girl.
A story painted inside another story bringing two worlds to light, Mystic takes a good look at death and life, exploring the spirit world in a fresh and trustworthy way. Koontz handles the unknowns carefully and keeps the story moving. Her description and wit are refreshing, and she maintains the pace planting little gems along the way. Great job!
March 21, 2014
Crossing Into the Mystic captured my attention with its strong, emotional character descriptions from the first page, as Grace, an orphaned teen, plans her escape from her temperamental aunt and wrestles with the death of her parents and sister. As Grace begins her extraordinary journey from her chaotic Boston environment to her inheritance, a mysterious ancestral estate in the Blue Ridge Mountains of West Virginia, the intricate descriptive scenes set the mood for an imaginative, gripping storyline. A romantic triangle and a supernatural invade Grace’s incredible pilgrimage as the narrative develops, creating an engaging paranormal romantic suspense novel.
March 21, 2014
Crossing Into the Mystic is an engaging, page-turning read. Grace's pain, confusion, and desire for freedom to be herself are feelings most of us can identify with. As if that isn't enough, D.L. Koontz deftly paints pictures with her words by showing us the landscape, both beautiful and haunting, where her story takes place. Her historical research is evident, and the rich descriptions of days gone by serve as another magnetic draw. I'm waiting impatiently to read book number two.
August 21, 2017
I would like to thank Brimstone Fiction and Xpresso Book Tours for providing me with a free ARC of this book, via Netgalley, in exchange for an open and honest review.
Okay, so I have mixed feelings about this book… Not as bad as a love/ hate sort of thing… more a love/ mild dislike. ;-)
But I believe that mild dislike comes from two things - Firstly, this is a YA book and as an old fart (I know it’s not PC to call a 40+ an old fart but I feel you should be allowed to call YOURSELF an old fart whenever you like) I felt the age of the protagonist too young for all the things she was able to do… BUT!
I can honestly say that, when reading these sorts of books almost 30 years ago I would lovingly eaten her adventures up with a spoon and idolised her freedom. So, you can see, being an old fart I needed to let my inner teenager out to read this book to me before I could accept parts of it.
Secondly, saying all that, I was very anti religion as a teen - especially Christianity - and so would have had major issues with reading ‘Crossing into the Mystic’ back then. These days I’ve mellowed, chosen my path and faith and am happily a Pagan who sees the good and bad side of all religions and faiths, my own included. And so old fart me needed to talk down my inner teenager to ensure the book was read and not thrown onto the DNF pile simply as it included some harmless faith references.
Can you see why I have mixed emotions now? Yes, yes it is because I am just a fruit loop, well spotted. ;-)
All that aside I have to say this was a well-written and very enjoyable YA story. Don’t look down on it as an adult and say “a 16 year old would NEVER get away with that”, look up to is as a 14 or 15 year old and say “gosh I wonder if I can be that free and independent”.
The characters were a little sketchy at first and did stay a little two dimensional throughout the story, but if I’m honest, that’s nothing that unusual in a YA book for me so not a negative. The setting was well written, the house, towns, surrounds… that is what a teen wants their imagination to be captured by. That and the emotions portrayed by the characters. So, again, I felt ‘Crossing into the Mystic’ well-written for a YA tale.
It is also the first in a trilogy and so that “sketchy” nature can be explained away. The first book in a trilogy needs to not only be an entertaining story, but fit in a lot of the foundations and intrigue to keep you wanting to not only read it, but the next two books.
And, to continue with the honesty side of things - that ending!!! Yes I went on over to Kindle Unlimited and got the next two books there and then! No spoilers about it but yes, both the old fart me and my inner teenager were HOOKED and are now reading the next book in trilogy ‘Edging Through the Darkness’.
The supernatural side of it was well done too. Scary and a little goosebump making… but not so scary or gory that it became inappropriate for the YA genre. A good mix of ghosts and things that go bump in the night.
Would I recommend this book to others?
Yes I would. Probably more your teens and - in the case of my advanced reader G&T kids - some tweens too. Those older lovers of YA stories would need to be advised to let their inner teenager out to help them read it though to ensure they got full enjoyment from this tale.
Would I buy this book for myself?
Open and honest time - I was given a PDF of ‘Crossing into the Mystic’ and so probably will be a cheapskate and not but another copy of it… but as said already, I have gone and gotten the other two books in this series via Kindle Unlimited as I got so hooked by this first book. So, yeah, you could say that I would buy this trilogy and not just this book. ;-)
In summary: An entertaining and thrilling first book in a YA supernatural trilogy and something I highly recommend.
Okay, so I have mixed feelings about this book… Not as bad as a love/ hate sort of thing… more a love/ mild dislike. ;-)
But I believe that mild dislike comes from two things - Firstly, this is a YA book and as an old fart (I know it’s not PC to call a 40+ an old fart but I feel you should be allowed to call YOURSELF an old fart whenever you like) I felt the age of the protagonist too young for all the things she was able to do… BUT!
I can honestly say that, when reading these sorts of books almost 30 years ago I would lovingly eaten her adventures up with a spoon and idolised her freedom. So, you can see, being an old fart I needed to let my inner teenager out to read this book to me before I could accept parts of it.
Secondly, saying all that, I was very anti religion as a teen - especially Christianity - and so would have had major issues with reading ‘Crossing into the Mystic’ back then. These days I’ve mellowed, chosen my path and faith and am happily a Pagan who sees the good and bad side of all religions and faiths, my own included. And so old fart me needed to talk down my inner teenager to ensure the book was read and not thrown onto the DNF pile simply as it included some harmless faith references.
Can you see why I have mixed emotions now? Yes, yes it is because I am just a fruit loop, well spotted. ;-)
All that aside I have to say this was a well-written and very enjoyable YA story. Don’t look down on it as an adult and say “a 16 year old would NEVER get away with that”, look up to is as a 14 or 15 year old and say “gosh I wonder if I can be that free and independent”.
The characters were a little sketchy at first and did stay a little two dimensional throughout the story, but if I’m honest, that’s nothing that unusual in a YA book for me so not a negative. The setting was well written, the house, towns, surrounds… that is what a teen wants their imagination to be captured by. That and the emotions portrayed by the characters. So, again, I felt ‘Crossing into the Mystic’ well-written for a YA tale.
It is also the first in a trilogy and so that “sketchy” nature can be explained away. The first book in a trilogy needs to not only be an entertaining story, but fit in a lot of the foundations and intrigue to keep you wanting to not only read it, but the next two books.
And, to continue with the honesty side of things - that ending!!! Yes I went on over to Kindle Unlimited and got the next two books there and then! No spoilers about it but yes, both the old fart me and my inner teenager were HOOKED and are now reading the next book in trilogy ‘Edging Through the Darkness’.
The supernatural side of it was well done too. Scary and a little goosebump making… but not so scary or gory that it became inappropriate for the YA genre. A good mix of ghosts and things that go bump in the night.
Would I recommend this book to others?
Yes I would. Probably more your teens and - in the case of my advanced reader G&T kids - some tweens too. Those older lovers of YA stories would need to be advised to let their inner teenager out to help them read it though to ensure they got full enjoyment from this tale.
Would I buy this book for myself?
Open and honest time - I was given a PDF of ‘Crossing into the Mystic’ and so probably will be a cheapskate and not but another copy of it… but as said already, I have gone and gotten the other two books in this series via Kindle Unlimited as I got so hooked by this first book. So, yeah, you could say that I would buy this trilogy and not just this book. ;-)
In summary: An entertaining and thrilling first book in a YA supernatural trilogy and something I highly recommend.
November 26, 2018
It was only until about halfway through the story that I realised this was the first in a series. And that made sense because it felt like a story where we were introduced to a bunch of characters that would go beyond one story and had a steady pace without really a lot happening for the first half of the book.
It was an enjoyable read and definitely picked up the last 50-80 pages when Koontz lifted the tension that pushed the story along. By the end I was ready to dive into Book 2 as Koontz set it up with a set of new “ghost” stories to explore.
The theme of a thin veil between the natural and beyond was intriguing. I’m sure there is the potential for ghosts to exist and it was interesting for a Christian to explore the idea. It was also fascinating that Will, the ghost, had such a strong faith and encouraged Grace accordingly.
I’m not so sure about the theme of souls being caught in the “thin veil” due to some unfinished business or some mystery to be resolved. Surely, the majority of people die leaving unfinished business? But this is fiction so an author can explore whatever takes their fancy. The key is to be consistent in treating the “fantastic” and I found a couple of things that didn’t quite gel. It was odd that when Grace visited the areas where war occurred her “subtle vision’ for seeing ghosts also took her back to sensing the sounds, sights and smells of war. I appreciate the notion of the ‘parallel back in time’ treatment but why didn’t she experience this with Will who she spent most time with?
Koontz did a very good with her characters. Grace in particular is a tremendous character, however, she’s too mature for a 16-17 year old. This was my biggest issue with the story. I find it fascinating that many of the reviewers consider it a YA-novel when I don’t believe it is. Yes, its main character is a teenager but surely that’s not the criteria for defining what’s YA. Certainly, Grace’s giddiness at falling in love with both Will and Clay so quickly may reflect a youthful characteristic but there was very little evidence she was your typical 16 year old. Moving interstate by yourself where you know no one into a house that is frankly creepy would stress the most mature 16 year old but Grace seems to take it all in her stride a little too easily.
I believe the story lacked an antagonist, which meant there was insufficient conflict and tension. Yes, there was Aunt Tish, the Clay/Seth struggle and hints of ‘bad ghosts’ but for most of the story there was little tension. Especially since Grace was 16 and living alone, it would have been easy to build a greater sense of vulnerability that would have added tension to the story. However, as I mentioned we got it in the last part of the story and it looks like Koontz has set it for more in Book 2.
Overall, it was a good fun read and I hope to read Book 2 soon.
It was an enjoyable read and definitely picked up the last 50-80 pages when Koontz lifted the tension that pushed the story along. By the end I was ready to dive into Book 2 as Koontz set it up with a set of new “ghost” stories to explore.
The theme of a thin veil between the natural and beyond was intriguing. I’m sure there is the potential for ghosts to exist and it was interesting for a Christian to explore the idea. It was also fascinating that Will, the ghost, had such a strong faith and encouraged Grace accordingly.
I’m not so sure about the theme of souls being caught in the “thin veil” due to some unfinished business or some mystery to be resolved. Surely, the majority of people die leaving unfinished business? But this is fiction so an author can explore whatever takes their fancy. The key is to be consistent in treating the “fantastic” and I found a couple of things that didn’t quite gel. It was odd that when Grace visited the areas where war occurred her “subtle vision’ for seeing ghosts also took her back to sensing the sounds, sights and smells of war. I appreciate the notion of the ‘parallel back in time’ treatment but why didn’t she experience this with Will who she spent most time with?
Koontz did a very good with her characters. Grace in particular is a tremendous character, however, she’s too mature for a 16-17 year old. This was my biggest issue with the story. I find it fascinating that many of the reviewers consider it a YA-novel when I don’t believe it is. Yes, its main character is a teenager but surely that’s not the criteria for defining what’s YA. Certainly, Grace’s giddiness at falling in love with both Will and Clay so quickly may reflect a youthful characteristic but there was very little evidence she was your typical 16 year old. Moving interstate by yourself where you know no one into a house that is frankly creepy would stress the most mature 16 year old but Grace seems to take it all in her stride a little too easily.
I believe the story lacked an antagonist, which meant there was insufficient conflict and tension. Yes, there was Aunt Tish, the Clay/Seth struggle and hints of ‘bad ghosts’ but for most of the story there was little tension. Especially since Grace was 16 and living alone, it would have been easy to build a greater sense of vulnerability that would have added tension to the story. However, as I mentioned we got it in the last part of the story and it looks like Koontz has set it for more in Book 2.
Overall, it was a good fun read and I hope to read Book 2 soon.
August 6, 2017
D.L. Koontz, you've won me over!
An emotional and historical book. Surprising, fascinating, sad yet sometimes fun, too. Following the sudden loss of her family, mother, stepfather and sister, 16 year old Grace comes into a very large inheritance which includes an estate in the Blue Ridge Mountains. She must live there for three months before it will officially be hers. The house belonged to her stepfather Jack. The only person who seems to be on Grace' side at this point is her cousin Michael, more protective of Grace in this strange family than anyone else. However, he is about to leave for Chile.
His mother is her appointed guardian, and a real piece of work. Aunt Tish has already used Grace's education fund, what will she take next? She is completely overbearing, and obviously a money-grabber, and only allowing Grace to take a trip to her inherited house because she wants it sold immediately if not sooner, and the money in Grace's accounts to which Aunt Tish has the access. It made me want to shake her! Fortunately, her Uncle Phil steps in and approves the trip and she is soon on her way along with her dog Tramp and cat Chubbs, leaving Boston for Williamsport, West Virginia.
Why does everyone seem shocked that she is going to stay in "Crossings", the name of the house? Why didn't the real estate agent or anyone from her company even go inside? Arriving at dusk, her first view of the house is a little off-putting; immense, very old, and in need of a little care, but Jack had built an extension onto the side which was much like a well-fitted apartment, ready and waiting. His oasis. Her memories.
Seriously, I feel this book has it all. "Creepy" house, friendly town, loss, friendship, history, belief in the afterlife, but this is not your usual ghost story, actually pretty far from it, and yet Grace will be more at home there than anyone could have expected. She has the ability, unknown until now, to "see" ghosts. Now she must learn to not let them know she can see them. Her "subtle" vision could cause problems among the spirits of the world. How does one go about this complication? The ghost of the house is an ancestor, and therefore protective. This is a loving and beautiful story that takes the reader from the Civil War to the present. An exciting and very different way at looking at history. There is so much to be discovered in this book, I happily recommend it, with its insights, how the background stories weave throughout the past, but also how the loss of her grandmother brings out the future happiness of Grace even as she still grieves for her family. I absolutely loved this book, and learned from it. Looking forward to Book 2.
An emotional and historical book. Surprising, fascinating, sad yet sometimes fun, too. Following the sudden loss of her family, mother, stepfather and sister, 16 year old Grace comes into a very large inheritance which includes an estate in the Blue Ridge Mountains. She must live there for three months before it will officially be hers. The house belonged to her stepfather Jack. The only person who seems to be on Grace' side at this point is her cousin Michael, more protective of Grace in this strange family than anyone else. However, he is about to leave for Chile.
His mother is her appointed guardian, and a real piece of work. Aunt Tish has already used Grace's education fund, what will she take next? She is completely overbearing, and obviously a money-grabber, and only allowing Grace to take a trip to her inherited house because she wants it sold immediately if not sooner, and the money in Grace's accounts to which Aunt Tish has the access. It made me want to shake her! Fortunately, her Uncle Phil steps in and approves the trip and she is soon on her way along with her dog Tramp and cat Chubbs, leaving Boston for Williamsport, West Virginia.
Why does everyone seem shocked that she is going to stay in "Crossings", the name of the house? Why didn't the real estate agent or anyone from her company even go inside? Arriving at dusk, her first view of the house is a little off-putting; immense, very old, and in need of a little care, but Jack had built an extension onto the side which was much like a well-fitted apartment, ready and waiting. His oasis. Her memories.
Seriously, I feel this book has it all. "Creepy" house, friendly town, loss, friendship, history, belief in the afterlife, but this is not your usual ghost story, actually pretty far from it, and yet Grace will be more at home there than anyone could have expected. She has the ability, unknown until now, to "see" ghosts. Now she must learn to not let them know she can see them. Her "subtle" vision could cause problems among the spirits of the world. How does one go about this complication? The ghost of the house is an ancestor, and therefore protective. This is a loving and beautiful story that takes the reader from the Civil War to the present. An exciting and very different way at looking at history. There is so much to be discovered in this book, I happily recommend it, with its insights, how the background stories weave throughout the past, but also how the loss of her grandmother brings out the future happiness of Grace even as she still grieves for her family. I absolutely loved this book, and learned from it. Looking forward to Book 2.
April 11, 2019
I thought this was a ghost paranormal romance book, but it’s more a Christian YA romance about the importance of faith with some demons, devils, possession and some good ghosts thrown in. This kind of thing isn’t my cup of tea so I am not sure I am the best person to rate this book, but here goes.
I thought the story was interesting. I am from this area. I actually grew up in the town of Marlowe so I enjoyed the references (even if they are far more idyllic than real). I liked the Civil War history woven throughout and I enjoyed the ghost explanations. I thought the heroine was likable and the other characters were enjoyable as well.
I found the evil aunt cardboardish and I didn’t understand her. On one hand, she spent away Grace’s trust money and couldn’t wait to be rid of her, then wants to talk to her on the phone daily and shows an interest in where she is and what she is doing. Confusing at best.
Clay is perfect of course, but also not really developed in my opinion.
Grace is likable, but again sometimes older than 16 and at other times exactly 16, but I think tondo what she does and like who she likes being a bit older would have served the story better, but no biggie.
There were severe inconsistencies here and there scenes and characteristics and duh. These are editing problems and easy enough to overlook.
I m curious to see the next ghost mystery solved, but the God versus Devil, possession, evil, better go to church stuff is a bit much for me, so I’ll pass on the next one. However, if you are into that sort of thing than I would recommend this book as one you would probably enjoy.
I thought the story was interesting. I am from this area. I actually grew up in the town of Marlowe so I enjoyed the references (even if they are far more idyllic than real). I liked the Civil War history woven throughout and I enjoyed the ghost explanations. I thought the heroine was likable and the other characters were enjoyable as well.
I found the evil aunt cardboardish and I didn’t understand her. On one hand, she spent away Grace’s trust money and couldn’t wait to be rid of her, then wants to talk to her on the phone daily and shows an interest in where she is and what she is doing. Confusing at best.
Clay is perfect of course, but also not really developed in my opinion.
Grace is likable, but again sometimes older than 16 and at other times exactly 16, but I think tondo what she does and like who she likes being a bit older would have served the story better, but no biggie.
There were severe inconsistencies here and there scenes and characteristics and duh. These are editing problems and easy enough to overlook.
I m curious to see the next ghost mystery solved, but the God versus Devil, possession, evil, better go to church stuff is a bit much for me, so I’ll pass on the next one. However, if you are into that sort of thing than I would recommend this book as one you would probably enjoy.
April 28, 2025
First of all, Lindsey (Books for Christian Girls), needs to get a grip and stop analyzing a fictional scenario as if it were real life! Supposed Christian like her have no tolerance for alternate spiritual views, and it shows. Her kind musunderstands things like Halloween, which is a Christian holy day (All Souls Day). Grow up, gal! The novel was fantastic! I can't wait to read #2 &3 sequels. BTW: I'm Christian and don't let fictional books like this bother me. Besides, who's to say souls don't waander the earth until they find their true home beyond?
June 11, 2019
I loved this book. D.L. Koontz did a great job with the characters, and the story line. I didn't want to stop reading, even when I should have. Thoroughly enjoyable story. Can't wait to get, and start the sequel to this book. I highly recommend this to anyone who likes stories with ghosts. Not your usual time travel. Well done.
May 28, 2018
I read this book all the way through w/o stopping!! That's how much I enjoyed it!! Add to that I live in the Eastern Panhandle of WV where the book is set just added to my enjoyment!!!
Looking forward to reading the next book in this Trilogy!!
Thanks to the author, D.L. Koontz, for this book!!
Looking forward to reading the next book in this Trilogy!!
Thanks to the author, D.L. Koontz, for this book!!
September 8, 2020
Nice story but ends abruptly.
Good writing and characters. A little love story, a lot of ghosts, a creepy old house. What's not to like? I like a story that has a satisfactory ending but this one left too many loose ends and the story just stops too abruptly.
Good writing and characters. A little love story, a lot of ghosts, a creepy old house. What's not to like? I like a story that has a satisfactory ending but this one left too many loose ends and the story just stops too abruptly.
Read
October 10, 2021was good.
April 1, 2015
I received a copy of this book free through Goodreads Firstreads.
Pros: Well-paced plot, excellent historical detail, good writing skills, appropriate for a wide age
range of readers
Cons: The main character is only 16 - I felt this made many aspects of the book less believable
The book is labeled Christian fiction, but I don't really get a strong message other than a belief in an afterlife that is based on our deeds and faith
Overall, this was a good historical tale. There are lots of Civil War details, and the history aspects seem quite well-researched. I definitely enjoyed it as a good historical fiction story, and am always up for a mystery with a sprinkling of (clean/sweet) romance.
My first disappointment with the book came in the first chapter when I discovered that Grace is only 16 years old. That pretty much threw a wrench in the whole story for me. Despite my best efforts to ignore the fact that the main character barely has a driver's license, but is being sent off by her extended family with a newly inherited vehicle and $5,000 in cash to drive several hours away and spend the summer entirely alone and isolated on a backwoods property (which she plans to remodel), I really had trouble getting past all that. The fact that the book blurb made it clear that Grace was going to be alone in the mansion and that one of the love interests is a war veteran had me prepared for characters in their mid-twenties, maybe late twenties. I just felt making her a little older would have made the story better, and a little more believable. If everyone could have just been college age, there are no other details about the story that would have had to change.
From there, Grace constantly says things out loud, then thinks to herself "I realized how childish that sounded..." and I want to smack her in the forehead and say "You ARE a child!"
That being said... the writing is good, the story moves along at an excellent pace, and the plot has some new and interesting takes on the typical "rules" for ghosts and spirits, unfinished business, and the afterlife. I never did figure out whether Grace was really intending to remodel the old house though, because sometimes she talked like that was just a cover to explain why she was there, but every once in a while she would talk about what a chore it was going to be hiring people to do the plumbing, etc. etc., but then she never actually hires anyone or makes any real plans besides a few sketches...
The book leans toward Christian fiction, but other than the fact that the characters do talk about faith in God and your deeds being rewarded or punished in the afterlife, I didn't get a particularly strong message out of it other than that there is an afterlife and we can look forward to good things if we do good things. Grace does talk to a friend's pastor about some questions, and he gives some guidance about believing in the Holy Ghost as the only real ghost and other than that believing in spiritual warfare in the form of angels and demons who can manifest as many things, but no real answers. I'm not sure what variety of Christianity the book falls under besides a general belief in God and heaven. The Bible, with the exception of a few partially quoted verse, is notably absent. I did enjoy the ending of the book, and it is apparently a set up for a trilogy which further explores Grace's ability to communicate with ghosts.
Pros: Well-paced plot, excellent historical detail, good writing skills, appropriate for a wide age
range of readers
Cons: The main character is only 16 - I felt this made many aspects of the book less believable
The book is labeled Christian fiction, but I don't really get a strong message other than a belief in an afterlife that is based on our deeds and faith
Overall, this was a good historical tale. There are lots of Civil War details, and the history aspects seem quite well-researched. I definitely enjoyed it as a good historical fiction story, and am always up for a mystery with a sprinkling of (clean/sweet) romance.
My first disappointment with the book came in the first chapter when I discovered that Grace is only 16 years old. That pretty much threw a wrench in the whole story for me. Despite my best efforts to ignore the fact that the main character barely has a driver's license, but is being sent off by her extended family with a newly inherited vehicle and $5,000 in cash to drive several hours away and spend the summer entirely alone and isolated on a backwoods property (which she plans to remodel), I really had trouble getting past all that. The fact that the book blurb made it clear that Grace was going to be alone in the mansion and that one of the love interests is a war veteran had me prepared for characters in their mid-twenties, maybe late twenties. I just felt making her a little older would have made the story better, and a little more believable. If everyone could have just been college age, there are no other details about the story that would have had to change.
From there, Grace constantly says things out loud, then thinks to herself "I realized how childish that sounded..." and I want to smack her in the forehead and say "You ARE a child!"
That being said... the writing is good, the story moves along at an excellent pace, and the plot has some new and interesting takes on the typical "rules" for ghosts and spirits, unfinished business, and the afterlife. I never did figure out whether Grace was really intending to remodel the old house though, because sometimes she talked like that was just a cover to explain why she was there, but every once in a while she would talk about what a chore it was going to be hiring people to do the plumbing, etc. etc., but then she never actually hires anyone or makes any real plans besides a few sketches...
The book leans toward Christian fiction, but other than the fact that the characters do talk about faith in God and your deeds being rewarded or punished in the afterlife, I didn't get a particularly strong message out of it other than that there is an afterlife and we can look forward to good things if we do good things. Grace does talk to a friend's pastor about some questions, and he gives some guidance about believing in the Holy Ghost as the only real ghost and other than that believing in spiritual warfare in the form of angels and demons who can manifest as many things, but no real answers. I'm not sure what variety of Christianity the book falls under besides a general belief in God and heaven. The Bible, with the exception of a few partially quoted verse, is notably absent. I did enjoy the ending of the book, and it is apparently a set up for a trilogy which further explores Grace's ability to communicate with ghosts.
June 3, 2016
Overwrought prose, huge assumptions
On the plus side: the history was interesting, the Civil War stories and character bios were often deeply touching as well as sometimes horrifying, and the idea of a gift for helping spirits move on opens up many more stories.
On the downside
Author took many chapters to clarify what had happened to Grace's family. She kept talking about people but not explaining who they were, and some people were referred to with their first names so it wasn't clear. I didn't know if Jack was her brother, uncle or father for the longest time (turned out to be stepdad). Koontz should have clarified that sooner.
SPOILERS
Characters came in two flavors: good people (Michael, Cassie, Clay, Adriana) and bad people (Aunt Tish, Reaghan, Holland, Henry and Greasy Jim-if you couldn't tell from the last two names). Seth was poised to join the second set of names, while Grace was the most divided, as many of her actions lacked maturity, understanding or compassion, but her intentions were sometimes very good indeed. Generally, however, the good people were all good, and the bad people were not only bad, they were often cardboard villain kind of bad. Real people are much more complex than that and it's often hard to sort out why we make the choices we do, much less why someone else does.
Everyone has commented on the age of the MC--I agree, she's too young for any of this story to be real, especially having a full-blown relationship with someone almost 5 years older, when she's never had a boyfriend. The whole Grace - Clay relationship seemed very confused. In some places Koontz made it sound like this was the start of a marriage that lasts more than 50 years, but that made little sense when Clay and Grace never spent any time together. Even when they did speak, it was briefly and they were squabbling or misunderstanding one another. Maybe they could have developed a real relationship eventually, but that didn't happen in this book, so I don't believe in them, at least not yet. So far they seem to have more of an insta-love or the whole fated thing, and that's disappointing.
On top of that, the writer's style is quite florid:
"all I could feel was loss and longing for the exquisite wonder of his touch",
" he kissed my cheeks to remove the moist signs of unhappiness", for example.
Come on, really! This is supposedly a modern day sixteen year old, but it's not just wrong for her--no one speaks like that outside a bodice-ripper.
And all the pronouncements this author makes about exactly what happens after death and who qualifies for redemption were too much. It felt tinged with arrogance or maybe mistrust in God's choices. Why aren't mystery and faith enough? Do we really need to cling to our intellects by devising these systems for God to follow? At least this author's system wasn't dependent on Christian baptism, but rather on faith in God, so for her, being a Christian didn't seem to be a fixed prerequisite for eternal happiness.
It just wasn't a very good book in my opinion, though it did have some interesting elements.
On the plus side: the history was interesting, the Civil War stories and character bios were often deeply touching as well as sometimes horrifying, and the idea of a gift for helping spirits move on opens up many more stories.
On the downside
Author took many chapters to clarify what had happened to Grace's family. She kept talking about people but not explaining who they were, and some people were referred to with their first names so it wasn't clear. I didn't know if Jack was her brother, uncle or father for the longest time (turned out to be stepdad). Koontz should have clarified that sooner.
SPOILERS
Characters came in two flavors: good people (Michael, Cassie, Clay, Adriana) and bad people (Aunt Tish, Reaghan, Holland, Henry and Greasy Jim-if you couldn't tell from the last two names). Seth was poised to join the second set of names, while Grace was the most divided, as many of her actions lacked maturity, understanding or compassion, but her intentions were sometimes very good indeed. Generally, however, the good people were all good, and the bad people were not only bad, they were often cardboard villain kind of bad. Real people are much more complex than that and it's often hard to sort out why we make the choices we do, much less why someone else does.
Everyone has commented on the age of the MC--I agree, she's too young for any of this story to be real, especially having a full-blown relationship with someone almost 5 years older, when she's never had a boyfriend. The whole Grace - Clay relationship seemed very confused. In some places Koontz made it sound like this was the start of a marriage that lasts more than 50 years, but that made little sense when Clay and Grace never spent any time together. Even when they did speak, it was briefly and they were squabbling or misunderstanding one another. Maybe they could have developed a real relationship eventually, but that didn't happen in this book, so I don't believe in them, at least not yet. So far they seem to have more of an insta-love or the whole fated thing, and that's disappointing.
On top of that, the writer's style is quite florid:
"all I could feel was loss and longing for the exquisite wonder of his touch",
" he kissed my cheeks to remove the moist signs of unhappiness", for example.
Come on, really! This is supposedly a modern day sixteen year old, but it's not just wrong for her--no one speaks like that outside a bodice-ripper.
And all the pronouncements this author makes about exactly what happens after death and who qualifies for redemption were too much. It felt tinged with arrogance or maybe mistrust in God's choices. Why aren't mystery and faith enough? Do we really need to cling to our intellects by devising these systems for God to follow? At least this author's system wasn't dependent on Christian baptism, but rather on faith in God, so for her, being a Christian didn't seem to be a fixed prerequisite for eternal happiness.
It just wasn't a very good book in my opinion, though it did have some interesting elements.
July 1, 2015
Crossing Into The Mystic Crossing Into the Mystic is a story of a 16 year old orphan, Grace who lives with her aunt and is unhappy living there. When she is willed an old mansion, Crossings, from her stepfather she leaps at the chance for independence and to find out why she is now the owner of this neglected home. Upon getting to the house, she finds that the mansion is eerily intact, with furnishings and other items straight out of the Civil War era, including a ghost of a war veteran who died at a young age in the home. There is unfinished business on his part and he enlists Grace's help so he can cross over. He was murdered and he needs closure as to why so he can move on. Grace meets a lot of locals, including Clay who she can give her heart to but is reluctant because she is also attracted to the ghost Will.
The story is well written and full of Civil War stories, a bit of romance, and mystery. See, Grace finds out that she can 'see' the ghosts wandering that have not been able to cross over because of unfinished business. How awesome to be able to see ghosts of days past, but creepy at the same time. I especially found the scenes at the cemetery gave me goosebumps. Grace soon learns how to interact or ignore these entities so that she can learn what happened to Will and find out she does.
This is part of a trilogy, the next book being Edging Through the Darkness, in which Grace discovers more secrets of her ancestral home. Crossing Into the Mystic was an easy book to get into, fast paced and I found the characters well thought out and this trilogy can be read by the adult and YA audience. A clean read but it does have romantic elements to it. I enjoyed this story and look forward to reading the next in the trilogy.
The story is well written and full of Civil War stories, a bit of romance, and mystery. See, Grace finds out that she can 'see' the ghosts wandering that have not been able to cross over because of unfinished business. How awesome to be able to see ghosts of days past, but creepy at the same time. I especially found the scenes at the cemetery gave me goosebumps. Grace soon learns how to interact or ignore these entities so that she can learn what happened to Will and find out she does.
This is part of a trilogy, the next book being Edging Through the Darkness, in which Grace discovers more secrets of her ancestral home. Crossing Into the Mystic was an easy book to get into, fast paced and I found the characters well thought out and this trilogy can be read by the adult and YA audience. A clean read but it does have romantic elements to it. I enjoyed this story and look forward to reading the next in the trilogy.
March 15, 2017
Whose Ghost Is That?
This is a story which I really enjoyed reading, this author truly has a vivid imagination. The storyline it's really interesting, with with characters who are depicted so clear and real. Are there ghost all around us, trying to communicate with us? Great Read for any reader whose looking for adventure.
This is a story which I really enjoyed reading, this author truly has a vivid imagination. The storyline it's really interesting, with with characters who are depicted so clear and real. Are there ghost all around us, trying to communicate with us? Great Read for any reader whose looking for adventure.
May 2, 2014
Crossing Into The Mystic by DL Koontz is an edge of your seat compulsive read. Sixteen year old Grace, having lost her family in a car crash 3 years earlier, goes to live at Crossings, as instructed in her stepfather’s will. None of the locals will go near Crossings which, except for her stepfather’s visits, has been empty for many years. Grace feels uncomfortable as she enters the main house, from the newer annex, and her cat runs away hissing. It is here that Grace meets William Kavanaugh, a ghost who was murdered during the American civil war. Will asks Grace to find out about his long dead wife, and about his murder, so that he can move on. Grace also meets Clay Baxter, home from the Afghan war, who knew her stepfather. Grace finds herself increasingly drawn to the long dead Will, and enjoys their time together as he tells her about his life. Clay, meanwhile is also becoming an attraction. The novel is about the spiritual battle between good and evil forces, and recognises the need for God in these battles. As Grace gets closer to the truth of Will’s death, she encounters others who also need her help. It is a book that is impossible to put down, as the reader gets caught up in the action. The ending is complete but sets the scene for a sequel that is to follow, and hopefully quickly!
November 11, 2015
I found this a difficult book to put down. It was fast paced, a little spooky, had a spiritual element to it, and had me in tears at the thought of my beloved family members who have passed on. It was a cross between The Ghost Whisperer and a Civil War thriller. My only issue with the novel was that I would have preferred the main protagonist to have been older, but her wisdom went far beyond her age in years. Therefore, she was written as a character who became instantly likable and one you could truly care about. Normally I wouldn't read a book with a heroine who was in her teens, but in this book it didn't seem to matter.
The writing was quite descriptive, very well written, and the historical aspect extremely elaborate and on point. I felt like I was literally in the middle of a Civil War battle and could easily visualize the events and witness the sights, sounds and smells of what America's soldiers experienced on the battle fields.
If you aren't a fan of the possibility of ghosts or anything supernatural, then this book isn't for you, but, I was quite impressed and read the book in one afternoon. I look forward to reading the 2nd book in the trilogy. I highly recommend it if you have an interest in The Civil War period and the paranormal.
The writing was quite descriptive, very well written, and the historical aspect extremely elaborate and on point. I felt like I was literally in the middle of a Civil War battle and could easily visualize the events and witness the sights, sounds and smells of what America's soldiers experienced on the battle fields.
If you aren't a fan of the possibility of ghosts or anything supernatural, then this book isn't for you, but, I was quite impressed and read the book in one afternoon. I look forward to reading the 2nd book in the trilogy. I highly recommend it if you have an interest in The Civil War period and the paranormal.
April 17, 2014
I loved it!!!
A Civil War Paranormal Romance (Christian Fiction Fantasy) is such an appropriate description of this wonderful story by DL Koontz. The strength, perseverance and resolve of 16 year old Grace MacKenna the main character in DL Koontz's book "Crossing into the Mystic" pulled me into this intriguing and at times hair raising story with each and every step she took. I found that at times I had to just stop reading and catch my breath. The other characters in this story, Clay, Will, Cassie, etc were believable and just as much an intrigue as Grace was. The historical references to the Civil War added some extra interest to an already captivating read. The style of Koontz's writing was for me so descriptive at times that I felt like I was watching a movie in my mind. Her words and details of the places and every aspect of how she describes things made me able to smell, see, and feel, everything that young Grace was feeling! I couldn't put the book down! I felt that it was an easy and quick read. I am left on the edge of my seat anxiously waiting on what's coming up next for Grace!!!
A Civil War Paranormal Romance (Christian Fiction Fantasy) is such an appropriate description of this wonderful story by DL Koontz. The strength, perseverance and resolve of 16 year old Grace MacKenna the main character in DL Koontz's book "Crossing into the Mystic" pulled me into this intriguing and at times hair raising story with each and every step she took. I found that at times I had to just stop reading and catch my breath. The other characters in this story, Clay, Will, Cassie, etc were believable and just as much an intrigue as Grace was. The historical references to the Civil War added some extra interest to an already captivating read. The style of Koontz's writing was for me so descriptive at times that I felt like I was watching a movie in my mind. Her words and details of the places and every aspect of how she describes things made me able to smell, see, and feel, everything that young Grace was feeling! I couldn't put the book down! I felt that it was an easy and quick read. I am left on the edge of my seat anxiously waiting on what's coming up next for Grace!!!
July 27, 2015
Crossing Into the Mystic was an amazing read. I am not sure how to catagorize this piece as it could fall into many genres. It brings out mystery, science fiction, adventure with a hint of romance. Koontz's writing style is superb. You must love an author who can keep you on the edge of the next page, deliver you content that's crucial to the plot without being wordy and over explaining things.
Grace MacKenna's character represented a very strong young woman who when faced with the unbelievable still stuck to her guns and beliefs and tried her best to make things right. As all young teenagers do; she lied but she eventually learned that one she was a bad liar and two lying never really helps solve anything. I felt as though I was one of Grace's friends while reading this novel. I must admit the beginning is kind of slow but once you get past the initial setup and background (which you do need to understand the story) it all works itself out and truly becomes a page turner.
Not giving anything away but I truly cannot wait for Book #2 in this series.
Grace MacKenna's character represented a very strong young woman who when faced with the unbelievable still stuck to her guns and beliefs and tried her best to make things right. As all young teenagers do; she lied but she eventually learned that one she was a bad liar and two lying never really helps solve anything. I felt as though I was one of Grace's friends while reading this novel. I must admit the beginning is kind of slow but once you get past the initial setup and background (which you do need to understand the story) it all works itself out and truly becomes a page turner.
Not giving anything away but I truly cannot wait for Book #2 in this series.
December 29, 2015
Crossing into the Mystic kept me up all night, which hasn't happened to me since I read The Hunger Games. The story is a fresh, intriguing exploration of the ghost phenomenon mixed with historical fiction, and the writing is a masterful intertwining of technique and style.
Grace MacKenna is a sixteen-year-old who has lost her her parents and sister and is struggling come to terms with their sudden deaths. She finally finds peace and answers to her questions about the afterlife when she comes to know the ghost of her many times great-grandfather, who died in the Civil War. This story is a well-balanced blend of historical fact, supernatural mystery, and philosophical investigation mixed with a touch of romance. I'm glad I read it on holiday because I couldn't put it down.
I highly recommend this book for anyone who enjoys the YA genre, historical fiction, and ghost stories, and will definitely suggest it to all of my students when they ask me what to read next.
Grace MacKenna is a sixteen-year-old who has lost her her parents and sister and is struggling come to terms with their sudden deaths. She finally finds peace and answers to her questions about the afterlife when she comes to know the ghost of her many times great-grandfather, who died in the Civil War. This story is a well-balanced blend of historical fact, supernatural mystery, and philosophical investigation mixed with a touch of romance. I'm glad I read it on holiday because I couldn't put it down.
I highly recommend this book for anyone who enjoys the YA genre, historical fiction, and ghost stories, and will definitely suggest it to all of my students when they ask me what to read next.
November 14, 2014
I'm not sure where to begin here... on the one hand, I'm glad that I received my copy through Goodreads as a giveaway as I'm not entirely sure I would have purchased it on my own. However, on the other hand, as compelling as this novel is and was, I'm still unclear of my feelings for it.
I found the story contradicting and nonparallel, at times. The story line is very fast paced and as such, I was able to get swept into the mystical (no pun intended) world. I did very much appreciate the detailed character descriptions provided as well as the traits that D.L. Koontz attributes to Grace; like her strength and perseverance to pursue all that she needs to.
As I'm incredibly mystified by paranormal works, this novel successfully peaked and kept my interest. I'm not sure if I would pick it up and read it again, but it was a well written novel.
I found the story contradicting and nonparallel, at times. The story line is very fast paced and as such, I was able to get swept into the mystical (no pun intended) world. I did very much appreciate the detailed character descriptions provided as well as the traits that D.L. Koontz attributes to Grace; like her strength and perseverance to pursue all that she needs to.
As I'm incredibly mystified by paranormal works, this novel successfully peaked and kept my interest. I'm not sure if I would pick it up and read it again, but it was a well written novel.
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