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Life is more difficult than ever at Savannah's only ghost-hunting detective agency. While Ellie copes with her mentor's departure and other unwelcome developments, she also worries about the supernatural injuries keeping her boyfriend caught in an endless slumber.
At the same time, Ellie and Stacey are called in to investigate an eerie entity haunting a baby's nursery room. The ghost appears late at night, its face barely visible on the baby monitor, and sings a chilling song.
Soon, Ellie learns there are more ghosts in the house, and at least one of them is a dangerous, child-hunting monster who must be stopped before it kills again.
At the same time, Ellie and Stacey are called in to investigate an eerie entity haunting a baby's nursery room. The ghost appears late at night, its face barely visible on the baby monitor, and sings a chilling song.
Soon, Ellie learns there are more ghosts in the house, and at least one of them is a dangerous, child-hunting monster who must be stopped before it kills again.
258 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 28, 2016
344 people are currently reading
326 people want to read
About the author
J.L. Bryan
53 books1,035 followersJ.L. Bryan studied English literature at the University of Georgia and at Oxford, with a focus on English Renaissance and Romantic literature. He also studied screenwriting at UCLA. He lives in the metro Atlanta sprawl with his wife and son. He is the author of the Ellie Jordan, Ghost Trapper books and some other assorted novels like Inferno Park, The Unseen, Jenny Pox, and basically a lot of supernatural stories, some of it dark, some of it very dark, some of it less dark than that.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
July 18, 2018
Lullaby
Ellie Jordan, Ghost Trapper
By: J. L. Bryan
Narrated by: Carla Mercer-Meyer
Her old boss is moving and a new Russian boss decides to show her how things will be now be punishing her....the woman has some serious evil powers! I can't tell you what she did but it messed up our gal! Also, there is a job to do under new guide lines. Her boyfriend is still in a coma... things are not looking good. Few scary book! Her work is scary from the haunted houses and the co-workers!
Great narration!
Ellie Jordan, Ghost Trapper
By: J. L. Bryan
Narrated by: Carla Mercer-Meyer
Her old boss is moving and a new Russian boss decides to show her how things will be now be punishing her....the woman has some serious evil powers! I can't tell you what she did but it messed up our gal! Also, there is a job to do under new guide lines. Her boyfriend is still in a coma... things are not looking good. Few scary book! Her work is scary from the haunted houses and the co-workers!
Great narration!
August 5, 2016
With the way book six ended I was very eager to open up Lullaby and see where the story was going to go next. To see how Ellie, Jacob, Stacey, and Michael were, to see where they went from the devastating events of book six. How they were going to deal with everything that happened and most importantly, how they were going to fight what was to come.
I love this series. It didn't take long for it to worm its way into my top 10 favorite creepy series. Bryan never disappoints to not only creepy me out and leave me anxiously looking over my should at night but to also have me laughing out loud the next moment and his latest and greatest is no exception.
So much is happening with Ellie, in her personal life as well as her work and not all of it is good, in fact, a lot of it isn't good. With new people, new experiences new dangers, and new ghosts, pretty much anything can happen and does happen.
It was exciting and creepy and so much fun to read. I can not wait for the next installment and wish that I had it already. I'm so ready for Ellie to kick some ghost butt and to be in a much better place job wise and emotional wise. This series continues to wow me and leave me wanting more.
I love this series. It didn't take long for it to worm its way into my top 10 favorite creepy series. Bryan never disappoints to not only creepy me out and leave me anxiously looking over my should at night but to also have me laughing out loud the next moment and his latest and greatest is no exception.
So much is happening with Ellie, in her personal life as well as her work and not all of it is good, in fact, a lot of it isn't good. With new people, new experiences new dangers, and new ghosts, pretty much anything can happen and does happen.
It was exciting and creepy and so much fun to read. I can not wait for the next installment and wish that I had it already. I'm so ready for Ellie to kick some ghost butt and to be in a much better place job wise and emotional wise. This series continues to wow me and leave me wanting more.
November 11, 2022
These books are just amazing! There are twists in the plot with the characters that you don't see coming, then there is the main plot of trapping the ghost that is full on fast-paced action. The main characters are strong females who know what needs to be done and can kick some butt doing it. The atmosphere is always chilling, making you want to look over your shoulder if you hear the house creek while reading one of these books. I absolutely love this series and this book did not disappoint. If you are a ghost story fan you cannot miss this series. I can't wait to get my hands on the next one!
August 3, 2016
(I received a copy from the author, In exchange for an honest review.)
Just like the previous books, I liked the main characters again.
This installment seemed quite slow to start with, but the pacing didn't take long to pick up thankfully. Once it did, it was just as enjoyable as the rest of the series.
Overall, Another enjoyable sequel.
Just like the previous books, I liked the main characters again.
This installment seemed quite slow to start with, but the pacing didn't take long to pick up thankfully. Once it did, it was just as enjoyable as the rest of the series.
Overall, Another enjoyable sequel.
August 31, 2016
Can we start this review off by saying BOOK # FREAKING 7!! I cannot get over the fact that we are this far into the series and I have yet to be disappointed. Not once I have I thought it was time for Bryan to move on away from these characters and plot. In fact, with the shift involving the new management, there is no telling where this series could go. And how is it not a TV series yet? Seriously.
I’ll be the first to say I hated what Bryan was doing with bringing in a new management and retiring Calvin. I didn’t want to hear about it, think about it, or read about it. But I gotta say, some crazy crap happens and has me eager to read more about certain characters. So, maybe it’s not all bad and something good may come from all this. I’ll guess we will all find out soon enough as the series continues. Please God, let it continue on for a long, long time.
Once again I am wowed by Bryan and his creepy imagination and his ability to lay it all out on paper is such a wonderful way. He spooks me, he wows me, he has me craving more!!! This is definitely a must read series! 5 What the H. E. Double Hockey Sticks Just Happened Stars!
I’ll be the first to say I hated what Bryan was doing with bringing in a new management and retiring Calvin. I didn’t want to hear about it, think about it, or read about it. But I gotta say, some crazy crap happens and has me eager to read more about certain characters. So, maybe it’s not all bad and something good may come from all this. I’ll guess we will all find out soon enough as the series continues. Please God, let it continue on for a long, long time.
Once again I am wowed by Bryan and his creepy imagination and his ability to lay it all out on paper is such a wonderful way. He spooks me, he wows me, he has me craving more!!! This is definitely a must read series! 5 What the H. E. Double Hockey Sticks Just Happened Stars!
August 5, 2016
Wow. So good. This series gets better and better! I can't wait for the next one. Frankly, this is one of the creepiest of the books, and I loved the character development.
December 11, 2024
GREAT STORY!!
Loving this series! Can’t wait to read the next one.
A must read for ghost and mystery lovers like me!
Loving this series! Can’t wait to read the next one.
A must read for ghost and mystery lovers like me!
March 5, 2023
If J.L. Bryan's intent was to make me hate the company that's stepped in to run Calvin's business, he has succeeded. Admirably. Like, I hate those guys. No, I HATE those guys with all caps. Kara is scary and awful and the fact that the others at PSI allow her get away with it makes me lump them all together.
On the plus side, it's possible what Kara did to Ellie might give her a little extra oomph on the job. Or it might make things even harder. It's really difficult to predict at this point.
So. Things aren't peachy for Ellie and her crew. On a personal note, Ellie's dealing with her boyfriend being in a coma after the events in the last book. Not fun. On the professional side, PSI is awful and the only reason Ellie's sticking around is so she can continue to hunt down her fire-bug ghost. Ehh. Maybe that's not the only reason, but it's the most driving one.
The haunting Ellie is investigating is chilling, her desire to push herself to find out the truth about Anton Clay is kinda bordering on scary, and she's doing the best to keep her friends out of the line of fire from her personal investigations. All in all, an excellent installment in Ellie's ongoing tale.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
On the plus side, it's possible what Kara did to Ellie might give her a little extra oomph on the job. Or it might make things even harder. It's really difficult to predict at this point.
So. Things aren't peachy for Ellie and her crew. On a personal note, Ellie's dealing with her boyfriend being in a coma after the events in the last book. Not fun. On the professional side, PSI is awful and the only reason Ellie's sticking around is so she can continue to hunt down her fire-bug ghost. Ehh. Maybe that's not the only reason, but it's the most driving one.
The haunting Ellie is investigating is chilling, her desire to push herself to find out the truth about Anton Clay is kinda bordering on scary, and she's doing the best to keep her friends out of the line of fire from her personal investigations. All in all, an excellent installment in Ellie's ongoing tale.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
August 17, 2018
Over all I enjoyed this book. Starting less than a day after the last book finished, Ellie is i the hospital with Michael and wondering if and when he will wake up and worry about where Anton's ghost has gotten to.
I liked that there were number of different threads n this book and they were weaved mostly in balance so no one thread distracted from the others but all threads were interesting. I really identified with Ellie in this book with her having to deal with a new boss as a result of the business being sold and new rules and procedures that seem to make no sense and and felt especially sorry for given the contempt of new boss Kara and the attitude of Michael's sister Melissa in the wake of his illness.
i terms of the ghost mysteries, i again picked bits of main mystery but felt that with finding out more about paranormal solutions, this book fillay went further than just ghost hunting mysteries and I will be interested to see where the author takes this thread of the book and the series in general in the future
I liked that there were number of different threads n this book and they were weaved mostly in balance so no one thread distracted from the others but all threads were interesting. I really identified with Ellie in this book with her having to deal with a new boss as a result of the business being sold and new rules and procedures that seem to make no sense and and felt especially sorry for given the contempt of new boss Kara and the attitude of Michael's sister Melissa in the wake of his illness.
i terms of the ghost mysteries, i again picked bits of main mystery but felt that with finding out more about paranormal solutions, this book fillay went further than just ghost hunting mysteries and I will be interested to see where the author takes this thread of the book and the series in general in the future
August 17, 2021
I’m behind on this series, but I always enjoy the stories, especially the mysteries related to the spirits Ellie, Stacey, and Jacob encounter. This time, their investigation involves several ghosts in a house that is undergoing renovations, one of the spirits particularly violent. There’s also an eerie lullaby that no one can distinguish words to when they hear it, and a very creepy scene involving a toy baby doll. While I LOVED the ghost(s) plot thread, I’m not overly thrilled with Eckert Investigations being purchased by a larger, high-tech company with two spiritual gurus as the head honchos. Support/tech guy, Hayden (“the Hoff”) is a fun character, but I could do without Nicholas and Kara, especially Kara. I’ll wait to see how their characters play out in successive books. Right now, I wish the stories hadn’t taken that turn.
Ellie is excellent. She’s a tough cookie who stands up to hair-raising encounters. She’s also great with a comeback, a bit like a female Harry Dresden minus the magic. I look forward to catching up with more ghost-hunting with Ellie and crew (hopefully without Kara involved!).
Ellie is excellent. She’s a tough cookie who stands up to hair-raising encounters. She’s also great with a comeback, a bit like a female Harry Dresden minus the magic. I look forward to catching up with more ghost-hunting with Ellie and crew (hopefully without Kara involved!).
July 31, 2020
J.L Bryan absolutely did IT, with this installment in the Ellie Jordan series!
I love how everything feels so different from book one to seven, the vibe of the series is changing. I really think it's going to get better and better.
.
.
.
I also want to say that I kind of like Kara.
I love how everything feels so different from book one to seven, the vibe of the series is changing. I really think it's going to get better and better.
.
.
.
I also want to say that I kind of like Kara.
March 9, 2024
I have been thoroughly enjoying this series. This book got a little weird and ended with a bit of a cliffhanger but still really enjoyable.
August 26, 2016
Four stars: Another entertaining ghostly mystery plus upheaval and conflict for Ellie.
After the latest confrontation with Anton Clay, Ellie nearly lost someone dear to her. She is determined now more than ever to catch the ghost who murdered her family and pushed her into ghost hunting. Unfortunately, Ellie's plans to capture Clay are thwarted by the takeover of her ghost hunting agency. Without Cal at the helm, Ellie finds herself pitted against a ridiculous, overbearing and sinister new boss in Cara. While Ellie is trying to figure out how to capture Clay and survive her nightmarish, new job, she is called out on a case, one that involves a terrifying ghost in a nursery. Will Ellie trap the ghost, save her loved one, survive her new boss and hunt down Anton Clay?
What I Liked:
*This seventh book is what I would term as the plot thickens book. There is so much going on in this one. Think conflict, conflict, conflict. If you haven't read the other books, go back and start at the beginning. This one ramps up several ongoing story lines, and leaves you anxious for more.
*Even though there is a great deal of conflict and turmoil in this one, I enjoyed the story. I was wondering how Ellie was going to get a handle on all the turbulence she was encountering. If you think she had it rough before, it is threefold in this one. The Lullaby Ghost was bad enough, but her nasty boss, Cara, takes the cake. It was exciting to watch Ellie navigate through it all.
*As always, the ghostly mystery presented in this one, was steeped in history, and I enjoyed learning the story behind the haunting. There were some unexpected twists and surprises at the end regarding the Lullaby Ghost that I didn't see coming. Definitely some gotcha moments.
*The ending is fast and furious, and there are many questions left hanging, but at least the main story line regarding the Lullaby Ghost is concluded, but there is still so much left unfinished. I need the next book right away.
And The Not So Much:
*I was left wanting more. I was especially upset that there was no movement or resolution with Michael. I need to know what is going to happen with him.
*What was the deal with Cal? I found it a little strange that he just disappeared during the takeover.
*I hate the new ownership, and I want Ellie to stick it to them one way or another, especially Cara.
*Even though I liked the twists and the reveals regarding the Lullaby Ghost, I felt like the came out of nowhere, I wish that there was more insight in how Ellie and Stacey came to the conclusions they did regarding the ghost.
Lullaby is a book that notches up the conflict and turmoil. This is a book that will have you on the edge of your seat as you watch Ellie navigate the huge hurdles in her path. I am loving the way this series is developing, and I continue to enjoy each and every installment. If you haven't tried this series, I ask you, why?
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review.
Posted@Rainy Day Ramblings.
After the latest confrontation with Anton Clay, Ellie nearly lost someone dear to her. She is determined now more than ever to catch the ghost who murdered her family and pushed her into ghost hunting. Unfortunately, Ellie's plans to capture Clay are thwarted by the takeover of her ghost hunting agency. Without Cal at the helm, Ellie finds herself pitted against a ridiculous, overbearing and sinister new boss in Cara. While Ellie is trying to figure out how to capture Clay and survive her nightmarish, new job, she is called out on a case, one that involves a terrifying ghost in a nursery. Will Ellie trap the ghost, save her loved one, survive her new boss and hunt down Anton Clay?
What I Liked:
*This seventh book is what I would term as the plot thickens book. There is so much going on in this one. Think conflict, conflict, conflict. If you haven't read the other books, go back and start at the beginning. This one ramps up several ongoing story lines, and leaves you anxious for more.
*Even though there is a great deal of conflict and turmoil in this one, I enjoyed the story. I was wondering how Ellie was going to get a handle on all the turbulence she was encountering. If you think she had it rough before, it is threefold in this one. The Lullaby Ghost was bad enough, but her nasty boss, Cara, takes the cake. It was exciting to watch Ellie navigate through it all.
*As always, the ghostly mystery presented in this one, was steeped in history, and I enjoyed learning the story behind the haunting. There were some unexpected twists and surprises at the end regarding the Lullaby Ghost that I didn't see coming. Definitely some gotcha moments.
*The ending is fast and furious, and there are many questions left hanging, but at least the main story line regarding the Lullaby Ghost is concluded, but there is still so much left unfinished. I need the next book right away.
And The Not So Much:
*I was left wanting more. I was especially upset that there was no movement or resolution with Michael. I need to know what is going to happen with him.
*What was the deal with Cal? I found it a little strange that he just disappeared during the takeover.
*I hate the new ownership, and I want Ellie to stick it to them one way or another, especially Cara.
*Even though I liked the twists and the reveals regarding the Lullaby Ghost, I felt like the came out of nowhere, I wish that there was more insight in how Ellie and Stacey came to the conclusions they did regarding the ghost.
Lullaby is a book that notches up the conflict and turmoil. This is a book that will have you on the edge of your seat as you watch Ellie navigate the huge hurdles in her path. I am loving the way this series is developing, and I continue to enjoy each and every installment. If you haven't tried this series, I ask you, why?
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review.
Posted@Rainy Day Ramblings.
August 31, 2016
I've had Lullaby waiting to be read for about a month, but with the excitement of YALC, and then getting straight back into work and trying to find a routine again, it took a while for me to pick it up.
Lullaby picks up straight after the events of Maze of Souls, with Michael in hospital and his sister, Melissa, at his bedside waiting for him to recover. Ellie is not in the best of standing with Melissa who makes it very clear she wants Ellie gone, blaming Ellie for Michael's current situation.
Paranormal Solutions has begun the process of taking over Eckhart, quick to dive into the office and rearrange everything to their suiting, from layout to computers, even down to the way investigations are run. This also gives us an opportunity to get to know these people more, and Kara is definitely not a nice person, and in Lullaby we really get to see the nasty side of her, and it was a lot worse than I expected. I would not hesitate to run in the other direction from her.
Lullaby is typical with this series, we get the laughter and comic relief from Stacey, but also the scare factor thrown in too, and this was a pretty creepy book to read. There are ghosts a plenty within the pages of this book, and one was extremely creepy, and nasty, and will leave me questioning every single noise when I go back to work.
I think Lullaby was the first book that had me questioning how it would all end. As the pages left to read got fewer and fewer I honestly thought this story would go unresolved, that for once Stacey and Ellie would be unable to get rid of this ghost. I love how all the different aspects of the past, the history of the house and the people who lived in it are all taken into consideration when researching the haunting, making sure no stone is unturned and that every lead is checked.
Lullaby comes with a lot of problems for Ellie and Stacey, not only with the hauntings but also with their team, thier family. With new ownership comes new power, and people who won't allow Ellie to run around trying to find Anton, people who are quite happy to use her as one of thier pawns instead of a human being. I did feel sorry for the girls, having to fight both sides to keep afloat, and I do hope that things do become easier for them, but with Kara on the scene I highly doubt this will be possible.
Final Verdict
Lullaby is another great addition to this series, and although this was a surprise delivery I enjoyed every single word of it. MY only issue is the cliff hangers we are being left on, I need to know what happens next, right now.....or more like yesterday :)
Lullaby picks up straight after the events of Maze of Souls, with Michael in hospital and his sister, Melissa, at his bedside waiting for him to recover. Ellie is not in the best of standing with Melissa who makes it very clear she wants Ellie gone, blaming Ellie for Michael's current situation.
Paranormal Solutions has begun the process of taking over Eckhart, quick to dive into the office and rearrange everything to their suiting, from layout to computers, even down to the way investigations are run. This also gives us an opportunity to get to know these people more, and Kara is definitely not a nice person, and in Lullaby we really get to see the nasty side of her, and it was a lot worse than I expected. I would not hesitate to run in the other direction from her.
Lullaby is typical with this series, we get the laughter and comic relief from Stacey, but also the scare factor thrown in too, and this was a pretty creepy book to read. There are ghosts a plenty within the pages of this book, and one was extremely creepy, and nasty, and will leave me questioning every single noise when I go back to work.
I think Lullaby was the first book that had me questioning how it would all end. As the pages left to read got fewer and fewer I honestly thought this story would go unresolved, that for once Stacey and Ellie would be unable to get rid of this ghost. I love how all the different aspects of the past, the history of the house and the people who lived in it are all taken into consideration when researching the haunting, making sure no stone is unturned and that every lead is checked.
Lullaby comes with a lot of problems for Ellie and Stacey, not only with the hauntings but also with their team, thier family. With new ownership comes new power, and people who won't allow Ellie to run around trying to find Anton, people who are quite happy to use her as one of thier pawns instead of a human being. I did feel sorry for the girls, having to fight both sides to keep afloat, and I do hope that things do become easier for them, but with Kara on the scene I highly doubt this will be possible.
Final Verdict
Lullaby is another great addition to this series, and although this was a surprise delivery I enjoyed every single word of it. MY only issue is the cliff hangers we are being left on, I need to know what happens next, right now.....or more like yesterday :)
January 13, 2018
They say bad things come in threes.
Ellie was able to stop a murderous foe from killing her friends, but it came at a cost. Her boyfriend now languishes in a coma. The paranormal investigation business has new owners and her new boss is as deadly as some of the ghosts she comes up against. And her newest case pits her against a monster who’s sights are set on an innocent child. Ellie and her assistant and best friend, Stacey, will have to be creative to get through the times ahead in one piece.
Just like the previous books, the action gets going and never stops. Ellie is one tough cookie. Sleep deprived and physically battered and exhausted, she’s like the Energizer Bunny…she keeps on going. I love that she stands tall, even when she’s scared. And she has plenty to fear.
I couldn’t have stopped reading if I wanted to. I ate this up in one sitting, loving every creepy, nail biting bit of it. If you haven’t been reading this series yet, you should. And the first book is free. Go grab a copy and get started.
I received a complimentary copy. My review is voluntarily given.
Ellie was able to stop a murderous foe from killing her friends, but it came at a cost. Her boyfriend now languishes in a coma. The paranormal investigation business has new owners and her new boss is as deadly as some of the ghosts she comes up against. And her newest case pits her against a monster who’s sights are set on an innocent child. Ellie and her assistant and best friend, Stacey, will have to be creative to get through the times ahead in one piece.
Just like the previous books, the action gets going and never stops. Ellie is one tough cookie. Sleep deprived and physically battered and exhausted, she’s like the Energizer Bunny…she keeps on going. I love that she stands tall, even when she’s scared. And she has plenty to fear.
I couldn’t have stopped reading if I wanted to. I ate this up in one sitting, loving every creepy, nail biting bit of it. If you haven’t been reading this series yet, you should. And the first book is free. Go grab a copy and get started.
I received a complimentary copy. My review is voluntarily given.
February 15, 2022
3 1/2 stars. Well written, with some strong plot developments. Just not in directions I love - I get that they are good for series progression and tension, but they aren't brilliant for making it a comfort read series.
. But nonetheless I'm going to continue with the series because even though the tone is getting dark (what a weird thing to say in a horror series), I do feel emotional investment in knowing what happens to the characters.
And it's much better than a bunch of the other stuff on KU.
. But nonetheless I'm going to continue with the series because even though the tone is getting dark (what a weird thing to say in a horror series), I do feel emotional investment in knowing what happens to the characters.
And it's much better than a bunch of the other stuff on KU.
November 18, 2024
I was so put off by the opening first couple of chapters for this book, that I literally put it down and didn't pick it up again for FOUR YEARS. My review for book 6 is from October 2020. I'm writing about book 7 in November of 2024. I know I started book 7 just after book 6. That is my normal process.
But, I had a series of airplane flights this month and decided to go back and pick this up again while I had nothing better to do.
The things I hated about the initial opening don't go away by the end of this book. In fact Kara feeling like she's written just to be "evil bad guy lady" actually amped up in the parts I came back to read. The hostile takeover thing is just as annoying to read about as I expected. That stuff, and the division of Ellie's focus for this whole book, made me feel like the book didn't conclude properly. Though there were some cool ghostly haunting bits that were really cool in this entry still.
I did also feel like this needed a bit more editing than it received. There were at least half a dozen places, in the parts I read in 2024, that had one or two too many or too few words in the sentences.
Not sure if I will read additional entries. Much of what bothered me before enough to put the series down is still at play. But I can't deny that there are positive things in there as well. Only time will tell if I read more of this series or not.
But, I had a series of airplane flights this month and decided to go back and pick this up again while I had nothing better to do.
The things I hated about the initial opening don't go away by the end of this book. In fact Kara feeling like she's written just to be "evil bad guy lady" actually amped up in the parts I came back to read. The hostile takeover thing is just as annoying to read about as I expected. That stuff, and the division of Ellie's focus for this whole book, made me feel like the book didn't conclude properly. Though there were some cool ghostly haunting bits that were really cool in this entry still.
I did also feel like this needed a bit more editing than it received. There were at least half a dozen places, in the parts I read in 2024, that had one or two too many or too few words in the sentences.
Not sure if I will read additional entries. Much of what bothered me before enough to put the series down is still at play. But I can't deny that there are positive things in there as well. Only time will tell if I read more of this series or not.
October 2, 2017
The ghost investigation and history of the haunting was satisfactory, as always.
However, I felt frustrated. From the beginning of this series it was apparent that Bryan's strenghts were his gripping writing style and entertaining plots.
At this point in the series the characters and their relationships fell flat. Ellie had a small existential crisis which was understandable and could have served as personal conflict, but instead was swiped under the rug and only mentioned in a few sentences. Her relationship with the firefighter was underdeveloped from the get go and should have either ended right at the beginning of this book or been resolved in depth, with the focus of the story not on ghosties but on the living.
I liked that Kara, Hoff and Nicholas were introduced a little bit more, but again, it wasn't done thoroughly and made them look one-dimensional. We get more information on the motivation of the deceased everyone is trying to get rid off, instead of on the characters that should drive the story and connect the reader to whats happening.
Luckily I have read the next book (#8) already and can assure you, that the author gets a grip and seems to be working on this issue. Let's hope, Ellie's personal live gets to be focused on and expanded a bit more in the future.
However, I felt frustrated. From the beginning of this series it was apparent that Bryan's strenghts were his gripping writing style and entertaining plots.
At this point in the series the characters and their relationships fell flat. Ellie had a small existential crisis which was understandable and could have served as personal conflict, but instead was swiped under the rug and only mentioned in a few sentences. Her relationship with the firefighter was underdeveloped from the get go and should have either ended right at the beginning of this book or been resolved in depth, with the focus of the story not on ghosties but on the living.
I liked that Kara, Hoff and Nicholas were introduced a little bit more, but again, it wasn't done thoroughly and made them look one-dimensional. We get more information on the motivation of the deceased everyone is trying to get rid off, instead of on the characters that should drive the story and connect the reader to whats happening.
Luckily I have read the next book (#8) already and can assure you, that the author gets a grip and seems to be working on this issue. Let's hope, Ellie's personal live gets to be focused on and expanded a bit more in the future.
August 29, 2025
This was quite good. Been a bit since I checked in on Ellie Jordan's story and it more than met my expectations.
There's the usual spooky ghost story (that felt very season appropriate in the leadup to September). Bryan always does a good job with the spook factor but this was very good. This series always has a great mix of horror or spookiness, mystery and a bit of action in the primary story.
And I'm getting quite interested in the ongoing through story with Eckhart Investigations being acquired by Paranormal Solutions and Ellie's conflict with the new management as embodied by Nick and Kara. There's clearly more going on than just a corporate buyout (and Kara is one scary broad) and I'm interested to see how Ellie navigates doing her job, her moral code and how obligated she'll feel to, ahem, deal with, new management.
Honestly, I'd forgotten how much I enjoy this series and this book was a good old time.
There's the usual spooky ghost story (that felt very season appropriate in the leadup to September). Bryan always does a good job with the spook factor but this was very good. This series always has a great mix of horror or spookiness, mystery and a bit of action in the primary story.
And I'm getting quite interested in the ongoing through story with Eckhart Investigations being acquired by Paranormal Solutions and Ellie's conflict with the new management as embodied by Nick and Kara. There's clearly more going on than just a corporate buyout (and Kara is one scary broad) and I'm interested to see how Ellie navigates doing her job, her moral code and how obligated she'll feel to, ahem, deal with, new management.
Honestly, I'd forgotten how much I enjoy this series and this book was a good old time.
October 24, 2018
This was another one helluva scary book. There were so many thrills and chills that I couldn't even begin to count them. The climax was positively thrilling and there were a couple of twists along the way that I did not see coming which made the book all that much better. The scenes with new boss Kara and her henchmen Nicholas and Hayden were so well written that I really felt Ellie's emotions. And I think I hate Kara as much as Ellie does. I see plenty of conflict and difficulties in Ellie's future although I'm looking forward to seeing how Kara eventually gets her comeuppance. At least I hope she eventually gets what's coming to her. This series just keeps getting better and better. Looking forward to reading the next one! Recommended if you're looking for a good scare.
July 10, 2020
This is probably one of my favorite cases. I don't know why but it really creeped me out. I like to read Ellie's books alone, in the dark and I actually have a BGM playlist for haunted background noise lol.
Haunted houses are the best. I like to guess who is the ghost and what's the story behind it. Stacey and Jacob were especially great in this one. Things in Ellie's life are taking a huge turn, her job was already dangerous but now her coworkers are too. Michael and she might be over and I'm kinda upset about it because though Michael appeared very little I always liked him. He is funny and sweet and I feel like he and Ellie are a perfect match.
Haunted houses are the best. I like to guess who is the ghost and what's the story behind it. Stacey and Jacob were especially great in this one. Things in Ellie's life are taking a huge turn, her job was already dangerous but now her coworkers are too. Michael and she might be over and I'm kinda upset about it because though Michael appeared very little I always liked him. He is funny and sweet and I feel like he and Ellie are a perfect match.
January 11, 2022
3.5 stars
The first half of this book was 3 stars, but the second half was 4.
I really liked the ghost story part. I love Ellie and Stacey interacting, and Ellie's increasing respect for Jacob. But I didn't really like Ellie's interaction with the new business owners - while I don't like Kara (and the jury's out on Nicholas), Ellie's reaction seemed immature and I found myself skimming some of those sections.
About half way through, I had decided to give the Ghost Trapper series a little break, but the series was redeemed by the end of the book and I have already started reading The Keeper.
The first half of this book was 3 stars, but the second half was 4.
I really liked the ghost story part. I love Ellie and Stacey interacting, and Ellie's increasing respect for Jacob. But I didn't really like Ellie's interaction with the new business owners - while I don't like Kara (and the jury's out on Nicholas), Ellie's reaction seemed immature and I found myself skimming some of those sections.
About half way through, I had decided to give the Ghost Trapper series a little break, but the series was redeemed by the end of the book and I have already started reading The Keeper.
January 20, 2021
Book 7
FYI, Welsh sounds NOTHING like the English language! "Drwy gydol y nos" is "all through the night" whereas "Ar hyd y nos" means "At night". Just sayin'...
Michael is still in Hospital, in a coma from his encounter in the last book. His sister is blaming Ellie.
The New Company is moving in, boy, are they ever! Ellie and Stacey have a new client (per new Company) and it's a woman and her baby who are being threatened. Fast paced, great descriptions, solid characters. Really good read!
FYI, Welsh sounds NOTHING like the English language! "Drwy gydol y nos" is "all through the night" whereas "Ar hyd y nos" means "At night". Just sayin'...
Michael is still in Hospital, in a coma from his encounter in the last book. His sister is blaming Ellie.
The New Company is moving in, boy, are they ever! Ellie and Stacey have a new client (per new Company) and it's a woman and her baby who are being threatened. Fast paced, great descriptions, solid characters. Really good read!
June 5, 2017
Okay. It took me awhile to read this particular book in the series because I really did not care for where I thought the storyline was headed. I DID NOT WANT any more about Kara, or the other folks who are buying out the ghost hunting business. But once I read it...wow. Can I just say MORE KARA PLEASE? I love Kara...as an awesome villain. It was completely awesome, what she did to Ellie, and I'm fascinated to see how that is going to unfold.
July 11, 2017
Good story for the series.
Continuing the story of Ellie Jordon and her stress filled life. The new owners have taken over the Ghost agency. This means any attempt to catch the psycho ghost from her past is now on hold while she tries to deal with her boyfriend in the hospital and the new case threatening to hurt a baby.
Strong story telling and established characters make this an enjoyable book with some scares and interesting moments keeping your attention.
Continuing the story of Ellie Jordon and her stress filled life. The new owners have taken over the Ghost agency. This means any attempt to catch the psycho ghost from her past is now on hold while she tries to deal with her boyfriend in the hospital and the new case threatening to hurt a baby.
Strong story telling and established characters make this an enjoyable book with some scares and interesting moments keeping your attention.
February 27, 2020
Lullaby Review
Really liked this one. Both Ellie's work and private life are becoming total chaos. Her new bosses are definitely making her life difficult and it doesn't look like the ghosts are going to give her a vacation anytime soon.
Eventually something is going to have to give and hopefully it won't be her.
Can't wait to read the next one and I would absolutely recommend Lullaby.
Really liked this one. Both Ellie's work and private life are becoming total chaos. Her new bosses are definitely making her life difficult and it doesn't look like the ghosts are going to give her a vacation anytime soon.
Eventually something is going to have to give and hopefully it won't be her.
Can't wait to read the next one and I would absolutely recommend Lullaby.
January 8, 2021
This was really riveting!!!
Couldn't put this down! Read it in one setting!
I absolutely love when a book grabs my attention
right from the first page and holds on until the
last page. This series does that with each book.
The story line is always extremely interesting
and the characters are great. This is a series I
will stick with. It goes in my most favorite series
and authors book!
Couldn't put this down! Read it in one setting!
I absolutely love when a book grabs my attention
right from the first page and holds on until the
last page. This series does that with each book.
The story line is always extremely interesting
and the characters are great. This is a series I
will stick with. It goes in my most favorite series
and authors book!
June 23, 2023
I am still not sure I am a fan of the hostile take over, Kara, Nicholas or Hoff. Or anything PSI to be honest. I di love Ellie and Stacey standing their ground and being mischievous. This has made me chuckle through out the book.
Then there is the heart ache with Michael's sister and her lashing out at Ellie. I know she's hurting but my heart hurt all the same.
The ghosts! Are always unique and I love how they deal with each unique case. I do however want Anton gone as bad as Ellie.
Then there is the heart ache with Michael's sister and her lashing out at Ellie. I know she's hurting but my heart hurt all the same.
The ghosts! Are always unique and I love how they deal with each unique case. I do however want Anton gone as bad as Ellie.
November 16, 2025
Lullaby: No Sleeping Here!
Another great installment by JL Bryan! Maybe my favorite yet! Just when I was getting used to the not-so-routine business of ghost trapping, Bryan has stepped things up in Ellie's life, and ours too! Ellie has a new employer, a new boss, and new "abilities". A real page turner, I could hardly put the book down. Way to go, Bryan! Ellie's genius really comes through in the end!
Another great installment by JL Bryan! Maybe my favorite yet! Just when I was getting used to the not-so-routine business of ghost trapping, Bryan has stepped things up in Ellie's life, and ours too! Ellie has a new employer, a new boss, and new "abilities". A real page turner, I could hardly put the book down. Way to go, Bryan! Ellie's genius really comes through in the end!
February 17, 2020
Scarey but really good
Ellie and Stacey are having a bit of a tough time, Calvin has sold out to about Paranormal company and Ellie does not get on with the boss. Ellie has to rid a house of a murderous ghost and needs help from Stacey and two others. I couldn't put this book down until I'd finished reading it.
Ellie and Stacey are having a bit of a tough time, Calvin has sold out to about Paranormal company and Ellie does not get on with the boss. Ellie has to rid a house of a murderous ghost and needs help from Stacey and two others. I couldn't put this book down until I'd finished reading it.
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