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Ghost Gifts #2
Foretold
Laura Spinella’s Ghost Gifts trilogy continues as Aubrey’s otherworldly talents—and a visit from a former lover—threaten to tear apart her family.
A mysterious death in a muddy swamp, missing children in different states…psychic Aubrey Ellis and her partner, investigative reporter Levi St John, have their hands full. The added strain of raising their son, who struggles with his own psychic gift, pushes life to the brink of collapse.
Enter Zeke Dublin—Aubrey’s first love from her carnival past. Tensions escalate when it’s clear that the attraction between them is alive and well. But as Levi discovers disturbing clues about the body pulled from the swamp, he begins to suspect Zeke’s sudden presence is more than coincidence.
As Aubrey’s uncanny abilities take an unsettling turn, she fears that this time her own child is in danger. Who can Aubrey trust to help solve the unknowns surrounding her life—the father of her son, or a man who’s always understood the deepest secrets of her psychic gift?
400 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 24, 2017
629 people are currently reading
891 people want to read
About the author
Laura Spinella
8 books561 followersEcho Moon is my eighth published novel. Author? Maybe. In truth, I’m a girl from Long Island who fell in love with the South and ended up calling New England home. Along the way, ideas emerged, leading to the books I've written, and Echo Moon is among my favorites—it is the final novel in the Ghost Gifts series.
When Ghost Gifts was published, I never thought I’d write about ghosts again. One and done, as they say.
To my surprise, the book was the #1 bestseller in Kindle store during most of its debut month, and went on to become a RITA awards finalist, RT Book Reviews finalist, and winner of an Audie, for Best Paranormal Romance. Foretold, book two, was an Amazon Editors' Pick the month it debuted. I remain humbled by reader reaction and the desire to hear more of Aubrey Ellis’s story.
Not all my novels are about ghosts, though I seem to have a good relationship with the ethereal world. Unstrung offered a change of pace for me and readers. The mainstream women’s fiction novel met with solid critical acclaim, including a starred review from Publishers Weekly, as well as being named to PW’s seasonal list of most anticipated and notable titles. I hope readers are as taken with quirky and capricious Olivia Klein as I was; I had the most marvelous time writing about her.
I live not far outside Boston with a husband, three technically grown children, two dogs and two cats. That's Auggie in the photo! Life takes place in a 130-year-old house where I can always be found writing my next novel. As always, I love to hear from readers. Feel free to drop me a line here, and many thanks for reading a Laura Spinella novel!
When Ghost Gifts was published, I never thought I’d write about ghosts again. One and done, as they say.
To my surprise, the book was the #1 bestseller in Kindle store during most of its debut month, and went on to become a RITA awards finalist, RT Book Reviews finalist, and winner of an Audie, for Best Paranormal Romance. Foretold, book two, was an Amazon Editors' Pick the month it debuted. I remain humbled by reader reaction and the desire to hear more of Aubrey Ellis’s story.
Not all my novels are about ghosts, though I seem to have a good relationship with the ethereal world. Unstrung offered a change of pace for me and readers. The mainstream women’s fiction novel met with solid critical acclaim, including a starred review from Publishers Weekly, as well as being named to PW’s seasonal list of most anticipated and notable titles. I hope readers are as taken with quirky and capricious Olivia Klein as I was; I had the most marvelous time writing about her.
I live not far outside Boston with a husband, three technically grown children, two dogs and two cats. That's Auggie in the photo! Life takes place in a 130-year-old house where I can always be found writing my next novel. As always, I love to hear from readers. Feel free to drop me a line here, and many thanks for reading a Laura Spinella novel!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 149 reviews
December 2, 2017
Foretold, by Laura Spinella, is the 2nd book in her Ghost Gifts trilogy.
Aubrey's story continues, 12 years later, with more psychic exploits and a surprise visit from a man from her past that threatens to destroy her family.
A murder mystery, a touch of romance, all mixed with an eerie, paranormal element make Foretold tie in nicely with book one, Ghost Gifts.
I look forward to where Ms. Spinella takes us in the next novel.
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake Romance for an arc of this novel in exchange for my honest review.
Aubrey's story continues, 12 years later, with more psychic exploits and a surprise visit from a man from her past that threatens to destroy her family.
A murder mystery, a touch of romance, all mixed with an eerie, paranormal element make Foretold tie in nicely with book one, Ghost Gifts.
I look forward to where Ms. Spinella takes us in the next novel.
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake Romance for an arc of this novel in exchange for my honest review.
July 1, 2018
Favorite Quotes:
If it was possible to be silent on top of silent, that’s what she was doing. Unfortunately, it backfired, and silence translated into a loud confession.
Dylan—a curly-haired kid with fat dimples and bright eyes—burped loud enough to rattle bric-a-brac.
My Review:
The mystery and intrigue were increasingly compelling in depth and breadth, with additional twists, unique complications, unpredictable detours, and remarkable discoveries. The tautly written and complex storylines were deviously well constructed and maddeningly paced and along with the prickly and contentious relationship between the main characters; I was on edge and anxious for elucidation and resolution. The massive amount of clues was daunting yet more puzzling was their cryptic nature which required keen attention and concentration. I was rapt to my Kindle and hugely annoyed when my traitorous eyes demanded I stop for sleep. I had been a bit conflicted about Zeke throughout, but the sweetness of his final story broke my heart. I am more than eager to dive into book three, Echo Moon.
If it was possible to be silent on top of silent, that’s what she was doing. Unfortunately, it backfired, and silence translated into a loud confession.
Dylan—a curly-haired kid with fat dimples and bright eyes—burped loud enough to rattle bric-a-brac.
My Review:
The mystery and intrigue were increasingly compelling in depth and breadth, with additional twists, unique complications, unpredictable detours, and remarkable discoveries. The tautly written and complex storylines were deviously well constructed and maddeningly paced and along with the prickly and contentious relationship between the main characters; I was on edge and anxious for elucidation and resolution. The massive amount of clues was daunting yet more puzzling was their cryptic nature which required keen attention and concentration. I was rapt to my Kindle and hugely annoyed when my traitorous eyes demanded I stop for sleep. I had been a bit conflicted about Zeke throughout, but the sweetness of his final story broke my heart. I am more than eager to dive into book three, Echo Moon.
June 26, 2017
I'm excited to bring to readers FORETOLD, the next installment in the Ghost Gifts series!
When my publisher approached me about extending the book into a trilogy, I had to do some fast thinking. I huddled with a few close writer friends and brainstormed with my critique partner. One of them said, "I was always so curious about Aubrey's carnival past." Another said, "I want to know what happened after that last scene--what did Aubrey do with her life?" And yet another recalled a very specific scene from Ghost Gifts, asking about the deeper story of one ghost in particular.
I listened. Then I had to decide if I wanted to write another whodunit, creating a new mystery for Aubrey and Levi to solve, or did I want to do something that focused more on character growth--a bigger canvas for Aubrey?
I believe FORETOLD is the best of both worlds.
Readers have not one but two mysteries to solve; at the same time, our heroine, Aubrey Ellis, has her own troubling challenges. Things like a brand new facet of her inherent psychic gift, a son with his own otherworldly issues, as well as an unexpected bump in the road with life-partner, Levi St John. (No spoilers here, but gosh when I tell you he's sexy stubborn...)
When I wrote Ghost Gifts, I never imagined such a positive reader response. I never thought I'd write about ghosts again. So I suppose, if anything, FORETOLD proves that you never really can tell the future!
I do hope you enjoy the novel, and thank you so very much for reading and sharing your thoughts on Goodreads!
Foretold-10.24.17
When my publisher approached me about extending the book into a trilogy, I had to do some fast thinking. I huddled with a few close writer friends and brainstormed with my critique partner. One of them said, "I was always so curious about Aubrey's carnival past." Another said, "I want to know what happened after that last scene--what did Aubrey do with her life?" And yet another recalled a very specific scene from Ghost Gifts, asking about the deeper story of one ghost in particular.
I listened. Then I had to decide if I wanted to write another whodunit, creating a new mystery for Aubrey and Levi to solve, or did I want to do something that focused more on character growth--a bigger canvas for Aubrey?
I believe FORETOLD is the best of both worlds.
Readers have not one but two mysteries to solve; at the same time, our heroine, Aubrey Ellis, has her own troubling challenges. Things like a brand new facet of her inherent psychic gift, a son with his own otherworldly issues, as well as an unexpected bump in the road with life-partner, Levi St John. (No spoilers here, but gosh when I tell you he's sexy stubborn...)
When I wrote Ghost Gifts, I never imagined such a positive reader response. I never thought I'd write about ghosts again. So I suppose, if anything, FORETOLD proves that you never really can tell the future!
I do hope you enjoy the novel, and thank you so very much for reading and sharing your thoughts on Goodreads!
Foretold-10.24.17
April 14, 2017
Every time I think Laura Spinella has written her best novel, she ups her game. As a huge fan of GHOST GIFTS, I was desperate to read this sequel. And man, did she deliver. FORETOLD is a heart-pounding page-turner with murder, suspense, sexy guys, and dark forces—human and spiritual—threatening to rip psychic Aubrey Ellis and her journalist partner Levi St John apart. As Aubrey and Levi confront ghosts from the past and present, the complex threads of this masterful mystery weave together for one heck of an adrenaline rush. I loved everything about this novel, which I read in two sittings. Fantastic!
November 7, 2017
I disliked the entire Zeke and Nora plot. I disliked the strife between Aubrey, Levi and Pete. I really loved the first book. It was a struggle to finish this one.
September 3, 2020
I feel bad only giving this 3 stars, but I can't help myself.
Let me say, at start: the mystery, the multiple timelines unfolding, it was all masterful. Better than the first book, even. The twist was heartbreaking, and the story as a whole was 5 solid stars.
But the relationship was just garbage.
Look, this book is a paranormal romance. But the romance was zip. Aubrey and Levi only barely got together in the last book. Seriously, you only found out that they were for sure together - and he wasn't dead - on the last page. There was no time to enjoy their relationship, or see them really mesh their lives.
Then this book. It is nearly 13 years later and their lives have fallen apart. Levi left her 5 months ago, and her son chose to join Levi 2 months ago. That's not really a spoiler, you find out in the first couple pages.
We never get a real reason why. The best I can suss out, from what is implied, is that their son's developing gift stressed them out, and they fought over how to handle it, and 5 months ago Levi decided to bail. And then Pete apparently slowly decided he hated his mom, and left to join his dad. And that's not an exaggeration. In this book he has to be cajoled into talking to her. Tells her he hated her. Screams at her not to touch him. And various other things. I get he's a stressed kid who somehow blames his mom for his gift, as if she wanted to have hers. But he's a douche. And Levi is a douche. And they make her feel like an utterly non-essential guest in her family. Throughout the book, they have conversations about important things that we find out about when Levi informs her what they decided. She doesn't get a say. She doesn't even get to be part of the conversation. And this never changes - the end resolution is done that exact same way. They decided what to do, and then informed her. As if she should be grateful that they are condescending to be part of her life at all.
Fuck the both of them. And Levi in particular.
For being Captain Rational, we're never given a rational reason why he left. Why he thought it was okay to be yet another person in Aubrey's life who abandoned her. And then, furthermore, enabled her son to utterly kick her out of his life.
And it doesn't even make sense. As best I can infer, Aubrey and Levi fought over whether Pete's dreams were real - his gift. Levi wanted to logic them away. Aubrey knew they couldn't be handled like that. And you think Captain Logic would understand that she'd have the best insight, here, right? But no. And then in the end, Pete confesses he was afraid they wouldn't believe him. What?? He drove away and spit in the face of the parent who did believe him, abandoning her to live with the parent who didn't, while refusing to speak with or see her. How does any of this make sense?
In the end, I'm just disappointed. Aubrey deserves to have a partner who is actually a partner. This relationship is gross and unhealthy. Her kid, whatever, he is who he is. Some kids are dickheads, fine, whatever. But Levi, though... it's Levi I just can't forgive.
And I can't really forgive Aubrey for just trailing behind him like a kicked dog begging for scraps, hoping he might come back to her, happy to take whatever little bits he'll give her. It's so gross.
Let me say, at start: the mystery, the multiple timelines unfolding, it was all masterful. Better than the first book, even. The twist was heartbreaking, and the story as a whole was 5 solid stars.
But the relationship was just garbage.
Look, this book is a paranormal romance. But the romance was zip. Aubrey and Levi only barely got together in the last book. Seriously, you only found out that they were for sure together - and he wasn't dead - on the last page. There was no time to enjoy their relationship, or see them really mesh their lives.
Then this book. It is nearly 13 years later and their lives have fallen apart. Levi left her 5 months ago, and her son chose to join Levi 2 months ago. That's not really a spoiler, you find out in the first couple pages.
We never get a real reason why. The best I can suss out, from what is implied, is that their son's developing gift stressed them out, and they fought over how to handle it, and 5 months ago Levi decided to bail. And then Pete apparently slowly decided he hated his mom, and left to join his dad. And that's not an exaggeration. In this book he has to be cajoled into talking to her. Tells her he hated her. Screams at her not to touch him. And various other things. I get he's a stressed kid who somehow blames his mom for his gift, as if she wanted to have hers. But he's a douche. And Levi is a douche. And they make her feel like an utterly non-essential guest in her family. Throughout the book, they have conversations about important things that we find out about when Levi informs her what they decided. She doesn't get a say. She doesn't even get to be part of the conversation. And this never changes - the end resolution is done that exact same way. They decided what to do, and then informed her. As if she should be grateful that they are condescending to be part of her life at all.
Fuck the both of them. And Levi in particular.
For being Captain Rational, we're never given a rational reason why he left. Why he thought it was okay to be yet another person in Aubrey's life who abandoned her. And then, furthermore, enabled her son to utterly kick her out of his life.
And it doesn't even make sense. As best I can infer, Aubrey and Levi fought over whether Pete's dreams were real - his gift. Levi wanted to logic them away. Aubrey knew they couldn't be handled like that. And you think Captain Logic would understand that she'd have the best insight, here, right? But no. And then in the end, Pete confesses he was afraid they wouldn't believe him. What?? He drove away and spit in the face of the parent who did believe him, abandoning her to live with the parent who didn't, while refusing to speak with or see her. How does any of this make sense?
In the end, I'm just disappointed. Aubrey deserves to have a partner who is actually a partner. This relationship is gross and unhealthy. Her kid, whatever, he is who he is. Some kids are dickheads, fine, whatever. But Levi, though... it's Levi I just can't forgive.
And I can't really forgive Aubrey for just trailing behind him like a kicked dog begging for scraps, hoping he might come back to her, happy to take whatever little bits he'll give her. It's so gross.
September 6, 2017
MY REVIEW OF “FORETOLD” by Laura Spinella
WOW!!! I found that “Foretold” by Laura Spinella had me so captivated that I just couldn’t put this book down. This is the sequel and second book to “Ghost Gifts” by Laura Spinella, which I finished reading yesterday. I feel like a have been on a Laura Spinella marathon, and it has been quite an adventure. The genres of this book are Para-Normal, Mystery and Suspense and Fiction.
KUDOS to Laura Spinella for her spell-binding as well the way she weaves the pieces of her story together.Laura has a gift of telling a tale. The story takes place in several states. The timeline of this story is both in the past and mostly in the present.
The author describes her characters as complex and complicated. Some are quirky, evil and can be described as “out of this world”. The characters are certainly quirky and colorful.
Psychic Aubrey Ellis is involved a new position of helping to locate children through spirits, and her “Ghost Gifts”. Aubrey’s special abilities have an added dimension, one she in not familiar with. This special ability is a familial trait that her deceased father, her grandmother, and possibly her son now possess in different ways. Aubrey and her partner Levi St. John, (an investigative reporter with a live show) have a son Pete. Pete has vivid and frightening dreams. Pete is struggling with his gift, and it causes difficulty in the family.
Somewhat, Zeke Dublin, an old acquaintance and love of Aubrey’s from her childhood, visits. Aubrey grew up with her grandmother in a carnival and Zeke and his sister worked there. Zeke is familiar with Aubrey’s family’s special gifts. Aubrey and Zeke talk about the box that hold many of her father’s “Ghost Gifts’ and predictions.
Levi gets involved with the mystery of a body pulled from the swamp. There are other mysteries of boys disappearing. There is also a major family that is in many legitimate and questionable businesses. How does this tie in? Could Zeke have anything to do with this? Does Aubrey’s abilities have anything to do with this? There are twists and turns, and intense suspense.This novel is certainly thought-provoking! I highly recommend this intriguing, captivating and suspenseful novel for any readers of mystery, suspense, para-normal and fiction. I received an Advanced Reading Copy from the author for my honest review. Happy Reading!!
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WOW!!! I found that “Foretold” by Laura Spinella had me so captivated that I just couldn’t put this book down. This is the sequel and second book to “Ghost Gifts” by Laura Spinella, which I finished reading yesterday. I feel like a have been on a Laura Spinella marathon, and it has been quite an adventure. The genres of this book are Para-Normal, Mystery and Suspense and Fiction.
KUDOS to Laura Spinella for her spell-binding as well the way she weaves the pieces of her story together.Laura has a gift of telling a tale. The story takes place in several states. The timeline of this story is both in the past and mostly in the present.
The author describes her characters as complex and complicated. Some are quirky, evil and can be described as “out of this world”. The characters are certainly quirky and colorful.
Psychic Aubrey Ellis is involved a new position of helping to locate children through spirits, and her “Ghost Gifts”. Aubrey’s special abilities have an added dimension, one she in not familiar with. This special ability is a familial trait that her deceased father, her grandmother, and possibly her son now possess in different ways. Aubrey and her partner Levi St. John, (an investigative reporter with a live show) have a son Pete. Pete has vivid and frightening dreams. Pete is struggling with his gift, and it causes difficulty in the family.
Somewhat, Zeke Dublin, an old acquaintance and love of Aubrey’s from her childhood, visits. Aubrey grew up with her grandmother in a carnival and Zeke and his sister worked there. Zeke is familiar with Aubrey’s family’s special gifts. Aubrey and Zeke talk about the box that hold many of her father’s “Ghost Gifts’ and predictions.
Levi gets involved with the mystery of a body pulled from the swamp. There are other mysteries of boys disappearing. There is also a major family that is in many legitimate and questionable businesses. How does this tie in? Could Zeke have anything to do with this? Does Aubrey’s abilities have anything to do with this? There are twists and turns, and intense suspense.This novel is certainly thought-provoking! I highly recommend this intriguing, captivating and suspenseful novel for any readers of mystery, suspense, para-normal and fiction. I received an Advanced Reading Copy from the author for my honest review. Happy Reading!!
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October 24, 2017
Foretold is a mesmerizing story, written by a masterful storyteller who has woven together family drama and suspense into a twisty-turny story of revenge, murder, old loves, and ghosts! I was on the edge of my seat, compelled to keep turning the pages of this unputdownable; heart-pounding book. The struggles between Aubrey, Levi, and their son, Pete, add a rich, poignant layer to this story that sets it apart. There were moments when I gasped, times that I was holding my breath, and some scenes that brought me to tears. Foretold is the second book in the Ghost Gifts trilogy, and I highly recommend you read that first, so that you can fully appreciate Aubrey's story. And now I must wait patiently for the third book to come out! Bravo, Laura Spinella.
September 4, 2017
Foretold is even better than Ghost Gifts- the first book in Laura Spinella's trilogy. I love the way she combines a ghostly tale with suspense. A unique and well written series. Go ahead and read Ghost Gifts- which is Bk1 while you await Foretold's October debut. I highly recommend both!
October 6, 2017
* I won this book on Netgalley for my honest opinion *
I could not read this book fast enough. It was captivating, intriguing, and mystery filled.
We picked up 12 years later after the first book. That is the only thing I found fascinating...why such a big time jump? I fell in love with Levi in book one and I felt like we needed to search for that Levi this time around.
However, the story line still was a wonderful read. It almost felt like I was reading "This Is Us" with all of the time jumps. The time jumps were easy to follow - so it did not take away from the story. In the end, you realize why she wrote the book the way she did. Let's just say you are going to cry. I did. I fell in love with the friendship that Aubrey and Zeke had. Spinella did a wonderful job in creating that friendship that did not feel forced. As the reader, I could buy that they had known each other for so long.
I'm sad that I have to wait until next year for book three in this series. Spinella has me hooked. Read this book!!!
I could not read this book fast enough. It was captivating, intriguing, and mystery filled.
We picked up 12 years later after the first book. That is the only thing I found fascinating...why such a big time jump? I fell in love with Levi in book one and I felt like we needed to search for that Levi this time around.
However, the story line still was a wonderful read. It almost felt like I was reading "This Is Us" with all of the time jumps. The time jumps were easy to follow - so it did not take away from the story. In the end, you realize why she wrote the book the way she did. Let's just say you are going to cry. I did. I fell in love with the friendship that Aubrey and Zeke had. Spinella did a wonderful job in creating that friendship that did not feel forced. As the reader, I could buy that they had known each other for so long.
I'm sad that I have to wait until next year for book three in this series. Spinella has me hooked. Read this book!!!
September 15, 2017
Aubrey Ellis has unusual psychic talents. She has been helping the FBI with missing children's cases when she is suddenly jolted out of her comfort zone. She sees an event in the future. That has never happened to Aubrey before and she is not sure how to deal with it. Her son has been having nightmares and Aubrey and her partner Alex are afraid he might have inherited her talents. It is a lot for a child to handle.
This was the 2nd book in a series but I didn't feel I missed anything by not reading the first book in the series. This book could fall into the paranormal, mystery and suspense genre. It grabbed my interest from the beginning. There were quite a few twists in the book that came completely out of left field. I would give this book 4 1/2 stars. Thank you to net galley for an advanced readers copy.
This was the 2nd book in a series but I didn't feel I missed anything by not reading the first book in the series. This book could fall into the paranormal, mystery and suspense genre. It grabbed my interest from the beginning. There were quite a few twists in the book that came completely out of left field. I would give this book 4 1/2 stars. Thank you to net galley for an advanced readers copy.
October 3, 2017
One of the best books I've read all year. The pace is breakneck, the characters shine and the plot is brilliant. Spinella has outdone herself with this novel. The only downside is waiting for the third installment. Read it now, thank me later.
October 24, 2017
Foretold, the long awaited sequel to Ghost Gifts, was just excellent. Ghost Gifts was my favorite book of 2016 and this one is, by far, my favorite book of 2017. Filled with gripping emotion, and quite the emotional roller coaster at the very end (all in a good way) I cannot wait to read the third book in this trilogy. I hope we learn more about Pete and his gift, and I can’t get enough of Audrey and Levi.
This book was my favorite do far, from my very favorite author!
This book was my favorite do far, from my very favorite author!
July 10, 2018
A great follow up to Ghost Gifts. This one takes place 12 years after the events of the first one. We get to see a more mature Aubrey and Levi. We catch up with a few characters, meet new ones, and learn more about the Ellis gifts.
June 10, 2018
WOW! That came out of left field! Never saw that coming. Excellent second book in Laura Spinella's Ghost Gifts Trilogy!
June 17, 2022
I almost didn't finish this. Throughout the whole book I disliked Levi and his brat of a son. Only thing that saved it was the ending.
October 26, 2017
Oh wow… this is book two in the Ghost Gifts Series and it is wonderful. I was excited and could not wait to get my hands on Foretold. There is now no doubt that I am a HUGE fan of Laura Spinella and will read everything she writes from here on out.
With Foretold there is multiple storylines. The storyline of Aubrey Ellis and her changing, new gifts is my favorite. The story of her son, Pete, evolving gifts was heart breaking for me as a mother. I was anxious for Aubrey as she tries to find out what her life is going to become. The new gifts are not welcomed and she knows that they are the same gifts that drove her dad crazy. She is working hard to control them and learn how to live with them. Pete’s gift scared me. As a twelve year old boy there is so much he has to learn in the “normal” everyday life then throw in that he has nightmares that are caused by his special gift and my heart broke for him and the world he has to live in. Luckily he has an amazing dad and a wonderful mom who loves him so much and will do everything in their power to help him maneuver and succeed in life.
The story has suspense mixed with the paranormal. Laura Spinella is so talented. She writes a book that has to be read. I picked up my copy and couldn’t put it down. When forced to move on with my life I was thinking about what I was reading, anxious to get back to it.
Thank you Laura Spinella and Montlake for a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
With Foretold there is multiple storylines. The storyline of Aubrey Ellis and her changing, new gifts is my favorite. The story of her son, Pete, evolving gifts was heart breaking for me as a mother. I was anxious for Aubrey as she tries to find out what her life is going to become. The new gifts are not welcomed and she knows that they are the same gifts that drove her dad crazy. She is working hard to control them and learn how to live with them. Pete’s gift scared me. As a twelve year old boy there is so much he has to learn in the “normal” everyday life then throw in that he has nightmares that are caused by his special gift and my heart broke for him and the world he has to live in. Luckily he has an amazing dad and a wonderful mom who loves him so much and will do everything in their power to help him maneuver and succeed in life.
The story has suspense mixed with the paranormal. Laura Spinella is so talented. She writes a book that has to be read. I picked up my copy and couldn’t put it down. When forced to move on with my life I was thinking about what I was reading, anxious to get back to it.
Thank you Laura Spinella and Montlake for a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
December 22, 2017
I absolutely loved the first book in this series, Ghost Gifts, because of Ms. Spinella's ability to seamlessly blend mundane with the extraordinary. Now she is back with the same ease in FORETOLD.
This book is set twelve years from where Ghost Gifts left off when life has gotten complicated for Audrey. Her son Pete is starting to experience some of her gifts which in turn has caused issues between Audrey and her partner Levi. Having her first love, Zeke suddenly show up isn't helping matters either.
I really enjoyed FORETOLD. It was wonderful to be able to see how Audrey has grown and matured. Again there is that seamless blend of the mundane and the paranormal which will even have the reader questioning what is real and what is not. I also enjoyed watching Levi and his reactions to Audrey and Pete's gifts.
FORETOLD will definitely keep the reader on their toes as there are several sudden left turns that come out of nowhere. Even if you think that you know what is going on, think again. This all leads to a satisfying conclusion that will have the reader waiting impatiently for the next book. I think that any of my readers who enjoy the paranormal or mysteries will love this book.
*** I received this book at no charge from NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions expressed within are my own.
This book is set twelve years from where Ghost Gifts left off when life has gotten complicated for Audrey. Her son Pete is starting to experience some of her gifts which in turn has caused issues between Audrey and her partner Levi. Having her first love, Zeke suddenly show up isn't helping matters either.
I really enjoyed FORETOLD. It was wonderful to be able to see how Audrey has grown and matured. Again there is that seamless blend of the mundane and the paranormal which will even have the reader questioning what is real and what is not. I also enjoyed watching Levi and his reactions to Audrey and Pete's gifts.
FORETOLD will definitely keep the reader on their toes as there are several sudden left turns that come out of nowhere. Even if you think that you know what is going on, think again. This all leads to a satisfying conclusion that will have the reader waiting impatiently for the next book. I think that any of my readers who enjoy the paranormal or mysteries will love this book.
*** I received this book at no charge from NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions expressed within are my own.
February 5, 2018
Aubrey is alone, with only her position as psychic consultant to law enforcement to distract her from the fact that her husband Levi has taken their son away in the hope that he can somehow circumvent the inherited psychic ability unfolding in frightening ways in their only child. As Levi reports on a mysterious murder connected to a crime family, Aubrey reconnects with Zeke, her first love, who visits her unexpectedly, and has always understood her psychic power better than anyone, perhaps even her spouse. Levi suspects her friend is involved in the homicide, but Aubrey knows better, as their jobs lead them to the same crime. Spinella keeps the reader guessing about Zeke’s motives and actions. When their son is kidnapped, Levi questions Aubrey about Zeke, but she maintains focus, and they reunite to save him.
The Ghost Gifts series presents ghosts as an actuality, invisible to all but a few. Complex characters play out complicated dynamics with psychic ability at the core of the conflict. Spinella carefully weaves it into the story as one more thing to deal with in the life of Aubrey and her family. She is considered a paranormal romance writer; however, her stories are fantastic mystery thrillers, as well as unique ghost stories.
Laura Spinella gifted me an autographed copy in a giveaway and I love it!
The Ghost Gifts series presents ghosts as an actuality, invisible to all but a few. Complex characters play out complicated dynamics with psychic ability at the core of the conflict. Spinella carefully weaves it into the story as one more thing to deal with in the life of Aubrey and her family. She is considered a paranormal romance writer; however, her stories are fantastic mystery thrillers, as well as unique ghost stories.
Laura Spinella gifted me an autographed copy in a giveaway and I love it!
April 15, 2018
This is book two on a serie and you should really consider starting with book one to fully enjoy that second instament. And then if you loved them you should go for book three because there is sort of a cliffhanger in the end, althought it is not the bad kind which usually make me angry, where the story isn't concluded and you're left without something you rightly deserved. In this case it's more as if when the story ends there is a little hint to the next one, just to keep high the interest of the reader, and it works pretty fine.
The story itself was good, maybe not as engrossing as the first book but still solid and I think it's worth reading the next book which will be out next month.
I like when a book has some paranormal or magic in it but only when the sense of reality is strong enough to support it. In this case it was, the characterization also was good, the endig was enjoyable even if not as dramatic as the one in the first book, so overall a solid four stars.
The story itself was good, maybe not as engrossing as the first book but still solid and I think it's worth reading the next book which will be out next month.
I like when a book has some paranormal or magic in it but only when the sense of reality is strong enough to support it. In this case it was, the characterization also was good, the endig was enjoyable even if not as dramatic as the one in the first book, so overall a solid four stars.
September 12, 2017
If you haven't ever read any of Laura Spinella's books, and love ghostly stories of para normal experience you don't want to miss Foretold!! I absolutely loved her first book Ghost Gifts and this one...is even better than her first. Aubrey Ellis is a psychic and has gifts that help her and Levi St John her partner, solve crimes that lead to the discovery of murder, disappearances of persons past and present, and has unbelievable twists and turns. Aubrey has secrets, and one she doesn't completely share with Levi, is her old boyfriend Zeke, who understands her gifts better than anyone. Aubrey's son Pete has gifts of his own that are unfolding and still not understood even by his mom. This story has it all, depth of characters, excellent pacing and plot development that had me holding my breath with every new clue that threatens to leave you wondering who you can trust. Definitely a page turner, I devoured this book and then there was the last page which had me totally surprised. I can't wait for Laura's next Ghost Gift Book to be written - this series is a fabulous trilogy but can be read as a stand alone as well, but you really will want to read all of them. I am thrilled to have received an ARC of Foretold and highly recommend it!!
November 20, 2017
FORETOLD is Book 2 in the GHOST GIFTS trilogy by Laura Spinella. I really enjoyed GHOST GIFTS #1 so couldn’t wait to read the next book in the series. Laura Spinella is a gifted storyteller and FORETOLD is no exception. In fact, I liked FORETOLD even better than Book 1. In FORETOLD, we pick up the story of Aubrey and Levi and their son, Pete. This part of the story takes place several years after Ghost Gifts and we learn what has happened to this family in the meantime and also their present-day situation. As with GHOST GIFTS, the timeline of this story alternates between the past and present. The present has Aubrey struggling with new aspects of her “gift” and the impact it has on her family. We learn that young Pete has gifts of his own that are not necessarily welcome. We also meet new characters, Zeke and his sister, Nora, friends from Aubrey’s past in the traveling carnival. Laura Spinella has woven a fast-paced, suspenseful ghost tale that had me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end. The characters are complex and the story is extremely well-plotted with many unexpected twists and turns. I loved this spell-binding story and can’t wait for Book 3 to come out in May, 2018.
September 26, 2018
,
This book combined murder, mystery, and the walk through a paranormal existence, connecting the past - present - and future, that few people would be willing to acknowledge or believe in.
The characters and plot were acutely described and completely believable. It is shocking that multiple events around the country were all inter-connected. The profanity factor occurred less often than in the first book, which is a huge plus.
Bouncing back and forth between the past events and present events was sometimes a discombobulating distraction, which I did not enjoy.
This was a darker tale, introducing villains that focus more on greed, shedding less light emphasizing day to day happiness. There are numerous cases of heinous acts in real life, so I prefer to keep it out of my fantasy life as much as possible.
Gratefully, there are people like the H/H that actually spend their lives assisting with the discovery of the truth and the saving of lives. I am profoundly grateful that my life never resembled any of the characters in this tale.
This book concludes with a cliffhanger, which is very disappointing. Reading the introduction to the next book reflects there may be some missing information entirely.
This book combined murder, mystery, and the walk through a paranormal existence, connecting the past - present - and future, that few people would be willing to acknowledge or believe in.
The characters and plot were acutely described and completely believable. It is shocking that multiple events around the country were all inter-connected. The profanity factor occurred less often than in the first book, which is a huge plus.
Bouncing back and forth between the past events and present events was sometimes a discombobulating distraction, which I did not enjoy.
This was a darker tale, introducing villains that focus more on greed, shedding less light emphasizing day to day happiness. There are numerous cases of heinous acts in real life, so I prefer to keep it out of my fantasy life as much as possible.
Gratefully, there are people like the H/H that actually spend their lives assisting with the discovery of the truth and the saving of lives. I am profoundly grateful that my life never resembled any of the characters in this tale.
This book concludes with a cliffhanger, which is very disappointing. Reading the introduction to the next book reflects there may be some missing information entirely.
October 11, 2017
In this thrilling sequel to "Ghost Gifts," quite a few years have passed, with Aubrey and Levi now sharing a son who has inherited the same type of abilities as his mother, which scares Levi half to death. When someone from Aubrey's childhood re-enters her life, Levi feels threatened; when unexplained occurrences take place, Levi investigates, and clues seem to point to Aubrey's first love as the main suspect, despite Aubrey's protests. Is it possible Aubrey doesn't know her friend as well as she thought, or could she be blinded by unresolved feelings?
When most of this storyline was resolved by the 3/4 mark in the book, I was satisfied with everything about the book. Then when a secondary plot popped up, it was like a bonus that allowed the reader to continue interacting with familiar characters for the last quarter of the book. One small spoiler: the book ends on a cliffhanger, so you KNOW you will need to read book #3 to complete the storyline. But since Ghost Gifts and Foretold are each so good, this reader waits on tenterhooks for Laura Spinella's last installment in the series! Well done, Laura!
When most of this storyline was resolved by the 3/4 mark in the book, I was satisfied with everything about the book. Then when a secondary plot popped up, it was like a bonus that allowed the reader to continue interacting with familiar characters for the last quarter of the book. One small spoiler: the book ends on a cliffhanger, so you KNOW you will need to read book #3 to complete the storyline. But since Ghost Gifts and Foretold are each so good, this reader waits on tenterhooks for Laura Spinella's last installment in the series! Well done, Laura!
October 26, 2017
Having read the first book in this series, Ghost Gifts, I was looking forward to reading Foretold. You know how you will fall in love with a book or a movie and then look forward to the sequel, only to be disappointed? I want to state...no disappointment here. Foretold was just as engaging as Ghost Gifts.
I liked getting the opporutunity to pick up the story of Aubrey and Levi, to see where time had taken them. This part of the story takes place several years after Ghost Gifts and we join Aubrey at any unhappy point in her life. And I confess throughout the plot twists, I had my fingers crossed that by the end of the book Aubrey's situation would be happier. And it was...sort of. I won't give a point by point review of what happens. I don't want to spoil enjoyment for other readers. But I will say, I did not see one of the plot twists coming and for someone who reads a lot of mystery/suspense stories, it isn't easy to fool me.
Ms. Spinella has crafted a story filled with characters who become real and a tightly plotted puzzle well worth anyone's reading time. I'm already looking forward to the third book in the series.
I liked getting the opporutunity to pick up the story of Aubrey and Levi, to see where time had taken them. This part of the story takes place several years after Ghost Gifts and we join Aubrey at any unhappy point in her life. And I confess throughout the plot twists, I had my fingers crossed that by the end of the book Aubrey's situation would be happier. And it was...sort of. I won't give a point by point review of what happens. I don't want to spoil enjoyment for other readers. But I will say, I did not see one of the plot twists coming and for someone who reads a lot of mystery/suspense stories, it isn't easy to fool me.
Ms. Spinella has crafted a story filled with characters who become real and a tightly plotted puzzle well worth anyone's reading time. I'm already looking forward to the third book in the series.
November 11, 2017
Completely Captivating!!!
Laura Spinella is a story telling genius! I was so hooked into Foretold! I could NOT put this book down. I was riveted! Laura spins such a clever, fast paced, addicting story that absolutely comes together PERFECTLY! I am still wowed at how she connects all the dots and makes everything come together for a flawless story.
OhEmGee! I want MORE! I am ridiculously attached to these characters. I have so much love for Aubrey and Levi. Aubrey’s life has always been far from normal. She grew up traveling from town to town with the circus her Grandmother owed. And that’s the normal part of her life. Aubrey can talk to ghosts. She can communicate with the dead.
Foretold keeps you on your toes and completely engorssed in Aubrey’s life. THIS IS A MUST READ!!
Foretold is Book 2 in the Ghost Gifts trilogy. You MUST read book 1, Ghost Gifts, because it is SO good!!! I am anxiously awaiting for book 3. I NEED book 3. After reading Ghost Gifts and Foretold, I am one of Laura Spinella’s biggest fans!!!
Laura Spinella is a story telling genius! I was so hooked into Foretold! I could NOT put this book down. I was riveted! Laura spins such a clever, fast paced, addicting story that absolutely comes together PERFECTLY! I am still wowed at how she connects all the dots and makes everything come together for a flawless story.
OhEmGee! I want MORE! I am ridiculously attached to these characters. I have so much love for Aubrey and Levi. Aubrey’s life has always been far from normal. She grew up traveling from town to town with the circus her Grandmother owed. And that’s the normal part of her life. Aubrey can talk to ghosts. She can communicate with the dead.
Foretold keeps you on your toes and completely engorssed in Aubrey’s life. THIS IS A MUST READ!!
Foretold is Book 2 in the Ghost Gifts trilogy. You MUST read book 1, Ghost Gifts, because it is SO good!!! I am anxiously awaiting for book 3. I NEED book 3. After reading Ghost Gifts and Foretold, I am one of Laura Spinella’s biggest fans!!!
November 24, 2017
Couldn't wait to read the latest one following Ghost Gifts.
Aubrey Ellis has the gift to see "dead people" and even communicate with them. This starts out still following up with her and Levi's romance. They now have a son, Pete, and their
is crumbling because of Pete's psychic abilities. Levi and Pete move out leaving Aubrey alone.
Aubrey is still working with the FBI and the latest case links up with a story that Levi is doing and they are thrown back together. Making it hard for them to end their differences, Pete is having horrible nightmares and flashbacks into the past. Then Aubrey's first love, Zeke has returned.
Aubreys grandmother, has let her know about her Dad's future predictions.
Great book and enjoyed reading about this couple again..Hope there will be a third in this series.
Aubrey Ellis has the gift to see "dead people" and even communicate with them. This starts out still following up with her and Levi's romance. They now have a son, Pete, and their
is crumbling because of Pete's psychic abilities. Levi and Pete move out leaving Aubrey alone.
Aubrey is still working with the FBI and the latest case links up with a story that Levi is doing and they are thrown back together. Making it hard for them to end their differences, Pete is having horrible nightmares and flashbacks into the past. Then Aubrey's first love, Zeke has returned.
Aubreys grandmother, has let her know about her Dad's future predictions.
Great book and enjoyed reading about this couple again..Hope there will be a third in this series.
October 5, 2017
I received an advanced copy of this book from the author, and I have to say THANKS! This was an awesome read! I alternated between I can’t stop reading and I didn’t want it to end! This is the second in the Ghost Gifts series. You find Aubrey and Levi living in separate houses, with Pete, their son Living with Levi. You learn more about Aubrey’s abilities and what is going on with Pete’s as well. There are more missing children, unfortunately, which lead Aubrey to Deputy Chief Piper’s office again. Levi and Dan Watney have a Murder as well. There are so many twists and turns in this books that I didn’t want to put it down! I can’t emphasize how much fun this book was and tell you to read this!
November 8, 2018
Unbelievable!!
I had a love/ hate with this second novel in a ghost gifts series. I loved that it told what happens after you get you Prince, but I also hated the main characters splitting up. I also hated what happened to Aubrey's childhood friend. I had a feeling what the endgame was with him but I didn't want to believe it. I enjoyed this second part, but I don't know if I can handle watching the next book. I recommend this book fully and I guess I'll read the next novel. I'll try real hard not to flip it to the end cause I crave to know all the little bits.
I had a love/ hate with this second novel in a ghost gifts series. I loved that it told what happens after you get you Prince, but I also hated the main characters splitting up. I also hated what happened to Aubrey's childhood friend. I had a feeling what the endgame was with him but I didn't want to believe it. I enjoyed this second part, but I don't know if I can handle watching the next book. I recommend this book fully and I guess I'll read the next novel. I'll try real hard not to flip it to the end cause I crave to know all the little bits.
November 30, 2017
While a little slow to start—and frustratingly obtuse at certain points—this second book in the series packed a real punch that I didn’t see coming. Hang on until the last 3/4, when the pacing really picks up.
Overall, I am enjoying this series, and look forward to book 3!
Overall, I am enjoying this series, and look forward to book 3!
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