Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

The Gateway Trackers #2

Plague of the Shattered

Rate this book
When a spirit Shatters, no one is safe...
Once every five years, the Northern Clans of the Durupinen gather at Fairhaven Hall. There at the ancient castle, surrounded by the very spirits they are bound to protect and serve, the clans settle disputes and shape the laws that govern the Gateways to the spirit world. For the first time, Jess and Hannah Ballard have to represent their clan. It is an awesome responsibility—a great honor… and they are sure it’s going to be the most boring week of their lives.

Oh, how very wrong they are.

For something dangerous is stalking the halls of Fairhaven. It lies in wait, striking down victim after victim, undetectable and inescapable. No one knows what it is, or what it wants, but one thing is clear: no one is safe until it is captured.

As their fellow Durupinen fall victim one by one, it will be up to Jess and Hannah, the newest members of the Trackers, to solve the mystery before the entirety of the castle is possessed.

293 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 25, 2017

1466 people are currently reading
757 people want to read

About the author

E.E. Holmes

33 books1,038 followers
E.E. Holmes grew up near Boston, Massachusetts, where she spent the majority of her childhood reading books. She read them almost constantly, and as a result, perfected the art of walking and reading at the same time, a skill she can still perform to this day with remarkably few instances of falling on her face. She also wrote many books and poems in blank books and on the backs of legal pads her father brought home from the office. They remain some of her finest work.

She soon learned to love literature of the dramatic persuasion, and earned a B.A. in theater from the College of the Holy Cross. After graduation, she set out to prove that her degree was, in fact, not useless, and worked as a principal actor in a summer Shakespeare festival and as a theater teacher, directing over thirty productions and numerous workshops for youth and high school students. She spent several years as the theater director at Wakefield High School where she also taught English literature and public speaking. It was in her classroom that she discovered the horrible truth: a disturbingly large percentage of high school students hate to read. This revelation devastated and bewildered her. She decided she wanted to do something about it, and thus she started work on her first young adult novel, Spirit Legacy: Book 1 of the Gateway Trilogy, which has gone on to win awards from Chanticleer Book Reviews and Media and The Independent Publisher Book Awards. She is also the author of three one act plays, one of which premiered at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

E.E. Holmes lives in central Massachusetts with her husband, two children, and small, but surprisingly loud dog. When not writing, she enjoys watching unhealthy amounts of British television, procrastinating, and rediscovering her favorite books from her childhood all over again with her kids.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
2,289 (65%)
4 stars
980 (27%)
3 stars
222 (6%)
2 stars
14 (<1%)
1 star
4 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
Profile Image for Alison  Banks.
99 reviews1 follower
May 12, 2017
Amazing series

I need more. Its as simple as that. This series has had my emotions all over, its had me on the edge of my seat, its given me more late nights than I can ever remember having.
Following Jess and Hannah through their coming together to complete the gateway, to the council being determined to ostracize them has been a harrowing journey but one I don't want to end. So please, more , more and more of these excellent books
Profile Image for Ashley .
316 reviews20 followers
August 31, 2018
OH MY GOODNESS!
These books just get better and better! I am so obsessed with this series and these characters! I can not stop reading. So, so good!
Profile Image for Cam.
1,217 reviews2 followers
January 30, 2021
The story continues.... this is the 5th book in the series continued on from a trilogy. Jess and Hannah find out why Fairhaven residents are dropping like flies.
Profile Image for Tracy.
55 reviews
May 25, 2017
Loved it

Another great book to accompany a fantastic series, Jess, Hanna, Milo and finn are back at fairhaven facing new and old ghosts trying to piece it all together while fighting against the fear of the clans, mean while jess is fighting her own emotional battle. The big question will Finn stand along side her.
Can't wait to find out.




Profile Image for Tina M.
705 reviews6 followers
July 9, 2021
Another Good Read In The Series

So far I’ve been enjoying the continuation of this series.
Each book has been original in the latest plot development, as well as continuing on with the main characters interactions and future expansions.
The two areas I didn’t care for is too much back history, regurgitating what’s already been clearly laid out in the prior books. The second area of contention was one particular point that was never explained. It didn’t even seem as if it was intended to be a cliffhanger, yet it was questioned by the main character a couple times towards the end of the book.
So far, Holmes has been really good about wrapping up all loose ends. It took me by surprise that this one particular question went unanswered.
Obviously these two issues weren’t enough for me to drop the rating too much, or to not continue on with the next in the series.
Profile Image for Robin.
554 reviews12 followers
July 15, 2021
I love that each book has it's own story while still overlapping details from previous stories. I suppose that's what series do but these do it very well. What a great summer read.
Profile Image for Christine.
156 reviews4 followers
July 11, 2017
Every book in this series, I have said I have loved. I never thought that I would be able to like another book equally...and with each book, I have been proven wrong. I absolutely adored this book. It took me to a place I didn't expect or anticipate. I love how the author remembers little bits that I have forgotten about & weaves them into the story. When Whispers of the Walker came out, I waited. I prefer to have the whole series so I can go from one hook to the other but I couldn't wait this time. So Mrs. Holmes, please get writing to get the next book out to me so I can read it. I am anxiously awaiting it.
Profile Image for Rosemary Dreyer.
1,531 reviews5 followers
April 26, 2017
A quick romp through the known world of Fairhaven and the abused sisters. Like: good world building and continuity between the books; the main characters; and the dangers in which they get mired. Don't like: the juvenile writing; inconsistencies and typos; this ending which felt like "... to be continued."
Profile Image for Amanda.
134 reviews1 follower
March 28, 2022
3.5 / 5 Stars

Well, I'm disappointed that after a fun monster-of-the-week-like start to the new series with the last book, this one immediately reverts back into the style and world of the original trilogy. That being said, it was still a good read and I definitely enjoyed it. It's the shortest of all of the Gateway books to date, and it's a whirlwind.

The characters are quite literally dragged kicking and screaming back into the world of political intrigue and societal superiority that they spent two books disentangling themselves from. I would be insanely frustrated by this (since I was so down for Jess, Hannah, and co. to have more episodic-style adventures based around their new positions as trackers)-- but I've been mollified by (SPOILER) the potential of a political coup led by meek and gentle Hannah, who is the perfect example of that meme "Aren't you tired of being nice? Don't you just wanna go apeshit?" If anyone deserves to metaphorically (maybe literally, please??) pull Fairhaven down around the Council's ears, it's her. I am absolutely here for that, bring it on.

There's not a lot of new content to really comment on in this one-- it's definitely the classic sophomore book that is really only taking already established things from previous installments and developing them into workable storylines for the next one.

~The plot of the shattered spirit was pretty heartbreaking-- Eleanora's fate is just awful, and we don't really see enough of her. However, framing it as a mystery when the audience is getting all of the necessary backstory throughout the book in the form of her diary entries? Not the best way to go about it, I think. Like we, the readers, know who the shattered spirit is within literally 20 pages, but Jess and co. have to go through 200 pages of shenanigans to catch up. I literally wrote Srsly? It took this long? in my notes when Jess finally whispered "This is her."
So yeah, I'm just gonna say it: based off these first two Tracker books, mystery is not in Holmes' wheelhouse, and I hope she veers away from it.
~Now, I'm not British (and neither, from what I gather from her author bio, is Holmes). But I've read enough and watched enough to get the basic feel of their slang.... And some of the stuff in here is just... rough. Savvy cannot go a single sentence without screaming "Wotcher, Jess! I'm a bloomin' Brit, and don' ye forge' i'!" (So it was actually kind of a relief when she got Host-ed and shut up for a while.) But the one that made me literally LOL at the absurdity of it was Finn's "Are you quite alright?" to Jess after a close call. Like, just the "are you alright?" would have sufficed, no matter the colloquialism, and that "quite" makes it ring less sincere and like he was making light of the situation.
Losing that aspect of the conversation was part of why it was so nice in the last book when they put an ocean between them and Fairhaven.
~Lastly, this was something I noticed in Whispers of the Walker, but completely forgot to mention in my review of it: Catriona. Now, this character did not get a lot of screen time in the original trilogy, so I really only remembered her as Lucida's violin-playing sidekick... but the thing is, she didn't strike me as the uppity, snarky, rude, ruthless type that she suddenly showed up as in the Tracker series. It immediately struck me as just her filling the role that Lucida left behind at the end of Ascendancy. It's more and more reading as the Durupinen having exactly two personality types within their society and no in-between. Now... maybe this is being set up now just so it can be smashed in the coming books, but as of this moment... it's kinda frustrating.

So yeah, the quality's kind of dropping a bit, and with so many books in this second series, that worries me. I hope that there's some cohesion and an ultimate story shaping up in here, because I don't know if five more books of this bouncing around is worth it.
But! Not to that point yet, so I'll still be checking out the next installment pretty soon.
Profile Image for Victoria.
475 reviews8 followers
July 23, 2021
I absolutely loved reading Plague of the Shattered. It was an unexpected twist in the series. When I saw the title I could never have imagined the story the pages held and I love that it was completely different from anything I was expecting. But then I shouldn't be surprised this whole series has surprised me at every step and I just fall more and more in love with Jess, Hannah and Milo. Their bond is so unique and beautiful, I am completely in awe of how close they have become and how much they love and protect each other, especially considering how Jess and Milo felt about each other to begin with. And at every hurdle they have each others backs no matter what is thrown at them.

The story itself is so compelling and unexpected that you are just completely taken with it. Trouble seems to follow the Ballard girls and going back to Fairhaven is no exception. It doesn't matter if they are completely innocent and going about their business they seem to end up right smack bang in the middle of all the chaos. And some how no matter how many people they are up against they always seem to figure out what's going on and why and some how fix it. Together they (and Milo of course) can solve anything.
Profile Image for JenBsBooks.
2,632 reviews73 followers
July 29, 2017
I was able to start this book right after finishing up book 1 ... although this set really feels like a continuation of the first trilogy (this could be called book 5 in my opinion). Unfortunately, there are no more books written right now, so I'll have to wait. I do like this writer and this world she's created.

I'd mentioned in my review of "Whispers of the Walker" that I could "see" this going in a direction where the girls, now trackers, took down those abusing the spirit world through pretense. I wondered if continued books would stay on that theme ...

This did not. Here we are back at Fairhaven for a big council meeting, and then there is a new situation to solve ... that of a shattered spirit. As the reader, having peeks at a journal written years ago, we are fairly certain WE know who the shattered spirit is and it was a bit frustrating waiting for the characters in the book to put it together (although I'll admit I hadn't figured it all out).

Anyway ... another solid book in the series.

This was my borrowed book from the Prime Lending Library for July.
41 reviews18 followers
September 9, 2021
I love how the structure of the story has changed, compared to the previous book. That one felt like an action-oriented thriller, and this one feels like a detective mystery with an undercurrent of horror.

The characters are top notch, as usual. Jess, Hannah and Milo feel closer than ever. Hannah's scene with Frankie is, as Jess describes, casually badass. The Jess-Finn scenes, while limited in number, pack so much emotion. Fiona gets a key role, and her new dynamic with Jess - now that they're equals - is great. Finvarra shines in a few short scenes she has.

5/5, and enthusiastically moving on to the next book.
Profile Image for Debyi  Kucera (Book&BuJo).
876 reviews52 followers
June 14, 2023
In Plague of the Shattered, the second book in The Gateway Trackers series by E.E. Holmes, we continue to follow twins Jess & Hannah, Milo, and Finn. They are back in Fairhaven as a favor to their Aunt, having to meet with all of the Northern Clans to vote on a new Council Member. They are prepared to be bored out of their minds, but it looks like they are very, very wrong.

This is a nice sequel to the first novel, picking up a few months later. There is some whininess but it’s not too over the top and the fast-paced sections and action make up for it. A great paranormal mystery with a touch of romance.
Profile Image for Lynne Macdonald.
278 reviews6 followers
January 20, 2019
An interesting tale about how a spirit can be splinter into many pieces and spread out among many people. The goal was to gather up the splinters, make them whole and cross over. It has a sad element as does many of E.E. Holmes books. A tragic circumstance that needs to be fixed. The spirit comes to Jess who used her artistic ability to solve this mystery. She has a great support system who readily comes to her aid. There are subplots that are interesting and vital to the story.
I recommend this book as well as this series.
Profile Image for Denise.
111 reviews
May 11, 2020
I suppose you could read The Gateway Tracker series without reading the Gateway Trilogy first. I wouldn’t be as interested or invested if I hadn’t though. The Trilogy was strong. I like the Tracker series in spite of some other reviews I read beforehand. I think, because I like these characters from the Trilogy and am invested maybe? Regardless, I like these young women! I’m not usually a series reader. The last series I attempted reading was Stephen King’s Dark Tower series. So, it has been awhile since another series has interested me enough to stick with it. I think that says something!
Profile Image for Katia M. Davis.
Author 3 books18 followers
August 12, 2020
Another great page turner of an adventure. Still more of the Gateway universe is revealed and by now I feel like I could have my own chat with the characters if I wanted to. There is action, there are spirits, there is sass and even a bit of humour. Yet there is also pain and anguish. Holmes manages to weave an emotionally balanced book while still being completely engaging. I tend to read these novels through in one or two sittings because I simply do not want to put them down. I look forward to reading more.
Profile Image for Laura Stephen.
95 reviews3 followers
February 11, 2023
Jess and Hannah are called back to Fairhaven to attend the 5 yearly clan meeting when Aunt Karen can't attend, but in true Durupinen style, it doesn't all go to plan once they are there. They come across their nemesis Marion from the first series, which is still as loathsome and vindictive as ever and seems set to ensure the untrustong attitude the clans have towards the twins is bolstered. Add in a shattered spirit and unwanted habitations no one seems to know how to expel, and Jess and Hannah have to unravel the mystery, save their friends, and prove themselves again!
237 reviews1 follower
June 10, 2019
Another marvellous read from E E Holmes!

I cannot put these books down! I will just have to keep reading until I am through and then try to wean myself off of these marvelous paranormal stories. Ee Holmes really understands the spirit world. So much of what she writes has been proven in session after session in my practice.

Just read this book and whether you understand the Paranormal world or not you will enjoy yourself!
16 reviews
August 17, 2020
I love this series. I can't put it down for a minute. I've stayed up all night 🌙 reading 📚 each of these books E.E.Holmes is an excellent writer with a fantastic story telling method. Each book is always different from the others, but also ties everyone in from previous books 📚into the next as if it is one long story or epic. Please if anyone reads this review you've got to read this series from the beginning. You won't be able to put it down. Expect a lot of sleepless nights .
Profile Image for Corey Beth.
353 reviews4 followers
September 29, 2020
Still Loving This Series!

Still loving this series! Every book adds more to the mythology & draws us deeper into this fully realized paranormal world. The characters are well-drawn & grow both individually & as a unit in new & unexpected directions, & there's a great cast of supporting characters that are funny & captivating in their own right. Honestly, I cannot think of anything I DON'T like about these books. Can't wait to see what's next for Jess, Hannah, Milo & Finn!
14 reviews
September 13, 2022
Frightfully Incredible Read

The characters in this book are so believable and endearing. The plot has so many twists and turns that until the last chapter you aren't quite sure who the villain is! Now, it's on to the next book and I'm sure it's going to be just as exciting as the last. E. E. Holmes has quite the gift for storytelling and except for having to use a dictionary here and there is highly recommended as an amazing author.
Profile Image for Ashleigh.
391 reviews5 followers
July 8, 2023
love this series

Great series. Well written with an exciting storyline.
Hannah and Jess return to fairhaiven where all the clans have been summoned. Expecting a boring week of duriphem politics, events are thrown in to chaos when a spirit shatters, the fragments latching on to nearby hosts. Jess may just be the key to discovering the shards identity while Hannah must overcome the prejudices and fear of their fellow duriphem.
Profile Image for Amanda.
43 reviews
June 11, 2025
Fantastic read!

E E Holmes is my favorite author. I count the days till any new books come out. I am reading this series for a second time and it’s just as good as the first time I read it. I find at times I bust out with laughter over the antics of Milo Jess & Hannah. Then at other times you want to cheer them on after the way they are treated. Read these stories you will love them
Profile Image for Tiffany Taylor.
43 reviews2 followers
May 4, 2017
The book was awesome. I loved all the emotional roller coaster it had me on. I also liked the way the author flipped back and forth between past and present telling Eleanora's story. I can't wait for the next book to continue the story. I so hope that Hannah gets elected to the council so Jess, Milo and she can keep things stirred up.
203 reviews3 followers
June 22, 2017
Excellent service

I have just finished this series after borrowing them from my daughter. She highly recommended them and I heartily agree. They are way out of my regular reading genres, but never let that stop you from finding a new author to follow. So glad I took her advice and gave these books my time.
Profile Image for Stephanie  Busch.
27 reviews
January 27, 2020
Another Page Turner

This was an amazing read! The story pulled me in and never let up. Did I get frustrated once again with the way Jess and Hannah we're treated by the council? "Yes" I just hope the author pulls more of the council members over to Jess and Hannah's side as the story continues. I highly recommend reading this series.
Profile Image for Marie Z Johansen.
627 reviews35 followers
May 19, 2020
Engrossing

So...this is the 5th book from this author that I have enjoyed very much. Like some people with potato chips...you simply cannot stop at 1...or ...or more.

What an interesting mind the author has..she should be better known that than she is. Light reading at it’s finest...for me...onto the third book of this series...my 6th in all!
Profile Image for Alexandra Fraser.
41 reviews2 followers
April 14, 2021
The Twin are at Fairhaven still. Jess is having more psychic drawings, continued distrust of the twin's powers by the Durupinen, and add in possession of Durupinen...now you're talking a whole new ballgame of WTF is happening. It is another wild ride of Fairhaven's old ways, prejudices, and finding out more ancient powers coming to the surface.
19 reviews3 followers
April 29, 2021
While I enjoyed the story because it continues with the same characters, I do not enjoy how the author recaps the first three books multiple times throughout each of these subsequent books. It reads, to me, as though she didn't have enough material to write these stories without recapping events from the first three books! Otherwise, I do enjoy the stories. It's another fun read.
Profile Image for Michele Evans.
1,213 reviews9 followers
February 2, 2023
love this series so much !!

The council is once again on the witch-hunt for Hannah and Jess! The sisters help to solve a mystery and even more comes to light about the members of the council! This is one case I wish they could just get rid of all the evil ones who are stuck in their ancient ways! Love Milo and Finn and so many of the other characters!!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.