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The Haunting of Rachel Harroway #1
The Haunting of Rachel Harroway, Book 1
The discovery of a serial killer’s burial ground rocks the peaceful town of Highlands, North Carolina. Rachel Harroway, a tragic detective with the ability to see the dead, and her brilliant atheistic partner, Jenson Peak, are put on the case. Only through the use of their unique talents can the orphaned dead find rest and the reinvigorated killer be brought to justice.
132 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 19, 2017
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464 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews
January 29, 2018
I am a big fan of ghost stories.....the spookier the better! The Rachel Harroway series is a nice mix of murder mystery, suspense and supernatural. I'm really enjoying this series!
Rachel Harroway lives in Highlands, NC. Before her divorce, she and her husband bought a fixer-upper old house. While renovating, she discovered she had a strange ability....she can see the dead. Her husband couldn't deal with her "talent'' and they divorced. She doesn't just see dead people...more specifically, she sees the spirits of murder victims...victims who want her to help them. As a detective, she uses her ability to solve murder cases. It's a bit difficult at times because nobody else can see the visions, and she doesn't want to appear crazy. And, often she sees too many of the dead, "Orphans'' as she calls them, and has a hard time concentrating cases she is trying to solve. With the help of an herbal concoction that makes the spirits and their cries for help disappear, giving her peace for a few hours. This time, the skeletal remains of 7 teenage girls are found. They disappeared 40 years before. Their spirits want their murderer to be caught. Rachel is on the case!
This series is well-written and suspenseful. A bit more editing would be helpful though. There are quite a few grammar and spelling errors (Example: the use of the word principle in place of principal) that really should have been caught and corrected before publication. But -- that's a minor issue. The story is a good one, and this was a very enjoyable book!
There is a prequel story and two books in this series so far and I'm hoping there will be more! :) I like the characters, and Rachel's gift is a really cool addition to a detective story!
Rachel Harroway lives in Highlands, NC. Before her divorce, she and her husband bought a fixer-upper old house. While renovating, she discovered she had a strange ability....she can see the dead. Her husband couldn't deal with her "talent'' and they divorced. She doesn't just see dead people...more specifically, she sees the spirits of murder victims...victims who want her to help them. As a detective, she uses her ability to solve murder cases. It's a bit difficult at times because nobody else can see the visions, and she doesn't want to appear crazy. And, often she sees too many of the dead, "Orphans'' as she calls them, and has a hard time concentrating cases she is trying to solve. With the help of an herbal concoction that makes the spirits and their cries for help disappear, giving her peace for a few hours. This time, the skeletal remains of 7 teenage girls are found. They disappeared 40 years before. Their spirits want their murderer to be caught. Rachel is on the case!
This series is well-written and suspenseful. A bit more editing would be helpful though. There are quite a few grammar and spelling errors (Example: the use of the word principle in place of principal) that really should have been caught and corrected before publication. But -- that's a minor issue. The story is a good one, and this was a very enjoyable book!
There is a prequel story and two books in this series so far and I'm hoping there will be more! :) I like the characters, and Rachel's gift is a really cool addition to a detective story!
October 8, 2017
3.5 Stars!
It was jarring going from the novella where she is married and not a detective yet to this where it starts off with her divorced and a detective, that took a bit getting use to and I don't think I loved that fact starting off (about the divorce) but I got use to it. I do love her partner though in all his unbelief sometime. How he can be both supportive and not, is a bit of a mystery though.
I wish I could say I loved this but I'm just not quite there yet with this series. I did however enjoy it. It wasn't particularly scary ( the scariest part was at the very end, which was also a cliffhanger) which was a bit disappointing and could still use a really good editor but all in all it wasn't a bad read. I can see the books getting better and the series more enjoyable as it goes.
It was jarring going from the novella where she is married and not a detective yet to this where it starts off with her divorced and a detective, that took a bit getting use to and I don't think I loved that fact starting off (about the divorce) but I got use to it. I do love her partner though in all his unbelief sometime. How he can be both supportive and not, is a bit of a mystery though.
I wish I could say I loved this but I'm just not quite there yet with this series. I did however enjoy it. It wasn't particularly scary ( the scariest part was at the very end, which was also a cliffhanger) which was a bit disappointing and could still use a really good editor but all in all it wasn't a bad read. I can see the books getting better and the series more enjoyable as it goes.
October 6, 2017
In book one of THE HAUNTING OF RACHEL HARROWAY, Rachel has embraced her gift and now works for the local police department as a detective. Together with Jenson Peak, her partner they have a proven track record for solving cases. All thanks in part to Rachel’s gift. Jenson is an atheist but has learned to trust Rachel and her insight. Donovan’s world building, particularly about Rachel’s gift was well developed and hooked me. Rachel experiences different levels of her gift from being marked to suffering the victim’s final moments. It was chilling and felt surreal.
We have a forty-year-old case involving multiple teenage girls who went missing and are discovered by a hiker. I found myself completely caught up from the “orphans” to the suspects. The pacing increased as we moved to a suspenseful climax. But, things aren’t completely resolved and Donovan leaves us in such a way, that’ll you will want to dive into book two. Available on KU, eBook, and Audio. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
We have a forty-year-old case involving multiple teenage girls who went missing and are discovered by a hiker. I found myself completely caught up from the “orphans” to the suspects. The pacing increased as we moved to a suspenseful climax. But, things aren’t completely resolved and Donovan leaves us in such a way, that’ll you will want to dive into book two. Available on KU, eBook, and Audio. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
September 7, 2017
Quite enjoyable.
After reading the first in this series, I had a better idea of what was happening, but I didn't expect this story to be anything like what it turned out to be. It was a surprise and a pleasant one. Don't want to say anything that would give it away.
Just read the book, and you'll see. I do recommend it.
After reading the first in this series, I had a better idea of what was happening, but I didn't expect this story to be anything like what it turned out to be. It was a surprise and a pleasant one. Don't want to say anything that would give it away.
Just read the book, and you'll see. I do recommend it.
September 22, 2020
A fast paced thriller laced with paranormal activity
Rachel has made major life changes since discovering her gift of clair-everything: clairvoyance, Clair audience, and clairsentience. Her world, in fact, has changed irrevocably. She is embracing her gifts and intends to assist the restless souls who haven't been able to move on as well as serve her community in law enforcement. Juggling both worlds proves to be a challenge she may not be adequately prepared to face, but she doesn't let that stop her from trying. There is never a dull moment in this world of experiencing beyond the tangible 3D existence where most of us dwell. I recommend this to readers who are open to alternative ways of perceiving reality in their mysteries.
Rachel has made major life changes since discovering her gift of clair-everything: clairvoyance, Clair audience, and clairsentience. Her world, in fact, has changed irrevocably. She is embracing her gifts and intends to assist the restless souls who haven't been able to move on as well as serve her community in law enforcement. Juggling both worlds proves to be a challenge she may not be adequately prepared to face, but she doesn't let that stop her from trying. There is never a dull moment in this world of experiencing beyond the tangible 3D existence where most of us dwell. I recommend this to readers who are open to alternative ways of perceiving reality in their mysteries.
August 10, 2017
I Really enjoyed this book. It has a story line that is very different from other books in this genre. My only real issues are 1) All three books in the series have the same name and you actually have to open them to see if you are on the correct book. 2) The author seems overly fond of the phrase "1892 Queen Ann Manse" it got a little annoying and I couldn't help but think the author views us as simpletons that can't remember what type of house it is. But overall I Really enjoyed it and plan to read the last in the series tonight.
October 26, 2025
Excellent paranormal thrill ride!
When Rachel's gift surfaced it changed her entire world. Now newly divorced she finds herself a detective on the police force. Only her partner knows that she has a gift. They work on solving murders of a serial killer in their small town. The ghosts she sees and tries to help are only known about by her partner. What he doesn't know is the orphans or ghosts she sees will try to kill them both!
When Rachel's gift surfaced it changed her entire world. Now newly divorced she finds herself a detective on the police force. Only her partner knows that she has a gift. They work on solving murders of a serial killer in their small town. The ghosts she sees and tries to help are only known about by her partner. What he doesn't know is the orphans or ghosts she sees will try to kill them both!
July 4, 2017
Edge of your seat read!!!
This author grabs you by the collar and doesn't let go until you read the last word. His world is real enough to taste the fear in your own mouth. Characters are fleshed out and completely believable. Thank you Mr JS Donovan for the thrill ride up and down the mountain.
This author grabs you by the collar and doesn't let go until you read the last word. His world is real enough to taste the fear in your own mouth. Characters are fleshed out and completely believable. Thank you Mr JS Donovan for the thrill ride up and down the mountain.
July 5, 2017
Great follow up to the first book!
As I said in my previous review of the first book, This author, J.S. Donovan is going to keep getting better and better. This continues with Rachel's life having some major changes from who she was in the first book. But I love her character and can't wait to see what else is going to happen to her and the Orphans!
As I said in my previous review of the first book, This author, J.S. Donovan is going to keep getting better and better. This continues with Rachel's life having some major changes from who she was in the first book. But I love her character and can't wait to see what else is going to happen to her and the Orphans!
July 21, 2017
This book was good but lacked meat. It's a short book. I really liked the idea of it but it could have been a whole lot more. It reads like a short story, with very little back story to explain the main character. I will try book two and hope for more. It's not a bad book at all just left me feeling like there could have been more.
December 8, 2017
Very good read
I really liked this book! I couldn't sleep and started reading this book. I could not put it down, i finished it .. i liked that i could not guess the killer.. which is unusual..for most books i know before the 2nd chapter in most books. What i didnt like is that it ended!
I really liked this book! I couldn't sleep and started reading this book. I could not put it down, i finished it .. i liked that i could not guess the killer.. which is unusual..for most books i know before the 2nd chapter in most books. What i didnt like is that it ended!
October 10, 2019
The Haunting of Rachel Harroway by J.S Donovan is an awesome story to read. This is book number one in this awesome series that I have loved reading very much. I highly recommend this story to everyone who loves reading about mysteries and thrillers.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 8, 2020
Enjoyed it
I really enjoyed reading 60% of this novel. At times I felt like I was in the novel experiencing everything but after a while lost some interest because it felt like the author was dragging on the story. However, I wanted to finish the book. I did find the ending to be suspenseful. I am going to read the next book because I want to know if Rachel finds happiness.
I really enjoyed reading 60% of this novel. At times I felt like I was in the novel experiencing everything but after a while lost some interest because it felt like the author was dragging on the story. However, I wanted to finish the book. I did find the ending to be suspenseful. I am going to read the next book because I want to know if Rachel finds happiness.
September 14, 2020
Ghosts around us
This book was thoroughly entertaining. It kept me interested from the start. I kept trying to guess ahead. I kept thinking that I could work out who the killer was. If you like to read about ghosts and detectives then this is the one to read. By the way, it is a three in one.
This book was thoroughly entertaining. It kept me interested from the start. I kept trying to guess ahead. I kept thinking that I could work out who the killer was. If you like to read about ghosts and detectives then this is the one to read. By the way, it is a three in one.
November 18, 2020
After reading this book by J.S. Donavan, you can bet I will be reading more. I couldn't put this book down. The writer puts you right there and it's like watching a movie unfold while you read. Rachel went through so much to get to where she's at . An ex-husband and father who both thinks she's crazy and tried to convince her that she was too. It's called a GIFT. Moving on to book #2.
October 17, 2022
Good story
This book was interesting and entertaining if u enjoy detective using ghosts to help solve the story. I usually like these types of books this one seem to ramble a bit and prolly could have been a little better without all the word filler paragraghs in which u can tell where writer got a little stumped or figure out how the story was gonna play out.
This book was interesting and entertaining if u enjoy detective using ghosts to help solve the story. I usually like these types of books this one seem to ramble a bit and prolly could have been a little better without all the word filler paragraghs in which u can tell where writer got a little stumped or figure out how the story was gonna play out.
July 1, 2017
A great read!
Using her gift, Rachel, a detective, works with her partner to solve a forty year old crime and the return of the killer. Great blend of police work, suspense, and paranormal. I'm going to be watching for more.
Using her gift, Rachel, a detective, works with her partner to solve a forty year old crime and the return of the killer. Great blend of police work, suspense, and paranormal. I'm going to be watching for more.
July 1, 2017
WOW!
This did not disappoint! Fast paced, twists and turns, everything you want in a mystery with a few ghost thrown in for good measure! Spooky in all the right places! Love this series! I can't wait to see what happens next time!
This did not disappoint! Fast paced, twists and turns, everything you want in a mystery with a few ghost thrown in for good measure! Spooky in all the right places! Love this series! I can't wait to see what happens next time!
July 3, 2017
Excellent!!
Can't wait to read the next Rachel Harroway story! Well written and told in a way that you can imagine the story like a movie on your head. Brilliant writing and brilliant story. Please hurry with book 2!
Can't wait to read the next Rachel Harroway story! Well written and told in a way that you can imagine the story like a movie on your head. Brilliant writing and brilliant story. Please hurry with book 2!
July 9, 2017
Another home run !
Really enjoyed readiang this story. It follows the first book well explaining some changes that have taken place. Rachel gets more than she bargined for. Highly advise readers who like a great mystery to get this book. You won't be disappointed.
Really enjoyed readiang this story. It follows the first book well explaining some changes that have taken place. Rachel gets more than she bargined for. Highly advise readers who like a great mystery to get this book. You won't be disappointed.
July 17, 2017
The Haunting of Rachel Harroway Book1 by J.S.Donavan
A col mystery with a tilt, she can see the dead. Rachel is bold and capable nothing stops her from finding out the truth of evil. An unusual read but worth it. Enjoy!
A col mystery with a tilt, she can see the dead. Rachel is bold and capable nothing stops her from finding out the truth of evil. An unusual read but worth it. Enjoy!
August 23, 2017
Haunting of Rachel Halloway
Murder, ghosts, a 40 year old unsolved series of crimes all come together to tell a frightening story about the dark side of an evil person. The characters are believable and the action moves quickly. A good "who dunnit "
Murder, ghosts, a 40 year old unsolved series of crimes all come together to tell a frightening story about the dark side of an evil person. The characters are believable and the action moves quickly. A good "who dunnit "
October 13, 2017
The Haunting of Rachel Harroway
Combine a serial killer cold case with new murders, add in some ghosts and two determined detectives, and you have a story sure to keep the reader turning pages until the last one.
Combine a serial killer cold case with new murders, add in some ghosts and two determined detectives, and you have a story sure to keep the reader turning pages until the last one.
March 13, 2020
A Highlands visit
Selected because of the setting and then found the story beyond weird for my personal so taste. None the less I became engrossed and captivated. Recommend for a fun and distracting read.
Selected because of the setting and then found the story beyond weird for my personal so taste. None the less I became engrossed and captivated. Recommend for a fun and distracting read.
April 24, 2020
Another installment about Rachel Harroway. This novel takes place two years after the ending of the prequel (Book 0). Rachel is now a more independent woman, but she still struggles with her Gift.
This time, she finds herself in danger and begins to take more chances to protect those around her. Again, the unexpected events made this supernatural story come to life.
On to Book 2!
This time, she finds herself in danger and begins to take more chances to protect those around her. Again, the unexpected events made this supernatural story come to life.
On to Book 2!
July 13, 2020
Exciting
Wow, I was so surprised by the first two books of Rachel Harroway. I could not but it down. With every page there was a new twist. The description of the Appalachia’s was so precise, I could picture the town of Highlands and the beauty of the area.
Wow, I was so surprised by the first two books of Rachel Harroway. I could not but it down. With every page there was a new twist. The description of the Appalachia’s was so precise, I could picture the town of Highlands and the beauty of the area.
September 14, 2020
Enjoyed reading this book
Yes I would recommend this book to anyone.i enjoy reading this mystery, thriller, ghostly that keep me wanting to keep reading, the stories. A great page turner.
Yes I would recommend this book to anyone.i enjoy reading this mystery, thriller, ghostly that keep me wanting to keep reading, the stories. A great page turner.
November 27, 2020
Really needs a good editor to fix all of the grammatical errors, the repeated wordings, and the clumsy syntax. The first portion of the book (part 0.5) was cliched, and the transition between that section and the next was jarring.
I did find the mystery in the second section intriguing, and that is what led me to finish the book. However, the actual resolution felt less than believable.
I did find the mystery in the second section intriguing, and that is what led me to finish the book. However, the actual resolution felt less than believable.
November 29, 2021
Recommended
I really liked this story. Rachel is a very relatable and down to Earth. Her Gift is both unique and terrifying. There are some grammatical issues but if you can get past those, the suspense, terror and excitement will keep you engaged.
I really liked this story. Rachel is a very relatable and down to Earth. Her Gift is both unique and terrifying. There are some grammatical issues but if you can get past those, the suspense, terror and excitement will keep you engaged.
December 15, 2021
A Great Read
I quite enjoyed how the stories unfolded! It's interesting how Rachel learns to develop her gift, and how the dead can interact with her. I find myself wanting to read even more of this writers work. Highly recommend!
I quite enjoyed how the stories unfolded! It's interesting how Rachel learns to develop her gift, and how the dead can interact with her. I find myself wanting to read even more of this writers work. Highly recommend!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews