The Ghost

by J Shaffer

In the deepest parts of her mind Gina knew something big and bad was on its way. And it had her square in its sights.The Skin Art Stories series opens with The Ghost, where readers meets Gina Shields. Gina has always had the same terrible dream when something bad was on the horizon, but it didn’t prepare her for what was to come. After an encounter and fast friendship with an enigmatic vagabond and musician, the kind-hearted tattoo artist finds her world and herself changed in ways she never imagined possible. She’ll have to adapt fast, though, as a serial killer has chosen her city as his new playground, casting doubt on her new friend and drawing the attention of a shadowy government agency tasked with handling matters of a paranormal nature. Curiously, one of the agents sent to deal with the killer knows more about Gina’s past than she does, potentially placing people close to her in danger as it sets her on a new and frightening path.The book also comes with the tale, Dress, a short in the Skin Art Stories setting. In it, Dr. Frances Morgan notices a troubling pattern with the bodies ending up in his morgue; a pattern that may be connected to his past and personal loss. His investigations will uncover far more than he could conceive, and risk sending his livelihood, reputation, and sanity into ruination.

302 pages, Paperback

Published April 10, 2018

Reviews

[Gail Pickard]

When a serial killer comes to a town, Shaffer guides you through a journey of where the present meets past bringing the characters from all different walks of life (and some not so much alive) together. I admire the author’s vivid way of bringing the variety of characters and the streets of a southern city to life throughout the novel as is evident by the mesmerizing book cover! The layers of the story were well developed and the writer has a way to stimulate the reader’s attention--even through difficult images—leaving you with curiosity and a want to continue for what’s coming next. With this fascinating/crime mystery, which incorporates the supernatural, beings that go bump in the night, etc., mixed with dark humor—makes for a great read and an anticipation for an addictive series!

[Yasameen]

Great suspense and twists and turns!

I really enjoyed The Ghost! The characters are complex and fully formed. I enjoyed the suspense throughout the book. I liked that the paranormal elements were integrated into the contemporary setting without overwhelming the story. I can't wait for the other volumes!