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Mack's Marvelous Manifestations #2
Mack's Perfectly Ghastly Homecoming
Mack’s over the moon to not only have Brandon but to finally be done with all their training. With the official FBI stamp of approval, they are ready to start ghost busting.
The very last place he wants to be sent to is his hometown of Opelousas, Louisiana, however. But a child is being terrorized, and when he discovers it’s his favorite cousin, all reluctance is forgotten.
His cousin’s ghost problem is not their only case, though. The nearby university also has a malevolent ghost that is seriously escalating. Students are being scratched, pushed down the stairs, and generally terrified. Even with Brandon’s unwavering support, this might be a bit much for just two people to handle. And when the ghost proves it can break all the windows in a three-story building? Mack knows they definitely won’t be able to do it alone.
It’s shaping up to be a perfectly ghastly homecoming.
The very last place he wants to be sent to is his hometown of Opelousas, Louisiana, however. But a child is being terrorized, and when he discovers it’s his favorite cousin, all reluctance is forgotten.
His cousin’s ghost problem is not their only case, though. The nearby university also has a malevolent ghost that is seriously escalating. Students are being scratched, pushed down the stairs, and generally terrified. Even with Brandon’s unwavering support, this might be a bit much for just two people to handle. And when the ghost proves it can break all the windows in a three-story building? Mack knows they definitely won’t be able to do it alone.
It’s shaping up to be a perfectly ghastly homecoming.
226 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 26, 2020
206 people are currently reading
370 people want to read
About the author
A.J. Sherwood
80 books1,988 followersAJ Sherwood believes in happily ever afters, magic, dragons, good men, and dark chocolate. She often dreams at night of delectable men doing sexy things with each other. In between writing multiple books (often at the same time) she pets her cats, plays with her dogs, and attempts insane things like aerial yoga.
She currently resides in Tennessee with aforementioned cats, dogs, and her editor/best friend/sister/partner in crime.
She currently resides in Tennessee with aforementioned cats, dogs, and her editor/best friend/sister/partner in crime.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 198 reviews
December 13, 2021
Book One was really good... But this one is through the roof!
The first book of this series was a novella. It showed potential for greatness... This book fulfilled that greatness. I am just blown away by this book. The world building is wonderfully fleshed out in a complexity that was breathtaking! Love getting to meet more PAD members and can't wait to get started on book three! What a thrill ride the book was!
The first book of this series was a novella. It showed potential for greatness... This book fulfilled that greatness. I am just blown away by this book. The world building is wonderfully fleshed out in a complexity that was breathtaking! Love getting to meet more PAD members and can't wait to get started on book three! What a thrill ride the book was!
March 18, 2020
**4.5 Spooky Stars**
This had everything I wanted for Brandon and Mac. They are so good together. I was kind of bummed and let down with their bonding. It was over before I even realized it happened. Sort of anti-climatic. But this was still good. I'm excited for more of their adventures and building of their relationship.
This had everything I wanted for Brandon and Mac. They are so good together. I was kind of bummed and let down with their bonding. It was over before I even realized it happened. Sort of anti-climatic. But this was still good. I'm excited for more of their adventures and building of their relationship.
September 23, 2021
I wasn't sure what to expect going into this one after reading the first novella of this series. That one felt very much like a Jon's mystery book but with new names and ghosts.
This one however, felt much more fleshed out and Mack and Brandon had characteristics that actually set them apart from Jon and Donovan. So yay. As expected it was hilarious. I laughed out loud while reading about the antics Mack and Brandon got up to. The ghost part was fun and the secondary characters interesting. I really hope we get a third book. I was sold after hints of it taking part in Scotland.
This one however, felt much more fleshed out and Mack and Brandon had characteristics that actually set them apart from Jon and Donovan. So yay. As expected it was hilarious. I laughed out loud while reading about the antics Mack and Brandon got up to. The ghost part was fun and the secondary characters interesting. I really hope we get a third book. I was sold after hints of it taking part in Scotland.
February 9, 2024
added after a re read - man Brandon is just the exact clone of Donovan. I mean, like the exact person.
____________________________________
This was as cute as a bug in a rug.
The follow up to the short intro to this world had us going back to Mack's hometown, where he was treated like crap and never wanted to return. In Louisiana, we meet more mediums and their anchors and even an exorcist who had two anchors/husbands in a lovely poly relationship. Brandon also basically starts renovating Mack's mothers house.
There was also a medium in training who was a complete homophobic arsehole who ran out when it came time to fight the demon, but hopefully he doesn't show up again. That character was a shame cause a goth medium would have been cool.
So Mach and Brandon actually bond together and become official medium/anchor partners and the last bit is a call to go to Scotland. I guess that's where we are going next.
____________________________________
This was as cute as a bug in a rug.
The follow up to the short intro to this world had us going back to Mack's hometown, where he was treated like crap and never wanted to return. In Louisiana, we meet more mediums and their anchors and even an exorcist who had two anchors/husbands in a lovely poly relationship. Brandon also basically starts renovating Mack's mothers house.
There was also a medium in training who was a complete homophobic arsehole who ran out when it came time to fight the demon, but hopefully he doesn't show up again. That character was a shame cause a goth medium would have been cool.
So Mach and Brandon actually bond together and become official medium/anchor partners and the last bit is a call to go to Scotland. I guess that's where we are going next.
February 4, 2022
This just made me so happy. I love seeing Brandon and Mack's relationship developing. Both this and Jon's series always just make me smile and are such a happy read for me. I love the world that's been established here with psychics and ghosts. This story really expanded what we know about Brandon and Mack. They're really starting to get to know each other and not just having a strong connection between them.
I liked seeing how caring Brandon is, in true Havalii fashion. He's learning how to function around Mack's hang ups and in the process giving Mack a safe space to really come into his own. This story also was really fun to see how scary a nasty ghost can be when they're truly gone to the dark side. I loved meeting Eli and her boys and how they meshed with Brandon and Mack. I can totally see these guys all having a wonderful time in the future.
I'm loving this series just as I do Jon and Donovan's. I can't wait to read more.
I liked seeing how caring Brandon is, in true Havalii fashion. He's learning how to function around Mack's hang ups and in the process giving Mack a safe space to really come into his own. This story also was really fun to see how scary a nasty ghost can be when they're truly gone to the dark side. I loved meeting Eli and her boys and how they meshed with Brandon and Mack. I can totally see these guys all having a wonderful time in the future.
I'm loving this series just as I do Jon and Donovan's. I can't wait to read more.
January 22, 2022
2.5 stars
March 7, 2020
I just LOVE this whole 'verse that AJ has created with Jon and Donovan's series and now Mack and Brandon. It's just witty, fresh, has great representation, strong men who are as far away from toxic masculinity as one can possibly be, and all the feels.
I definitely recommend starting with Jon's mystery series first, and then go into this one, which is a spin-off. Mack and Brandon are just so great in this - gotta love those Havili brothers and all their protective instincts, and this whole series is just a delight. I cannot wait for more!
I definitely recommend starting with Jon's mystery series first, and then go into this one, which is a spin-off. Mack and Brandon are just so great in this - gotta love those Havili brothers and all their protective instincts, and this whole series is just a delight. I cannot wait for more!
July 8, 2023
I love this spin off to Jon and Donovan’s stories. There’s an edge of intensity during the paranormal battle that balanced the humour perfectly. I loved getting to know where Mack came from and the introduction to new friends. I hope there’s more to come.
October 7, 2020
3.5 Stars. I didn't love this one as much as I did the first one or Jon's books but I did still enjoy it and would definitely read more about this couple. I liked that we learned a lot more about Mack's background and got to meet his family. The paranormal aspects were done well and I enjoyed those a lot.
March 1, 2020
Another great book by AJ Sherwood. I will never grow tired of this book universe and it's diverse, fantastic characters.
December 9, 2021
I really enjoy some AJ Sherwood books, but I just can't get into the Jon's Mysterious series or these spin-offs. My issues with this book (and the previous novella) are this: the events and emotions are perfunctory.
perfunctory, adjective
performed merely as a routine duty; hasty and superficial:
lacking interest, care, or enthusiasm; indifferent or apathetic:
The events are so matter of fact that nothing is exciting or dramatic. The relationship between Mack and Brandon is immediately lovey dovey and their development is infantesimal. Most of the novel is people booking hotel rooms and having conversations on the phone. Everything is practical to a fault - there is no chance for miscommunication, misunderstandings, or even a private thought or feeling because every emotion and passing thought is spelled out to both the readers and the characters. Yes, there is such a thing as characters being too transparent and understanding with each other - that point is when it robs the book of any interest.
Every time you think the plot might be ramping up to create some actual tension, Mack or Brandon calls their boss, they pull back from the ghost, book another hotel, and wait for more backup. I've had more titillating reading experiences with a grocery list. For a novel that purports itself as a tale about ghost hunting, the ghosts played second fiddle the MCs extreme understanding of each other and the author's unbearable smugness about how perfect her characters are and how great they are together.
From here on out, I'm only reading AJ Sherwood when she has a co-author.
perfunctory, adjective
performed merely as a routine duty; hasty and superficial:
lacking interest, care, or enthusiasm; indifferent or apathetic:
The events are so matter of fact that nothing is exciting or dramatic. The relationship between Mack and Brandon is immediately lovey dovey and their development is infantesimal. Most of the novel is people booking hotel rooms and having conversations on the phone. Everything is practical to a fault - there is no chance for miscommunication, misunderstandings, or even a private thought or feeling because every emotion and passing thought is spelled out to both the readers and the characters. Yes, there is such a thing as characters being too transparent and understanding with each other - that point is when it robs the book of any interest.
Every time you think the plot might be ramping up to create some actual tension, Mack or Brandon calls their boss, they pull back from the ghost, book another hotel, and wait for more backup. I've had more titillating reading experiences with a grocery list. For a novel that purports itself as a tale about ghost hunting, the ghosts played second fiddle the MCs extreme understanding of each other and the author's unbearable smugness about how perfect her characters are and how great they are together.
From here on out, I'm only reading AJ Sherwood when she has a co-author.
March 18, 2020
First I have to say I adore Jon and Don and I also loved the first book in this series ... which only had the problem that it was not long enough
So I was really looking forward to this book ... and was really disappointed because it just was not the quality I expected.
It was not the characters ... these are great.
But the story line was just not very interesting. ... it seemed forced
Hope the next book is better
So I was really looking forward to this book ... and was really disappointed because it just was not the quality I expected.
It was not the characters ... these are great.
But the story line was just not very interesting. ... it seemed forced
Hope the next book is better
July 9, 2021
This one was fun to read. Things are going good with Mack and Brandon and they get called out to work a couple cases, the first one dealing with Mack's family. I liked learning more about Mack's family, the ones that were good were so much fun and welcoming, the others...well, let's just say that it's good that Brandon has the muscles he has. Overall the trip home was a good one, Mack was finally able to get his mother to see things on his side and not have the guilt trip any longer.
The second case the two of them worked on was a bit crazy! The best thing about it was it brought them in contact with 2 other teams, which was a good thing. Both Mack and Brandon could pick their brains about the job they had and learn some tips and tricks. I really like how they bonded with the one team and look forward to reading about more adventures with them.
On a personal note, so much changed for Mack and Brandon in this one, all good things. I especially think Brandon seeing Mack at home was a good thing, it allowed him to understand some things he had observed about Mack much better.
The second case the two of them worked on was a bit crazy! The best thing about it was it brought them in contact with 2 other teams, which was a good thing. Both Mack and Brandon could pick their brains about the job they had and learn some tips and tricks. I really like how they bonded with the one team and look forward to reading about more adventures with them.
On a personal note, so much changed for Mack and Brandon in this one, all good things. I especially think Brandon seeing Mack at home was a good thing, it allowed him to understand some things he had observed about Mack much better.
April 20, 2025
Le sigh. Why you gotta be wonky with them there details?😩
Also, why do I feel like it’s becoming a weird mix of outdated stereotypes and shit nobody says under the age of 75? I mean, no one is going around telling folx they’re fucking “touched” anymore. We don’t send our kids with ADHD to asylums to be chained to radiators in this century.
We send them to public schools to learn how to function in prison like good little government chattel—the adults, that is. The adults are the government chattel.
Play up the southern aspect another way? Maybe? Not even one “bless your heart”… smdh. Slackin’.
3.5/5. Messy but good, even though I still like Jon and Donovan better. Tbh, I’d believe this setting more if Mack was from like Marksville or Cottonport or even someplace like Krotz Springs or Natchiotches. And you totally left out the Pentecostals from the whole thing like they don’t outnumber the Catholics now… When they stop watching tv long enough to remember they’re not supposed to and pick up a book, they’re gonna be so pissy.
Also, why do I feel like it’s becoming a weird mix of outdated stereotypes and shit nobody says under the age of 75? I mean, no one is going around telling folx they’re fucking “touched” anymore. We don’t send our kids with ADHD to asylums to be chained to radiators in this century.
We send them to public schools to learn how to function in prison like good little government chattel—the adults, that is. The adults are the government chattel.
Play up the southern aspect another way? Maybe? Not even one “bless your heart”… smdh. Slackin’.
3.5/5. Messy but good, even though I still like Jon and Donovan better. Tbh, I’d believe this setting more if Mack was from like Marksville or Cottonport or even someplace like Krotz Springs or Natchiotches. And you totally left out the Pentecostals from the whole thing like they don’t outnumber the Catholics now… When they stop watching tv long enough to remember they’re not supposed to and pick up a book, they’re gonna be so pissy.
September 9, 2025
Once again, I love how the author writes the characters! They're all just fun and witty. All their interactions sound natural in both the way they use slang and how they bicker/joke around with each other. I will admit though, all the "bad guys" in both Jon Mysteries and Mack's Marvelous are a little exaggerated; like they're just overly dickish just for the sake of it. Other than that though, the story itself was an interesting read that involves two ghost cases and introduces new characters, along with the concept of exorcists. I also think the author did a good job of making Brandon and Mack similar enough to Don and Jon that you don't need much time to love their characters, yet also unique enough that they don't feel like the same exact people. Not to mention, all the struggles they go through as a new couple and dealing with Mack's family trauma was well handled. Plus, I love how, since Brandon is new to the paranormal side of things, readers get to learn about the world as he learns.
*Note: there is a tiny typo in one of the chapters (pg 98) where they say "why they hell" instead of "why the hell"
*Note: there is a tiny typo in one of the chapters (pg 98) where they say "why they hell" instead of "why the hell"
December 12, 2021
Another amazing book
I do love this author’s books and characters!! I especially love the family of Jon, Don, Mack, and Brandon. These guys are all absolutely amazing and the Havilis are just men that are too good to be true! Mack and Brandon have their first two cases and they just happen to be down in Louisiana in Mack’s hometown. It doesn’t make for a refreshing trip down memory lane. But these two even manage to make some good friends during the experience. Loved it and can’t wait to read more!
I do love this author’s books and characters!! I especially love the family of Jon, Don, Mack, and Brandon. These guys are all absolutely amazing and the Havilis are just men that are too good to be true! Mack and Brandon have their first two cases and they just happen to be down in Louisiana in Mack’s hometown. It doesn’t make for a refreshing trip down memory lane. But these two even manage to make some good friends during the experience. Loved it and can’t wait to read more!
October 7, 2020
Great story
I am really enjoying this series so far. It is very interesting and different.
I really loved all the new characters in this book and can't wait to see more of them in future books.
Mack and Brandon's story deepens in such a sweet and loving way. Some fun and hot shenanigans thrown in the mix too.
Can't wait for the next book in the series
I am really enjoying this series so far. It is very interesting and different.
I really loved all the new characters in this book and can't wait to see more of them in future books.
Mack and Brandon's story deepens in such a sweet and loving way. Some fun and hot shenanigans thrown in the mix too.
Can't wait for the next book in the series
July 23, 2021
This I liked a lot better than I thought I would. It was nice to see Mack and Brandon grow as a couple and Mack dealing with his past. Would have liked to see more medium action or action in general, but it also felt like this story is the set-up for more, especially with that ending.
I enjoy the author's no-nonsense, witty style of writing.
I enjoy the author's no-nonsense, witty style of writing.
September 28, 2020
I like that there's less Jon and Don in play here. It gives more focus on the main character than the first book. Mack and Brandon are amazing and fun characters. I like how we get to see Mack's family comes into play here as the cases they were working on occurred in his hometown.
July 4, 2020
Mack’s book
I’m so glad I gave these books a chance even though it’s not my normal type of story. I went into them for the mystery and they were worth it!
I’m so glad I gave these books a chance even though it’s not my normal type of story. I went into them for the mystery and they were worth it!
November 11, 2020
4 stars
Very much enjoying this series and universe. I am bummed I am all caught up in that world, but now on to her other work!
Very much enjoying this series and universe. I am bummed I am all caught up in that world, but now on to her other work!
dnf
December 24, 2022DNF: 24%
November 16, 2022
Going back home where there are mostly bad memories is not really what Mack wants to do but will for his favorite cousin and her daughter but having Brandon along for the visit home made things easier. In this story we get to know more about Mack’s powers and abilities – which are amazing. We also learn about Mack’s past and what he had to deal with growing up. Seeing Mack’s home helps Brandon to understand a bit more about what makes Mack tick. I enjoyed this book and the watching the team tackle some seriously bad ghosts! The new team introduced was interesting and fun to get to know.
October 17, 2020
I love this series RTC
December 12, 2022
Mack and Brandon's first real case takes Mack back to his hometown. He was pretty miserable growing up there and does not think it will be much better now. During the course of the visit we meet Mack's mom, one brother and a cousin. His mom and cousin are great but the brother is awful. Seeing this helps Brandon understand why Mack is so reluctant to rely on others. Luckily the tension of the family drama and the difficult case they are working gives Mack and Brandon clarity about both their personal and professional relationship. Several other FBI teams are introduced in the book and it looks like one of them will be in future stories. I really enjoy this series and can't wait to read about more of Mack and Brandon's adventures.
April 13, 2020
Very much enjoyed this, and learned quite a few things as well!
I love the Havili family and very much liked the progression of Mack and Brandon's relationship!
The introduction of Eli, Quinn, and Booker was welcome...so with that epilogue, I am hoping for a third book? :)
I love the Havili family and very much liked the progression of Mack and Brandon's relationship!
The introduction of Eli, Quinn, and Booker was welcome...so with that epilogue, I am hoping for a third book? :)
May 8, 2021
Mack’s Perfectly Ghastly Homecoming is the second book in the Mack’s Marvelous Manifestations series. Although this book could be read as a standalone I highly suggest against it. My recommended reading order would be to read the first three Jon’s Mysteries books then Brandon’s Very Merry Haunted Christmas before starting this book. After this book I suggest reading book four in the Jon’s Mysteries books.
Mack and Brandon are just perfect for each other, but Mack’s insecurities are still an obstacle both men have to navigate and work on. I like how A.J. Sherwood did not magically “fix” insecurities but showed how the couple worked on it and the understanding and communication that’s necessary for a healthy relationship. The plot was full of action and exciting paranormal activity that added some interesting worldbuilding elements. I loved getting to know Mack’s family and learning more about where he comes from and what he’s been through. Also, the sex scenes were steamy and delicious and the relationship between Mack and Brandon is so beautiful and tender. This was a great read.
Mack and Brandon are just perfect for each other, but Mack’s insecurities are still an obstacle both men have to navigate and work on. I like how A.J. Sherwood did not magically “fix” insecurities but showed how the couple worked on it and the understanding and communication that’s necessary for a healthy relationship. The plot was full of action and exciting paranormal activity that added some interesting worldbuilding elements. I loved getting to know Mack’s family and learning more about where he comes from and what he’s been through. Also, the sex scenes were steamy and delicious and the relationship between Mack and Brandon is so beautiful and tender. This was a great read.
February 6, 2022
Rating: 2.5
This books gets some passes because A.) I was desperate for more in the Jon's Mysteries universe and B.) I adore the amount of diversity we get in that series and this one.
That said, I did have some issues with it, primarily because of pacing issues.
Basically, reading this book left me hanging - left me really frustrated that we didn't get more action.
Now if you'll excuse me I'm gonna go read another one. Because... there's just so much damn POTENTIAL for awesome shit, I keep hoping it'll pay off eventually. And also because I just can't let go of Jon's Mysteries I'm obsessed with that series and I miss it.
This books gets some passes because A.) I was desperate for more in the Jon's Mysteries universe and B.) I adore the amount of diversity we get in that series and this one.
That said, I did have some issues with it, primarily because of pacing issues.
Basically, reading this book left me hanging - left me really frustrated that we didn't get more action.
Now if you'll excuse me I'm gonna go read another one. Because... there's just so much damn POTENTIAL for awesome shit, I keep hoping it'll pay off eventually. And also because I just can't let go of Jon's Mysteries I'm obsessed with that series and I miss it.
January 20, 2024
The first book in this spin-off series was nice, but without conflict and ending rather aprubtly. This instalment was more rounded, with two interesting cases and interesting side-characters. I really enjoyed it very much.
My advice is to read both instalments together as one book!
My advice is to read both instalments together as one book!
January 10, 2023
Funny and action packed
Mack and Brandon are just so fantastic together, and they are so funny as well as incredibly loving. I can't wait until we get more of these guys.
Mack and Brandon are just so fantastic together, and they are so funny as well as incredibly loving. I can't wait until we get more of these guys.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 198 reviews