What do you think?
Rate this book
Two Worlds: Beginning #3
Ghost: A Murder Mystery
Lana Morris has always dreamed of becoming a guardian. With her investigative eye and ability to read minds, she's perfectly suited for stopping crime. But in a world ruled by men, she is forced to find another usage for her mind reading Gift. But when her close friend, Rebecca, dies under suspicious circumstances, everything changes.
Three years after this tragedy, Lana returns to her hometown to find out the truth. Her father is a Guardian Chief now, and Lana becomes his secretary to gain access to Rebecca's case file. However, when Lana starts her own secret investigation, a new murder happens, and this time, the victim is a local schoolgirl. Lana sees parallels between this death and Rebecca's, both girls being of the same age and having destructive Gifts. Lana soon discovers a man known only as Ghost has been murdering teenage girls.
Meanwhile, in light of the new murder, the Guardians become more involved-namely, Lieutenant Richard Laine, a man with a deep personal connection to the case. Lana and Richard immediately despise one another; Richard doesn't think women should be involved in detective work, and Lana no longer believes in the Guardian House's capacity for justice. But as Ghost closes in, the investigation becomes more and more dangerous. If Richard and Lana can't move past their differences, Ghost will claim even more victims-and Lana may be his next target....
Three years after this tragedy, Lana returns to her hometown to find out the truth. Her father is a Guardian Chief now, and Lana becomes his secretary to gain access to Rebecca's case file. However, when Lana starts her own secret investigation, a new murder happens, and this time, the victim is a local schoolgirl. Lana sees parallels between this death and Rebecca's, both girls being of the same age and having destructive Gifts. Lana soon discovers a man known only as Ghost has been murdering teenage girls.
Meanwhile, in light of the new murder, the Guardians become more involved-namely, Lieutenant Richard Laine, a man with a deep personal connection to the case. Lana and Richard immediately despise one another; Richard doesn't think women should be involved in detective work, and Lana no longer believes in the Guardian House's capacity for justice. But as Ghost closes in, the investigation becomes more and more dangerous. If Richard and Lana can't move past their differences, Ghost will claim even more victims-and Lana may be his next target....
318 pages, Paperback
Published February 16, 2021
About the author
Lubov Leonova
6 books143 followersI’m in love with reading. I guess all the books I've ever read impacted me in a great way – they let me expand my worldview and inspired me to pursue my dreams despite the obstacles.
Born in Russia, I immigrated to Canada in 2014, where I faced multiple challenges, including building my own life from scratch and figuring out what career path would let me use my full potential.
My searches led me to feminist studies in college and volunteering in female support groups. My experience slowly took shape as ideas for my fantasy series Two Worlds, in which women shape the sphere of justice with their natural talents.
Born in Russia, I immigrated to Canada in 2014, where I faced multiple challenges, including building my own life from scratch and figuring out what career path would let me use my full potential.
My searches led me to feminist studies in college and volunteering in female support groups. My experience slowly took shape as ideas for my fantasy series Two Worlds, in which women shape the sphere of justice with their natural talents.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
March 20, 2021
The protagonist of the story Lana Morris has an ambition of becoming a guardian. She is blessed with an extraordinary ability of reading minds. The story takes a turn when her bestfriend Rebecca dies.
Lubov in this book has very beautifully presented how Lana returns to her hometown to find the truth . This book is a mix of mystery and crime novel. It is an absolute page turner and fast paced. The parallel the Lana creates is absolutely fun to read .
I really loved the cover of the book and it gave me Harry Potter vibes . I totally recommend this book guys !! ❤️
Lubov in this book has very beautifully presented how Lana returns to her hometown to find the truth . This book is a mix of mystery and crime novel. It is an absolute page turner and fast paced. The parallel the Lana creates is absolutely fun to read .
I really loved the cover of the book and it gave me Harry Potter vibes . I totally recommend this book guys !! ❤️
April 30, 2021
My thanks to Booktasters for a review copy of this one.
Ghost is a murder mystery set in a fantasy world. In this world, all children manifest magical gifts (like the ability to produce fire, to read minds, or more rarely, to turn time or heal others) around the age of fifteen. The gifts can be used on everyone except those they love.
Men (in a reflection of our world) can of course do certain tasks including become Guardians who protect cities from crime, which are closed to women, including our main character Lana. Lana is in her twenties and wanted to be a detective but is now serving as a secretary to the Guardians, the chief in her town (Triville) being her father. In the past, Lana was posted to Mercy House, an institution where girls (only girls) with destructive gifts were sent for these destructive strains to be removed. But in her time there Lana found that this is not the case and these women were actually deprived of all their magic, leaving them as incapables. She helps her friend Rebecca escape this facility promising to meet her back home but before she reaches, Becky is murdered. And Lana has never been able to find out why or by whom.
Meanwhile in the present day, a school girl, Bella, running into the forest after being bullied by her fellow students is murdered. Soon another murder follows. This is suspected to be the work of a serial killer they call the Ghost. Lana is keen to investigate but must tread carefully. An errant guardian from another town, Richard Laine comes into town to investigate the matter as well, since he has been on the trail of the Ghost for long, and solving the case will also help reduce the punishment he has to face for his own indiscretions.
Alongside, the other teens who were teasing Bella are going through their own web of complicated relationships. And they too want to unveil the secrecy surrounding Mercy House, the girls who have been murdered and the guardian who is rumoured to hunt out girls with destructive gifts. They carry out their parallel investigations.
There are also some threads of romance in the story with Lana’s past with the handsome but ambitious guardian Charles, and also the stories of the teens among them, Julia and Elisa and Kyle, brother of Becky.
This was a fun plot combining fantasy and a murder mystery, both of which I enjoy, particularly the latter. I liked that this one had more than one mystery thread as far as the murders were concerned and there are plenty of twists and secrets as well. I didn’t guess until pretty much the reveal, one part of the answer while the other I didn’t see coming. The other plot threads with the issues surrounding Mercy House (not as such a mystery since we know from the start what goes on there) which were also interesting and one wants to know how the matter is resolved.
Lana is a likeable protagonist, determined to solve the mystery at hand and helping girls escape Mercy House for which she can even bend the rules but in matters of the heart, she isn’t above making mistakes. Richard Laine is a flawed character too but when it comes to solving the mystery he is as determined as Lana. The teens we meet are more difficult to classify—one can understand some of their actions in view of the complicated relationships they share and also their determination to escape if need be, Mercy House but the initial bullying scene doesn’t fit in with the shape their characters take later and felt as though it doesn’t fit in even though it has a role in the plot.
While this is a fun enough story, I felt the writing and the dialogue could have been strengthened, which would have made it a far better read.
Still it was a nice read. Oh and yes, it also has some illustrations which I always enjoy.
Ghost is a murder mystery set in a fantasy world. In this world, all children manifest magical gifts (like the ability to produce fire, to read minds, or more rarely, to turn time or heal others) around the age of fifteen. The gifts can be used on everyone except those they love.
Men (in a reflection of our world) can of course do certain tasks including become Guardians who protect cities from crime, which are closed to women, including our main character Lana. Lana is in her twenties and wanted to be a detective but is now serving as a secretary to the Guardians, the chief in her town (Triville) being her father. In the past, Lana was posted to Mercy House, an institution where girls (only girls) with destructive gifts were sent for these destructive strains to be removed. But in her time there Lana found that this is not the case and these women were actually deprived of all their magic, leaving them as incapables. She helps her friend Rebecca escape this facility promising to meet her back home but before she reaches, Becky is murdered. And Lana has never been able to find out why or by whom.
Meanwhile in the present day, a school girl, Bella, running into the forest after being bullied by her fellow students is murdered. Soon another murder follows. This is suspected to be the work of a serial killer they call the Ghost. Lana is keen to investigate but must tread carefully. An errant guardian from another town, Richard Laine comes into town to investigate the matter as well, since he has been on the trail of the Ghost for long, and solving the case will also help reduce the punishment he has to face for his own indiscretions.
Alongside, the other teens who were teasing Bella are going through their own web of complicated relationships. And they too want to unveil the secrecy surrounding Mercy House, the girls who have been murdered and the guardian who is rumoured to hunt out girls with destructive gifts. They carry out their parallel investigations.
There are also some threads of romance in the story with Lana’s past with the handsome but ambitious guardian Charles, and also the stories of the teens among them, Julia and Elisa and Kyle, brother of Becky.
This was a fun plot combining fantasy and a murder mystery, both of which I enjoy, particularly the latter. I liked that this one had more than one mystery thread as far as the murders were concerned and there are plenty of twists and secrets as well. I didn’t guess until pretty much the reveal, one part of the answer while the other I didn’t see coming. The other plot threads with the issues surrounding Mercy House (not as such a mystery since we know from the start what goes on there) which were also interesting and one wants to know how the matter is resolved.
Lana is a likeable protagonist, determined to solve the mystery at hand and helping girls escape Mercy House for which she can even bend the rules but in matters of the heart, she isn’t above making mistakes. Richard Laine is a flawed character too but when it comes to solving the mystery he is as determined as Lana. The teens we meet are more difficult to classify—one can understand some of their actions in view of the complicated relationships they share and also their determination to escape if need be, Mercy House but the initial bullying scene doesn’t fit in with the shape their characters take later and felt as though it doesn’t fit in even though it has a role in the plot.
While this is a fun enough story, I felt the writing and the dialogue could have been strengthened, which would have made it a far better read.
Still it was a nice read. Oh and yes, it also has some illustrations which I always enjoy.
April 18, 2025
Insightful and Inspirational
After finishing this story, I found myself thinking about it for several days. Deeply thought-provoking, the entire series made me question not only the ongoing issues faced by modern women in losing their rights but also my role in making a difference. If you are interested in learning more about feminism or are looking for a thoughtful gift for a young woman, I highly recommend picking up this series!
After finishing this story, I found myself thinking about it for several days. Deeply thought-provoking, the entire series made me question not only the ongoing issues faced by modern women in losing their rights but also my role in making a difference. If you are interested in learning more about feminism or are looking for a thoughtful gift for a young woman, I highly recommend picking up this series!
September 24, 2024
Ghost by Lubov Leonova is a murder mystery set in a fantasy world. A young woman Lana Morris is investigating the disappearance and subsequent murder of a young girl and the circumstances are eerily similar to the murder of her dear friend three years ago.
Then it turns out there have been more murders and a serial killer is at large. Lana is ambitious but her ambitions are thwarted by her gender. Can she ever achieve the potential she is capable of? She is has the prowess, the skill and the courage to be a Guardian (on of the elite in the society responsible for ensuring law and order is followed) but she works as a secretary. Despite everything Lana never gives up and takes it upon herself to protect these defenseless girls.
The plot has it all romance, redemption, mystery and magic.
But this is what appealed to me the most about this book ~ it draws parallels with our world today where increasingly powerful men are trying to destroy and limit vulnerable women. The girls in this book have destructive gifts so their magic is taken away and they are rendered incapable. There is no thought given to the fact that they could be taught to control their gifts.
Isn't this similar to a society where there is talk about women being persecuted for wanting to have control over their own bodies and their own lives? A world where women could become property of the state.
Lubov writes fantasy, she writes murder but she also writes the truth ~ women are in danger and it's time that they fight back like our protagonist Lana and other young girls in the book do.
Then it turns out there have been more murders and a serial killer is at large. Lana is ambitious but her ambitions are thwarted by her gender. Can she ever achieve the potential she is capable of? She is has the prowess, the skill and the courage to be a Guardian (on of the elite in the society responsible for ensuring law and order is followed) but she works as a secretary. Despite everything Lana never gives up and takes it upon herself to protect these defenseless girls.
The plot has it all romance, redemption, mystery and magic.
But this is what appealed to me the most about this book ~ it draws parallels with our world today where increasingly powerful men are trying to destroy and limit vulnerable women. The girls in this book have destructive gifts so their magic is taken away and they are rendered incapable. There is no thought given to the fact that they could be taught to control their gifts.
Isn't this similar to a society where there is talk about women being persecuted for wanting to have control over their own bodies and their own lives? A world where women could become property of the state.
Lubov writes fantasy, she writes murder but she also writes the truth ~ women are in danger and it's time that they fight back like our protagonist Lana and other young girls in the book do.
June 7, 2021
Imagine the world where magic is an integral part of life, natural as the air we breathe, sometimes a blessing, but sometimes a sinister touch to the endless flow of opportunities. If you like the picture your mind has drawn for you, you’ll love “Ghost: A Murder Mystery” by Lubov Leonova.
The book will take you on a magical journey, during which you’ll get to know people with different Gifts – Gift of invisibility, time Gift, healing Gift and many others – as well as dangers that those gifs may have for others. And as life usually goes, there are those, who aren’t blessed – or should we call it cursed – with a gift. How does the world, where magic is the highest value, treat those people, who don’t have it?
“Ghost: A Murder Mystery” is a delicious blend of fantasy, young adult coming-of-age story, and a real crime investigation story. Each character in the book is with their own story. The world building is enchanting, and the words transport the reader into the world the author has created.
I’d say that this story deserves a sequel – or even several – so we can learn more about the characters, who have managed to change their lives and themselves. And I personally would love to read more about those little dragons – won’t tell you more :)
The book will take you on a magical journey, during which you’ll get to know people with different Gifts – Gift of invisibility, time Gift, healing Gift and many others – as well as dangers that those gifs may have for others. And as life usually goes, there are those, who aren’t blessed – or should we call it cursed – with a gift. How does the world, where magic is the highest value, treat those people, who don’t have it?
“Ghost: A Murder Mystery” is a delicious blend of fantasy, young adult coming-of-age story, and a real crime investigation story. Each character in the book is with their own story. The world building is enchanting, and the words transport the reader into the world the author has created.
I’d say that this story deserves a sequel – or even several – so we can learn more about the characters, who have managed to change their lives and themselves. And I personally would love to read more about those little dragons – won’t tell you more :)
May 20, 2021
I really loved this story. There wasn’t a moment where I wasn’t pulled in. There were twists and turns throughout that constantly kept me on my toes. As I was reading through, I was guessing and suspecting. Sometimes I was sad or happy. At one point, I was honestly on the edge of my seat, wanting the information to come quicker because I just had to know.
Writing is very smooth and easy to read, very polished. It couldn’t have been better. The genre is brilliant, and it works very well. This world is truly unique, and it’s so exciting!
Each character has a different voice, and I could easily picture each one in my mind. Also, I love the illustrations throughout the book. They’re not too much to take away the general picture the reader has in their head. But just enough to allow us to connect visually with the characters and places.
I couldn't recommend this fantastic book enough!
Writing is very smooth and easy to read, very polished. It couldn’t have been better. The genre is brilliant, and it works very well. This world is truly unique, and it’s so exciting!
Each character has a different voice, and I could easily picture each one in my mind. Also, I love the illustrations throughout the book. They’re not too much to take away the general picture the reader has in their head. But just enough to allow us to connect visually with the characters and places.
I couldn't recommend this fantastic book enough!
June 1, 2021
An important note: even though the author and I have the same surname, we aren't related :)
I enjoyed the book, thought I think it's more suitable for teenagers and young adults. The story is relatively simple but engaging. I found it well-paced and enjoyed how the author set each scene - many of them were visually striking and there were a lot of times when I felt as if I were there. The world-building was interesting, and the magic system, even though it wasn't very complex, was quite curious. I didn't always understand the characters, and some of their actions seemed out of place. I enjoy complex characters, but in this case I felt that some things should either have been explored deeper or not present at all.
All in all, it was an easy and pleasant read despite the fact that it involved murder and a few darker themes.
You might enjoy the book if you are into YA fantasy, murder mysteries and magic.
I enjoyed the book, thought I think it's more suitable for teenagers and young adults. The story is relatively simple but engaging. I found it well-paced and enjoyed how the author set each scene - many of them were visually striking and there were a lot of times when I felt as if I were there. The world-building was interesting, and the magic system, even though it wasn't very complex, was quite curious. I didn't always understand the characters, and some of their actions seemed out of place. I enjoy complex characters, but in this case I felt that some things should either have been explored deeper or not present at all.
All in all, it was an easy and pleasant read despite the fact that it involved murder and a few darker themes.
You might enjoy the book if you are into YA fantasy, murder mysteries and magic.
October 17, 2022
What could be more enticing than a mystery called Ghost? I started this book with enthusiasm and was not disappointed. This is a fun blend of genres, part fantasy, a bit of romance, and a compelling mystery! The story takes place in a fantasy world in which everyone has magic powers and is given a special gift that manifests around the age of 15. Unfortunately, it is a patriarchal society in which women who have gifts deemed dangerous are sent away to have not just their special gift, but all magical ability stripped from them. Law is enforced by a male police force called Guardians, but a serial killer is at large who has evaded the Guardians...could it be that the killer is a Guardian? The MC, Lana, is the daughter of the chief Guardian in her town. A central theme of this story is flawed individuals who may or may not overcome terrible conduct in their past to become good people. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and recommend it to any fans of fantasy, magic, or mystery!
March 24, 2025
An inspirational read for modern women
I started reading this book after ‘The Academy’ (the 2nd book in series), and I discovered that every book is a unique, completed story that can be read in any order.
‘Ghost’ shows an interesting fantasy world with whimsical nature and colorful magic. Here, most people have their unique power that reveals in adolescence. I enjoyed a great world-building as well as realistic characters.
This World, however, has very strict laws and it portrays society where women are not allowed to have a destructive power. It creates the conflict that leads to different social problems. Ghost shows a social inequality between genders, creating multiple parallels with the first feminist movement.
I found this story very inspirational, and I really recommend this beautiful series for young women who are interested in feministic studies.
I started reading this book after ‘The Academy’ (the 2nd book in series), and I discovered that every book is a unique, completed story that can be read in any order.
‘Ghost’ shows an interesting fantasy world with whimsical nature and colorful magic. Here, most people have their unique power that reveals in adolescence. I enjoyed a great world-building as well as realistic characters.
This World, however, has very strict laws and it portrays society where women are not allowed to have a destructive power. It creates the conflict that leads to different social problems. Ghost shows a social inequality between genders, creating multiple parallels with the first feminist movement.
I found this story very inspirational, and I really recommend this beautiful series for young women who are interested in feministic studies.
June 4, 2021
I really enjoyed reading this book. An easy and interesting read, just what I needed to get my mind off things. Likable characters, interesting plot twists. But most of all I liked the world the author built - their magic is beautiful and I loved the idea of having unique gifts that manifest when they’re in their teens. Would love to read more stories based in that world.
February 9, 2022
LOVE this book! I'm so busy with life and have zero time to read but I can't put it down. Even if I can only get 10 mins of reading in I'm all over it! Such a unique read!!! I'm recommending it to everyone I know. Very well written!
May 23, 2025
A Mystery I Loved
This story is better to read as a part of a series, but I think it is also enjoyable as a stand-alone read. I loved the new cast of characters presented in the book, especially Elisa – this girl was only mentioned briefly in book 1 of the series, and now she is 15 years old with her own story to tell.
As for Lana, I truly enjoyed watching her change and grow. She is still impatient and a bit sloppy, however, she does her best to be wise and reasonable. I particularly loved her blossoming relationship with Richard, a detective who came to the town to investigate the murder case. Firstly, their interaction was bumpy, which was fun to watch. I really loved the way they united to fight the injustice together, and the way it unfolded left me absolutely satisfied.
This story is an enjoyable mystery set in a fantasy realm. I personally loved the romance and magic. I think this story has the best ending the reader could wish!
This story is better to read as a part of a series, but I think it is also enjoyable as a stand-alone read. I loved the new cast of characters presented in the book, especially Elisa – this girl was only mentioned briefly in book 1 of the series, and now she is 15 years old with her own story to tell.
As for Lana, I truly enjoyed watching her change and grow. She is still impatient and a bit sloppy, however, she does her best to be wise and reasonable. I particularly loved her blossoming relationship with Richard, a detective who came to the town to investigate the murder case. Firstly, their interaction was bumpy, which was fun to watch. I really loved the way they united to fight the injustice together, and the way it unfolded left me absolutely satisfied.
This story is an enjoyable mystery set in a fantasy realm. I personally loved the romance and magic. I think this story has the best ending the reader could wish!
October 4, 2021
I never really liked fantasy books but this one was so interesting. It has a lot of twists that kept me guessing. I love all the characters and the love story. I have to say that now, I will be looking for more of her books. I was kind of sad that it ended💞 #goodreads giveawaywinner
March 4, 2021
I loved every second of this book. 50 chapters make this an easy, fun read. Love the illustrations bringing this book further to Life. Will be reading more by this fantastic author ☺️
May 7, 2021
I really enjoyed reading this! It is an intriguing, interesting, and beautiful story that I definitely recommend.
January 2, 2024
I really enjoyed this series. easy to read and the characters are very well done.
April 27, 2021
Thank you to the author for sending me a copy to review!
I love a good paranormal read. I am usually drawn right in and need to know all the ins and outs of who is what. This book is no different.
It started a little slow for me and I found myself getting lost in the back and forth but after around 20% it started picking up. Lana is a very interesting main character and takes it upon herself (like many MC in mysteries even though they are told not to) to solve the murders of several girls in her town.
Lana and the females of her town are Gifted. The men are Guardians. Lana wants to be a guardian. The romance is spicy and fun on the hunt for a killer. Where mostly the book would be YA, it definitely has some steamier YA moments.
The book is fast paced and fun. I always enjoy a good mystery. There are twists and turns and characters that end up being not who you thought. Lana and Richard are fun and keep you wanting more. I would love more in depth for the world and how their magic came to be. I love those sort of details when it comes to magical worlds and keeps you feeling like you are in this world and could have a Gift as well.
Overall I really enjoyed the book. It might take a little to get into but sticking through it is worth it. If you enjoy a good mystery with magic and romance, you will enjoy this one!
I love a good paranormal read. I am usually drawn right in and need to know all the ins and outs of who is what. This book is no different.
It started a little slow for me and I found myself getting lost in the back and forth but after around 20% it started picking up. Lana is a very interesting main character and takes it upon herself (like many MC in mysteries even though they are told not to) to solve the murders of several girls in her town.
Lana and the females of her town are Gifted. The men are Guardians. Lana wants to be a guardian. The romance is spicy and fun on the hunt for a killer. Where mostly the book would be YA, it definitely has some steamier YA moments.
The book is fast paced and fun. I always enjoy a good mystery. There are twists and turns and characters that end up being not who you thought. Lana and Richard are fun and keep you wanting more. I would love more in depth for the world and how their magic came to be. I love those sort of details when it comes to magical worlds and keeps you feeling like you are in this world and could have a Gift as well.
Overall I really enjoyed the book. It might take a little to get into but sticking through it is worth it. If you enjoy a good mystery with magic and romance, you will enjoy this one!
April 21, 2021
Fantasy, crime-mystery and lil bit romance.
This book have 2 main genre I love and of course I super excited when I first read this.
When I first read the blurb, I believe the main character is Lana but when I read this, there are other people that also become main character in this story. In every chapter we can read from different perspective people and not only Lana, so we can see full story from other people too. Making the story with minim plot hole. A bit unfortunate that the book didn't give us information clearly who perspective we read right now, but it's not a big problem for me at all but maybe can be better if we know first about it.
From the plot, I like it with face paced story. From start to end of story has a neat sequence and is not confusing to read. I like the idea of Gift and also with destructive Gift. But for crime-mystery, I think it somewhat lacking in the investigation section. Make the mystery feel a little less and I can not enjoy the investigation part. And I really like Lana personality here, she is brave and smart. I enjoy following her perspective in this story.
Lastly, I like the story and even tough I think the feel of magic and crime-mystery somewhat lacking but for the whole story is very interesting to follow.
For review in Indonesian can visit: https://www.tikbookholic.com/2021/04/...
This book have 2 main genre I love and of course I super excited when I first read this.
When I first read the blurb, I believe the main character is Lana but when I read this, there are other people that also become main character in this story. In every chapter we can read from different perspective people and not only Lana, so we can see full story from other people too. Making the story with minim plot hole. A bit unfortunate that the book didn't give us information clearly who perspective we read right now, but it's not a big problem for me at all but maybe can be better if we know first about it.
From the plot, I like it with face paced story. From start to end of story has a neat sequence and is not confusing to read. I like the idea of Gift and also with destructive Gift. But for crime-mystery, I think it somewhat lacking in the investigation section. Make the mystery feel a little less and I can not enjoy the investigation part. And I really like Lana personality here, she is brave and smart. I enjoy following her perspective in this story.
Lastly, I like the story and even tough I think the feel of magic and crime-mystery somewhat lacking but for the whole story is very interesting to follow.
For review in Indonesian can visit: https://www.tikbookholic.com/2021/04/...
May 20, 2021
My first fiction book in a long time. While reading the first chapter, I could hear my fantasy neurons slowly and heavily moving through the brain. On the second chapter, I knew it was a good switch. I was hooked. Ghost is a story about a girl named Lana, skilled and passionate about becoming a guardian, the position traditionally taken only by men. Motivated by her desire to solve the mystery of her friend’s dramatic death, Lana goes far and beyond. Her journey is empowering and inspiring. And of course, there's drama, love, friendship and adventure. Rating it with five stars. I love discovering newly published authors like Lubov Leonova and can't wait to read her future creations.
April 24, 2021
Hello my fellow book lovers! This is my first ever book review here.
{Note: Before I proceed with review, I would like to disclose that I was given this book in exchange for honest review}
First, the title and description. The author gives nothing away. It’s a fantasy novel with a touch of mystery, romance and mayhem.
Plot:
Lana Morris, a hardworking and ambitious woman from Triville, seeking to become a guardian goes to save her friend Rebecca from a huge problem that threatens entire town. A problem she identifies only during the rescue. Though she succeeds in rescuing her friend, Rebecca never shows up for a scheduled meet with Lana. Only later Lana gets to know that Rebecca died.
3 years later, one person goes missing and that soon ends up as a murder mystery.
Meanwhile, Richard Laine, a guardian from Santos gets dismissed from his position owing to his own mistake. His only way of redemption? Solve the murder case in Triville and get his punishment reduced. A case related to the one he’s been handling over the years. A secret that he has been hiding.
Why did Rebecca die? Is this missing person case turned murder mystery related to Rebecca’s death? Will Lana and Richard be able to solve this before time runs out?
Review:
The Good:
The prologue reminded me a little of The Golden Compass (movie). But little into the book, I could see the author’s creativity.
The book delves into the world of magic where individuals are blessed with Gifts. Each with a different Gift. But how the Gifts are viewed and the individuals are treated differed depending upon ~spoiler~ gender.
Apart from Lana Morris and Richard Laine, we get to see many characters. Some I developed dislike for quickly and never changed. Some characters I disliked at first, but later understood them. The author gave scope of redemption for two other key characters – which I was happy about. There weren’t too many characters, so we can keep up with them easily.
The romance angle is beautiful and passionate. It is not forcibly inserted. It feels so natural.
The villain catches us off guard. The author balanced it beautifully. I felt hatred and wanted to kill them. So, I can tell author managed to keep my attention hooked.
What could’ve been better:
Though it was nice to have a fast-paced story, the author didn’t reveal much about how individuals received their Gifts. She talks about a certain age where it manifests, how they manifest is just touched upon. All of the characters use spells, but they’re not worded as in Harry Potter. There are illustrations here and there, but personally I would’ve loved a map. A map which shows the towns, forests, living domains etc. So that one can picturize it.
Summary:
Overall, I enjoyed the book really well. I gave a gap of two weeks and read again. It felt as refreshing as the first time. There’s scope for a series. The author hinted at sequel towards the end. I wish she creates a prequel too – to understand the magical world.
Do I recommend? Definitely!
{Note: Before I proceed with review, I would like to disclose that I was given this book in exchange for honest review}
First, the title and description. The author gives nothing away. It’s a fantasy novel with a touch of mystery, romance and mayhem.
Plot:
Lana Morris, a hardworking and ambitious woman from Triville, seeking to become a guardian goes to save her friend Rebecca from a huge problem that threatens entire town. A problem she identifies only during the rescue. Though she succeeds in rescuing her friend, Rebecca never shows up for a scheduled meet with Lana. Only later Lana gets to know that Rebecca died.
3 years later, one person goes missing and that soon ends up as a murder mystery.
Meanwhile, Richard Laine, a guardian from Santos gets dismissed from his position owing to his own mistake. His only way of redemption? Solve the murder case in Triville and get his punishment reduced. A case related to the one he’s been handling over the years. A secret that he has been hiding.
Why did Rebecca die? Is this missing person case turned murder mystery related to Rebecca’s death? Will Lana and Richard be able to solve this before time runs out?
Review:
The Good:
The prologue reminded me a little of The Golden Compass (movie). But little into the book, I could see the author’s creativity.
The book delves into the world of magic where individuals are blessed with Gifts. Each with a different Gift. But how the Gifts are viewed and the individuals are treated differed depending upon ~spoiler~ gender.
Apart from Lana Morris and Richard Laine, we get to see many characters. Some I developed dislike for quickly and never changed. Some characters I disliked at first, but later understood them. The author gave scope of redemption for two other key characters – which I was happy about. There weren’t too many characters, so we can keep up with them easily.
The romance angle is beautiful and passionate. It is not forcibly inserted. It feels so natural.
The villain catches us off guard. The author balanced it beautifully. I felt hatred and wanted to kill them. So, I can tell author managed to keep my attention hooked.
What could’ve been better:
Though it was nice to have a fast-paced story, the author didn’t reveal much about how individuals received their Gifts. She talks about a certain age where it manifests, how they manifest is just touched upon. All of the characters use spells, but they’re not worded as in Harry Potter. There are illustrations here and there, but personally I would’ve loved a map. A map which shows the towns, forests, living domains etc. So that one can picturize it.
Summary:
Overall, I enjoyed the book really well. I gave a gap of two weeks and read again. It felt as refreshing as the first time. There’s scope for a series. The author hinted at sequel towards the end. I wish she creates a prequel too – to understand the magical world.
Do I recommend? Definitely!
October 13, 2021
Thank you to Booktasters for sending me a free copy in exchange of an honest review!
First, of all, I must be honest. For some reason the first few pages of the story weren’t clicking with me, so I found myself restarting the book a couple of times. However, once I engaged with the story, I couldn’t put it down until I was done. At its core, this is an older YA fantasy + murder mystery story about Lana, daughter of the chief of the Guardians, who is determined to become a detective (Guardian) motivated by the desire to solve her friend’s murder. The plot thickens with obstacles like the fact that Guardians are only males, and more girls are murdered (serial killer maybe?). There are more stories intertwined with Lana’s which adds interests and keeps the reader on their toes, though you must be patient as I found it’s hard to pinpoint when the story teller’s viewpoint changes and whose voice I was reading. This is my first time reading a murder mystery so I’m afraid my feedback in that sense might be lacking. I can say that it kept me engaged, took my mind of off other things, the ending was great, and all the characters where likable in their own ways. I would be interested in getting to know more about this fantasy world so a series of books would be awesome!
First, of all, I must be honest. For some reason the first few pages of the story weren’t clicking with me, so I found myself restarting the book a couple of times. However, once I engaged with the story, I couldn’t put it down until I was done. At its core, this is an older YA fantasy + murder mystery story about Lana, daughter of the chief of the Guardians, who is determined to become a detective (Guardian) motivated by the desire to solve her friend’s murder. The plot thickens with obstacles like the fact that Guardians are only males, and more girls are murdered (serial killer maybe?). There are more stories intertwined with Lana’s which adds interests and keeps the reader on their toes, though you must be patient as I found it’s hard to pinpoint when the story teller’s viewpoint changes and whose voice I was reading. This is my first time reading a murder mystery so I’m afraid my feedback in that sense might be lacking. I can say that it kept me engaged, took my mind of off other things, the ending was great, and all the characters where likable in their own ways. I would be interested in getting to know more about this fantasy world so a series of books would be awesome!
September 13, 2021
Ghost is about a serial killer who hunts down young girls who possess a gift of magical power. He also goes by the name of The Gift Hunter. Lana an upcoming Guardian detective with her gift to read minds is
in search of this gruesome murder. Lana has to team up with Richard a Guardian trooper who she mistrusts.
She has her suspicion about him but at the same time has feelings for him. This story has a few major
twist and turns which kept me riveted. I enjoyed reading this book it kept me guessing and wondering
who the killer was. I would highly recommend this read.
in search of this gruesome murder. Lana has to team up with Richard a Guardian trooper who she mistrusts.
She has her suspicion about him but at the same time has feelings for him. This story has a few major
twist and turns which kept me riveted. I enjoyed reading this book it kept me guessing and wondering
who the killer was. I would highly recommend this read.
April 30, 2021
This book was right up my alley. Magic, mystery, a little bit of romance. While there were a few grammatical errors and similar character names that took a few chapters to get used to, the story is what counts and it was intriguing and unique. School girls with destructive magical gifts are being murdered and Lana is resolute to solve the case! Twists and turns keep you on the edge of your seat.
April 28, 2021
This was a fun read. There's fantasy, mystery, and there's romance. It started a little slow, but picked up pretty quickly and I enjoyed it until the very end. I also enjoyed that it was a shorter read. If you're into fantasy, and like romance as well, you'll love this book. I wouldn't mind reading more from this author.
June 10, 2021
This is a very YA story that follows Lana Morris and her search to find out who has killed her friend, then other murder. Finding a killer called Ghost as well as challenging the norm of male only detectives.
Lana is an ambitious young lady who wants to be a guardian (a male only role), so she becomes a secretary to give her access to the files and the information she wants on her friend’s murder case. The mystery of why these crimes are committed and who ghost really is catches your imagination and hooks you to read more.
For me I had to stop reading the story as I felt it had almost everything, your girl, mystery, secret powers, determined male lead much like the main character. It felt similar. But I gave it another read under a different mindset and finished it quite quickly. The story is a quick couple of day read and mostly easy to follow.
It Even has pictures (illustrations) 😊
Reviewed for Booktasters.
Lana is an ambitious young lady who wants to be a guardian (a male only role), so she becomes a secretary to give her access to the files and the information she wants on her friend’s murder case. The mystery of why these crimes are committed and who ghost really is catches your imagination and hooks you to read more.
For me I had to stop reading the story as I felt it had almost everything, your girl, mystery, secret powers, determined male lead much like the main character. It felt similar. But I gave it another read under a different mindset and finished it quite quickly. The story is a quick couple of day read and mostly easy to follow.
It Even has pictures (illustrations) 😊
Reviewed for Booktasters.
May 20, 2022
I enjoyed the characters and the world that the author created. For me, it didn't start out slowly, like some reviews said. Most stories start off a little slow because you have to dump a lot of information on the reader. I found it to be really interesting, and I like the use of multiple genres. However, it's hard to quite pinpoint what genre to put it in. I would say it's YA, but there is some cursing, alcohol use, and slight sexual content, but I guess YA's are getting more and more racier. I really enjoyed when the characters where solving the murder by using their magical powers, and I would recommend it to any fantasy or mystery fan.
June 8, 2021
Ghost: A Murder Mystery is a great mix of romance, fantasy, YA and of course, mystery. The story follows a girl, Lana, who wants to investigate the murders of several girls with destructive girls after her friend Rebecca, gets murdered. In her town, it’s typically men who are Guardians, with Lana’s dad being the head guardian of the town, but Lana is determined to become a guardian herself. A guardian from another town, Richard, also investigates these murders and he’s a determined character like Lana.
This book was an enjoyable quick read with twists and turns that will have you invested in the story. I really liked the idea of people having different gifts so would love to know more about how people got their gifts in a sequel.
This book was an enjoyable quick read with twists and turns that will have you invested in the story. I really liked the idea of people having different gifts so would love to know more about how people got their gifts in a sequel.
April 2, 2021
A romance with a murder mystery bringing the couple together. But there are multiple murders and multiple couples and multiple misunderstandings set in a fantasy world. Clearly written with first a happy ending and then a provocative one, I would rate this an older YA book for some sexual content and simple fun for adults
April 28, 2026
Ghost: A Murder Mystery is a fantasy novel with a touch of mystery, romance and mayhem. Likeable characters, good twists you don't see coming, a fast-paced and enjoyable read. I would recommend it more so for the YA readers. Note: I was given a copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 27, 2022
This story is billed as a fantasy murder mystery, which sounds a good mix, and set in a fantasy world where some people have magical gifts (eg gift of healing, of reading minds, etc), where only men can become guardians and protectors of the people, and where girls who exhibit ‘destructive gifts’, ie those that could harm others, are sent off to Mercy House to have their magic extracted, rendering these girls ‘incapables’, people without magic. After some years away from home, Lana, daughter of the chief guardian of Triville, returns to investigate the apparent suicide of her friend three years earlier which she believes was murder. To help her search for the truth, Lana takes a job as secretary in Guardian House, but when a young teenage girl is murdered, she finds herself inevitably drawn into the investigation.
It’s a good premise for a story and has lots of potential. I liked the time crystals, the wishing bridge, and the fact that the gifts don’t work on those you love (except when necessary for plot purposes).
However the plot is full of holes and contrivances, the characters’ motivations are muddled and unconvincing, and the writing is regularly over-written. The story is told from the point of view of multiple characters, and while Lana is likeable, I couldn’t engage with the others at all. Lana is complimented on her great detective skills but actually does little to no detective work. She knows the murderer is a guardian, there are only 12 in Triville, but she doesn’t seem to consider any of them as suspects, not even after one of the murder victim’s scratches the killer’s initials on her arm. Not that it matters, because the reader sees the killer in action long before Lana has a clue where to look. The reveal of the ‘Ghost’ of the title has no foreshadowing. Although Lana has read the file on Ghost, there is scant information given about this character, so the reader certainly couldn’t guess who Ghost was. I think both Richard, the romantic lead, and Kyle, a young man who dates one girl but really loves another, are meant to have mended their ways because of love, but I didn’t find either character arc convincing, and wished Lana and Julia found someone else.
Overall, this book has lots of potential. If you like the characters and the theme of love conquers all, you may be able to overlook the flaws in the plot. Unfortunately I couldn’t, and I struggled to finish the book.
It’s a good premise for a story and has lots of potential. I liked the time crystals, the wishing bridge, and the fact that the gifts don’t work on those you love (except when necessary for plot purposes).
However the plot is full of holes and contrivances, the characters’ motivations are muddled and unconvincing, and the writing is regularly over-written. The story is told from the point of view of multiple characters, and while Lana is likeable, I couldn’t engage with the others at all. Lana is complimented on her great detective skills but actually does little to no detective work. She knows the murderer is a guardian, there are only 12 in Triville, but she doesn’t seem to consider any of them as suspects, not even after one of the murder victim’s scratches the killer’s initials on her arm. Not that it matters, because the reader sees the killer in action long before Lana has a clue where to look. The reveal of the ‘Ghost’ of the title has no foreshadowing. Although Lana has read the file on Ghost, there is scant information given about this character, so the reader certainly couldn’t guess who Ghost was. I think both Richard, the romantic lead, and Kyle, a young man who dates one girl but really loves another, are meant to have mended their ways because of love, but I didn’t find either character arc convincing, and wished Lana and Julia found someone else.
Overall, this book has lots of potential. If you like the characters and the theme of love conquers all, you may be able to overlook the flaws in the plot. Unfortunately I couldn’t, and I struggled to finish the book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews