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Gravekeeper #2
The Ravenous Dead
Keira, hired as Blighty Graveyard’s new groundskeeper and unofficial spirit guide, lives surrounded by the dead. They watch her through the fog. They wordlessly cry out. They’ve been waiting for help—and only Keira can hear them.
But, even as Keira tries to learn the tangled histories of some of the graveyard’s oldest denizens, danger seeps from the forest. A vicious serial killer was interred among the trees decades before. His form became twisted. Ravenous. And Keira is more than uniquely connected to the spirit world: she's uniquely vulnerable.
But, even as Keira tries to learn the tangled histories of some of the graveyard’s oldest denizens, danger seeps from the forest. A vicious serial killer was interred among the trees decades before. His form became twisted. Ravenous. And Keira is more than uniquely connected to the spirit world: she's uniquely vulnerable.
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First published March 15, 2022
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About the author
Darcy Coates
69 books14.3k followersDarcy Coates is the USA Today bestselling author of more than a dozen horror and suspense novels.
She lives in the Central Coast of Australia with her family, cat, and a collection of chickens. Her home is surrounded by rolling wilderness on all sides, and she wouldn't have it any other way.
You can hear about her next book by joining her newsletter: www.darcycoates.com/updates
She lives in the Central Coast of Australia with her family, cat, and a collection of chickens. Her home is surrounded by rolling wilderness on all sides, and she wouldn't have it any other way.
You can hear about her next book by joining her newsletter: www.darcycoates.com/updates
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 703 reviews
March 23, 2022
My thanks to Poisoned Pen Press, Darcy Coates and Netgalley. I was initially worried that I may have missed something from not reading the first book in this series. No worries! This is most definitely a book that will stand alone. Does that sound disparaging? It should. This series has 2 mysteries going. The most interesting one is mostly ignored. I personally will not stick around for more. A hint, nudge and a vague promise is not enough. The ghost story itself was good. It was too long, but good. Unless you're ready for a long haul of a series, then I'd ignore this thing.
June 12, 2025
This was my first read by Darcy Coates & I was disappointed a bit to slow for my liking didn’t connect with Keira’s all too many repetitive narrative the writing was not my cup of ☕️ tea what more can I say!!!
March 29, 2022
Spooky Shade!
Backstory:
Keira is back along with her friends Adage, Mason and Zoe as they try to figure out what is keeping a serial killer shade apparition from the 1800's tied to the forest behind Keira's cottage and she wants to know why the shade seems to be after her.
In the meantime, Keira is almost kidnapped from the people that were chasing her in the first book as she accidentally runs into them and she tries to figure out why they are still after her.
The only thing she can do is try to piece the puzzle together and hopefully fill in her memories of her previous life. With the help of her friends she is going to try and solve not only the mystery of her former life but also try to help the ghosts move on into the next life.
Thoughts:
This story started a little slow for some reason even though it kind of picks up right where the first book left off, but around the 30% mark the story escalated and kept me on my toes as ghost action became intense along with the happenings of the men who are after Keira! The pace picked up so much that it kept me up half the night reading the book as I just could not put it down!
I love the characters in this series as all of them have become attachable. I found myself chuckling some throughout the book as the character Zoe makes me laugh with some of the quips she throws out toward her friends. All of the characters though just mesh together and I am so looking forward to the next book in this series.
The mystery of Keira's past is high on my list of who she really is and why people are looking for her still. There is a deep mystery surrounding her past and the author is still keeping it under wraps, so I will be waiting to see what the next book reveals. Giving this book five "Screaming Spook" stars!
For images/gifs of this review, please see my blog:
https://booknookretreat.blogspot.com/...
Backstory:
Keira is back along with her friends Adage, Mason and Zoe as they try to figure out what is keeping a serial killer shade apparition from the 1800's tied to the forest behind Keira's cottage and she wants to know why the shade seems to be after her.
In the meantime, Keira is almost kidnapped from the people that were chasing her in the first book as she accidentally runs into them and she tries to figure out why they are still after her.
The only thing she can do is try to piece the puzzle together and hopefully fill in her memories of her previous life. With the help of her friends she is going to try and solve not only the mystery of her former life but also try to help the ghosts move on into the next life.
Thoughts:
This story started a little slow for some reason even though it kind of picks up right where the first book left off, but around the 30% mark the story escalated and kept me on my toes as ghost action became intense along with the happenings of the men who are after Keira! The pace picked up so much that it kept me up half the night reading the book as I just could not put it down!
I love the characters in this series as all of them have become attachable. I found myself chuckling some throughout the book as the character Zoe makes me laugh with some of the quips she throws out toward her friends. All of the characters though just mesh together and I am so looking forward to the next book in this series.
The mystery of Keira's past is high on my list of who she really is and why people are looking for her still. There is a deep mystery surrounding her past and the author is still keeping it under wraps, so I will be waiting to see what the next book reveals. Giving this book five "Screaming Spook" stars!
For images/gifs of this review, please see my blog:
https://booknookretreat.blogspot.com/...
May 20, 2022
The Ravenous Dead is the second book in Coates' Gravekeeper series, and while I enjoyed book one, this fell a little flat for me.
It wasn't bad by any means; it was just...boring. No real thrills or chills. Nothing new or interesting. In fact, it felt like the first book retold, but with no real emotion.
I hate the term Mary-Sue but that is pretty much what Keira, our protagonist, is. Every word she uttered was predictably self-sacrificing. Zoe lacked her humor from the first book, and Mason is so painfully vanilla it actually became annoying.
Regardless, I'm sure I'll pick up the third book and hope for a better result. And I'm super excited for Coates' summer book From Below.
It wasn't bad by any means; it was just...boring. No real thrills or chills. Nothing new or interesting. In fact, it felt like the first book retold, but with no real emotion.
I hate the term Mary-Sue but that is pretty much what Keira, our protagonist, is. Every word she uttered was predictably self-sacrificing. Zoe lacked her humor from the first book, and Mason is so painfully vanilla it actually became annoying.
Regardless, I'm sure I'll pick up the third book and hope for a better result. And I'm super excited for Coates' summer book From Below.
April 11, 2022
The story of the second book Gravekeeper, The Ravenous Dead by Darcy Coates, starts where the first one finished.
Keira lives in a groundskeeper cottage, in the graveyard with her black cat, Daisy. She tries to meet spirits, learns their names, and hopefully understand their situations to help them do their unfinished business on earth and go on.
One day she notices spirits of Blighty Cemetery were avoiding her. They are afraid of something, another ghost that wasn't crying for help, calling for a victim.
Also, there is a hollow-faced man ghost with no name on his grave and Keira tries to find his past.
So there are two new missions, help to hollow-faced man and revengeful ghost. In her research, she faced a name, Gerald Barge (1839-1892) who was a sort of women serial killer. With her best friend's help, try finding ghosty unfinished businesses.
It seems not every ghost wants to complete their task, so there would be a mess that you should read to find out.
If I remember correctly, one of my friends once use a "cozy horror" word, this very suit to this book, plus mysterious and fun. Great read, entertaining story, with lots of Casper types and Peeves types ghosts.
I especially enjoyed the lovely characters and their relationship, they make an awesome gang!
Keira with her lovely cat,
Zoe is my favorite character, funny and I think her mind works ... well, this is, I have no idea how her mind works! :)
Mason, mysterious doctor,
And the new cool member of the gang, Harry!
"Mother: where are you going?
Harry: Occult rituals, Mother. I may not return. Or if I do, I will likely forever be changed.
Mother: Well, all right then, have fun. Curfew’s at ten. Do you want me to make you some hot chocolate for when you get back?
Harry: Yes."
Huge thanks to Poisoned Pen Press via NetGalley for giving me a chance of reading The Ravenous Dead (Gravekeeper #2) by Darcy Coates, I have given my honest review.
Keira lives in a groundskeeper cottage, in the graveyard with her black cat, Daisy. She tries to meet spirits, learns their names, and hopefully understand their situations to help them do their unfinished business on earth and go on.
One day she notices spirits of Blighty Cemetery were avoiding her. They are afraid of something, another ghost that wasn't crying for help, calling for a victim.
Also, there is a hollow-faced man ghost with no name on his grave and Keira tries to find his past.
So there are two new missions, help to hollow-faced man and revengeful ghost. In her research, she faced a name, Gerald Barge (1839-1892) who was a sort of women serial killer. With her best friend's help, try finding ghosty unfinished businesses.
It seems not every ghost wants to complete their task, so there would be a mess that you should read to find out.
If I remember correctly, one of my friends once use a "cozy horror" word, this very suit to this book, plus mysterious and fun. Great read, entertaining story, with lots of Casper types and Peeves types ghosts.
I especially enjoyed the lovely characters and their relationship, they make an awesome gang!
Keira with her lovely cat,
Zoe is my favorite character, funny and I think her mind works ... well, this is, I have no idea how her mind works! :)
Mason, mysterious doctor,
And the new cool member of the gang, Harry!
"Mother: where are you going?
Harry: Occult rituals, Mother. I may not return. Or if I do, I will likely forever be changed.
Mother: Well, all right then, have fun. Curfew’s at ten. Do you want me to make you some hot chocolate for when you get back?
Harry: Yes."
Huge thanks to Poisoned Pen Press via NetGalley for giving me a chance of reading The Ravenous Dead (Gravekeeper #2) by Darcy Coates, I have given my honest review.
August 4, 2024
I don't understand why this series is so popular. I know Darcy Coates is a beloved author; perhaps that is the reason. I just couldn't get on board with the writing. I actually was annoyed enough that I took notes of how often she reused phrases: "Ran her tongue against her teeth"
"Headache pulling on the back of her eyes"
"Parched tongue"
The spooky story itself wasn't bad, but I feel like the most interesting plotline regarding the FMC was largely ignored. Deliberately, I'm guessing, to keep me going with the series. Will I continue with the series? Maybe. I think I'd like to pick up one of her standalone novels to see where my beef lies...the writing or the story itself. I hope it's the latter because I want to love her books too!
"Headache pulling on the back of her eyes"
"Parched tongue"
The spooky story itself wasn't bad, but I feel like the most interesting plotline regarding the FMC was largely ignored. Deliberately, I'm guessing, to keep me going with the series. Will I continue with the series? Maybe. I think I'd like to pick up one of her standalone novels to see where my beef lies...the writing or the story itself. I hope it's the latter because I want to love her books too!
February 19, 2025
"The shade scuttled towards her, weaving around and over the gravestones. Its movements reminded Keira of a terrible, malformed spider. The mouth kept grinning. The empty eyes kept staring."
4.45✨
4.45✨
March 18, 2022
The Ravenous Dead is book #2 in the Gravekeeper series and even though one can read this without reading book #1 as the major events have been mentioned in this, I would strongly suggest reading Book #1 as the little town called Blighty, its pastor named Adage, the loving and friendly residents and the haunted cemetery comes alive in its entirety.
Thankfully I had read Book #1 and knew the premise of the story going in. Keira, the girl with no memory of her origins except her name has shared her talent of seeing ghosts with Adage but no one else is aware of her gift. Darcy Coates has multiple mysteries running in parallel in the Ravenous Dead just like the previous one. For starters, Keira is intent on finding the identity of a John Doe buried in the cemetery but she has to literally grapple with a malevolent and angry spirit intent on consuming the energy of people and ghosts alike thus increasing his strength. Meanwhile, there is also the mystery of her predicament of having no memory and being hunted by persons unknown.
Her friendship with Zoe the quirky and paranoid conspiracy addict is the highlight of the novel. Zoe is a loving character whose story is yet to be explored completely. In fact, Keira’s identity and Mason’s backstory are still kept in the dark. I wished that at least Keira’s story had moved a step further from the first book but the suspense of the ghosts makes the Ravenous Dead quite an interesting read and seeing that Zoe is researching the insignia of the organization targeting Keira, hopefully, this mystery will get revealed in the next one. The romance also is slow step progress as Mason’s care and concern for Keira is evident but nothing much happens to take it further.
This is a mild horror novel, the scary parts are not too terrifying and thus would not make the gore-loving horror fans happy but I am surely in love with this series by Darcy Coates. It was thrilling to see the growth of trust between the three friends and how Mason and Zoe have begun to help Keira in her attempts with ghost hunting. The fog-enshrouded cemetery and woods are quite atmospheric and the author has worked wonders with the elements.
Looking forward to reading the next adventure by Keira and her friends.
Many thanks to Net Galley, Poisoned Pen Press, and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
This review is published in my blog Rain'n'Books, ##Goodreads, ##Amazon India, ##Book Bub, ##Medium.com, ##Facebook, ##Twitter.
Thankfully I had read Book #1 and knew the premise of the story going in. Keira, the girl with no memory of her origins except her name has shared her talent of seeing ghosts with Adage but no one else is aware of her gift. Darcy Coates has multiple mysteries running in parallel in the Ravenous Dead just like the previous one. For starters, Keira is intent on finding the identity of a John Doe buried in the cemetery but she has to literally grapple with a malevolent and angry spirit intent on consuming the energy of people and ghosts alike thus increasing his strength. Meanwhile, there is also the mystery of her predicament of having no memory and being hunted by persons unknown.
Her friendship with Zoe the quirky and paranoid conspiracy addict is the highlight of the novel. Zoe is a loving character whose story is yet to be explored completely. In fact, Keira’s identity and Mason’s backstory are still kept in the dark. I wished that at least Keira’s story had moved a step further from the first book but the suspense of the ghosts makes the Ravenous Dead quite an interesting read and seeing that Zoe is researching the insignia of the organization targeting Keira, hopefully, this mystery will get revealed in the next one. The romance also is slow step progress as Mason’s care and concern for Keira is evident but nothing much happens to take it further.
This is a mild horror novel, the scary parts are not too terrifying and thus would not make the gore-loving horror fans happy but I am surely in love with this series by Darcy Coates. It was thrilling to see the growth of trust between the three friends and how Mason and Zoe have begun to help Keira in her attempts with ghost hunting. The fog-enshrouded cemetery and woods are quite atmospheric and the author has worked wonders with the elements.
Looking forward to reading the next adventure by Keira and her friends.
Many thanks to Net Galley, Poisoned Pen Press, and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
This review is published in my blog Rain'n'Books, ##Goodreads, ##Amazon India, ##Book Bub, ##Medium.com, ##Facebook, ##Twitter.
April 25, 2024
A mystery wrapped in a ghost story with beautiful small-town vibes.
Keira has found a home in Blighty. She's made the greatest of best friends that she could ask for. The eccentric Zoe and the sweet and caring Mason. Both accept her as is and care for her deeply. And Adage, the man who saved her when she was on the run that first night with no knowledge of anything except that her name was Keira. He saved her life and keeps her secret. Keira can see ghosts. Now all Keira wants is her lovely new life with her friends, her cat Daisy, and to help these trapped spirits move on. But the men from that night are still out there and still searching for her, and now there is a new spirit, it is angry and dangerous, to both the living and dead.
Oh man I loved this book. After how much I fell in love with the first book in the series. I was both looking forward to this one and also a bit scared to read it. I was truly scared it wasn't going to be able to live up to the first book. Boy was I wrong. I loved it just as much as the previous one. Darcy Coates sure is the queen of ghost stories.
I love the character too. Keira is brave and kind, Zoe is a little crazy, Mason is sweet and caring, Adage is the caring grandfatherly type. But despite all that, my favorite character is Harry. He's a side character, but his contrast to both his mother and Keira makes him the funniest character in the book. Plus I'm suspecting he cares far more than he puts on, especially after reading this book.
I don't know how many books are expected to be made in this series. But it has great potential to be a decent-sized one, and at this level of reading quality, you can bet I'm going to read every single one. Absolutely recommend. It was a great read.
Recommended age 14+
It was a little scary and had some violence, but nothing I thought was too extreme for the above age range.
I want to thank Netgalley, the publisher, and author for this chance to read and review this arc. However, this did not in any way affect my opinion or review.
Keira has found a home in Blighty. She's made the greatest of best friends that she could ask for. The eccentric Zoe and the sweet and caring Mason. Both accept her as is and care for her deeply. And Adage, the man who saved her when she was on the run that first night with no knowledge of anything except that her name was Keira. He saved her life and keeps her secret. Keira can see ghosts. Now all Keira wants is her lovely new life with her friends, her cat Daisy, and to help these trapped spirits move on. But the men from that night are still out there and still searching for her, and now there is a new spirit, it is angry and dangerous, to both the living and dead.
Oh man I loved this book. After how much I fell in love with the first book in the series. I was both looking forward to this one and also a bit scared to read it. I was truly scared it wasn't going to be able to live up to the first book. Boy was I wrong. I loved it just as much as the previous one. Darcy Coates sure is the queen of ghost stories.
I love the character too. Keira is brave and kind, Zoe is a little crazy, Mason is sweet and caring, Adage is the caring grandfatherly type. But despite all that, my favorite character is Harry. He's a side character, but his contrast to both his mother and Keira makes him the funniest character in the book. Plus I'm suspecting he cares far more than he puts on, especially after reading this book.
I don't know how many books are expected to be made in this series. But it has great potential to be a decent-sized one, and at this level of reading quality, you can bet I'm going to read every single one. Absolutely recommend. It was a great read.
Recommended age 14+
It was a little scary and had some violence, but nothing I thought was too extreme for the above age range.
I want to thank Netgalley, the publisher, and author for this chance to read and review this arc. However, this did not in any way affect my opinion or review.
June 1, 2024
I can’t think of a better way to end the year than finishing one of Darcy’s books!! And I loved loved this one! Wonderful characters and an ending filled with hope and miracles!! What more can you ask for? Happy New Year!! :)
August 24, 2023
This is a continuation of the first book in "The Gravekeeper" series, Whispering Dead. In the first book the heroine was pursued by unknown men and nearly killed before she took refuge in a groundskeeper’s cottage next to a cemetery filled with the unquiet dead. Although she still doesn’t remember who she really is, Pastor Adage has hired her to try to get the dead to move on, and she’s made two new friends in this small town of Blighty, Zoe and Mason, along with Daisy who is a very odd black cat. When she seeks her "inner" eye, she can see the ghosts, but since none of them are willing to tell her why they’re still connected to the cemetery, she consults the local library for information on the people buried there. Then she is attacked by a shade which places her in mortal danger. Despite her best efforts to keep things from her new friends, they finally figure out that she can talk to ghosts and agree to have her back. At length she learns that the evil shade was a serial killer and realizes that he’s amassing ever greater strength by destroying the other ghosts. Keira barely escapes another chase by her mysterious pursuers, and a plan to rid the cemetery of the shade goes dangerously wrong. How can her ordeal possibly end? I love ghost stories, but in spite of that, even I, the "Ghost Story Junkie", became a bit confused at times. Those wishing to give this one a try really don't have to read Whispering Dead first. I believe that there is enough back story that you will know what is happening with Keira in this one.
April 13, 2022
I received an advance reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review via netgalley and the publishers.
The Ravenous Dead is a slow paced ghost story with a mystery interwoven into it. I only realised this was the second book in a series when I was about 25% of the way through the book buy I still enjoyed it. I need to read book 1 now.
Keira has most recently made a home for herself in Blighty next to a graveyard where she can see and communicate with the dead. When she sees a dark malevolent spirit feeding off the ghosts in her graveyard she tries to fight him but ends up hurt. As Keira tries to find out what is keeping this spirit tethered to the earth and finding a way to get rid of him, he grows in force and power and Keira realises they're all in danger - both living and dead. Keira also gets spotted by a group of dangerous people who want to capture her, but she has no knowledge of anything before arriving in Blighty. With the help of her two new friends, Keira tries to save the town, release ghosts from being trapped on earth and unravel the mystery of who this entity is and who these people are that are chasing after her and why.
I can't wait to read more in book 1 and book 3 after reading this!
The Ravenous Dead is a slow paced ghost story with a mystery interwoven into it. I only realised this was the second book in a series when I was about 25% of the way through the book buy I still enjoyed it. I need to read book 1 now.
Keira has most recently made a home for herself in Blighty next to a graveyard where she can see and communicate with the dead. When she sees a dark malevolent spirit feeding off the ghosts in her graveyard she tries to fight him but ends up hurt. As Keira tries to find out what is keeping this spirit tethered to the earth and finding a way to get rid of him, he grows in force and power and Keira realises they're all in danger - both living and dead. Keira also gets spotted by a group of dangerous people who want to capture her, but she has no knowledge of anything before arriving in Blighty. With the help of her two new friends, Keira tries to save the town, release ghosts from being trapped on earth and unravel the mystery of who this entity is and who these people are that are chasing after her and why.
I can't wait to read more in book 1 and book 3 after reading this!
July 29, 2025
4.75⭐️
March 6, 2022
The Ravenous Dead is the second book in the Gravekeeper series. I would suggest reading book one, The Whispering Dead first. Both books are excellent, but the first book really sets the tone for book two.
Darcy Coates does it again! I am fully invested in this series and can not wait to see what comes next for Keira. I love the premise behind these books. Keira, a Graveyard groundskeeper, lives in a cottage, surrounded by the dead. Not only can she see ghosts, she interacts with them, helping these trapped spirits move on.
Interesting right? Oh, and she has an awesome black cat named Daisy.
Huge thank you to Poisoned Pen Press and Source Books Landmark for my gifted copy!
Darcy Coates does it again! I am fully invested in this series and can not wait to see what comes next for Keira. I love the premise behind these books. Keira, a Graveyard groundskeeper, lives in a cottage, surrounded by the dead. Not only can she see ghosts, she interacts with them, helping these trapped spirits move on.
Interesting right? Oh, and she has an awesome black cat named Daisy.
Huge thank you to Poisoned Pen Press and Source Books Landmark for my gifted copy!
April 15, 2022
Keira, hired as Blighty Graveyard’s new groundskeeper, lives surrounded by the dead. They watch her through the fog. They wordlessly cry out. They’ve been desperately waiting for help moving on—and only Keira can hear them. But not every restless spirit wants to be saved.
Sometimes the dead hate the living too much to find peace.
As Keira struggles to uncover the tangled histories of some of the graveyard’s oldest denizens, danger seeps from the darkest edges of the forest. A vicious serial killer was interred among the trees decades before, his spirit twisted by his violent nature. He’s furious. Ravenous. And when Keira unwittingly answers his call, she may just seal her fate as his final intended victim.
This is the second story in the Gravekeeper series and I couldn’t wait to read it. Keira has to be one of my favourite female protagonists and I just love seeing her story unfold.
Coates brings back the gang to solve the mystery of the angry black spirit haunting Blighty’s graveyard demolishing anything and anyone in its path and feisty Kiera, calm Mason and kooky Zoe (also let’s not forget Daisy) are up to the challenge.
Filled with tension, friendship, courage and frights this was a great next instalment that will be a fan of all ages! There’s something for everyone…. Oh and even better… another book in the series!!!!
Sometimes the dead hate the living too much to find peace.
As Keira struggles to uncover the tangled histories of some of the graveyard’s oldest denizens, danger seeps from the darkest edges of the forest. A vicious serial killer was interred among the trees decades before, his spirit twisted by his violent nature. He’s furious. Ravenous. And when Keira unwittingly answers his call, she may just seal her fate as his final intended victim.
This is the second story in the Gravekeeper series and I couldn’t wait to read it. Keira has to be one of my favourite female protagonists and I just love seeing her story unfold.
Coates brings back the gang to solve the mystery of the angry black spirit haunting Blighty’s graveyard demolishing anything and anyone in its path and feisty Kiera, calm Mason and kooky Zoe (also let’s not forget Daisy) are up to the challenge.
Filled with tension, friendship, courage and frights this was a great next instalment that will be a fan of all ages! There’s something for everyone…. Oh and even better… another book in the series!!!!
March 12, 2022
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Last weekend, I started my Darcy Coates reading journey by picking up The Whispering Dead. I couldn't tell you the last time I finished a book- then jumped straight into it's sequel, but I wasn't ready to part ways with Keira and the friends that she has made since her mysterious arrival in Blighty.
While there are still a lot of unanswered questions about Kiera and her past, the spirits that she encounters and the race to rid the cemetery of a dangerous spirit that might not want to move on was what made this book for me. That, and Daisy. Daze. The cat who may or may not be magical- and whose intelligence should definitely not be questioned. 😆
Last weekend, I started my Darcy Coates reading journey by picking up The Whispering Dead. I couldn't tell you the last time I finished a book- then jumped straight into it's sequel, but I wasn't ready to part ways with Keira and the friends that she has made since her mysterious arrival in Blighty.
While there are still a lot of unanswered questions about Kiera and her past, the spirits that she encounters and the race to rid the cemetery of a dangerous spirit that might not want to move on was what made this book for me. That, and Daisy. Daze. The cat who may or may not be magical- and whose intelligence should definitely not be questioned. 😆
April 5, 2022
Well, sometimes the sequel ends up being better than the original— or as in this case here; this is where Keira, her friends, her new life, etc., finally seem to start hitting their stride!
I liked this one quite a bit more and I was able to get through it quickly with no ‘slow burn-ish’ type spots. A lot of ppl that don’t do series might be okay starting on this second book and grasping concepts from context. There are two incidents referred to multiple times in this second one that are important to the overall plot of all the books going forward that might trip someone up though.
I plan on continuing to the third installment as I’m curious about the overall narrative and mystery; so I didn’t mind having to go through some slow burn if the pay off continues like this. There was some hilarity that I loved in this one and camaraderie. Daisy also sounds just like one of my little fuzzy pains in the butt at home, Lucinda.
If you got a bit stuck with the first one, you might like the second….
Short attention spans, to the left.
I liked this one quite a bit more and I was able to get through it quickly with no ‘slow burn-ish’ type spots. A lot of ppl that don’t do series might be okay starting on this second book and grasping concepts from context. There are two incidents referred to multiple times in this second one that are important to the overall plot of all the books going forward that might trip someone up though.
I plan on continuing to the third installment as I’m curious about the overall narrative and mystery; so I didn’t mind having to go through some slow burn if the pay off continues like this. There was some hilarity that I loved in this one and camaraderie. Daisy also sounds just like one of my little fuzzy pains in the butt at home, Lucinda.
If you got a bit stuck with the first one, you might like the second….
Short attention spans, to the left.
March 12, 2022
What a fantastic continuation of the Gravekeeper series! I can't say too much about this one without spoiling what happened in the first book but I will say that Keira and her friends quickly became some of my favorite characters, and I was desperate to read more about their continued mission in Blighty. This book was so eerie and stunningly atmospheric that I could really picture myself right there in the foggy graveyard with them.
Unlike most series I've read, I actually ended up enjoying this one even more than the first book in the series! I think a lot of the story and character building that happened in the first book set this one up perfectly, and I am SO looking forward to the continuation of this series in early 2023. If you like a creepy atmosphere, paranormal elements, and a spooky quest to battle evil, than I recommend picking this one up!
Thank you so much to Poisoned Pen Press and NetGalley for my ARC!
Unlike most series I've read, I actually ended up enjoying this one even more than the first book in the series! I think a lot of the story and character building that happened in the first book set this one up perfectly, and I am SO looking forward to the continuation of this series in early 2023. If you like a creepy atmosphere, paranormal elements, and a spooky quest to battle evil, than I recommend picking this one up!
Thank you so much to Poisoned Pen Press and NetGalley for my ARC!
March 22, 2022
Book two in Darcy Coates' GRAVEKEEPER series. This book had some genuinely good moments at the end. I honestly think I would have liked it more without the mysterious backstory though. I'm still looking forward to reading the next one.
April 18, 2022
a great sequel, excited for the 3rd book to come out
December 17, 2021
Keira is hired as Blightly's groundskeeper. She has the ability to see and speak to spirits that have not yet left this world to crossover to the next. Keira is struggling to find out the history of one the ghosts she sees. He is not like the others, he is different. She soon discovers through research he was a vicious serial killer, that would kill people from other towns and bury them in his backyard. He does not want to leave this world and now Keira's life may be in danger.
This was my first Darcy Coates novel. I really enjoyed it. It is the second book in the Gravekeeper Series, but it can be read as a standalone. I would not say this is scary, but more of a creepy mystery. The ending left me wanting more, so I am sure the next book in the series will also be fantastic. If you're looking for something creepy and different and you don't mind a ghost story or two, pick up a copy of THE RAVENOUS DEAD. I look forward to continuing this series to see how it all comes together in the end.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for my ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This review will be posted to my Instagram Blog (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the near future.
This was my first Darcy Coates novel. I really enjoyed it. It is the second book in the Gravekeeper Series, but it can be read as a standalone. I would not say this is scary, but more of a creepy mystery. The ending left me wanting more, so I am sure the next book in the series will also be fantastic. If you're looking for something creepy and different and you don't mind a ghost story or two, pick up a copy of THE RAVENOUS DEAD. I look forward to continuing this series to see how it all comes together in the end.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for my ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This review will be posted to my Instagram Blog (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the near future.
March 24, 2022
Keira inadvertently rouses the malevolent ghost of a late 1800s Blighty serial killer, and the shadowy men from her past have resurfaced. And gentle, death metal-loving soul and flower peddler Henry puts in an appearance, too, while Keira and her fast friends Zoe and Mason help her research town history and have her back during this fun second instalment by Darcy Coates.
Keira, now ensconced in the groundskeeper’s cottage near Adage’s home, has plenty to do, between figuring out how to send the serial ghost packing, and keeping safe from whoever tried killing her some days earlier (in book one).
It’s great seeing her take up her ghost-soothing/removing activities in earnest, and opening up to Zoe and Mason. I liked this development a lot, as Darcy Coates won’t have to contrive ridiculous situations and conversations just so Keira can avoid confessing she can see ghosts. This means the dynamic trio can put their energies towards both the ghost activities, and, more importantly, their growing friendship. Which I love. This relationship gave me many smiles—Zoe, of course, stole many a scene with her wild notions, and Mason’s solid, kind presence gives the friends the practical and serious grounding they need.
I suspect they’ll need to rely on each other more as they investigate the shadowy men on Keira’s trail. And I’m sure there will be many more ghosts needing help, too, from Keira, so it’s a pity I have to wait a while for book three.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Poisoned Pen Press for this ARC in exchange for my review.
Keira, now ensconced in the groundskeeper’s cottage near Adage’s home, has plenty to do, between figuring out how to send the serial ghost packing, and keeping safe from whoever tried killing her some days earlier (in book one).
It’s great seeing her take up her ghost-soothing/removing activities in earnest, and opening up to Zoe and Mason. I liked this development a lot, as Darcy Coates won’t have to contrive ridiculous situations and conversations just so Keira can avoid confessing she can see ghosts. This means the dynamic trio can put their energies towards both the ghost activities, and, more importantly, their growing friendship. Which I love. This relationship gave me many smiles—Zoe, of course, stole many a scene with her wild notions, and Mason’s solid, kind presence gives the friends the practical and serious grounding they need.
I suspect they’ll need to rely on each other more as they investigate the shadowy men on Keira’s trail. And I’m sure there will be many more ghosts needing help, too, from Keira, so it’s a pity I have to wait a while for book three.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Poisoned Pen Press for this ARC in exchange for my review.
March 6, 2022
I thought this was a fun ghost story that made for an entertaining read. It was a tad less creepy than I expected but would be great for someone who is looking for light horror. Keira’s self appointed bestie Zoe was such a fun character who made me smile every time she opened her mouth! Absolutely loved her banter with Keira, who tends to be more serious and withdrawn. Keira does begin to open up more with her friends in this book and I look forward to seeing their relationships continue to grow.
The main mystery the book focused on was wrapped up, but there are several unanswered questions that remain for the next book. This is the second book in the Gravekeeper series and while it can be read as a standalone, there is a lot of context and character development you’d miss out on from the first book. I’d recommend this to anyone looking to dip their toe into the paranormal horror world and to anyone who enjoys quirky characters solving mysteries. 4/5⭐️
Thanks to @Poisonedpenpress for gifting me this ARC. The Ravenous Dead will be out on March 15.
The main mystery the book focused on was wrapped up, but there are several unanswered questions that remain for the next book. This is the second book in the Gravekeeper series and while it can be read as a standalone, there is a lot of context and character development you’d miss out on from the first book. I’d recommend this to anyone looking to dip their toe into the paranormal horror world and to anyone who enjoys quirky characters solving mysteries. 4/5⭐️
Thanks to @Poisonedpenpress for gifting me this ARC. The Ravenous Dead will be out on March 15.
March 18, 2022
The Ravenous Dead by Darcy Coates is a paranormal mystery novel, and the second in the Gravekeeper series. I wouldn't call it horror.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Poisoned Pen Press, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Series Background: (Warning – May contain spoilers from previous books)
Keira knows little about her past, but she has discovered she has a talent. She can talk to ghosts -- and if she discovers why they are still on this plane, she is determined to help them move on. She has new friends...Adage who is a clergyman, Zoe who is a conspiracy theory nut, and Mason, who is supposed to be studying to become a doctor. She has recently been hired by Adage to be the new groundskeeper at Blighty Graveyard.
My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions)
Keira is finding that being the groundskeeper at Blighty Cemetery is never boring. Her ability to see the dead and help them to move on is definitely her life's work.
When she encounters a more malevolent spirit who is actually gaining energy by destroying other ghosts, she is determined to put an end to him. Unfortunately, that may not be as easy as it sounds. Although she thought the ghosts could not harm her, she may have been wrong
She will have some unexpected help.
My Opinions:
I am really enjoying this series. This second book is another fast and entertaining read. Although the subject matter is a little dark, it felt like a light read.
I continue to love Keira, who often questions her own judgement, and cares deeply for her friends, as well as the ghosts she is trying to help.
The banter between Keira, Zoe, and Mason is wonderful. I am not a comedy lover, but there are some really great lines in these books.
Anyway, I can't wait for the next one!
For a more complete review of this book and others (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, as well as author information and contact details), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/
November 24, 2021
Thanks so much to NetGalley, Poisoned Pen Press, and Darcy Coates for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
I wasn’t sure what to expect going into The Ravenous Dead. The first book in the series, The Whispering Dead, was a bit horror-lite for my tastes but was still a fun read. This book isn’t much different in tone, but I did find myself enjoying the material a bit more. It'll be interesting to see where Coates takes this story to next, and I'll be requesting it as soon as humanly possible.
I guess the only issue with the story is that there are still a few loose threads continuing from the last book, but one could assume those are there to push the hesitant series readers to read further. I'd also like to see some of the relationships progress a bit more.
I will recommend Darcy Coates to our horror readers always. It's nice that she has varying levels of horror, as this allows more readers to appreciate her work. If one of her books isn't a good fit, id almost bet she has another that would be. It's 3.5-4 stars from me.
I wasn’t sure what to expect going into The Ravenous Dead. The first book in the series, The Whispering Dead, was a bit horror-lite for my tastes but was still a fun read. This book isn’t much different in tone, but I did find myself enjoying the material a bit more. It'll be interesting to see where Coates takes this story to next, and I'll be requesting it as soon as humanly possible.
I guess the only issue with the story is that there are still a few loose threads continuing from the last book, but one could assume those are there to push the hesitant series readers to read further. I'd also like to see some of the relationships progress a bit more.
I will recommend Darcy Coates to our horror readers always. It's nice that she has varying levels of horror, as this allows more readers to appreciate her work. If one of her books isn't a good fit, id almost bet she has another that would be. It's 3.5-4 stars from me.
March 6, 2024
Liked this one a little tiny bit less than the first one but excited to continue this series. Quick, easy, quirky “horror”
August 23, 2025
Listen, this series IS a bit adult-scooby-doo vibes (except the dog is a cat) and that’s what I like about it. I hope we get more of Harry in the next book. The more weirdos the merrier I always say.
June 15, 2022
⭐⭐⭐ — I freaking LOVE the cover on this one!
This one turned out to be just okay for me. It wasn't a bad book by any means. I just found it a little on the boring side. Perhaps this is because I haven't read the first book? That said, I enjoyed the characters and their banter. And the setting was very cool and suitably creepy. I am on the fence on if I will read book 3 or pass.
**ARC Via NetGalley**
May 22, 2025
This is such a fun series! Spooky and mysterious, but with a good dose of humor. I love the characters and the story is intriguing. I'm hoping we get to see more of Harry, he's my favorite.
March 10, 2022
A low mist hung above the ground, shrouding the landscape in front of her. The moon provided a bit of light, but she didn’t need much because she knew right where she was. The spirits lingered around their gravestones; some silently laughing, others dancing, some pacing peacefully back and forth, and others sitting somberly. She could see all of them and wondered about each of their stories and why they were still here. She’d help them move on… she just had to figure out how to do so.
The Ravenous Dead tells the story of Keira who is hired to tend the local graveyard. But she’s not hired to be a groundskeeper as you’d think, no, she’s there because she can see ghosts and her job is to help them move on to the next life. Most of the ghosts she can see seem pleasant, some mysterious that will require some digging on her part… but one particular spirit has malicious intent and she must stop it before it gains too much power.
This book was such a fun, spooky read. It is also book two of a series and I need to read book one to get some questions answered. I’m also hoping there is a book three coming out at some point because it ends with some lingering secrets.
If you’re a fan of ghost stories, serial killers, and a creepy graveyard setting then you’ll want to get your hands on this one (but you may want to read book one first).
TW: Murder (gory descriptions), Death of a Loved One, Paranormal Activity, Arson/Fire.
*I received a gifted copy of this book from the publisher for my honest review.
The Ravenous Dead tells the story of Keira who is hired to tend the local graveyard. But she’s not hired to be a groundskeeper as you’d think, no, she’s there because she can see ghosts and her job is to help them move on to the next life. Most of the ghosts she can see seem pleasant, some mysterious that will require some digging on her part… but one particular spirit has malicious intent and she must stop it before it gains too much power.
This book was such a fun, spooky read. It is also book two of a series and I need to read book one to get some questions answered. I’m also hoping there is a book three coming out at some point because it ends with some lingering secrets.
If you’re a fan of ghost stories, serial killers, and a creepy graveyard setting then you’ll want to get your hands on this one (but you may want to read book one first).
TW: Murder (gory descriptions), Death of a Loved One, Paranormal Activity, Arson/Fire.
*I received a gifted copy of this book from the publisher for my honest review.
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