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Ghosted
A feel-good LGBTQ+ romantic comedy full of heart, humour, and holiday misadventure.
What do you get when a disgraced department store Santa and an out-of-work waitress board a cruise ship packed with 3,000 gay men just days before Christmas?
A second chance they didn’t know they needed.
Silas French is used to playing jolly for a paycheck—but this year, his contract’s been cancelled, his health is failing, and he hasn’t spoken to his son in over a decade. Ellen is sharp-tongued, newly unemployed, and done playing nice for tips. A spur-of-the-moment decision throws them together on a festive cruise heading south—and into a swirl of secrets, cocktails, unlikely friendships, and the kind of queer chaos only the holidays can bring.
Set against the glitzy backdrop of a floating winter wonderland, Ghosted is a heartfelt romantic comedy about broken families, found families, and what happens when you finally give yourself permission to heal.
Perfect for fans of: Marian Keyes, Taylor Jenkins Reid, and Matt Cain
Queer fiction with emotional depth
Christmas romcoms with older protagonists
Dark comedy with a big, messy heart
A wise, witty and warm festive read—full of redemption, laughter, and the magic of letting go.
What do you get when a disgraced department store Santa and an out-of-work waitress board a cruise ship packed with 3,000 gay men just days before Christmas?
A second chance they didn’t know they needed.
Silas French is used to playing jolly for a paycheck—but this year, his contract’s been cancelled, his health is failing, and he hasn’t spoken to his son in over a decade. Ellen is sharp-tongued, newly unemployed, and done playing nice for tips. A spur-of-the-moment decision throws them together on a festive cruise heading south—and into a swirl of secrets, cocktails, unlikely friendships, and the kind of queer chaos only the holidays can bring.
Set against the glitzy backdrop of a floating winter wonderland, Ghosted is a heartfelt romantic comedy about broken families, found families, and what happens when you finally give yourself permission to heal.
Perfect for fans of: Marian Keyes, Taylor Jenkins Reid, and Matt Cain
Queer fiction with emotional depth
Christmas romcoms with older protagonists
Dark comedy with a big, messy heart
A wise, witty and warm festive read—full of redemption, laughter, and the magic of letting go.
316 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 31, 2022
4 people are currently reading
24 people want to read
About the author
Mo Fanning
14 books32 followersA very gay man living (though not from choice) in the United Kingdom of Stuff, who dabbles in paperback writing for pleasure and profit. Easily coaxed into talking about himself and his work for cake or fame.
I write darker comedy, often with a hint of romance. HUSBANDS delves into the darkness behind the glitter and glamour of Hollywood.
RAINBOWS AND LOLLIPOPS (2025) is a story of finding your family when the one you have no longer fits.
I write darker comedy, often with a hint of romance. HUSBANDS delves into the darkness behind the glitter and glamour of Hollywood.
RAINBOWS AND LOLLIPOPS (2025) is a story of finding your family when the one you have no longer fits.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
October 11, 2022
This book took me a few chapters to settle into but once I did, and got to know the characters and understand the backgrounds and how they all had ended up on a gay cruise (even though the 3 main characters are not gay) I was all aboard for what turned out to be a moving,funny,emotive,thought provoking,quirky and very immersive read,I grew to love Silas,Ellen and Julia and the many adventures they have aboard the Christmas cruise
There are some very poignant parts to the book,a cancer diagnosis,a Lupus diagnosis (rarely discussed in books) drug addiction,accepting your child’s sexuality….the list is not exhaustive and the book does not shy away from exploring these and other issues,I felt at all times in a sympathetic but honest way,nor did it always offer solutions or vibrant flag flying outcomes either but then life doesn’t always offer that either
This book was different,the author has written it in a way that you are constantly thinking throughout as you read and I enjoyed this,some of the non main characters are challenging but that was good too,I loved the ship descriptions and really enjoyed the very clear effort the author has made into making this anything but a forgettable story,impressive and enjoyable
There are some very poignant parts to the book,a cancer diagnosis,a Lupus diagnosis (rarely discussed in books) drug addiction,accepting your child’s sexuality….the list is not exhaustive and the book does not shy away from exploring these and other issues,I felt at all times in a sympathetic but honest way,nor did it always offer solutions or vibrant flag flying outcomes either but then life doesn’t always offer that either
This book was different,the author has written it in a way that you are constantly thinking throughout as you read and I enjoyed this,some of the non main characters are challenging but that was good too,I loved the ship descriptions and really enjoyed the very clear effort the author has made into making this anything but a forgettable story,impressive and enjoyable
November 2, 2022
I'll just start off by saying this book deals with a LOT of themes. Loss, family acceptance of sexuality, Lupus, crime and more. At times it felt like there was a lot going on but it still felt like a fun read with a lot of heart.
What's it About?
New Yorker, widower and 'professional Santa' Silas French is estranged from his grown up son and drifting through life when he hears a double whammy of bad news that leaves him jobless for the holidays.
A chance tip from his local bar sees him apply for a job as Santa on a gay cruise that happens to be docking in at Miami, where his son lives with his husband and kids just in time for the Christmas.
However, all is not plain sailing (yes that was a cruise-related pun, not sorry) and Silas soon finds himself involved with some unsavoury business as well as meeting a potential new love in the form of Ellen, who has taken an on-the-spur trip with her friend.
Without getting into any spoilers, I do feel like some areas of the story could have been tied up a bit better, or handled a bit better. However perhaps the point is that when it comes to families, things don't always get tied up in a neat bow?
What's it About?
New Yorker, widower and 'professional Santa' Silas French is estranged from his grown up son and drifting through life when he hears a double whammy of bad news that leaves him jobless for the holidays.
A chance tip from his local bar sees him apply for a job as Santa on a gay cruise that happens to be docking in at Miami, where his son lives with his husband and kids just in time for the Christmas.
However, all is not plain sailing (yes that was a cruise-related pun, not sorry) and Silas soon finds himself involved with some unsavoury business as well as meeting a potential new love in the form of Ellen, who has taken an on-the-spur trip with her friend.
Without getting into any spoilers, I do feel like some areas of the story could have been tied up a bit better, or handled a bit better. However perhaps the point is that when it comes to families, things don't always get tied up in a neat bow?
October 20, 2022
3.5 stars
Silas is applying to his annual Santa job at the local department store. Ellen is working a dead end waitressing job at a backroads diner. Both need a serious life change. Both have lost their spouses, and with it, their purposes in life.
A friend shows Silas a job listing to be a Santa on a cruise line. A cruise line that would take him to Miami where his estranged son and family live. Ellen sees a billboard posting from someone who needs to sell their spaces on a cruise. This might just be the life change that both of them are looking for.
Add in Ellen’s riotous friend Julia, her travel companion, the crazy group of cruise workers, and a brother and sister duo, and it’s a recipe for some funny times. Oh and the cruise just happens to be a gay cruise. What could possibly go wrong?
So the story itself was entertaining, straight Jewish man and woman meet up on a gay cruise. I overall liked the characters. Everyone has some sort of baggage, both literally and figuratively. It was a fast read. Not bad, not great. Just didn’t connect with me.
Silas is applying to his annual Santa job at the local department store. Ellen is working a dead end waitressing job at a backroads diner. Both need a serious life change. Both have lost their spouses, and with it, their purposes in life.
A friend shows Silas a job listing to be a Santa on a cruise line. A cruise line that would take him to Miami where his estranged son and family live. Ellen sees a billboard posting from someone who needs to sell their spaces on a cruise. This might just be the life change that both of them are looking for.
Add in Ellen’s riotous friend Julia, her travel companion, the crazy group of cruise workers, and a brother and sister duo, and it’s a recipe for some funny times. Oh and the cruise just happens to be a gay cruise. What could possibly go wrong?
So the story itself was entertaining, straight Jewish man and woman meet up on a gay cruise. I overall liked the characters. Everyone has some sort of baggage, both literally and figuratively. It was a fast read. Not bad, not great. Just didn’t connect with me.
October 25, 2022
Overall, an enjoyable, rollicking read about a man playing Santa on a gay cruise, who is on his way to hopefully reunite with his son, from who he has been estranged from for many years. In the span of a week, we get romance, crime, adventure, ghosts, sexuality, addiction, There was a lot to like, even love, about the book. The author doesn't wrap every situation up in a soppy Hallmark moment. It's obvious none of the characters are perfect and are all kind of quirky in their own way.
Did I mention ghosts? Both Silas and Ellen both see and speak to their dead spouses, at least when they're alone. The ghosts help them to figure out dilemmas in their every day lives, even perhaps, new romantic escapades. There was some confusion for me at the end, when one ghost makes an appearance at a a moment I didn't expect, and about which I'm still confused. about.
What brought it down from a 5* book to a 4* book for me were two things: Silas' relationship with his sister-in-law and the fact that there were two Britishisms which should have been caught (I'll let you find them!) and the pages about Boxing Day. It's not a thing in the US. None of the characters are British or even Canadian, and didn't bear noting as such. It's just the day after Christmas.
Thank you, NetGalley, for the chance to read and review this book. All the opinions expressed are mine, and freely given. I look forward to reading more from this author.
Did I mention ghosts? Both Silas and Ellen both see and speak to their dead spouses, at least when they're alone. The ghosts help them to figure out dilemmas in their every day lives, even perhaps, new romantic escapades. There was some confusion for me at the end, when one ghost makes an appearance at a a moment I didn't expect, and about which I'm still confused. about.
What brought it down from a 5* book to a 4* book for me were two things: Silas' relationship with his sister-in-law and the fact that there were two Britishisms which should have been caught (I'll let you find them!) and the pages about Boxing Day. It's not a thing in the US. None of the characters are British or even Canadian, and didn't bear noting as such. It's just the day after Christmas.
Thank you, NetGalley, for the chance to read and review this book. All the opinions expressed are mine, and freely given. I look forward to reading more from this author.
November 14, 2023
I was sent a copy of this audiobook for review.
🌟🌟🌟🌟 Silas doesn’t get his annual gig as a department store Santa in New York. His health isn’t great, and he desperately needs money to go speak to his estranged gay son Joey in Florida to make amends. He gets a spot as Santa onboard the Crown Atlantic Holiday Wonderland Cruise, a gay cruise bound for Florida. This job allows Silas a chance to work through his feelings over his failed relationship with his son and how he dealt with Joey’s coming out. He also tries to deal with his ongoing grief over the death of his wife.
He ends up meeting Ellen (one of the few straight woman aboard). Ellen is also mourning the loss of her husband. They hit it off, but things are complicated as they are both dealing with health issues, loss, the inability to let their dead spouse rest (they both still talk to their spouse’s ghost) and what do with the rest of their lives.
The comic moments are definitely on the darker side, funnelled through gallows humour and speaks of grief in many forms. The characters have well fleshed out personalities/backstories and you can’t help but connect to them quickly and become invested in their story. The side characters: neurotic Kathy, her lovelorn gay brother Patrick and Ellen’s friend Julia added an extra layer of drama as well as outlets for tough but touching conversations that developed the plot.
I did feel that the ending was a bit rushed as Silas and Ellen’s story didn’t get enough resolution as I would have liked but overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this audiobook. This was an emotional rollercoaster but had its funny moments too. The heart of the story, however, lies in the human connections as the characters deal with their current lives whether that’s coping with the death of a spouse, the loss of a baby, failing friendships or trying to reform broken familial bonds. There is plenty of heart wrenching honesty and painful reunions, but this story has such a raw and human feel to it that I found it cathartic to listen to as I have lost many important people in my life in the last year.
TW: grief, drugs, overdose, mentions of miscarriages, health issues, cancer
🌟🌟🌟🌟 Silas doesn’t get his annual gig as a department store Santa in New York. His health isn’t great, and he desperately needs money to go speak to his estranged gay son Joey in Florida to make amends. He gets a spot as Santa onboard the Crown Atlantic Holiday Wonderland Cruise, a gay cruise bound for Florida. This job allows Silas a chance to work through his feelings over his failed relationship with his son and how he dealt with Joey’s coming out. He also tries to deal with his ongoing grief over the death of his wife.
He ends up meeting Ellen (one of the few straight woman aboard). Ellen is also mourning the loss of her husband. They hit it off, but things are complicated as they are both dealing with health issues, loss, the inability to let their dead spouse rest (they both still talk to their spouse’s ghost) and what do with the rest of their lives.
The comic moments are definitely on the darker side, funnelled through gallows humour and speaks of grief in many forms. The characters have well fleshed out personalities/backstories and you can’t help but connect to them quickly and become invested in their story. The side characters: neurotic Kathy, her lovelorn gay brother Patrick and Ellen’s friend Julia added an extra layer of drama as well as outlets for tough but touching conversations that developed the plot.
I did feel that the ending was a bit rushed as Silas and Ellen’s story didn’t get enough resolution as I would have liked but overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this audiobook. This was an emotional rollercoaster but had its funny moments too. The heart of the story, however, lies in the human connections as the characters deal with their current lives whether that’s coping with the death of a spouse, the loss of a baby, failing friendships or trying to reform broken familial bonds. There is plenty of heart wrenching honesty and painful reunions, but this story has such a raw and human feel to it that I found it cathartic to listen to as I have lost many important people in my life in the last year.
TW: grief, drugs, overdose, mentions of miscarriages, health issues, cancer
October 14, 2023
I absolutely loved this book - the second one I've read by this author - and the second 5* read.
Mo has the amazing ability to write characters who jump off the page, grab you and drag you right into their world - not only do you relate and connect to them, but root for them and adore them!
There were a couple of characters thrown in there to stir things up and although I disliked the person, the character fitted perfectly into the storyline, adding interest and contrast.
I loved how the stories of Ellen and Silas were woven together.
Even within chapters we explored each of their pasts, relationships, friendship groups and personal lives - but also explored the developing friendship and maybe romance between the two.
Each with their own issues both health-wise and within their personal lives, they were both fascinating characters to travel with.
There were also some difficult topics explored throughout the book. Silas having fallen out with his son years ago due to him being gay. Both having lost their partners (in different circumstances) and coming to terms with the grief of that loss and the feelings of guilt created by the possibility of moving on - amongst other things.
As well as health issues, for both our main characters, but also some of the other characters too.
All topics dealt with in such a sensitive manner and shown in a light that was realistic and relatable.
My only complaint is that this ended abruptly. Having spent all that time with the characters on a will they - won't they journey, we are left hanging at the end.
It absolutely fitted with the whole story and was brilliantly done.....but I need to know more......I still have questions!
I wonder whether this maybe was done on purpose to leave an opening for a sequel? I'd love to hear more of the after story ....
Mo has the amazing ability to write characters who jump off the page, grab you and drag you right into their world - not only do you relate and connect to them, but root for them and adore them!
There were a couple of characters thrown in there to stir things up and although I disliked the person, the character fitted perfectly into the storyline, adding interest and contrast.
I loved how the stories of Ellen and Silas were woven together.
Even within chapters we explored each of their pasts, relationships, friendship groups and personal lives - but also explored the developing friendship and maybe romance between the two.
Each with their own issues both health-wise and within their personal lives, they were both fascinating characters to travel with.
There were also some difficult topics explored throughout the book. Silas having fallen out with his son years ago due to him being gay. Both having lost their partners (in different circumstances) and coming to terms with the grief of that loss and the feelings of guilt created by the possibility of moving on - amongst other things.
As well as health issues, for both our main characters, but also some of the other characters too.
All topics dealt with in such a sensitive manner and shown in a light that was realistic and relatable.
My only complaint is that this ended abruptly. Having spent all that time with the characters on a will they - won't they journey, we are left hanging at the end.
It absolutely fitted with the whole story and was brilliantly done.....but I need to know more......I still have questions!
I wonder whether this maybe was done on purpose to leave an opening for a sequel? I'd love to hear more of the after story ....
November 13, 2023
I read another book by Mo Fanning earlier this year and really enjoyed it, so I was quick to grab this one. He has a quirky, dark humor that I enjoy. It is self-deprecating, but it knows when to stop. He doesn’t push things too far.
I really enjoyed our main characters, but I especially loved Patrick. He was my favorite character throughout. Zack was also a delight. In fact, I felt a little sorry for Zack.
Fanning is wonderful at weaving messy, gorgeous relationships of all kinds – romantic, friendships, family, work, etc. Characters and relationships are my favorite part of any story, and this author brings his absolute A game.
The ending wasn’t quite what I was looking for, but it was still good. It offered hope. And sometimes hope is all you can ask for. That and solid writing, and the author delivers on that as well.
I’m so grateful to the author and Love Books Tours for including me on this tour! I’ll definitely be checking out more by Mr. Fanning. I already have another sitting in my to-be-read list.
I listened to this on audiobook, and the narrator did a fantastic job. She really made the characters.
Who’s It For?
If you love a good second chance romance, and a good look at the messy, complicated picture of life – this is the book for you. I enjoyed that it was a story of love late in life, second chances all around, and the messiness of friendship and family. The ending is not tied up in a neat little bow, so if that is something that frustrates you – it does me – be forewarned. I’m hoping that means there will be a second book. But it’s also how life is sometimes.
Content Warnings: Homophobia, Religious Discussion, References to 9/11, Cancer, Health Issues, Drug Abuse, Alcohol Abuse, Adult Situations, Adult Language, and More. This is not meant to serve as a list of all possible topics that may trigger sensitive readers.
I really enjoyed our main characters, but I especially loved Patrick. He was my favorite character throughout. Zack was also a delight. In fact, I felt a little sorry for Zack.
Fanning is wonderful at weaving messy, gorgeous relationships of all kinds – romantic, friendships, family, work, etc. Characters and relationships are my favorite part of any story, and this author brings his absolute A game.
The ending wasn’t quite what I was looking for, but it was still good. It offered hope. And sometimes hope is all you can ask for. That and solid writing, and the author delivers on that as well.
I’m so grateful to the author and Love Books Tours for including me on this tour! I’ll definitely be checking out more by Mr. Fanning. I already have another sitting in my to-be-read list.
I listened to this on audiobook, and the narrator did a fantastic job. She really made the characters.
Who’s It For?
If you love a good second chance romance, and a good look at the messy, complicated picture of life – this is the book for you. I enjoyed that it was a story of love late in life, second chances all around, and the messiness of friendship and family. The ending is not tied up in a neat little bow, so if that is something that frustrates you – it does me – be forewarned. I’m hoping that means there will be a second book. But it’s also how life is sometimes.
Content Warnings: Homophobia, Religious Discussion, References to 9/11, Cancer, Health Issues, Drug Abuse, Alcohol Abuse, Adult Situations, Adult Language, and More. This is not meant to serve as a list of all possible topics that may trigger sensitive readers.
January 27, 2025
It took a little effort for me to get involved with this book. Silas is not really likeable at first, and Ellen is a bit distant when we first meet her. She comes across as a grumpy old woman to be honest! But I stuck with the book and I’m glad that I did. While the subplot that Silas unwittingly gets involved with is a little ridiculous it is totally believable and probably does happen.
I enjoyed the slow romance between two older characters who were just average people with no specific professional achievements to brag about. They worked minimum wage jobs all their adult lives, they raised children, they lost their spouses in tragic circumstances. And then they found each other.
The book is about how we can still learn a lot of lessons as we grow older. We can learn that our own children are not perfect and that we are not necessarily to blame for that fact. We can learn about the wider world and lifestyles that are different to those we have lived with. We can learn to love again when we have lost a beloved family member. And we can overcome illness and the natural deterioration of our bodies as we grow older. It is a good book!
I enjoyed the slow romance between two older characters who were just average people with no specific professional achievements to brag about. They worked minimum wage jobs all their adult lives, they raised children, they lost their spouses in tragic circumstances. And then they found each other.
The book is about how we can still learn a lot of lessons as we grow older. We can learn that our own children are not perfect and that we are not necessarily to blame for that fact. We can learn about the wider world and lifestyles that are different to those we have lived with. We can learn to love again when we have lost a beloved family member. And we can overcome illness and the natural deterioration of our bodies as we grow older. It is a good book!
November 2, 2025
Silas and Ellen captivated my interest throughout the story due to their varied characteristics. The various situations that have led them to where they are in life, and despite the fact that you are reading vastly different stories, they do not feel forcefully clump together.
The plot is funny and unserious in the most realistic sense, but it takes time seriously when necessary. Family, health, and career all seeming to be coming apart in a familiar way. Silas has problems, such as not having a strong relationship with his family and attempting to rekindle it; he is pessimistic but in an amusing and relatable way, at least to me. Ellen seemed distant and closed off, as if she disliked everything in her environment. She appears to be fed up with constant doctor visits and expects the worse. Though they aren't the most likeable characters at first, they grow on you, and that's not all there is to them.
Human ties are central to the plot. Relationships are hard and confusing. Forgiveness, grieving, and moving on are difficult. However, it conveys a sense of hope that things will improve.
The plot is funny and unserious in the most realistic sense, but it takes time seriously when necessary. Family, health, and career all seeming to be coming apart in a familiar way. Silas has problems, such as not having a strong relationship with his family and attempting to rekindle it; he is pessimistic but in an amusing and relatable way, at least to me. Ellen seemed distant and closed off, as if she disliked everything in her environment. She appears to be fed up with constant doctor visits and expects the worse. Though they aren't the most likeable characters at first, they grow on you, and that's not all there is to them.
Human ties are central to the plot. Relationships are hard and confusing. Forgiveness, grieving, and moving on are difficult. However, it conveys a sense of hope that things will improve.
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October 27, 2022Not as expected...
The story line is good, but so not what I expected after reading the blurb. I was expecting a "lighter" feel to the book, capitalizing upon the many opportunities presented with the premise. There were many opportunities in the events to bring some laughter or levity to the story simply because of the situations and the individuals found themselves in. Unfortunately, most were left unexplored which left me somewhat lacking in fulfillment. On a whole the book is about three seniors looking for what is missing in their lives. Over the course of the Christmas Holiday cruise they slowly learn that what they thought they were seeking isn't really what would make them happy, and that they are in control of their choices. The story wraps up very well with a HEA for all. My rating is more impacted by what the book "could have been" than what it was which was a good book. I was provided a copy of this book by the author, and am leaving this review that reflects my opinion of the book voluntarily
The story line is good, but so not what I expected after reading the blurb. I was expecting a "lighter" feel to the book, capitalizing upon the many opportunities presented with the premise. There were many opportunities in the events to bring some laughter or levity to the story simply because of the situations and the individuals found themselves in. Unfortunately, most were left unexplored which left me somewhat lacking in fulfillment. On a whole the book is about three seniors looking for what is missing in their lives. Over the course of the Christmas Holiday cruise they slowly learn that what they thought they were seeking isn't really what would make them happy, and that they are in control of their choices. The story wraps up very well with a HEA for all. My rating is more impacted by what the book "could have been" than what it was which was a good book. I was provided a copy of this book by the author, and am leaving this review that reflects my opinion of the book voluntarily
November 12, 2023
Well, the storyline didn't go how I'd been expecting from the blurb, but I definitely enjoyed it!
Told from the dual perspectives of Ellen and Silas, the book is one of second chances, grabbing life and letting go.
I'd have liked a little bit more closure around some of the storylines on board the ship, with regards to Ken, Bob, Deon, etc. And I'd have also liked an epilogue, a few months into the future, just to see if Silas and Ellen got their happy endings.
There's some tough topics discussed between light-heartedness, including miscarriage, substance misuse, chronic health, and death. So, trigger warnings for these.
I really liked the relationship of Ellen and Julia. The brother and sister Patrick and Kathy really forced them to confront their issues head-on. Speaking of Kathy, all the way through, I kept screaming her name is Ellen, why is nobody correcting you!! Then Patrick says to Ellen, "Why do you let her call you Helen?" and I said finally!!
This was a very quick read, I finished over the course of a day, and I think there's definitely an audience for it.
Told from the dual perspectives of Ellen and Silas, the book is one of second chances, grabbing life and letting go.
I'd have liked a little bit more closure around some of the storylines on board the ship, with regards to Ken, Bob, Deon, etc. And I'd have also liked an epilogue, a few months into the future, just to see if Silas and Ellen got their happy endings.
There's some tough topics discussed between light-heartedness, including miscarriage, substance misuse, chronic health, and death. So, trigger warnings for these.
I really liked the relationship of Ellen and Julia. The brother and sister Patrick and Kathy really forced them to confront their issues head-on. Speaking of Kathy, all the way through, I kept screaming her name is Ellen, why is nobody correcting you!! Then Patrick says to Ellen, "Why do you let her call you Helen?" and I said finally!!
This was a very quick read, I finished over the course of a day, and I think there's definitely an audience for it.
December 7, 2023
I wouldn't say this is a romance book or at least not a typical romance book. We are following the lives of Ellen and Silas who have both lost their significant others a number of years ago, have both had health scares and both end up on a cruise ship for gay men at Christmas.
Silas is on the cruise as a way to reconnect with his son and Ellen is there to help her friend Julia scratch swimming with dolphins off the bucket list.
The book is more than just this, we get to see familial relationships, moving on after loss, friendships, the difficulties associated with growing old etc.
There is also a sub story of criminal activity happening on the cruise ship making the story all the more interesting as you're trying to figure out what is going on.
I listened to the audiobook for this book and must say I absolutely loved the narrator. Her long island / New Yorker accent was brilliant and made me want to listen to more in that accent. They had a good pace although I did have it at 1.2x.
I really enjoyed this audiobook and story. I'd love to read more by this author.
Silas is on the cruise as a way to reconnect with his son and Ellen is there to help her friend Julia scratch swimming with dolphins off the bucket list.
The book is more than just this, we get to see familial relationships, moving on after loss, friendships, the difficulties associated with growing old etc.
There is also a sub story of criminal activity happening on the cruise ship making the story all the more interesting as you're trying to figure out what is going on.
I listened to the audiobook for this book and must say I absolutely loved the narrator. Her long island / New Yorker accent was brilliant and made me want to listen to more in that accent. They had a good pace although I did have it at 1.2x.
I really enjoyed this audiobook and story. I'd love to read more by this author.
November 3, 2022
First Silas loses his job as the mall Santa and then he finds himself another job as Santa on a gay cruise. Estranged from his gay son. Silas is not homophobic his playing Santa on a gay cruise!
What a fun lighthearted read it was just the tonic I needed at the moment. At times I had a cramps in the belly from laughing so hard. Although it also it has some serious issues throughout the storyline of loss, acceptance of sexuality , cancer and lupus which I have heard of but never read about in any other book.
This is the first book I have read by this author but it definitely isn't going to be my last. This author has an authentic talent for discussing serious issues but keeping it lighthearted at the same time. I loved that I was kept thinking while reading, it really gave my brain a workout in a good way.
Overall this is an engaging and remarkable read that I heartily recommend!
What a fun lighthearted read it was just the tonic I needed at the moment. At times I had a cramps in the belly from laughing so hard. Although it also it has some serious issues throughout the storyline of loss, acceptance of sexuality , cancer and lupus which I have heard of but never read about in any other book.
This is the first book I have read by this author but it definitely isn't going to be my last. This author has an authentic talent for discussing serious issues but keeping it lighthearted at the same time. I loved that I was kept thinking while reading, it really gave my brain a workout in a good way.
Overall this is an engaging and remarkable read that I heartily recommend!
November 8, 2023
I really enjoyed this book, it was well written with a compelling story line and well developed characters that I found to be flawed and believable, and, because of that they were really relatable to me. I felt like I knew them, and, more than that, I felt like I really wanted them in my life.
There are some heartwarming moments in the book and equally some heart wrenching moments, but, all of these moments I felt wholeheartedly with the characters. There are also some really hard hitting issues spoken about within the book from health related issues, to sexuality, however, all are important for the story line and all are, in my opinion, handled with the right amount of sensitivity that the issues need.
The only reason that this is a 4.5 star read for me and not a 5 star read is that I didn't like the way the book ended. I felt like I was so invested all the way through and then the book ended really abruptly and that felt very flat and disappointing to me. I loved the book though.
There are some heartwarming moments in the book and equally some heart wrenching moments, but, all of these moments I felt wholeheartedly with the characters. There are also some really hard hitting issues spoken about within the book from health related issues, to sexuality, however, all are important for the story line and all are, in my opinion, handled with the right amount of sensitivity that the issues need.
The only reason that this is a 4.5 star read for me and not a 5 star read is that I didn't like the way the book ended. I felt like I was so invested all the way through and then the book ended really abruptly and that felt very flat and disappointing to me. I loved the book though.
December 12, 2023
I really enjoyed this book. It delves in to the problems that so many families face, with differences in beliefs, lifestyles, preferences etc driving them apart. It shares the experiences faced with time lost and whether or not a bond can be mended, both with so much time apart and when something nearly unforgivable has been said or done.
We spend the book getting to know a small selection of very detailed and very well written characters. As we get to know them, we find some lovely connections and we find some of the characters definitely have shortcomings. You find yourself trying to decide if you think forgiveness is always possible and wondering what the couple should do with the connection to Silas. It is such a tricky and very emotional topic, but the book manages to take it on in a way that still remains a bit lighthearted.
Overall I really enjoyed the book and everything it had to share. I definitely recommend it and will be looking for more from this author.
We spend the book getting to know a small selection of very detailed and very well written characters. As we get to know them, we find some lovely connections and we find some of the characters definitely have shortcomings. You find yourself trying to decide if you think forgiveness is always possible and wondering what the couple should do with the connection to Silas. It is such a tricky and very emotional topic, but the book manages to take it on in a way that still remains a bit lighthearted.
Overall I really enjoyed the book and everything it had to share. I definitely recommend it and will be looking for more from this author.
November 8, 2023
Audiobook!
First off, I never would have gotten the New York accent in my head. I don’t normally do audiobooks, but I’m wanting to do more. I’m glad I did this because their accents add so much to the characters. They begin to be kind of sad, and you can feel their troubles. The addiction was an element I wasn’t expecting, but it added a whole new aspect to his damaged relationship with his son. Although I found this whole situation frustrating, It seemed like a case of misunderstanding, and his son was an ass. I wouldn’t really say this was a romance. Ellie and Silas both go through their own journeys of allowing themselves to move on and dealing with life. It was a very deep story with a nice, sweet touch of lightness in the new romance. New beginnings.
Come read with me! https://instagram.com/booksy.tx.ana?i...
First off, I never would have gotten the New York accent in my head. I don’t normally do audiobooks, but I’m wanting to do more. I’m glad I did this because their accents add so much to the characters. They begin to be kind of sad, and you can feel their troubles. The addiction was an element I wasn’t expecting, but it added a whole new aspect to his damaged relationship with his son. Although I found this whole situation frustrating, It seemed like a case of misunderstanding, and his son was an ass. I wouldn’t really say this was a romance. Ellie and Silas both go through their own journeys of allowing themselves to move on and dealing with life. It was a very deep story with a nice, sweet touch of lightness in the new romance. New beginnings.
Come read with me! https://instagram.com/booksy.tx.ana?i...
November 9, 2023
It took me a few chapters to get into the story and wrap my head around who's who. However, once I got into it, this was an enjoyable read. The writing style is different, and I feel it either works for you or it doesn't.
Unfortunately for me, I struggled a little. The different points of view had me confused, I had to really think about what was going on and who's perspective we were reading from. I also felt this was very long, and the same could have been accomplished in fewer pages. However, I could get on board with the length if we had some sort of wrap-up at the end. I really couldn't believe the story had finished, I felt the ending was very abrupt, and I was left wanting more.
Overall, it was an enjoyable read. This story has good representations of the elderly, LGBTQIA+, and a nice found family element.
Unfortunately for me, I struggled a little. The different points of view had me confused, I had to really think about what was going on and who's perspective we were reading from. I also felt this was very long, and the same could have been accomplished in fewer pages. However, I could get on board with the length if we had some sort of wrap-up at the end. I really couldn't believe the story had finished, I felt the ending was very abrupt, and I was left wanting more.
Overall, it was an enjoyable read. This story has good representations of the elderly, LGBTQIA+, and a nice found family element.
November 1, 2023
A really impressive and insightful novel which was not at all what I was expecting! The story had so many different themes and brilliant characters that I instantly warmed to. The book had equal parts humour and upsetting moments which blended really well. The book touched on many serious subjects such as miscarriage, cancer diagnosis and grief. I was very impressed with the description of Ellen’s Lupus diagnosis. As a fellow Lupus patient I was pleased to see that information was being shared as I haven’t come across the subject before in a novel. Overall I was very impressed with this book and I would definitely recommend it. I’ve given it 5 stars!
November 7, 2023
This was such a good read. It was quirky and funny in parts and I loved the characters. I really felt for Silas.
He kinda reminded me of my dad. We lost my mom 8 years ago and since then he kinda has just been floating through life my mom was the glue and when she passed my dad like Silas kinda just wondered through life I loved this book and the setting of the cruise !!! How fun !!! Eeek. Yall need to read this. It was light but also had moments of not so light stuff.
Ellen was also amazing. I couldn't get enough of this book. Really I couldn’t.
He kinda reminded me of my dad. We lost my mom 8 years ago and since then he kinda has just been floating through life my mom was the glue and when she passed my dad like Silas kinda just wondered through life I loved this book and the setting of the cruise !!! How fun !!! Eeek. Yall need to read this. It was light but also had moments of not so light stuff.
Ellen was also amazing. I couldn't get enough of this book. Really I couldn’t.
September 21, 2025
11 September 2025
3 stars
I received a free copy of this e-book, so thank you to NetGalley and the author for the chance to read it!
This book has a premise that intrigued me, and I enjoyed a lot of aspects of the characters and their interactions in a unique setting. The story was bittersweet more than heartwarming, which was not what I expected going into it, but enjoyed.
While I enjoyed the overall arc of the plot, I had some trouble with the nitty-gritty of the story. I struggled with the scenes where characters got into arguments because their anger always felt sudden and unprecedented, so it was hard to believe that whatever they were fighting about was as important as they were saying it was. We as the audience saw a lot of what happened in the characters’ heads, so it felt confusing that we didn’t see their resentment and anger building until they exploded outward. I wish we had seen more of that before it got externalized.
There were also several mechanical issues (missing paragraph breaks when a POV changes, repeated paragraphs with text in between, strange formatting, and typos) which I expect likely has something to do with the e-book format, so of course I can’t blame the author or the book itself for them. Unfortunately though, there were so many of these that they were pretty distracting the whole way through.
Despite these flaws, I did appreciate this book and how complex it allowed all of its relationships to be. Nothing got tied up in the neat bow I was expecting, and I liked that.
3 stars
I received a free copy of this e-book, so thank you to NetGalley and the author for the chance to read it!
This book has a premise that intrigued me, and I enjoyed a lot of aspects of the characters and their interactions in a unique setting. The story was bittersweet more than heartwarming, which was not what I expected going into it, but enjoyed.
While I enjoyed the overall arc of the plot, I had some trouble with the nitty-gritty of the story. I struggled with the scenes where characters got into arguments because their anger always felt sudden and unprecedented, so it was hard to believe that whatever they were fighting about was as important as they were saying it was. We as the audience saw a lot of what happened in the characters’ heads, so it felt confusing that we didn’t see their resentment and anger building until they exploded outward. I wish we had seen more of that before it got externalized.
There were also several mechanical issues (missing paragraph breaks when a POV changes, repeated paragraphs with text in between, strange formatting, and typos) which I expect likely has something to do with the e-book format, so of course I can’t blame the author or the book itself for them. Unfortunately though, there were so many of these that they were pretty distracting the whole way through.
Despite these flaws, I did appreciate this book and how complex it allowed all of its relationships to be. Nothing got tied up in the neat bow I was expecting, and I liked that.
November 7, 2023
This was an enjoyable easy listen with relatable and likeable characters.
It took a few chapters for me to get my head around all the characters and who was who but once I’d done that I enjoyed it.
I loved the LGBTQI+ representation in this novel and the aspect of romance in later life.
There are a few heavy subjects covered in the book but the author Mo Fanning does a good job of balance the heavy subjects with the lighter, more pleasant aspects of the novel.
It took a few chapters for me to get my head around all the characters and who was who but once I’d done that I enjoyed it.
I loved the LGBTQI+ representation in this novel and the aspect of romance in later life.
There are a few heavy subjects covered in the book but the author Mo Fanning does a good job of balance the heavy subjects with the lighter, more pleasant aspects of the novel.
November 20, 2023
It was rough at first but once you dive in you’ll be hooked. Such a funny and quirky tale. It deals with family and the coming out of a son in an emotional and honest portrayal. Plus add in some talking to ghosts and you’ll full on enjoy this book.
🚢 ghosts
🚢 lgbtq+ characters
🚢 addiction
🚢 family drama
🚢 etc.
My only downside was it took a moment to get into and the ending left me with a few questions.
🚢 ghosts
🚢 lgbtq+ characters
🚢 addiction
🚢 family drama
🚢 etc.
My only downside was it took a moment to get into and the ending left me with a few questions.
October 4, 2024
How funny that Santa and the 2 ladies end up on a gay holiday cruise. Silas wants to be santa and cruise near his gay estranged son. The ladies bought the cruise package without researching what kind of cruise it was. It made me laugh. Yes they have health issues and life is not easy. The book is entertaining and made me smile.
January 24, 2023
Ghosted
Loved the book, hated the ending! Seriously I was so looking forward to these characters as they started their new lives. Very disappointed..
Loved the book, hated the ending! Seriously I was so looking forward to these characters as they started their new lives. Very disappointed..
July 12, 2024
Fine example of what it is but not the book for me rn
August 20, 2025
A nice take on second chance at love - and life - with interesting and layered background stories for each character. They work through grief and the past in a compelling way, and the easy prose makes their journey a nice one to follow, even if it felt lacking a bit of depth at times.
All in all, I would recommend this book to anyone who likes second chance story.
Note: I read the 2025 revision of this book, that the publisher and NetGalley kindly allowed me to read as an arc, therefore I can't give my opinion on the original version.
All in all, I would recommend this book to anyone who likes second chance story.
Note: I read the 2025 revision of this book, that the publisher and NetGalley kindly allowed me to read as an arc, therefore I can't give my opinion on the original version.
February 21, 2024
Ghosted is more than just a romance; it is about family and friendship. It’s about accepting who you are, where you are in life, and accepting others for who they are.
I received a free copy of this book and I am writing a review without prejudice and voluntarily.
I received a free copy of this book and I am writing a review without prejudice and voluntarily.
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