What do you think?
Rate this book
The Ghost Downstairs
After making a fatal mistake on the job, Lina Zuendel seeks shelter in a Seattle assisted-living facility as their live-in nurse. But peace is not what she finds. She soon hears tales of ghosts haunting the house, and of two tragic deaths that took place in the 1930s. Unexplained events send her to ask questions of the handsome resident houseboy.
Ren Schultz, a seemingly young live-in houseboy, tries to avoid his growing attraction to the new nurse. His secrets are too dangerous to share, no matter how lonely he has become. But Lina is persistent, and soon uncovers dark truths that no one else has dared to face.
As their attraction grows, so does the intensity of the paranormal activity. Can their love survive the mysteries that lurk in the old sorority house?
Ren Schultz, a seemingly young live-in houseboy, tries to avoid his growing attraction to the new nurse. His secrets are too dangerous to share, no matter how lonely he has become. But Lina is persistent, and soon uncovers dark truths that no one else has dared to face.
As their attraction grows, so does the intensity of the paranormal activity. Can their love survive the mysteries that lurk in the old sorority house?
284 pages, Paperback
First published March 6, 2009
2 people are currently reading
894 people want to read
About the author
Molly Ringle
16 books407 followers[Aug. 2022 note: I'm going dormant on Goodreads and moving over to Storygraph. Find me there! I'm under username mollyringle and would love to connect.]
Bio: Molly Ringle was one of the quiet, weird kids in school, and is now one of the quiet, weird writers of the world. She/her, demi, bi.
Bio: Molly Ringle was one of the quiet, weird kids in school, and is now one of the quiet, weird writers of the world. She/her, demi, bi.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
October 4, 2012
A sweet romance between a nurse named, "Lina" and a 1930's style, "houseboy," and resident ghost named, "Ren." For reasons even unknown to Ren, who died in 1936, he appears full in the flesh as long as he stays "ON" the property of the old mansion where Lina works as one of the retirement home caregivers. Lina has no idea Ren, who works as a cook, is a ghost and is drawn to him from the beginning. Perpetually lonely, Ren tries to sway Lina in another direction as he knows his love comes at a price.
The historic house also holds the presence of another ghost named, "Julia." Although she is in spirit only, her wrath is mighty as she was in love with Ren all those years ago; when the house was originally a soroity for the nearby college. As the story goes, Julia attempted to convice Ren to go to a dance with her, but when he refused, because houseboys weren't allowed to date the girls; Julia accidentally kills him as a result. Two days later, she tragically takes her own life.
The pace of this story was a bit slow, but I understood why the author chose that way of revealing her story. It's gentleness carried the story well and I found myself enjoying their enchanting yet peaceful relationship come into full bloom. The intimacy between Ren and Lina was thoughtful and even chivalrous, at least on his account...which I loved! The only issue I had with the book came towards the end as I felt it was a little too unrealistic, (if that makes sense due to the story's theme to begin with!)
I recommend this book for it's unique storyline and nice writing style. The descriptive landscapes of Seattle and it's fall and spring months worked very well in setting up the environment surrounding Ren and Lina's sweet love story...
January 25, 2018
Ghost (BOO!) Love story with some twists. Ringle kept me reading till the end; I had to know what was going to happen to Ren and Lina! Maybe a bit too much background on Lana and not enough on Ren but still the characters were unique and had crowd appeal. Just enough secondary characters to make the plot move along. Lina is a nurse who is riddled with guilt over a patient's death. Ren is DEAD or is he? As always there is the conflict between good and evil or in this case jealousy. Secret of a couple deaths in a University Sorority House seventy years ago affects the elderly House inhabitants of today. Emotional see saw of the effects of accidental dealth and the ones left behind. "A copy of this book was provided by The Wild Rose Press, Inc via NetGalley with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read and comments are my honest opinion."
April 15, 2011
I will preface my review by disclosing that romance is definitely not my genre and that books concerning ghosts are not a priority for me. That said, Molly Ringle is a very talented writer with a strong sense of narrative and exceptionally sharp descriptive skills. The book will keep the reader engaged and is difficult to put down at times. Scenes are vividly described, so it is very easy to lose yourself in the environment of the novel. I can't remember any time in the book where the author collapsed into cliché-driven writing, which is always a danger when you write in a particular genre. All in all, a fresh, crisp and very well-written novel that I can recommend without hesitation.
December 16, 2012
L.O.V.E I.T.!
Ren and Lina. well i just love them.! i thought it would end the way i imagine it but im wrong... if ghost really exist well i want to meet one but not the cruel and bad one ;) Molly Ringle wrote an absolutely amazing tale about ghost and i couldn't put it down. i love the way she wrote and the story is totally amazing! very likeable characters, if such things exist on earth maybe, there would be second chance for those whose lives was stolen from them...
Ren and Lina. well i just love them.! i thought it would end the way i imagine it but im wrong... if ghost really exist well i want to meet one but not the cruel and bad one ;) Molly Ringle wrote an absolutely amazing tale about ghost and i couldn't put it down. i love the way she wrote and the story is totally amazing! very likeable characters, if such things exist on earth maybe, there would be second chance for those whose lives was stolen from them...
October 15, 2011
MC Lina takes a job as the live-in nurse at a small retirement home after an unfortunate incident at the big hospital where she's on staff. I could have told Lina that reading Stephen King when your job involves staying up all night is a major mistake! (My wife finally made me turn the lights out at bedtime a week after I finished "It.") Her new digs are a funny old place though. It's an elegant mansion, a former sorority house, rumored to be haunted by one of the former sisters. Lina is sceptical, and far more concerned with her feelings for Ren, the "houseboy." It's not just that he's the sole occupant anywhere near her age, he's also kind, something she needs in her life just now, and quel coincidence for a romance novel, he's also kind of hot. His aloof manner and mysterious comings and goings give her pause though. Is the attraction all one sided?
This is a really good read. It is a bit hard to review, though, because there is a big ole twist, and although it's not that hard to spot, nonetheless it's much more fun to encounter it yourself, without a nasty spoilerboots ruining all the fun. So, I'll just talk a bit about the characters and the atmosphere, which honestly to me were the richer part of the reading experience in any event.
Lina ia so charming and sweet, you are rooting for her to find something good in her life from page one. I think Molly Ringle has a major knack for creating super relatable female characters. From a guy perspective they are that elusive combination of smart, sweet, funny (without knowing it), strong but vulnerable, and of course, cute, that makes them irresistible. Lina is a lonely girl though, and we find out why as the story progresses. Her story is poignant and tender, and it's great to see her find friends among her patients (? they're not sick, just elderly, but I'm not sure what else to call them, the residents?). She seems to find the family she needs among them, and seeing her come out of her shell is a touching part of the story.
Ren is enigmatic and elusive, but not in a way that makes you think he's a jerk. On the contrary, it's clear he too has suffered, and that he and Lina are just what each other needs.
Seattle itself is another major element of this book, and Molly conveys a beautiful sense of the city, which is very important to Lina. Here's a passage from the beginning of the book I thought was beautifully and sensitively written:
"A fresh September dawn bathed the eastern sky. Lina stumbled along the sidewalk, blinking at buildings and citizens and seagulls. Salmon-colored sunlight gleamed on the cars; roasting coffee filled the salty air with its scent; a beeping bread truck backed up into an alley."
For some reason that just put me totally into the scene, it felt poetic but also real. Which, is actually a pretty good way to describe Molly Ringle's style in general. Obvs this book has a lot of fantastical elements, but she does a good job of maintaining credibility and pulling you in so that it's all believable. Another thing I like about this book is that even the "bad guy" sees a little redemption at the end, and has motivations and a humanity that contribute to the aforementioned credibility.
After you've read a few books by an author, it's tempting to try to sort of "rank" them by quality or as "favorites." It's hard with Molly though, because each book I've read is so different. One thing they share though is a fun lyrical style, engaging, endearing characters and a heartwarming empathy for them. They all have their flaws and issues - some of them are pretty serious. And it's not just that it makes them more "real," it makes their stories deeper, more meaningful than if they were somehow less scared, scarred and worried. Haha, the more I talk about this book, the more I like it! Check it out, I bet anything you will too!
This is a really good read. It is a bit hard to review, though, because there is a big ole twist, and although it's not that hard to spot, nonetheless it's much more fun to encounter it yourself, without a nasty spoilerboots ruining all the fun. So, I'll just talk a bit about the characters and the atmosphere, which honestly to me were the richer part of the reading experience in any event.
Lina ia so charming and sweet, you are rooting for her to find something good in her life from page one. I think Molly Ringle has a major knack for creating super relatable female characters. From a guy perspective they are that elusive combination of smart, sweet, funny (without knowing it), strong but vulnerable, and of course, cute, that makes them irresistible. Lina is a lonely girl though, and we find out why as the story progresses. Her story is poignant and tender, and it's great to see her find friends among her patients (? they're not sick, just elderly, but I'm not sure what else to call them, the residents?). She seems to find the family she needs among them, and seeing her come out of her shell is a touching part of the story.
Ren is enigmatic and elusive, but not in a way that makes you think he's a jerk. On the contrary, it's clear he too has suffered, and that he and Lina are just what each other needs.
Seattle itself is another major element of this book, and Molly conveys a beautiful sense of the city, which is very important to Lina. Here's a passage from the beginning of the book I thought was beautifully and sensitively written:
"A fresh September dawn bathed the eastern sky. Lina stumbled along the sidewalk, blinking at buildings and citizens and seagulls. Salmon-colored sunlight gleamed on the cars; roasting coffee filled the salty air with its scent; a beeping bread truck backed up into an alley."
For some reason that just put me totally into the scene, it felt poetic but also real. Which, is actually a pretty good way to describe Molly Ringle's style in general. Obvs this book has a lot of fantastical elements, but she does a good job of maintaining credibility and pulling you in so that it's all believable. Another thing I like about this book is that even the "bad guy" sees a little redemption at the end, and has motivations and a humanity that contribute to the aforementioned credibility.
After you've read a few books by an author, it's tempting to try to sort of "rank" them by quality or as "favorites." It's hard with Molly though, because each book I've read is so different. One thing they share though is a fun lyrical style, engaging, endearing characters and a heartwarming empathy for them. They all have their flaws and issues - some of them are pretty serious. And it's not just that it makes them more "real," it makes their stories deeper, more meaningful than if they were somehow less scared, scarred and worried. Haha, the more I talk about this book, the more I like it! Check it out, I bet anything you will too!
September 8, 2017
This is the first book I’ve read by Molly Ringle and it won’t be my last. What an amazing first experience to have with an author!
The premise of this book intrigued me; a haunted nursing home and a splash of romance, an excellent combination. I went in with no expectations other than the hope for an enjoyable story. It was that and so much more. I would categorise this story as primarily a romance with a suspenseful twist. The story definitely has a spooky theme through it, and there are certainly moments that make you want to check over your shoulder; but the book is not a horror. The ghostly encounters serve a purpose in illustrating the frustrations, jealousy, and growing anger of the trapped spirit. The main theme is a love story that must defy the odds if it is to overcome what seems to be its inevitable fate.
The author has a lovely writing style. It flows well and has an addictively dreamy, relaxing quality to it while simultaneously being completely compelling, capturing the creepiness you would expect of a ghost story.
Character development is very well done. Lina and Ren are genuinely likeable characters; they each have their flaws, and are scarred by their past bad experiences but these only add depth to their personalities and make them more relatable. The secondary and minor characters are fleshed out enough according to their roles in the story so that they each have a unique personality, but you are not drowning in too much descriptive detail. The primary secondary characters of Marla and Mrs B have their own individual roles in developing and progressing the story and the minor characters, primarily the other nursing home residents, add colour and flavour giving the impression of a generally happy and relaxed environment; that is until the ghost’s behaviour is no longer limited to harmless mischievousness but becomes increasingly erratic and violent, directed towards Lena and anyone in her periphery.
The Ghost Downstairs was a lovely story with enough creepiness to give it that bit of an edge. It had me compulsively turning the pages to discover just how Lina and Ren were going to beat the odds and I was more than happy with the ending.
I would thoroughly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a sweet romance with a dash of ghostly creepiness.
*Advanced Reading Copy provided by the publisher in lieu of an honest review.
May 21, 2009
I always love it when I come across an e-book that captures my imagination and delights me to no end. And Molly Ringle’s The Ghost Downstairs did just that.
After accidentally giving a terminal patient the wrong medicine, which results in his death, Lina Zuendel quits her job as a nurse. Even though the hospital said she could remain on the staff, it just felt all wrong to stay. After several failed attempts to get hired elsewhere, she’s hired to take care of the elderly residents of Drake House—a retirement home.
Right from the beginning, Lina’s patients tell her about the ghost who wanders about the house during the night. Lina thinks nothing of it until the ghost starts switching off lights and moving her stuff around. When Lina shows an interest in the houseboy, Ren Schulz—and he in her—the ghost turns ugly, targeting Lina with dangerous pranks.
Something’s a little off with the houseboy, too. For some reason, he can’t leave the property. The only explanation Lina gets from her employer is that Ren is under house arrest for a crime that happened years ago. But that doesn’t stop her from falling in love with him and bringing down the wrath of an angry ghost.
The Ghost Downstairs is just what a light-hearted ghost story should be. It’s delightful, funny, and intriguing, with just enough chills to give you goose bumps. You’ll also get caught up in the mystery of Drake House—a former 1940s sorority house, where an accidental murder and suicide once happened.
All of the characters are unique and likeable in their own way. I especially loved the spry elderly characters who seemed to enjoy life to the fullest, even at their age. And I could so relate to Lina. She’s at a point in her life where she questions everything she’s ever done or ever will do—erring on the cautious side—and she wishes she could just let it all go, throw caution to the wind and live. Ren is the perfect, charming hero, with a wonderful sense of humor, and you can’t help but to love him, no matter how mysterious he may seem.
If you’re in the market for e-books, I urge you not to pass up The Ghost Downstairs. It’s one of the most well-written and entertaining e-books I’ve come across to date. Do yourself a favor, and pick up your copy today.
This review first appeared in NightsandWeekends.com: http://www.nightsandweekends.com/arti...
After accidentally giving a terminal patient the wrong medicine, which results in his death, Lina Zuendel quits her job as a nurse. Even though the hospital said she could remain on the staff, it just felt all wrong to stay. After several failed attempts to get hired elsewhere, she’s hired to take care of the elderly residents of Drake House—a retirement home.
Right from the beginning, Lina’s patients tell her about the ghost who wanders about the house during the night. Lina thinks nothing of it until the ghost starts switching off lights and moving her stuff around. When Lina shows an interest in the houseboy, Ren Schulz—and he in her—the ghost turns ugly, targeting Lina with dangerous pranks.
Something’s a little off with the houseboy, too. For some reason, he can’t leave the property. The only explanation Lina gets from her employer is that Ren is under house arrest for a crime that happened years ago. But that doesn’t stop her from falling in love with him and bringing down the wrath of an angry ghost.
The Ghost Downstairs is just what a light-hearted ghost story should be. It’s delightful, funny, and intriguing, with just enough chills to give you goose bumps. You’ll also get caught up in the mystery of Drake House—a former 1940s sorority house, where an accidental murder and suicide once happened.
All of the characters are unique and likeable in their own way. I especially loved the spry elderly characters who seemed to enjoy life to the fullest, even at their age. And I could so relate to Lina. She’s at a point in her life where she questions everything she’s ever done or ever will do—erring on the cautious side—and she wishes she could just let it all go, throw caution to the wind and live. Ren is the perfect, charming hero, with a wonderful sense of humor, and you can’t help but to love him, no matter how mysterious he may seem.
If you’re in the market for e-books, I urge you not to pass up The Ghost Downstairs. It’s one of the most well-written and entertaining e-books I’ve come across to date. Do yourself a favor, and pick up your copy today.
This review first appeared in NightsandWeekends.com: http://www.nightsandweekends.com/arti...
October 19, 2010
Okay, I seriously cannot say enough amazing things about this book. My step-mom let me borrow it to read on a car trip home from the beach. I could not stop reading this book!!! I read for five hours straight in the car and finished it that night when I got home.
Ren is such an amazing character because he is this mysterious guy that you are just dying to figure out. The book really keeps you guessing what is up with him and once you find out that he is a ghost, but human as long as he is on the mansion grounds, it makes this so interesting.
Towards the end, I was literally pacing my kitchen while reading. The thought that Ren was gone forever made me so sad and I hoped that it wasn't the end of him. I was so excited when he was able to have a second chance at life and got to be with Lena.
My favorite thing about Ren was how he was described as smelling of Brandy and different flavors of gum! To me, it made him seem as though he really existed and got a sense of what it would be like if he was real. ( I love being able to do that in books!! I love when writers describe little things like that)
I would recommend this book a hundred times and would read this over and over again!!!!
Ren is such an amazing character because he is this mysterious guy that you are just dying to figure out. The book really keeps you guessing what is up with him and once you find out that he is a ghost, but human as long as he is on the mansion grounds, it makes this so interesting.
Towards the end, I was literally pacing my kitchen while reading. The thought that Ren was gone forever made me so sad and I hoped that it wasn't the end of him. I was so excited when he was able to have a second chance at life and got to be with Lena.
My favorite thing about Ren was how he was described as smelling of Brandy and different flavors of gum! To me, it made him seem as though he really existed and got a sense of what it would be like if he was real. ( I love being able to do that in books!! I love when writers describe little things like that)
I would recommend this book a hundred times and would read this over and over again!!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 9, 2017
I received this ARC copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. So thank you netgalley and publishers. This story is about Lina. After accidentally giving a patient the wrong medicine, it lead to his death, so Lina she quit her job as a nurse. She is then hired to take care of the elderly residents at retirement home. Lina’s patients tell her about the ghost that wanders around the house at night. Lina likes the houseboy, and the ghost gets mad and starts targeting Lina with dangerous pranks. The houseboy can’t leave the property. The only explanation Lina gets from her employer is that he is under house arrest for a crime that happened years ago. This is my first book from this author and I can say it won't be my last, it is perfect for halloween coming up! Fall is my favorite time of the year so this book just made me happy. It's light hearted, funny, and intriguing. I love a good mystery, it's a 1940's time period sorority house, where an accidental murder and suicide once happened. My birthday is coming up on October 1st, so I'm going to see if I can track down a hard copy as a late bday gift to myself, so I can one day pass down to my daughter. Such a good book!!
September 25, 2011
I so loved this - any book that makes me laugh out loud in the opening pages is always going to be a winner, but when it also alternately tugged at my heartstrings, sent a chill down my spine and was absolutely un-put-downable - well, then it earned its 5 star rating! I often associate books with periods of my life and/or the places where I read them, and for The Ghost Downstairs that coinciding with a rare romantic trip away to Tasmania - a place rich in ghost heritage - and hence it was absolutely perfect for holiday reading. I'd almost expected some predictability in this, but was so gorgeously surprised with how the plot was woven and especially loved the incredible descriptions - the scenes were so gloriously, richly painted for me in my mind, I just loved it. I'm sure I'm not the only one who could see this being made into a film (I have the cast half planned out in my own head lol. Dibs on getting to choose a Ren!) - Molly is a truly talented writer and I can't wait to read more. Classy work!
June 6, 2009
A charming and intelligently-written supernatural romance. Core to the book's appeal is highly likable protagonist dealing with a realistic set of personal conflicts. Her POV helps usher us gently into the "ghost" genre, exploring the implications of larger-than-life events with everyday curiosity, while not drowning us in arcane minutiae. The mystery central to the plot moves along engagingly, with author Ringle revealing new facets and twists at just the right pace. But ultimately it's the romantic throughline, fun and believable despite the supernatural backdrop, which makes the novel such a page-turner.
Despite falling well outside romance- or "ghost story" demographic, I enjoyed this a great deal, and look forward to the author's next offering.
Despite falling well outside romance- or "ghost story" demographic, I enjoyed this a great deal, and look forward to the author's next offering.
September 28, 2012
Simply put, this is one of the finest ghost stories I have ever read. The book hit me on every emotional level, and the two leads were characters I absolutely loved. Not only that, I didn't even know I liked romance stories until I read this book. And now I compare all other stories to this one. All of Ms. Ringles's books are great, and this one is the top.
Some have mentioned that the ending is "unrealistic" (as if a ghost story is realistic). You know what? I didn't care. However it works, it works so perfectly that you have to go back and re-read the ending several days in a row, just so can be sure it was as good as it seemed. It really is. One of the few books I've read that I wished could just go on and on...
Some have mentioned that the ending is "unrealistic" (as if a ghost story is realistic). You know what? I didn't care. However it works, it works so perfectly that you have to go back and re-read the ending several days in a row, just so can be sure it was as good as it seemed. It really is. One of the few books I've read that I wished could just go on and on...
February 17, 2011
I'm so glad I finally got around to reading this! "The Ghost Downstairs" is a really good read. The characters were very well done, I felt like I really knew Lina, Ren and even Mrs. B. Though, my fave character was George, just because he cracked me up so. The story was well paced with tension and comedic relief at just the right places.
Some said they didn't expect the ending. I did, in a way. I knew what happened would happen, just didn't see it happening that way. I really loved it, it was a nice twist.
I also loved how Ringle handled Julia in the end. It was a nice bit of closure.
Some said they didn't expect the ending. I did, in a way. I knew what happened would happen, just didn't see it happening that way. I really loved it, it was a nice twist.
I also loved how Ringle handled Julia in the end. It was a nice bit of closure.
September 23, 2012
Loved it! I was initially looking for a scary Halloween book to read, but this is so much more (and better!), and it still gives off a bit of a spooky atmosphere. A very sweet girl-meets-ghost love story.
I liked so much about this book: The setting, a haunted retirement home. The characters, especially sweet old Mrs. B. The style of writing, which was very vivid and easy to follow. Never got boring; I finished it in 2 days.
If you're into paranormal romance and ghost stories, you should definitely give this book a try. You're not gonna regret it.
I liked so much about this book: The setting, a haunted retirement home. The characters, especially sweet old Mrs. B. The style of writing, which was very vivid and easy to follow. Never got boring; I finished it in 2 days.
If you're into paranormal romance and ghost stories, you should definitely give this book a try. You're not gonna regret it.
October 23, 2009
I don't read a lot of paranormal romances, but after reading this one, I decided I needed to expand my reading list. This book was thoroughly enjoyable. Lina is a charming heroine, and it was easy to fall in love with Ren. The supporting characters are well-drawn and realistic. I highly recommend The Ghost Downstairs. I just finished reading it a second time, and I'm sure I'll read it again.
February 12, 2011
This book was great! I wasn't expecting the final twist in the end at all. I think that Molly Ringle hit this one out of the park and I can't wait for the next book she puts out. This is the perfect mix of paranormal activities as well as a romantic plot and of course some funny senior citizens!
September 10, 2017
Sweet paranormal love story that's tied into a tragedy from 1936. Bit quirky at times but a good mystery into what really happened all those years ago and wondering how a woman from today could get a HEA with a man who died many years ago.
November 16, 2009
This book is so incredible, I just finished reading it for the second time. I HIGHLY recommend it to anyone who likes love stories with a twist!!
December 28, 2009
*sigh* Ren!!
August 13, 2025
This was fun honestly. Weird, but fun. I hate that this was a live in work romance thing mostly because work romances gross me out. But you would think they would keep their distance once people started getting hurt idk that could just be the practical person in me. I've been reading so many horror books recently that I was partly expecting Ren to be the one that actually murdered Julia 😂 and that it was actually going to be a lesbian romance where Lina then proceeds to fall for Julia.
November 25, 2017
This book had so many wonderful elements that it was difficult to determine if I should classify it as a mystery, horror, or romance. I think it was a little bit of all three, with an obvious paranormal element that really brought a unique feel to the whole story. What I found most interesting about this book was that it never made it obvious where the story was going. At first, I had an inkling where the story would go, but then other things would happen to throw me off. Molly Ringle did an amazing job keeping me on the edge of my seat and making this an engaging read.
After being responsible for the death of one of her patients, nurse Lina Zuendel has left her position at the hospital and taken up a position as a live-in nurse at a retirement home called Drake House. Unknowing of the history of the house nor its reputation, she quickly discovers that there is a reason the position had not yet been filled. Between the unexplained noises she hears at night and the mysterious behavior of the houseboy, Ren, Lina is beginning to wonder exactly what she's gotten herself into. Things only become stanger once she finds out that the house used to be a sorority house and that a murder-suicide occurred there in the 1930s. Now it appears that there is a ghost still haunting the place - or are there two?
A lover of mysteries and history, I was immediately intrigued by this story and its characters. I am not overly familiar with the way things were in the 1930s, particularly sorority culture, so I was excited to read some new material in this story about things like houseboys and how girls interacted in the sorority houses. Lina and Ren drew me in quickly with their reserved characters, because I felt like I needed to continue reading to really understand who they were and why. Ren was the most interesting, as I couldn't get a handle on what exactly his role would be in the story. What ended up being his role was both expected and yet surprising. The ending is heart-wrenching, and I was flipping through the pages like mad wondering if this is truly how it ends. But have no fear - this is not a book that will leave you wanting to throw it across the room in the end. I like happily-ever-afters.
Although I originally picked this up thinking it was a brand new book, it turns out it was first released several years ago. I am surprised I had not read it before, but I am thrilled to have read it finally. I am eager to read more books by this author.
**I received a free copy via NetGalley and this is my honest review.**
After being responsible for the death of one of her patients, nurse Lina Zuendel has left her position at the hospital and taken up a position as a live-in nurse at a retirement home called Drake House. Unknowing of the history of the house nor its reputation, she quickly discovers that there is a reason the position had not yet been filled. Between the unexplained noises she hears at night and the mysterious behavior of the houseboy, Ren, Lina is beginning to wonder exactly what she's gotten herself into. Things only become stanger once she finds out that the house used to be a sorority house and that a murder-suicide occurred there in the 1930s. Now it appears that there is a ghost still haunting the place - or are there two?
A lover of mysteries and history, I was immediately intrigued by this story and its characters. I am not overly familiar with the way things were in the 1930s, particularly sorority culture, so I was excited to read some new material in this story about things like houseboys and how girls interacted in the sorority houses. Lina and Ren drew me in quickly with their reserved characters, because I felt like I needed to continue reading to really understand who they were and why. Ren was the most interesting, as I couldn't get a handle on what exactly his role would be in the story. What ended up being his role was both expected and yet surprising. The ending is heart-wrenching, and I was flipping through the pages like mad wondering if this is truly how it ends. But have no fear - this is not a book that will leave you wanting to throw it across the room in the end. I like happily-ever-afters.
Although I originally picked this up thinking it was a brand new book, it turns out it was first released several years ago. I am surprised I had not read it before, but I am thrilled to have read it finally. I am eager to read more books by this author.
**I received a free copy via NetGalley and this is my honest review.**
June 22, 2018
Lina is a nurse who made a mistake on the job, one she regrets even though the family of the deceased patient are not pressing charges, and the hospital wish to keep her. She decides to leave the hospital environment and embark on a new journey working in a Residential home in an old styled home which has it's own back story. Quiet, peaceful and a fresh start.
She leaves her old friends/room mates behind, as well as trying to get over the fact that her ex boyfriend is now suddenly in a committed relationship literally 3 months after breaking up.
Lina meets Ren, a houseboy who has been working at the home for years, never seems to leave and keeps himself to himself. Even after warnings of not getting to close by the manager Marla, Lina is still smitten and proceeds to get to know Ren, not before long they develop a close friendship.
Ren and Lina both have issues in their life, however Ren has a little bit more hidden beneath the surface. That is until Lina decides to take one of Ren's diaries, and discovers a whole new truth to why he is on "house arrest".
The book is a very lighthearted romance book, main focus is on Lina and Ren but there are the odd appearances from Mrs B, Marla, and an unwanted ghost that everyone is suspicious about, whether you believe in them or not. Lots go bump in the night.
I liked the twist and turns of this story, I was constantly engaged between the romance brewing between Ren and Lina. I liked that the secondary characters were enough to push Lina and keep the story flowing, I enjoyed the banter between the residents, it kept the story light hearted even when there was some dark parts.
The story line never dragged, a little mystery, romance, drama, supernatural and a few spooks along the way. But not a horror story.
I never would have guessed the ending though, that was a surprise, and well written by the author.
I have fallen in love with these two characters, I felt so sorry for Lina. Being a nurse myself I can only imagine how bad it feels to make a mistake on the job and the guilt way you down.
Ren - he was sweet throughout, mysterious, caring and an honest man. Well honest when he could be without there being a threat of Lina leaving, if she knew the whole truth.
I am now hooked on the Author Molly Ringle and her art of story telling. To keep me intrigued like this is rare and only a few authors have managed to keep my attention throughout, I definitely recommend this book to you all.
I received an ARC copy of this book to review honestly.
She leaves her old friends/room mates behind, as well as trying to get over the fact that her ex boyfriend is now suddenly in a committed relationship literally 3 months after breaking up.
Lina meets Ren, a houseboy who has been working at the home for years, never seems to leave and keeps himself to himself. Even after warnings of not getting to close by the manager Marla, Lina is still smitten and proceeds to get to know Ren, not before long they develop a close friendship.
Ren and Lina both have issues in their life, however Ren has a little bit more hidden beneath the surface. That is until Lina decides to take one of Ren's diaries, and discovers a whole new truth to why he is on "house arrest".
The book is a very lighthearted romance book, main focus is on Lina and Ren but there are the odd appearances from Mrs B, Marla, and an unwanted ghost that everyone is suspicious about, whether you believe in them or not. Lots go bump in the night.
I liked the twist and turns of this story, I was constantly engaged between the romance brewing between Ren and Lina. I liked that the secondary characters were enough to push Lina and keep the story flowing, I enjoyed the banter between the residents, it kept the story light hearted even when there was some dark parts.
The story line never dragged, a little mystery, romance, drama, supernatural and a few spooks along the way. But not a horror story.
I never would have guessed the ending though, that was a surprise, and well written by the author.
I have fallen in love with these two characters, I felt so sorry for Lina. Being a nurse myself I can only imagine how bad it feels to make a mistake on the job and the guilt way you down.
Ren - he was sweet throughout, mysterious, caring and an honest man. Well honest when he could be without there being a threat of Lina leaving, if she knew the whole truth.
I am now hooked on the Author Molly Ringle and her art of story telling. To keep me intrigued like this is rare and only a few authors have managed to keep my attention throughout, I definitely recommend this book to you all.
I received an ARC copy of this book to review honestly.
September 14, 2018
Loved this book. Molly Ringle writes great stories and this one did not disappoint.
I always worry that combining a romance with a ghost story creates inherent difficulties, particularly when a person in the living world develops feelings for someone who has already passed on to the spiritual plane (and vice versa). I'm always reminded of the movie, The Ghost and Mrs Muir, an old classic I still like to watch from time to time. How do you resolve this kind of love without an ending filled with sadness or tragedy?
But, of course, in Ringle's capable hands, I didn't need to worry. Lena is already flawed when she moves to work in the nursing home after accidentally giving an already terminal patient the wrong medicine and causing his death. But it's the cast of old characters in the nursing home that had me chuckling. At first, like Lena, I thought they were teasing about a ghost, and got lost in their delightful banter. I started to see this playing out like a televise series. And then unexplained things start to happen, especially when Lena develops an interest in Ren Schultz. I won't say any more and spoil the story.
The Ghost Upstairs is in turns funny, heartwarming, and intriguing, with just enough ghostly goings-on to keep you on the edge of your seat.
I always worry that combining a romance with a ghost story creates inherent difficulties, particularly when a person in the living world develops feelings for someone who has already passed on to the spiritual plane (and vice versa). I'm always reminded of the movie, The Ghost and Mrs Muir, an old classic I still like to watch from time to time. How do you resolve this kind of love without an ending filled with sadness or tragedy?
But, of course, in Ringle's capable hands, I didn't need to worry. Lena is already flawed when she moves to work in the nursing home after accidentally giving an already terminal patient the wrong medicine and causing his death. But it's the cast of old characters in the nursing home that had me chuckling. At first, like Lena, I thought they were teasing about a ghost, and got lost in their delightful banter. I started to see this playing out like a televise series. And then unexplained things start to happen, especially when Lena develops an interest in Ren Schultz. I won't say any more and spoil the story.
The Ghost Upstairs is in turns funny, heartwarming, and intriguing, with just enough ghostly goings-on to keep you on the edge of your seat.
September 12, 2017
The blurb of this book made me curious enough to request it on NetGalley, and I have to say I was not disappointed AT ALL!! The book read like part spooky , part romance... The story sets place in a haunted nursing home and a romance develops between Lina, a nurse would made an unfortunate and fatal mistake with a former patient, and Ren, the houseboy who hasn't been able to leave the house for a LONG time!! - defiantly a few moments that make you want to check over your shoulder; but mostly a book about finding your soulmate and a love that transcends time
October 22, 2019
After having administered an accidental but fatal drug to a patient at the hospital where she worked a young woman takes a job at an old folks residence - a residence haunted by the ghosts of a young man and a young woman who died tragically.
An interesting story that's part romance and part mystery with a healthy dose of classic horror. The romantic leads are charming,, sympathetic and vulnerable and the supporting cast of plucky old folks makes the for a story that is sweet and a lot of fun.
Well worth your time.
An interesting story that's part romance and part mystery with a healthy dose of classic horror. The romantic leads are charming,, sympathetic and vulnerable and the supporting cast of plucky old folks makes the for a story that is sweet and a lot of fun.
Well worth your time.
October 16, 2017
I ended up reading this book in one day only because once I started it I couldn't put it down. I loved the haunted house aspect of the story. This was a different take on the classic haunted house tale. This put a romance between Ren and Lina that sounded too good. I would recommend this book to all haunted tale lovers and those who just enjoy a different kind of book to read. Thanks to Netgalley for letting me read this book as an ARC for an honest review.
April 8, 2012
I am on page 150 and have found myself intrigued by the characters. Development has been good and the writing flows nicely. Can't wait to read on. Finished and enjoyed this love story. However, I thought the end or wrap-up was a little too abrupt. Left me wondering a little about the characters instead of being totally satisfied with the ending. Will definitely try another by this author.
November 5, 2019
I enjoyed how this book took place in an assisted living facility! Lina was a wonderful character who soon learns that ghosts could be real as she works as a nurse at the facility. The love story, the spooky feel, and wondering what was going to happen next had me turning the pages as fast as I could read them.
June 11, 2020
Omg I've been needing a good PNR that's just well written, got memorable characters and full of hope. Here ya go!
I loved it so much that I even contacted Molly and bought a paperback to add to my personal collection. That's how much I adored this book.
I don't rave often but when I do, you will hear about it. Rave, rave, rave!!!!
I loved it so much that I even contacted Molly and bought a paperback to add to my personal collection. That's how much I adored this book.
I don't rave often but when I do, you will hear about it. Rave, rave, rave!!!!
January 13, 2022
To see more reviews check out MI Book Reviews.
I got an ARC of this book.
This book is strange, but not strange in that fun way. Instead strange in that way that is a bit off putting. First it is labeled as a YA book everywhere that I have been able to check, but it follows a nurse in her early 30’s. None of the characters are close to YA age. I can’t see the appeal for YA readers. It doesn’t really follow YA themes. I have no idea where YA came from. So that was the first thing that was off putting. If the nurse was fresh out of nursing school I could see that being a more accurate label.
The second strange thing is the description of the book. Usually descriptions leave something to the imagination, but this one worked like a movie trailer. I knew the plot and pretty much the ending down to the last few pages. There were no twists and turns. There was nothing to captivate my attention for long, but I was still reading. I wanted to read this story. It was one of those lazy Sunday afternoon reads where it is fun and good enough to hold your attention, but you will forget it the moment you put it down. There is no suspense or romantic tension. The big bad of the book was a jealous ghost, but it was never super clear what she was jealous of.
I’m not sure what else I can say. It wasn’t spooky. It wasn’t romantic. It just was what it was. If you are a horror fan, this will be disappointing. It you want a low heat romance with a small bit of angst, with tons of red flags (jealousy, stealing, stalking, etc) then this will fit for you. It took pretty much every aspect I dislike from romance and made it into a ghost romance.
So it wasn’t awful, but it wasn’t amazing. I would be curious in reading more by this author though.
I got an ARC of this book.
This book is strange, but not strange in that fun way. Instead strange in that way that is a bit off putting. First it is labeled as a YA book everywhere that I have been able to check, but it follows a nurse in her early 30’s. None of the characters are close to YA age. I can’t see the appeal for YA readers. It doesn’t really follow YA themes. I have no idea where YA came from. So that was the first thing that was off putting. If the nurse was fresh out of nursing school I could see that being a more accurate label.
The second strange thing is the description of the book. Usually descriptions leave something to the imagination, but this one worked like a movie trailer. I knew the plot and pretty much the ending down to the last few pages. There were no twists and turns. There was nothing to captivate my attention for long, but I was still reading. I wanted to read this story. It was one of those lazy Sunday afternoon reads where it is fun and good enough to hold your attention, but you will forget it the moment you put it down. There is no suspense or romantic tension. The big bad of the book was a jealous ghost, but it was never super clear what she was jealous of.
I’m not sure what else I can say. It wasn’t spooky. It wasn’t romantic. It just was what it was. If you are a horror fan, this will be disappointing. It you want a low heat romance with a small bit of angst, with tons of red flags (jealousy, stealing, stalking, etc) then this will fit for you. It took pretty much every aspect I dislike from romance and made it into a ghost romance.
So it wasn’t awful, but it wasn’t amazing. I would be curious in reading more by this author though.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews