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Haunted
Dee is feeding the chickens the morning that bones are discovered on the mountain. Something doesn't feel right—and her feeling is confirmed when local police show her a ring that they found with the bones, a ring belonging to Mary Ann Simpson, who disappeared four years earlier. Other girls, Dee learns, have disappeared too, unusual for a small town nestled in the shadow of the Bruce Peninsula’s rugged escarpment, the “mountain” that Dee loves.
Like her Gran, Dee has “the sight,” an ability not only to see spirits from the afterlife but also to experience their deaths—a quality that becomes more horrifying as the story takes darker turns. While trying to help with the investigation, Dee is drawn into a deepening mystery that soon strikes terrifyingly close to home.
Like her Gran, Dee has “the sight,” an ability not only to see spirits from the afterlife but also to experience their deaths—a quality that becomes more horrifying as the story takes darker turns. While trying to help with the investigation, Dee is drawn into a deepening mystery that soon strikes terrifyingly close to home.
240 pages, Trade Paperback
First published August 3, 2009
14 people are currently reading
568 people want to read
About the author
Barbara Haworth-Attard
24 books42 followersBarbara Haworth-Attard is a native of Elmira, Ontario, presently residing in London, Ontario with her family. June 1995 saw the publication of her first junior novel, Dark of the Moon. Since then she has written twelve novels in the historical fiction, fantasy and contemporary genres for middle-grade and young adult readers. Her thirteenth book, "Forget-Me-Not" a sequel to "Love-Lies-Bleeding" has been out since this Fall 2005 from HarperCollins Canada. Henry Holt and Company released the US edition of "Theories of Relativity" in 2006. This book has also been sold to Editions Thierry Magnier of France.
Awards:
Arthur Ellis Award
◊ Best Juvenile (2010): Haunted
Awards:
Arthur Ellis Award
◊ Best Juvenile (2010): Haunted
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
March 11, 2013
I like this one - it was well written, and I liked the characters. I found it a bit too predictable in some places, though - it wasn't too hard to figure out who the killer was, and I guessed about Clarence chapters before it was revealed. I think it's still a good book, though.
It's about a 14 year old girl in rural Ontario in around the depression era. Dee is 14 and lives with her grandmother, who is the village midwife. She's never met her mother and believes her to be a singer in a travelling show. Dee is also somewhat pyschic - she can see ghosts, and often has 'feelings' that warn her of things. When the skeleton of one of Dee's friends is found up in the hills, Dee is brought into the investigation of a serial killer.
~~~*~~~
14-year old Defiance (Dee) lives with her Gran in a small town in Ontario, by Pike's Mountain. Her grandmother is the village midwife, and Dee uses her gift for comforting people to assist her. dee has another gift, as well - one that allows her to see the spirits which wander the mountain. Early one morning, the body of a young girl is found in a clearing on the mountain, and it turns out to be that of a girl Dee was friends with. Everyone thought she had eloped,but it turns out she's been murdered. Everyone in town is terrified, and the town gossips are in their glory, with the worst of them pointing fingers at Dee's Gran. Other girls from town soon go missing as well, and Dee becomes involved in the search when the missing girl is her best friend, Clooey.
It's about a 14 year old girl in rural Ontario in around the depression era. Dee is 14 and lives with her grandmother, who is the village midwife. She's never met her mother and believes her to be a singer in a travelling show. Dee is also somewhat pyschic - she can see ghosts, and often has 'feelings' that warn her of things. When the skeleton of one of Dee's friends is found up in the hills, Dee is brought into the investigation of a serial killer.
~~~*~~~
14-year old Defiance (Dee) lives with her Gran in a small town in Ontario, by Pike's Mountain. Her grandmother is the village midwife, and Dee uses her gift for comforting people to assist her. dee has another gift, as well - one that allows her to see the spirits which wander the mountain. Early one morning, the body of a young girl is found in a clearing on the mountain, and it turns out to be that of a girl Dee was friends with. Everyone thought she had eloped,but it turns out she's been murdered. Everyone in town is terrified, and the town gossips are in their glory, with the worst of them pointing fingers at Dee's Gran. Other girls from town soon go missing as well, and Dee becomes involved in the search when the missing girl is her best friend, Clooey.
July 23, 2017
The book cover has a lovely fantasy artwork. I give this book 5 stars.
October 3, 2009
Reason for Reading: I love a good ghost story.
Comments: Set in the Bruce Peninsula area of Ontario at the time that the soldier's had returned home from WWI, Dee and her Grandmother live in a small cabin at the outskirts of a rural town. Grandmother is the town's midwife and also the one people come to for "medicines" when they are sick. The town does have a doctor, has for some years and business isn't what it used to be but some folks still would rather trade goods with Grandmother than pay cash to the doctor. Fourteen year-old Dee has been raised by Grandmother as her own mother ran off with a travelling show when Dee was only a few months old, her father is unknown. Otherwise the only special thing about Dee is that she sees dead people.
Her 'gift' which she keeps secret even from her Grandmother tests her endurance when a former friend of hers' bones are found up on the mountain approximately four years old. Everyone thought she'd run away with a boy at the time and now people are remembering other girls who 'disappeared' in the past. It isn't until a new girl is found dead that a Detective from Toronto is sent for to find this serial killer in their midst.
This is the first book I've read by Barbara Haworth-Attard, though she's written many juvenile and YA novels. I highly enjoyed it. I found the serial killer mystery to be tightly written and fast paced with plenty of clues but not easy to figure out at all. I had it narrowed down to two suspects from the start but wavered between them for a while. I think the intended audience will have a great time with this mystery.
The supernatural element was an added bonus to an already strong straight-forward thriller plot. The spooky ghostly episodes certainly added to the sense of fear surrounding the plot. This brings about a second theme that runs through the book of Dee wondering why she sees these spirits and wonders about her Grandmother's special gifts and why her mother ran away and has never come back. Overall, a very intricate plot that carries many threads and combines the paranormal with reality with the ease of an accomplished writer.
I enjoyed everything about this book. Dee is a fun character, fully developed, as is her Grandmother who has a hard shell that Dee occasionally cracks and sees underneath. The only thing I found disappointing is the stereotypical use of a mentally challenged character (which appeared to be downs syndrome to me), who was called "retard" by the nastier folks in town. This character is introduced first but as soon as the girl's bones are found it's obvious that stereotypically the "retard" is going to come under suspicion of the murders. I expected it from the get go. And indeed the author fell into that trap. It's typical of the time period but something a little less obvious would have been more original.
Otherwise, I read this book throughout a day, thought it was a brilliant serial killer mystery for this age group and loved the paranormal aspect. Recommended!
Comments: Set in the Bruce Peninsula area of Ontario at the time that the soldier's had returned home from WWI, Dee and her Grandmother live in a small cabin at the outskirts of a rural town. Grandmother is the town's midwife and also the one people come to for "medicines" when they are sick. The town does have a doctor, has for some years and business isn't what it used to be but some folks still would rather trade goods with Grandmother than pay cash to the doctor. Fourteen year-old Dee has been raised by Grandmother as her own mother ran off with a travelling show when Dee was only a few months old, her father is unknown. Otherwise the only special thing about Dee is that she sees dead people.
Her 'gift' which she keeps secret even from her Grandmother tests her endurance when a former friend of hers' bones are found up on the mountain approximately four years old. Everyone thought she'd run away with a boy at the time and now people are remembering other girls who 'disappeared' in the past. It isn't until a new girl is found dead that a Detective from Toronto is sent for to find this serial killer in their midst.
This is the first book I've read by Barbara Haworth-Attard, though she's written many juvenile and YA novels. I highly enjoyed it. I found the serial killer mystery to be tightly written and fast paced with plenty of clues but not easy to figure out at all. I had it narrowed down to two suspects from the start but wavered between them for a while. I think the intended audience will have a great time with this mystery.
The supernatural element was an added bonus to an already strong straight-forward thriller plot. The spooky ghostly episodes certainly added to the sense of fear surrounding the plot. This brings about a second theme that runs through the book of Dee wondering why she sees these spirits and wonders about her Grandmother's special gifts and why her mother ran away and has never come back. Overall, a very intricate plot that carries many threads and combines the paranormal with reality with the ease of an accomplished writer.
I enjoyed everything about this book. Dee is a fun character, fully developed, as is her Grandmother who has a hard shell that Dee occasionally cracks and sees underneath. The only thing I found disappointing is the stereotypical use of a mentally challenged character (which appeared to be downs syndrome to me), who was called "retard" by the nastier folks in town. This character is introduced first but as soon as the girl's bones are found it's obvious that stereotypically the "retard" is going to come under suspicion of the murders. I expected it from the get go. And indeed the author fell into that trap. It's typical of the time period but something a little less obvious would have been more original.
Otherwise, I read this book throughout a day, thought it was a brilliant serial killer mystery for this age group and loved the paranormal aspect. Recommended!
September 22, 2009
Haunted
Written by: Barbara Haworth-Attard
Published by: Harper Trophy Canada
(HarperCollins Canada)
Date: August 18th, 2009
Pages: 240
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 978-0002008211
Haunted is one of my favourite books of 2009! Barbara Haworth-Attard is the author of more than 13 children’s books and she is a Canadian author. While reading the story about 14-year-old Defiance or "Dee" as she is known to her friends, I was immediately taken in by the convincing, evocative tale. Set in the early 1900’s, Haunted takes the reader on a journey through history, into the realm of the supernatural. Dee’s “gift” allows her to see and feel good and evil in many forms. As a reader, I am very sceptical about "ghost stories", but I have to admit that I was blown-away by the outstanding writing and skilful telling of Haunted; I cannot say enough great things about it! The story flows smoothly with mesmerizing tension that builds slowly with bursts of emotion and tension so thick that you could...
Book Reviews By Bobbie Top PICK!
* Please click through to read the full review:
http://bookreviewsbybobbie.wordpress....
Written by: Barbara Haworth-Attard
Published by: Harper Trophy Canada
(HarperCollins Canada)
Date: August 18th, 2009
Pages: 240
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 978-0002008211
Haunted is one of my favourite books of 2009! Barbara Haworth-Attard is the author of more than 13 children’s books and she is a Canadian author. While reading the story about 14-year-old Defiance or "Dee" as she is known to her friends, I was immediately taken in by the convincing, evocative tale. Set in the early 1900’s, Haunted takes the reader on a journey through history, into the realm of the supernatural. Dee’s “gift” allows her to see and feel good and evil in many forms. As a reader, I am very sceptical about "ghost stories", but I have to admit that I was blown-away by the outstanding writing and skilful telling of Haunted; I cannot say enough great things about it! The story flows smoothly with mesmerizing tension that builds slowly with bursts of emotion and tension so thick that you could...
Book Reviews By Bobbie Top PICK!
* Please click through to read the full review:
http://bookreviewsbybobbie.wordpress....
June 9, 2021
This book was amazing.
This book had me addicted. The way the author played out and laid down the information kept me at the edge of my seat.
While reading it I was at constant vigilance for any clues that might tell me who the antagonist was in this story, but the way the author wrote the book, it could've just been anyone. The way the author put the attention to one character as a potential antagonist made you go back and forth on whether or not it was actually that him who did the crime. But then again, when you thought “Nah, it can't be” because of something suspicious another character does, it pulls you back in to “It's probably him”.
The little twists and turns in the story made it seem like I was reading a few other books (storylines) while I was reading this without even realizing it.
Despite the puzzle piece of a start, halfway through the book, everything starts making sense and the end is absolutely to die for.
I can't really say much else about this; I'm kinda on the fence between being at a loss for words and having a traffic jam in my brain because I want to say so much more.
But nah, just read it, totally worth it.
This book had me addicted. The way the author played out and laid down the information kept me at the edge of my seat.
While reading it I was at constant vigilance for any clues that might tell me who the antagonist was in this story, but the way the author wrote the book, it could've just been anyone. The way the author put the attention to one character as a potential antagonist made you go back and forth on whether or not it was actually that him who did the crime. But then again, when you thought “Nah, it can't be” because of something suspicious another character does, it pulls you back in to “It's probably him”.
The little twists and turns in the story made it seem like I was reading a few other books (storylines) while I was reading this without even realizing it.
Despite the puzzle piece of a start, halfway through the book, everything starts making sense and the end is absolutely to die for.
I can't really say much else about this; I'm kinda on the fence between being at a loss for words and having a traffic jam in my brain because I want to say so much more.
But nah, just read it, totally worth it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 6, 2019
A well-written mystery for young adult readers...but enjoyed by any age. There is a certain modern-day angst to the story, even though it is set back in 1920 - after WWI.
The suspense builds quickly and is sustained to the end. Many 'surprises' may be obvious to the average reader, but for a person new to the mystery genre - I think they are cleverly written into the plot.
I liked the main character and the Grandmother was very cool. The story reminded me a lot of an actual murder trial that occurred in Ontario - involving Steven Truscott. The references to Toronto, Hamilton and the escarpment and our variable weather - are always welcome. Brings the story even closer to home. The subjects that the author touches on are grim, and she deftly conveys that to the reader, without having to describe in detail the murders, the horrors of war or the damage that people's fear and prejudice can cause.
Overall a recommended read, especially for young girls.
The suspense builds quickly and is sustained to the end. Many 'surprises' may be obvious to the average reader, but for a person new to the mystery genre - I think they are cleverly written into the plot.
I liked the main character and the Grandmother was very cool. The story reminded me a lot of an actual murder trial that occurred in Ontario - involving Steven Truscott. The references to Toronto, Hamilton and the escarpment and our variable weather - are always welcome. Brings the story even closer to home. The subjects that the author touches on are grim, and she deftly conveys that to the reader, without having to describe in detail the murders, the horrors of war or the damage that people's fear and prejudice can cause.
Overall a recommended read, especially for young girls.
June 2, 2018
Dee’s small town has murders happening and no one knows exactly who’s been doing them. Dee can see and feel things others cannot. And so can her Gran. Her Gran can tell sometimes what will happen before they do. The people are cautious of them but grateful but also afraid. But what happens when a murder strikes a little too close to home for Dee? Can she figure out who the murderer is before it’s too late for someone else?
This is interesting at first, then it starts to lull but as you get into it it picks up again and you find yourself needing to know what happens in the end.
Intense read but cool.
This is interesting at first, then it starts to lull but as you get into it it picks up again and you find yourself needing to know what happens in the end.
Intense read but cool.
June 11, 2021
i had to read this book in my english class and i thoroughly enjoyed it!! although i had guessed the bit with Clarence the killer took me longer to guess and pinpoint due to the nature of the story. would recommend this book to anyone who doesn’t like reading as the story really captures readers even if they haven’t picked up a book in years
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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July 15, 2025I used to read this book all the time when I was a kid. I would check it out from the library every few months and I still remember the exact place it sat on the shelf. It's been years since I last read it and I sought out to look for it again but I couldn't remember the details. Someone helped me find it and I'm going to give it a reread soon <3
March 1, 2019
review to follow
July 28, 2023
Great read with a great mystery. The main character is a bit young for a mystery book. Some of the twist are a little predictable but the ending was not. I defiantly recommend this as a good read!
September 20, 2025
fav book as a teen and it still holds up yay
November 30, 2025
This was a re read of a book. I read it in middle school and it’s been on my mind a lot for some reason.
February 7, 2011
I just loved this book, and after the first chapter I could not put it down. It’s a very atmospheric book – Set in rural Canada at the end of WW1, in the shadow of Price’s Mountain on which much of the action takes place. It reminded me of The Waltons crossed with The Ghost Whisperer with a bit of To Kill A Mockingbird thrown in as well.
It’s the story of a feisty young girl called Dee (named Defiance by her unmarried mother, who left town shortly after Dee’s birth to join a travelling show as a singer) who lives with her steely midwife grandmother, Gran. Gran’s family immigrated to Canada from Scotland and Gran has a special gift of knowing that something is about to happen to a person. This coupled with her extensive knowledge of herbs and natural medicine makes her a skilled healer and midwife, in high demand in the Price’s Corners region. She and Dee have a testy relationship: Gran wants Dee to follow in her foot steps, Dee however, wants to continue her schooling and eventually become a student nurse.
Dee also has the gift of knowing which takes a different form and as a series of murders take place in their sleepy town, Dee is called upon to help with the investigations. There are some very memorable characters, such as Dee’s close band of friends, Billy, Clooey, and Podge; Dee’s mother’s best friend Cissy, who is the closest thing Dee has to a mother and the various lovable and detestable townsfolk.
I have not read any of Haworth-Attard’s other books but I’ll be looking out for her in future. She has a very easy style to read and a great turn of phrase:
Dee also believed that all these disappointments were stored
in the deep grooves on either side of her grandmother’s mouth,
a mouth that seldom smiled. (p.13)
Like all trees, family ones included, there were branches that
twisted sideways from the rest. (p.17)
Haworth-Attard is also an astute observer and includes interesting asides about human nature and the cultural practices of the time:
Mrs. Haynes was very big on education, and Billy’s dad thought
it more prudent to give in to his wife on this point than to endure
a life of cold silence. (p.15)
Cissy held another, younger baby to her breast. And if Dee’s
eyes were telling her right, the woman was in the family way again.
Gran wouldn’t be happy about that. Last baby, Cissy had swollen
up until she was almost unrecognisable by the time of her confinement.
Gran had told her and Cissy’s husband, Ray, the source of the ginger
hair, not to have any more children, but what woman ever had a choice
in that? Cissy also, Dee saw, sported a purple bruise on the side of
her face. Something else in which women had little choice. (p.17)
The book works on a number of levels. You can read it as a supernatural murder mystery or an historical romance but there are many other themes and issues that Haworth-Attard has delicately woven through the story. She looks at small town prejudice towards foreigners, the intellectually disabled and those like Gran and Dee who have unexplained gifts which some feel come for the Devil. In the context of the early 20th Century the role of women, domestic violence and education are explored. And as the murder investigations progress Haworth-Attard takes the chance to introduce interesting historical details about perspectives on mental health at the time.
Although I had my suspicions of who the murderer was I did not see the final twist coming. This would read aloud really well, and would make a great book to study in literature circles for students in the middle years. Highly recommended.
It’s the story of a feisty young girl called Dee (named Defiance by her unmarried mother, who left town shortly after Dee’s birth to join a travelling show as a singer) who lives with her steely midwife grandmother, Gran. Gran’s family immigrated to Canada from Scotland and Gran has a special gift of knowing that something is about to happen to a person. This coupled with her extensive knowledge of herbs and natural medicine makes her a skilled healer and midwife, in high demand in the Price’s Corners region. She and Dee have a testy relationship: Gran wants Dee to follow in her foot steps, Dee however, wants to continue her schooling and eventually become a student nurse.
Dee also has the gift of knowing which takes a different form and as a series of murders take place in their sleepy town, Dee is called upon to help with the investigations. There are some very memorable characters, such as Dee’s close band of friends, Billy, Clooey, and Podge; Dee’s mother’s best friend Cissy, who is the closest thing Dee has to a mother and the various lovable and detestable townsfolk.
I have not read any of Haworth-Attard’s other books but I’ll be looking out for her in future. She has a very easy style to read and a great turn of phrase:
Dee also believed that all these disappointments were stored
in the deep grooves on either side of her grandmother’s mouth,
a mouth that seldom smiled. (p.13)
Like all trees, family ones included, there were branches that
twisted sideways from the rest. (p.17)
Haworth-Attard is also an astute observer and includes interesting asides about human nature and the cultural practices of the time:
Mrs. Haynes was very big on education, and Billy’s dad thought
it more prudent to give in to his wife on this point than to endure
a life of cold silence. (p.15)
Cissy held another, younger baby to her breast. And if Dee’s
eyes were telling her right, the woman was in the family way again.
Gran wouldn’t be happy about that. Last baby, Cissy had swollen
up until she was almost unrecognisable by the time of her confinement.
Gran had told her and Cissy’s husband, Ray, the source of the ginger
hair, not to have any more children, but what woman ever had a choice
in that? Cissy also, Dee saw, sported a purple bruise on the side of
her face. Something else in which women had little choice. (p.17)
The book works on a number of levels. You can read it as a supernatural murder mystery or an historical romance but there are many other themes and issues that Haworth-Attard has delicately woven through the story. She looks at small town prejudice towards foreigners, the intellectually disabled and those like Gran and Dee who have unexplained gifts which some feel come for the Devil. In the context of the early 20th Century the role of women, domestic violence and education are explored. And as the murder investigations progress Haworth-Attard takes the chance to introduce interesting historical details about perspectives on mental health at the time.
Although I had my suspicions of who the murderer was I did not see the final twist coming. This would read aloud really well, and would make a great book to study in literature circles for students in the middle years. Highly recommended.
February 20, 2024
Typically, this is not really a book I would read, but the description really drew me in.
Dee (Defiance) lives with her grandma on the outskirts of a small little close-knit village type of town- Bruce Peninsula area of Ontario. The story is set around the end of World War 1 when soldiers are returning home. Dee and Gran are considered outcasts because they are “witches ” or spiritual - whatever you want to go with.
Dee's grandmother is the town midwife and local medicine woman that people go to when they are sick. Dee was raised by Grandmother because her own mother ran off with a traveling show when Dee was only a few months old.Dee has the "sight". Her gift allows her to see spirits but also experience their deaths. This gets more intense as the book progresses.
Dee becomes a part of polices investigation into a cold case that happened 4 years prior.
Local police show her a ring that they found with the bones, a ring belonging to Mary Ann Simpson, who disappeared four years earlier. Everyone thought she had just run away with a lover. Later, Dee finds out more girls have gone missing from this small town at the base of the 'mountain' that Dee loves. It isn't until a new girl is found dead that a detective from Toronto is sent to find this serial killer in their midst.
While attempting to aid with the investigation, Dee is drawn into a case that hits very close to home.
Overall this book has a complex plot that intertwines paranormal with reality. It didn't take me long to get through this novel. Definitely recommend
Dee (Defiance) lives with her grandma on the outskirts of a small little close-knit village type of town- Bruce Peninsula area of Ontario. The story is set around the end of World War 1 when soldiers are returning home. Dee and Gran are considered outcasts because they are “witches ” or spiritual - whatever you want to go with.
Dee's grandmother is the town midwife and local medicine woman that people go to when they are sick. Dee was raised by Grandmother because her own mother ran off with a traveling show when Dee was only a few months old.Dee has the "sight". Her gift allows her to see spirits but also experience their deaths. This gets more intense as the book progresses.
Dee becomes a part of polices investigation into a cold case that happened 4 years prior.
Local police show her a ring that they found with the bones, a ring belonging to Mary Ann Simpson, who disappeared four years earlier. Everyone thought she had just run away with a lover. Later, Dee finds out more girls have gone missing from this small town at the base of the 'mountain' that Dee loves. It isn't until a new girl is found dead that a detective from Toronto is sent to find this serial killer in their midst.
While attempting to aid with the investigation, Dee is drawn into a case that hits very close to home.
Overall this book has a complex plot that intertwines paranormal with reality. It didn't take me long to get through this novel. Definitely recommend
March 28, 2014
One word....scary!!!! But at the same time I loved it to death, some people complained to me that it was boring and SLOW, but it was slow in good, it kept steady and then slowly leaned into the bone chilling parts. One thing I HAVE to say about the books is that it was very, very well plotted, in a sense I guess I would say that it was just perfect.
HAUNTED is about a fourteen year old Dee who has the blessing of seeing spirits who have not yet crossed over, but it is also a curse. This blessing/curse she also shares with her grandmother but with minor details. When there is a murder in her small she has always known to be quiet and friendly, she has face evil, go threw tragedies and learn the truth about her mother, all while trying to figure out who she is and figure out which one of the people she has known all her life is the murderer.
I picked this book because my library teacher recommended it to me when I asked him to show me a book that was scary, because I found that I wasn't reading different types of books, just the ones that I wanted to read. But I am glad that I read the book because I loved it.
The book, in a way, drew me into it, it is like there was a force pulling me into it. But I never pulled back, it's like watching a scary movie you know it is going to give you night mares but you keep looking(except I did not get night mares). That is why I finished the book.
I think A LOT of people would love to read this book, but if I had to recommend it to one person, I would recommend it to one of my friends from my old school, Zephy, I picked her because she likes this series that is about ghosts and evil so I think she would Love this one to DEATH ;) , just as do.!!!!<3
HAUNTED is about a fourteen year old Dee who has the blessing of seeing spirits who have not yet crossed over, but it is also a curse. This blessing/curse she also shares with her grandmother but with minor details. When there is a murder in her small she has always known to be quiet and friendly, she has face evil, go threw tragedies and learn the truth about her mother, all while trying to figure out who she is and figure out which one of the people she has known all her life is the murderer.
I picked this book because my library teacher recommended it to me when I asked him to show me a book that was scary, because I found that I wasn't reading different types of books, just the ones that I wanted to read. But I am glad that I read the book because I loved it.
The book, in a way, drew me into it, it is like there was a force pulling me into it. But I never pulled back, it's like watching a scary movie you know it is going to give you night mares but you keep looking(except I did not get night mares). That is why I finished the book.
I think A LOT of people would love to read this book, but if I had to recommend it to one person, I would recommend it to one of my friends from my old school, Zephy, I picked her because she likes this series that is about ghosts and evil so I think she would Love this one to DEATH ;) , just as do.!!!!<3
March 14, 2011
Yay, another wonderful Canadian author! This is the first book I’ve read by Barbara Haworth-Attard but it definitely won’t be the last.
This is a superbly written book. It’s a murder mystery wrapped up in a spooky little ghost story and deals with all kinds of interesting and difficult issues. Ms. Haworth-Attard’s depiction of rural Canada in the early 1900’s is vivid and convincing and explores the narrow-mindedness and prejudices that run rampant in small towns even in the present day and which were particularly present during that time period. Issues such as domestic abuse, the role of women in society, the indifference and apathy toward education, and the callous, often cruel treatment of mentally challenged people are all dealt with in a compelling and accurate manner.
Dee was a well-developed character; a young girl gifted or oftentimes cursed with the ability to see and feel ghosts and forced to mature quickly while helping her stern, taciturn grandmother with her midwife duties. Both Dee and Gran are looked upon by many of the townsfolk as witches doing the evil handiwork of the Devil, and I felt profoundly sorry for Dee having to deal with such bigotry and intolerance at such a young age.
The mystery was gripping and, even though I guessed who the murderer was before his/her identity was revealed, Ms. Haworth-Attard’s writing was such that I wasn’t entirely sure right up until the end.
For those readers who enjoy mystery, the supernatural and history, I would highly recommend this book.
This is a superbly written book. It’s a murder mystery wrapped up in a spooky little ghost story and deals with all kinds of interesting and difficult issues. Ms. Haworth-Attard’s depiction of rural Canada in the early 1900’s is vivid and convincing and explores the narrow-mindedness and prejudices that run rampant in small towns even in the present day and which were particularly present during that time period. Issues such as domestic abuse, the role of women in society, the indifference and apathy toward education, and the callous, often cruel treatment of mentally challenged people are all dealt with in a compelling and accurate manner.
Dee was a well-developed character; a young girl gifted or oftentimes cursed with the ability to see and feel ghosts and forced to mature quickly while helping her stern, taciturn grandmother with her midwife duties. Both Dee and Gran are looked upon by many of the townsfolk as witches doing the evil handiwork of the Devil, and I felt profoundly sorry for Dee having to deal with such bigotry and intolerance at such a young age.
The mystery was gripping and, even though I guessed who the murderer was before his/her identity was revealed, Ms. Haworth-Attard’s writing was such that I wasn’t entirely sure right up until the end.
For those readers who enjoy mystery, the supernatural and history, I would highly recommend this book.
October 31, 2010
An extremely well-written and engaging mystery. The portrayals of life in the small village with the one room school house, local mercantile, church hall, beautiful wilderness close by etc.. were realistic and well embellished and the dialect and expressions were reminiscent of the “good old days”. Hawarth-Attard did an incredible job blending this setting with the supernatural themes that make Dee and her Gran such interesting characters. The book definitely haunts its readers while simultaneously educating them about life in rural post war Canada. Dee is also an interesting character; shunned for being without parents and the granddaughter of a midwife/medicine woman many of the townsfolk fear. Dee’s own psychic powers and ability to see and communicate with the dead make her a target for scorn from the townsfolk. The mystery was well woven with multiple suspects and red herrings thrown in to keep the reader off the path. Readers are strung along right until the end.
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May 25, 2011I read this at night (by booklight) for maximum scare-age. That's really the only way to read properly read horror novel. I liked this book, it was a fast read but a fun one.
I really like to read young adult fiction - the plots are often layered and complicated but the writing is very to-the-point. Concise and unpretentious writing takes a lot of skill; it's like a good animation, deceptively simple.
I have a soft spot for books set in Ontario. Is it just me or do a lot of Canadian books take place during or just after WW1? Especially award winners (remember that Kate Winslet oscar joke on Extras..?) I guess there aren't very many historical landmarks in our (comparatively short) history that have changed us as fundamentally as the first world war. Plus there was so much other important stuff going on at the same time: use of electricity was spreading, driving was becoming a little more common.
I really like to read young adult fiction - the plots are often layered and complicated but the writing is very to-the-point. Concise and unpretentious writing takes a lot of skill; it's like a good animation, deceptively simple.
I have a soft spot for books set in Ontario. Is it just me or do a lot of Canadian books take place during or just after WW1? Especially award winners (remember that Kate Winslet oscar joke on Extras..?) I guess there aren't very many historical landmarks in our (comparatively short) history that have changed us as fundamentally as the first world war. Plus there was so much other important stuff going on at the same time: use of electricity was spreading, driving was becoming a little more common.
January 4, 2012
Dee lives with her Grandmother who has a special gift " The Sight".
The book opens with Dee feeding the chickens in a small town in Ontario and when she looks towards the mountains she senses something or doesn't feel quite right.
Dee, has the ability to see spirits from the after life just like Gran, she also experiences the death of people and what happened to them.
Set in the aftermath of World War One , where soldiers are returning to a society that doesn't know the horror of what they went through, Haunted is a great read that will hang around with you for a while.
The book opens with Dee feeding the chickens in a small town in Ontario and when she looks towards the mountains she senses something or doesn't feel quite right.
Dee, has the ability to see spirits from the after life just like Gran, she also experiences the death of people and what happened to them.
Set in the aftermath of World War One , where soldiers are returning to a society that doesn't know the horror of what they went through, Haunted is a great read that will hang around with you for a while.
January 26, 2013
I don't really write reviews much. I never know what to say. I have to write one for this book, even though it'll most likely be only a few sentences. I just want to say that this book is different from anything I've ever read. Maybe it's just that I've never read anything other than mainstream paranormal books, or maybe this book is just that original. I loved the setting and I loved the characters. This paranormal murder mystery kept me reading non-stop until there was nothing left to read. I really enjoyed Haunted.
October 17, 2012
This book was amazingly well writen. I was shocked to find out that Dee's mother was in an insaine assylom and that her father/ killer was the docter. It was sad that the boy she fell inlove with had been a ghost and that Gran almost died in the fire although in the beginning I didnt like her charactor that much. I started to worm up to the charactor after half way through the book and thaught that she wasn't all that bad.
September 8, 2015
Great storytelling from Barbara Haworth-Attard! Atmospheric, eerie, suspenseful, emotional. This was a fun read! I enjoyed the main character Dee and the depth of the rest of the characters...not one was superfluous or weak.
I saw a figured out the twists/mysteries well before the big reveal, but that did not take away from my enjoyment.
recommended!
Cautions for younger readers: allusions to sexual assault (referred to as interference) and some violence described.
I saw a figured out the twists/mysteries well before the big reveal, but that did not take away from my enjoyment.
recommended!
Cautions for younger readers: allusions to sexual assault (referred to as interference) and some violence described.
December 13, 2010
A chilling read, for once even i(being as de-sensitised as i am) was creeped out throughout. It had a classic who dunnit theme with an eery twist that will have you taking a second look at everyone you know and questioning if they are really as they appear. A tale that definitely stayed with me long after I finished reading.
June 8, 2013
I liked the way the charcters were written in this book. Although the storyline was predictable at times, it wasn't so much that it was distracting. It is written very well with it's descriptions of people and settings without being overwhelming, though I did find some parts a little repetitive, though I sense it was done this way to reiterate the time period.
May 14, 2015
Why I picked it up:
Looked interesting
Why I finished:
The book was interesting
Who I recommend it to:
Rose
Why:
She loves books so I think she'll like this one
Summary:
Dee was feeding animals. The polic showed her a ring that belongs to Mary Ann Simpson and Dee doesn't feel right. Dee has an " ability " called " the sight " which allows her to see spirits.
Looked interesting
Why I finished:
The book was interesting
Who I recommend it to:
Rose
Why:
She loves books so I think she'll like this one
Summary:
Dee was feeding animals. The polic showed her a ring that belongs to Mary Ann Simpson and Dee doesn't feel right. Dee has an " ability " called " the sight " which allows her to see spirits.
June 27, 2015
Eerily written and brilliantly captivating, Haunted satisfied me with it's haunting ghost and gripping characters. The mystery, danger, sadness and ghosts made me eager to flip to the other page. An enticing Canadian plot that set me an edge and left a tinge of sadness in my heart with it's ending. This book told the story of the "Sight" in a more exciting
and gripping plot.
and gripping plot.
March 31, 2016
I liked this book and the whole mystery thing was good but i found myself getting bored a lot of the time. I don't know why. I really didn't expect who the killer was to be te killer so yay. I was quite annoyed that my favourite character ended up being dead the whole book -_-
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 20, 2013
I enjoyed this book. It was fast & entertaining and a refreshing change from the modern genre. Set in the early 1900's in Canada, I really liked the atmosphere. You get a great sense of time & place for that era. The story is eery and haunting with believable characters and did not disappoint.
February 2, 2015
I didn't particularly like this book it wasnot what I thought it would be. I liked how I didn't know the killer until he looked at his hands and touched his throat at court.Dees character was interesting so this book wasn't bad but it's not the type if book that i would want to read alot.
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