What do you think?
Rate this book
Giving Up Your Ghosts
Parker Hale doesn't remember the night that his father died, but the tragedy still haunts him over a year later. His dreams are plagued by taunting visions, horrible nightmares that shake his sanity. The girl in white. The beast in the woods. And the twisted tree. What does it all mean? When Parker befriends the new girl in town, they set out to solve the mystery and unravel Parker's missing night. What deadly secrets hide in Deep Shadow Forest? And why can't he remember? With Sara Ann's help, Parker must face his demons or he may never truly give up his ghosts.
Kindle Edition
Published December 1, 2022
10 people are currently reading
58 people want to read
About the author
Jackson Arthur
11 books13 followersJackson Arthur is born and raised in Ohio. He lives there with his wife, daughter, cat, and chinchilla. He has always been a fan of horror and his favorite author is Stephen King. He mostly writes scary stories but also dabbles in the weird and abnormal. Some of his short stories have been narrated on YouTube and Spotify.
You can find Jackson Arthur on Facebook at
https://www.facebook.com/JacksonArthu...
You can email him at JacksonArthurStories@gmail.com
You can visit his website at https://jacksonarthurstori.wixsite.co...
You can find Jackson Arthur on Facebook at
https://www.facebook.com/JacksonArthu...
You can email him at JacksonArthurStories@gmail.com
You can visit his website at https://jacksonarthurstori.wixsite.co...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
May 17, 2024
This book...wow! First off it grabbed my attention from the beginning. Then all the twists and turns kept me wanting more. The ending? Superb! I highly recommend it to anyone who loves a scary ghost story. I have now added all of Jackson Arthur's books to my TBR!
December 23, 2022
I really enjoyed this book, the author really brought the story to life by how detailed it was. I liked the main characters and I like that the author didnt try to age the main character to be more mature than his age
September 28, 2025
Well the blurb was spot on when it said if you loved IT you will love this book. You can tell the author is inspired by King’s work in the best way.
Part ghost story, part coming of age drama, this book kept me on the edge of my seat wondering what would happen next! I read it in two days and the only reason I didn’t finish it sooner was because I had to go to work 🤣
He made the characters likable, which is hard when the book is from a teenager’s perspective! I don’t want to give too much away, but I loved how much Parker grew throughout the story.
The writing was great and the story was even better! It is also available on KU!
I strongly recommend checking out this book and the author’s other works as well!
P.S.- if you loved IT, page 182 of this book will make you so happy!!!
Part ghost story, part coming of age drama, this book kept me on the edge of my seat wondering what would happen next! I read it in two days and the only reason I didn’t finish it sooner was because I had to go to work 🤣
He made the characters likable, which is hard when the book is from a teenager’s perspective! I don’t want to give too much away, but I loved how much Parker grew throughout the story.
The writing was great and the story was even better! It is also available on KU!
I strongly recommend checking out this book and the author’s other works as well!
P.S.- if you loved IT, page 182 of this book will make you so happy!!!
January 15, 2023
the perfect mix of mystery and horror!
This is the third book I have read from this author, and it just keeps better and better. I loved the duo Parker and Sarah Ann… they are the perfect match and they made me laugh so hard. I hope the author decides to write another book involving them.
Parker loved his father, but lost him. The shock sends his brain into protective mode and he forgets what really happened. When he meets Sarah Ann hope lingers and happiness reenters his life. But with that come nightmares and visions about Grace. A young girl killed a long time ago. As the dynamic duo dive into the mystery, it could be their end.
It’s not your usual cursed girl or the haunted house story. The author goes deep into the mind of characters where both have to let go of imaginary and real life ghosts… enjoy…
This is the third book I have read from this author, and it just keeps better and better. I loved the duo Parker and Sarah Ann… they are the perfect match and they made me laugh so hard. I hope the author decides to write another book involving them.
Parker loved his father, but lost him. The shock sends his brain into protective mode and he forgets what really happened. When he meets Sarah Ann hope lingers and happiness reenters his life. But with that come nightmares and visions about Grace. A young girl killed a long time ago. As the dynamic duo dive into the mystery, it could be their end.
It’s not your usual cursed girl or the haunted house story. The author goes deep into the mind of characters where both have to let go of imaginary and real life ghosts… enjoy…
September 1, 2024
Amazing book that I read in two sittings. I loved the characters, and the pacing of the story was really well done. The story is very detailed, but never loses focus on the overall storyline. I find that many books with similar topics tend to drag out the story too long until the reader becomes disinterested in finding out the truth, but that wasn't the case for this book at all.
I feel like the ending could have been a little longer, with a little more development between the main character and his mother. Nevertheless, definitely recommend, even to people who aren't used to reading horror.
I feel like the ending could have been a little longer, with a little more development between the main character and his mother. Nevertheless, definitely recommend, even to people who aren't used to reading horror.
April 12, 2023
As Parker tries to escape his horror filled dreams and hallucinations he meets a strange girl Sarah Ann.
There are deadly secrets hiding in the forrest. This is a great ghost thriller with haunted dreams and unexpected turns.
There are deadly secrets hiding in the forrest. This is a great ghost thriller with haunted dreams and unexpected turns.
November 28, 2025
This book was an absolute blast to read—packed with twists, turns, and just the right amount of creepiness to keep you constantly on edge. Every chapter leaves you wondering what could possibly happen next, and somehow the story always manages to surprise you. The author balances the eerie atmosphere with well-placed humor, giving the book a dynamic rhythm that makes it hard to put down.
One of my favorite aspects is the way he weaves in references to other works of literature. It adds an extra layer of enjoyment, especially for readers who catch the nods to iconic authors. As a longtime Stephen King fan, I especially appreciated the subtle (and sometimes not-so-subtle) King references sprinkled throughout. It’s clear the author is a fan as well, and that shared admiration makes the reading experience even more fun.
Overall, this book delivers a gripping mix of suspense, clever writing, and personality. If you like stories that keep you guessing and offer a little wink to fellow book lovers along the way, this one’s definitely worth picking up
One of my favorite aspects is the way he weaves in references to other works of literature. It adds an extra layer of enjoyment, especially for readers who catch the nods to iconic authors. As a longtime Stephen King fan, I especially appreciated the subtle (and sometimes not-so-subtle) King references sprinkled throughout. It’s clear the author is a fan as well, and that shared admiration makes the reading experience even more fun.
Overall, this book delivers a gripping mix of suspense, clever writing, and personality. If you like stories that keep you guessing and offer a little wink to fellow book lovers along the way, this one’s definitely worth picking up
October 1, 2023
Giving Up Your Ghosts is a horror novel about Parker Hale, and the tragic death of his father. Parker remembers very little other than a few ghostly images and some heart-pounding nightmares. But Sarah Ann, the new girl in town, is willing to help him solve the mystery once of what happened that night once and for all. However, the duo may have bitten off more than they can chew by investigating the secrets of Deep Shadow Forest.
This is my first book by Jackson Arthur, but it definitely will not be my last. He did an amazing job setting the scene throughout the novel. The book was atmospheric and spooky. Parker and Sarah Ann were a dynamic duo together. I was rooting for them both individually and as a team. They made me laugh out loud several times. I also like that they actually acted like teenagers instead of being "mature for their years" like some authors do. The plot and pacing were solid, making for a very spooky quick read.
Thank you to the author for a copy of this novel. I am leaving this review voluntarily and all views expressed are my own.
This is my first book by Jackson Arthur, but it definitely will not be my last. He did an amazing job setting the scene throughout the novel. The book was atmospheric and spooky. Parker and Sarah Ann were a dynamic duo together. I was rooting for them both individually and as a team. They made me laugh out loud several times. I also like that they actually acted like teenagers instead of being "mature for their years" like some authors do. The plot and pacing were solid, making for a very spooky quick read.
Thank you to the author for a copy of this novel. I am leaving this review voluntarily and all views expressed are my own.
December 31, 2022
Parker’s dad died two years ago and Parker doesn’t remember what happened. He has nightmares about it but they’re shrouded in darkness. He sets out to discover what’s happening in the woods and how his dad died.
This was a good book! Nice little ghost story. I enjoyed the relationship between the two main characters and it had an interesting twist at the end. I enjoyed it.
This was a good book! Nice little ghost story. I enjoyed the relationship between the two main characters and it had an interesting twist at the end. I enjoyed it.
April 10, 2023
Race to the finish!
Holy wow, what a tale! Dive into Parker's struggle but make sure you aren't due to be somewhere...Jackson Arthur's story will sink its hooks into you so deeply you won't break free from the story until you reach the end. If you like a good mystery mixed with some evil and more than a little haunting you will enjoy "Giving Up Your Ghosts".
Holy wow, what a tale! Dive into Parker's struggle but make sure you aren't due to be somewhere...Jackson Arthur's story will sink its hooks into you so deeply you won't break free from the story until you reach the end. If you like a good mystery mixed with some evil and more than a little haunting you will enjoy "Giving Up Your Ghosts".
March 16, 2023
Giving Up Your Ghosts follows Parker Hale as he tries to deal with his father’s passing. Parker has blocked out memories of the night his father died and he was missing for hours. He begins having flashes of memory and what can only be described as nightmares…a girl in a white dress, a horrible angry beast, a ring of death. Parker must try to understand his nightmares while also separating reality from dreams. What are these nightmares trying to tell him? What is this Beast haunting him and why does he keep seeing a sick and twisted tree? What does all this have to do with him? Past meets present as Parker travels into deep haunted woods to unlock a mystery and save not only himself, but Grace, the girl in his nightmares.
The book had quite a few typing errors in it which were hard to miss. Sentences were often short and rather than combine them, the second sentence often began with “And.” I found this a bit distracting and somewhat frustrating at times.
Other than the need for some additional edits, I found the plot line to be captivating. The book was a quick read and I enjoyed the concept very much. Some revelations were expected but others were not. I found myself eager to find out about the Beast and why Parker was having these visions.
I really enjoyed the horror meets fantasy aspect and would recommend this book to a friend. I am looking forward to reading more books from this author! Give this book a try if you like mysteries and a bit of fantasy, it’s worth the read!
The book had quite a few typing errors in it which were hard to miss. Sentences were often short and rather than combine them, the second sentence often began with “And.” I found this a bit distracting and somewhat frustrating at times.
Other than the need for some additional edits, I found the plot line to be captivating. The book was a quick read and I enjoyed the concept very much. Some revelations were expected but others were not. I found myself eager to find out about the Beast and why Parker was having these visions.
I really enjoyed the horror meets fantasy aspect and would recommend this book to a friend. I am looking forward to reading more books from this author! Give this book a try if you like mysteries and a bit of fantasy, it’s worth the read!
March 14, 2023
Parker Hale has had almost two years of terror filled dreams, hallucinations, therapy, and lies ever since his father died. Parker keeps attempting to escape it all by diving into his books but what happens when that doesn't work anymore? What happens when a new girl in town invites him and he's personal demons to be her own? Will he be able to battle the Beast and the Twisted Tree? Can he rescue Grace from her prison that he also shares? Will he finally recover his own memories in the process to remember what he mentally blocked that horrible night that started it all for him?
Jackson Arthur keeps you wanting more with each page turned in this spooky and mind bending mystery. I couldn't put the book down! Each page invites you to a darker and more questionable side of how the mind can work against itself in the worst ways and how just a beam of light from another source can help to heal it all.
Jackson Arthur keeps you wanting more with each page turned in this spooky and mind bending mystery. I couldn't put the book down! Each page invites you to a darker and more questionable side of how the mind can work against itself in the worst ways and how just a beam of light from another source can help to heal it all.
April 7, 2025
I was walking the mall, which I do when it is too hot or rainy or snowing outside. In a local bookstore, a gentleman was sitting at a table with four or five books. I asked if he was a local author, I sort of got an answer, and he asked if I liked horror stories. Honestly, I do occasionally. I think Brian Evenson's were the last I read.
I grabbed the novel. The others were short stories. I like short stories but prefer lengthier tales
So, I brought home Giving Up Your Ghosts
It turned out to be a YA story. The protagonist is fourteen years old, having had a traumatic experience. Actually, there was a lot of tragedy and trauma in the story, and yet, it was a tale of hope and forgiveness and friendship.
It is always something I try to do to support local authors, and I am glad I did. Is the book perfect? I worked in publishing, but no book is perfect, but this was a nice surprise.
Thanks, Jackson, for putting yourself out there. I hope I wasn't the only person to buy a book from you.
I grabbed the novel. The others were short stories. I like short stories but prefer lengthier tales
So, I brought home Giving Up Your Ghosts
It turned out to be a YA story. The protagonist is fourteen years old, having had a traumatic experience. Actually, there was a lot of tragedy and trauma in the story, and yet, it was a tale of hope and forgiveness and friendship.
It is always something I try to do to support local authors, and I am glad I did. Is the book perfect? I worked in publishing, but no book is perfect, but this was a nice surprise.
Thanks, Jackson, for putting yourself out there. I hope I wasn't the only person to buy a book from you.
November 11, 2024
As someone who normally stays away from ghost stories I'm so glad I read this. Parker has amnesia about the night his father died and the ghost of a girl whose family started the town won't leave him alone. I loved that the author shows how much growth Parker is capable of once he has Sarah Ann next to him. All he needed was someone he knew to have his back. Read Giving Up Your Ghosts by Jackson Author. The twists and turns are amazing. It will make you feel as if you're the one losing your mind! This story kept me enthralled and on the edge of my seat. You'll be questioning your insanity by the end. Highly recommend!
October 20, 2024
Good
It was riveting suspenseful and scarey. I loved reading it. Great characters fantastic storyline and awesome action. Truly a good story
It was riveting suspenseful and scarey. I loved reading it. Great characters fantastic storyline and awesome action. Truly a good story
September 10, 2025
Giving Up Your Ghosts is a haunting, beautifully written coming-of-age story that lingers long after the last page. Jackson Arthur masterfully balances psychological horror with moments of genuine heart, making Parker’s journey through grief, memory, and mystery both chilling and deeply human.
The atmosphere is wonderfully eerie, dreams of twisted trees and shadowy woods pull you right in, and the cursed trailer park setting feels both real and unsettling. Sara Ann is such a captivating character, serving as both comfort and catalyst, and the relationship between her and Parker adds so much emotional depth.
If you enjoy Stephen King’s ability to weave horror with humanity, you’ll love this book. It’s unsettling, emotional, and at times heart-breaking, but ultimately hopeful. Arthur’s prose is sharp, lyrical, and cinematic, I could see every scene play out vividly.
Highly recommended for fans of psychological horror and anyone who appreciates a story that’s as much about resilience and healing as it is about facing what haunts us.
The atmosphere is wonderfully eerie, dreams of twisted trees and shadowy woods pull you right in, and the cursed trailer park setting feels both real and unsettling. Sara Ann is such a captivating character, serving as both comfort and catalyst, and the relationship between her and Parker adds so much emotional depth.
If you enjoy Stephen King’s ability to weave horror with humanity, you’ll love this book. It’s unsettling, emotional, and at times heart-breaking, but ultimately hopeful. Arthur’s prose is sharp, lyrical, and cinematic, I could see every scene play out vividly.
Highly recommended for fans of psychological horror and anyone who appreciates a story that’s as much about resilience and healing as it is about facing what haunts us.
August 23, 2025
"Parker Hale doesn't remember the night that his father died, but the tragedy still haunts him over a year later. His dreams are plagued by taunting visions, horrible nightmares that shake his sanity. The girl in white. The beast in the woods. And the twisted tree. What does it all mean? When Parker befriends the new girl in town, they set out to solve the mystery and unravel Parker's missing night. What deadly secrets hide in Deep Shadow Forest? And why can't he remember? With Sara Ann's help, Parker must face his demons or he may never truly give up his ghosts."
Loved reading, was engaging from beginning to end. The storyline and characters were great. First read from this author, can't wait to read more from them. This is ya horror, that you will love 🙂.
Loved reading, was engaging from beginning to end. The storyline and characters were great. First read from this author, can't wait to read more from them. This is ya horror, that you will love 🙂.
July 14, 2024
As a long time Stephen King fan, I am very particular in this genre and yet Jackson Arthur was able to pull me in from the very first chapter.
He was able to do two things - create likeable and believable characters and a ghost story that grabs you without devolving into gore with good imagery.
His main character, Parker, is someone you root for and the dialogue between him and his new found friend, Sara Ann is witty and engaging.
The action is never dull and I would strongly recommend this book. It should be read by a lot more people.
He was able to do two things - create likeable and believable characters and a ghost story that grabs you without devolving into gore with good imagery.
His main character, Parker, is someone you root for and the dialogue between him and his new found friend, Sara Ann is witty and engaging.
The action is never dull and I would strongly recommend this book. It should be read by a lot more people.
January 14, 2024
Read this one on KU. Very entertaining ghost/coming of age story. Loved the symbolism of the tree.
If you like paranormal novels you might enjoy this one.
If you like paranormal novels you might enjoy this one.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews