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The Gateway Trackers #9
City of the Forgotten
A malevolent force lurks beneath the streets of Scotland...
Jess and Hannah Ballard's determination to protect the Gateways brings them to Edinburgh's Old Town, where a strange phenomenon threatens to disturb the delicate balance between the worlds of the living and the dead. Spirits who wish to cross over are vanishing, and it is up to the Ballard sisters to discover why. The historic Royal Mile holds many secrets, some buried deep beneath the streets of the city itself, and soon, Jess and Hannah find themselves lured underground, facing a threat they could never have imagined. Will they be able to free the forgotten souls, or will the missing spirits be lost in the labyrinth forever?
City of the Forgotten is the ninth installment in E.E. Holmes' best-selling paranormal series, The Gateway Trackers.
Jess and Hannah Ballard's determination to protect the Gateways brings them to Edinburgh's Old Town, where a strange phenomenon threatens to disturb the delicate balance between the worlds of the living and the dead. Spirits who wish to cross over are vanishing, and it is up to the Ballard sisters to discover why. The historic Royal Mile holds many secrets, some buried deep beneath the streets of the city itself, and soon, Jess and Hannah find themselves lured underground, facing a threat they could never have imagined. Will they be able to free the forgotten souls, or will the missing spirits be lost in the labyrinth forever?
City of the Forgotten is the ninth installment in E.E. Holmes' best-selling paranormal series, The Gateway Trackers.
266 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 13, 2023
482 people are currently reading
260 people want to read
About the author
E.E. Holmes
35 books1,070 followersE.E. Holmes grew up near Boston, Massachusetts, where she spent the majority of her childhood reading books. She read them almost constantly, and as a result, perfected the art of walking and reading at the same time, a skill she can still perform to this day with remarkably few instances of falling on her face. She also wrote many books and poems in blank books and on the backs of legal pads her father brought home from the office. They remain some of her finest work.
She soon learned to love literature of the dramatic persuasion, and earned a B.A. in theater from the College of the Holy Cross. After graduation, she set out to prove that her degree was, in fact, not useless, and worked as a principal actor in a summer Shakespeare festival and as a theater teacher, directing over thirty productions and numerous workshops for youth and high school students. She spent several years as the theater director at Wakefield High School where she also taught English literature and public speaking. It was in her classroom that she discovered the horrible truth: a disturbingly large percentage of high school students hate to read. This revelation devastated and bewildered her. She decided she wanted to do something about it, and thus she started work on her first young adult novel, Spirit Legacy: Book 1 of the Gateway Trilogy, which has gone on to win awards from Chanticleer Book Reviews and Media and The Independent Publisher Book Awards. She is also the author of three one act plays, one of which premiered at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.
E.E. Holmes lives in central Massachusetts with her husband, two children, and small, but surprisingly loud dog. When not writing, she enjoys watching unhealthy amounts of British television, procrastinating, and rediscovering her favorite books from her childhood all over again with her kids.
She soon learned to love literature of the dramatic persuasion, and earned a B.A. in theater from the College of the Holy Cross. After graduation, she set out to prove that her degree was, in fact, not useless, and worked as a principal actor in a summer Shakespeare festival and as a theater teacher, directing over thirty productions and numerous workshops for youth and high school students. She spent several years as the theater director at Wakefield High School where she also taught English literature and public speaking. It was in her classroom that she discovered the horrible truth: a disturbingly large percentage of high school students hate to read. This revelation devastated and bewildered her. She decided she wanted to do something about it, and thus she started work on her first young adult novel, Spirit Legacy: Book 1 of the Gateway Trilogy, which has gone on to win awards from Chanticleer Book Reviews and Media and The Independent Publisher Book Awards. She is also the author of three one act plays, one of which premiered at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.
E.E. Holmes lives in central Massachusetts with her husband, two children, and small, but surprisingly loud dog. When not writing, she enjoys watching unhealthy amounts of British television, procrastinating, and rediscovering her favorite books from her childhood all over again with her kids.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
June 16, 2023
Brilliant
Another amazing adventure in the wonderful world of the Gateway Trackers! I adore everything about this series and the world EE Holmes has brought to life. I just can't get enough. These characters have become like old friends and I always look forward to learning more.
Another amazing adventure in the wonderful world of the Gateway Trackers! I adore everything about this series and the world EE Holmes has brought to life. I just can't get enough. These characters have become like old friends and I always look forward to learning more.
September 13, 2025
It's been two years since I read the last Gateway Trackers book - I didn't realize that 9,10,11 are now out. Honestly, I thought book 7 was the end (and maybe it was initially). I think this is the first book that I went with audio (text is in KU, add on audio a little over $5) and I liked the narrator (I seem to recall NOT liking the narration, I know there was a narrator switch from the original trilogy). Lots of accents and such (this book goes to Scotland).
I'm not sure if it's been too long of a hiatus for me, or if I do better reading on my own (although my eyes just don't cooperate very well anymore) ... but I didn't quite get pulled into the story this time (3.5 rating?) Even as some key moments, with beloved characters in peril, I wasn't really emotionally connected.
Some of the storyline felt familiar ... so when the reveal happened, I wasn't at all surprised and this story seemed a little more unresolved than the others, like this book was setting up the next. It's all a series, but peeking at the blurbs for the next couple, it seems like perhaps 9,10,11 are a mini-trilogy? I recall that with the Ranger'sApprentice series, sometimes you'd really have to commit to books 1-2 and then if felt like an end. You could continue on with 3, but then you'd have to read 4 to finish that storyline, and then a newish one started with 5 (I think I've read through book 6 of that series but just picked up the set, so might go back, and why it's on my mind).
I WILL continue on to the next book (again, in KU for text, add on audio just over $5) ... book 11 at this time is so new, there isn't a whispersync discount, but I do have credits I need to use, so I am planning on getting it as well.
Not really much Jess/Finn in here, some humor in the wedding plans for Hannah (Hannah and Milo butting heads). Some Savvy. Again ... to me, this felt like more of a set-up for the next books, introducing the Scottish area and situation, some of the new characters. It just didn't feel like a super compelling story in this selection alone, but maybe I was just slow to jump back into this world after being away for so long, or perhaps my tastes are changing as I age (I've been reading a lot more historical/literary fiction, less paranormal stuff).
Three instances of proFanity. Other words I note: dais, deign, snuck. Mischievous (I note pronunciation, 3-syllables with this narrator).
I'm not sure if it's been too long of a hiatus for me, or if I do better reading on my own (although my eyes just don't cooperate very well anymore) ... but I didn't quite get pulled into the story this time (3.5 rating?) Even as some key moments, with beloved characters in peril, I wasn't really emotionally connected.
Some of the storyline felt familiar ... so when the reveal happened, I wasn't at all surprised and this story seemed a little more unresolved than the others, like this book was setting up the next. It's all a series, but peeking at the blurbs for the next couple, it seems like perhaps 9,10,11 are a mini-trilogy? I recall that with the Ranger'sApprentice series, sometimes you'd really have to commit to books 1-2 and then if felt like an end. You could continue on with 3, but then you'd have to read 4 to finish that storyline, and then a newish one started with 5 (I think I've read through book 6 of that series but just picked up the set, so might go back, and why it's on my mind).
I WILL continue on to the next book (again, in KU for text, add on audio just over $5) ... book 11 at this time is so new, there isn't a whispersync discount, but I do have credits I need to use, so I am planning on getting it as well.
Not really much Jess/Finn in here, some humor in the wedding plans for Hannah (Hannah and Milo butting heads). Some Savvy. Again ... to me, this felt like more of a set-up for the next books, introducing the Scottish area and situation, some of the new characters. It just didn't feel like a super compelling story in this selection alone, but maybe I was just slow to jump back into this world after being away for so long, or perhaps my tastes are changing as I age (I've been reading a lot more historical/literary fiction, less paranormal stuff).
Three instances of proFanity. Other words I note: dais, deign, snuck. Mischievous (I note pronunciation, 3-syllables with this narrator).
November 6, 2023
I don't think I will ever get enough of Jess, Hannah and Milo, not ever. The others too, they all have a place in my heart but Jess, Hannah and Milo and their connection is brilliant, funny and so bloody captivating. No matter the situation they find themselves in they always come through it stronger. No matter how close they come to not getting through it. Or how many wedding dresses get threatened.
Another captivating story that had me in the edge of my seat waiting to find out what would happen. Jess as always is the strongest magnet for trouble but with her family, friends and trusted spirit guide surrounding her she can get out of the toughest spots.
Another captivating story that had me in the edge of my seat waiting to find out what would happen. Jess as always is the strongest magnet for trouble but with her family, friends and trusted spirit guide surrounding her she can get out of the toughest spots.
June 21, 2023
Exciting as always
Another great story of Fairhaven, characters so quirky and distinct they won't be forgotten. The storyline captured my attention and everything fell by the wayside until I finished. Jessica Ballard always amazed me with her skills and courage. My one bit of criticism is Hannah's character, who feels like a damsel in distress that needs rescuing. Unleash her! Stop the uncontrollable crying and falling apart, stand up straight and tall with strength. I'd like to see the Ballard Sisters are a cohesive team with a strong armor.
Another great story of Fairhaven, characters so quirky and distinct they won't be forgotten. The storyline captured my attention and everything fell by the wayside until I finished. Jessica Ballard always amazed me with her skills and courage. My one bit of criticism is Hannah's character, who feels like a damsel in distress that needs rescuing. Unleash her! Stop the uncontrollable crying and falling apart, stand up straight and tall with strength. I'd like to see the Ballard Sisters are a cohesive team with a strong armor.
June 27, 2023
I just love everything about this book. Jess, Hannah and Milo find them heading to Edinburgh to find out why spirits are disappearing. And of course Finn and Savvy go with them to protect them. But although they suspect who is behind the mystery you have to keep reading until the end to see if they are right. Savvy is her usual awesome self. And poor Hannah is feeling the pressure of planning her wedding. I would love to see a little bit more of Jess and Finn together. And hopefully we will see Hannah's wedding in the next book.
June 27, 2023
The latest instalment for Jess and Hannah as they settle into the changes in the Durupinen world following the Reckoning, and of course, it never stays quiet for long. Jess is called to investigate an issue with one of the Geatgrimas and goes up against another clan head in the process whilst trying hard to save the spirits being impacted. Despite the fact I guessed early on who was behind this mystery, I still loved it. The writing never fails to engage me, and the story arc made the book un-putdownable! Added bonus for being set in my home area too, and Milo is still my favourite diva!
September 6, 2023
Once again, EE Holmes out did herself. I’m absolutely in love The Gateway Trackers series. I love the relationships between the main characters. Milo is definitely a favorite. I love how snarky he can be. I’m hoping and praying there will be book 10. Need to find out how many dresses Milo is making for Hannah, not to mention the need to read about the wedding. Also, Jess needs to find that monster of a spirit. I’ve preordered the 1st book in her Vesper Coven series and I’m really looking forward to it.
December 24, 2024
Another fun read, I liked that the story was in a different city this time and introduced some new characters. I did not like that they used the same premise of a previous story, with one sister devoutly looking up to another, so could have been a little more creative than that.
This story line will obviously be a backdrop in the upcoming books, and I am wondering if the outcome of the Geatgrima will ever be complete or will there always be a fight over it.
This was a good story but no character growth, except for maybe Savvy. Let's see how things go in the next book.
This story line will obviously be a backdrop in the upcoming books, and I am wondering if the outcome of the Geatgrima will ever be complete or will there always be a fight over it.
This was a good story but no character growth, except for maybe Savvy. Let's see how things go in the next book.
August 29, 2023
I have read this series this far just for the love of the story and characters. I have not loved the writing up until this point. Suddenly in book 9 (this book) the writing became so much better. This is by far the best written of the series - not a lot of recapping from previous books and no notable typos. The story of this book is just as engaging as the previous and the way it ended, there is an obvious set-up for the next, which is great.
October 3, 2023
Pretty Good
I enjoy these books because they aren’t too complicated. They have a decent story line and interesting characters. There are some holes but they can be overlooked if your looking for an easy read. I do wish that the random f-bomb wasn’t there so I could recommend the series to my middle schoolers. It isn’t necessary and it doesn’t do anything to strengthen Jess’ character.
I enjoy these books because they aren’t too complicated. They have a decent story line and interesting characters. There are some holes but they can be overlooked if your looking for an easy read. I do wish that the random f-bomb wasn’t there so I could recommend the series to my middle schoolers. It isn’t necessary and it doesn’t do anything to strengthen Jess’ character.
August 25, 2024
I have loved the entire series and I am just starting book 10. The stories are so well written and the characters are great. I can really visualise the story passing out in my head.
I'm sad that this is the last book and wonder if there will be any more? I'd love to read more adventures through the lives of Jess, Hannah, Milo, Finn, Savvy, Cat and the others.
Thank you for for giving me the pleasure of looking forward to getting lost in the story each evening.
I'm sad that this is the last book and wonder if there will be any more? I'd love to read more adventures through the lives of Jess, Hannah, Milo, Finn, Savvy, Cat and the others.
Thank you for for giving me the pleasure of looking forward to getting lost in the story each evening.
June 17, 2023
absolutely love the continued series
How can we not love Jessica and Hannah. And how could I forget Milo. They are the best part of this story. As they traverse to a new location to solve a mystery of disappearing spirits, only to be trapped themselves trying to save their friends. In a book of twists and turns with happy endings and oh crap moments, it’s a must read.
How can we not love Jessica and Hannah. And how could I forget Milo. They are the best part of this story. As they traverse to a new location to solve a mystery of disappearing spirits, only to be trapped themselves trying to save their friends. In a book of twists and turns with happy endings and oh crap moments, it’s a must read.
June 23, 2023
An Edinburgh adventure.
I have just finished reading this latest book which I started 7hours ago . I literally couldn't put it down until I finished it. The writer drew me in from the start and the story line is excellent many twists and turns that lead you on to the final. I highly recommend it to all who love Jess, Hannah and Milo you will not be disappointed.
I have just finished reading this latest book which I started 7hours ago . I literally couldn't put it down until I finished it. The writer drew me in from the start and the story line is excellent many twists and turns that lead you on to the final. I highly recommend it to all who love Jess, Hannah and Milo you will not be disappointed.
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June 25, 2023An Exceptional Book of Horror Beyond Imagination!
E. E. Holmes has outdone herself with this book. All my favorite characters are involved in uncovering the most intriguing and mind blowing situation. Jess is as snarky as ever, joined by Savvy, Hannah, Finn, and Milo. A must read to continue this amazing series!
E. E. Holmes has outdone herself with this book. All my favorite characters are involved in uncovering the most intriguing and mind blowing situation. Jess is as snarky as ever, joined by Savvy, Hannah, Finn, and Milo. A must read to continue this amazing series!
June 27, 2023
Every single book is great!
I loved every book in the series and feel like I know each character as a friend. Each book is well written and the plots keep your fingers turning the pages. Jump in and experience these books for yourself. You won't be sorry until you turn that very last page...
I loved every book in the series and feel like I know each character as a friend. Each book is well written and the plots keep your fingers turning the pages. Jump in and experience these books for yourself. You won't be sorry until you turn that very last page...
July 30, 2023
Oh how I have missed all you wonderful characters!
So easy to fall back into the warm comfortable loving friendships Ms Holmes creates!
I adore all of her characters, even the stuck up haughty and maniacal ones.
Hurry, this next chase for necromancers and repair of the lost souls! Maybe time for a wedding?
So easy to fall back into the warm comfortable loving friendships Ms Holmes creates!
I adore all of her characters, even the stuck up haughty and maniacal ones.
Hurry, this next chase for necromancers and repair of the lost souls! Maybe time for a wedding?
August 25, 2023
Great series
Like many new author that are recommended to me, I wasn't sure about the series but oh my word what a great series, fantastic characters who interact brilliantly with each other, plenty of action and adventure and who wouldn't want a Milo in their lives, can't wait to get my teeth into the next one
Like many new author that are recommended to me, I wasn't sure about the series but oh my word what a great series, fantastic characters who interact brilliantly with each other, plenty of action and adventure and who wouldn't want a Milo in their lives, can't wait to get my teeth into the next one
January 9, 2024
love this series!!
Jessica, Hannah Finn, and Milo have come such a long way together and I love every one of the books from this series! This one had the group traveling to Edinburgh to find what was making ghosts disappear with screams of horror as they sank through the ground before the gateway.
Jessica, Hannah Finn, and Milo have come such a long way together and I love every one of the books from this series! This one had the group traveling to Edinburgh to find what was making ghosts disappear with screams of horror as they sank through the ground before the gateway.
May 3, 2024
Adventurous
This series is once again so full of adventure and wonderful characters. You can relate to every character so easily and their parts within the storyline. I just couldn’t stop turning pages. Absolutely love this adventurous storyline series and can’t wait for the next book!
This series is once again so full of adventure and wonderful characters. You can relate to every character so easily and their parts within the storyline. I just couldn’t stop turning pages. Absolutely love this adventurous storyline series and can’t wait for the next book!
July 13, 2024
Very different from previous plot lines in that the bad guys turn out to not be bad, and the real bad guy must be discovered. More of a "whodunnit" than the prior books in this series. Still well written and the characters have developed nicely over the passage of time - and not just the main characters, but also secondary and tertiary characters show growth (or not) and become more human.
October 18, 2024
I love that they are in Edinburgh, and it totally set the scene.
Once again, I was wrong with the villain. However, it's so sad that once again, someone turns to the dark side because they crave love and affection
I assume that book 10 will finalise everything on the hunt for The Collector, but I am curious about what the future will bring.
Once again, I was wrong with the villain. However, it's so sad that once again, someone turns to the dark side because they crave love and affection
I assume that book 10 will finalise everything on the hunt for The Collector, but I am curious about what the future will bring.
April 26, 2025
Missing the great storyline
Each successive book after the first few seem to grow weaker in storyline. It seemed to take forever to ever to get to the plot in this book and the journey was without the twists and turns so characteristic of this author. I'll finish the series but this was my least favorite by far.
Each successive book after the first few seem to grow weaker in storyline. It seemed to take forever to ever to get to the plot in this book and the journey was without the twists and turns so characteristic of this author. I'll finish the series but this was my least favorite by far.
June 19, 2023
Amazing
I personally can not get enough of these books. I am a fast reader, so I am always disappointed when I finish the book soon. Hopefully the next one comes soon. E.E Holmes, you are an AMAZINGLY gifted writer.
I personally can not get enough of these books. I am a fast reader, so I am always disappointed when I finish the book soon. Hopefully the next one comes soon. E.E Holmes, you are an AMAZINGLY gifted writer.
June 23, 2023
I enjoyed this latest journey of the Ballard sisters
More scary than previous books to myself. Intense and suspenseful throughout. And wonderful surprises. Indeed an enjoyable read. Looking forward to the next book.
More scary than previous books to myself. Intense and suspenseful throughout. And wonderful surprises. Indeed an enjoyable read. Looking forward to the next book.
June 24, 2023
Happy to recommend
Before reading this latest book in the Gateway Tracker series I decided to reread it from the beginning. I highly recommend the first series Gateway Trilogy and then the Gateway Tracker series. Excellent series.
Before reading this latest book in the Gateway Tracker series I decided to reread it from the beginning. I highly recommend the first series Gateway Trilogy and then the Gateway Tracker series. Excellent series.
June 24, 2023
Rivetting reading.
This book didn't fail to keep my interest, have read every gateway book.and wasn't disappointed, E.E Holmes did it again,her genius in writing another story is amazing,can't wait for the next book.
Tricia.
This book didn't fail to keep my interest, have read every gateway book.and wasn't disappointed, E.E Holmes did it again,her genius in writing another story is amazing,can't wait for the next book.
Tricia.
June 27, 2023
Love it!
I originally got this series as a free book and since purchased them all .
I loved the series and it reignited my love of reading.
I enjoy everything about it, the characters, the descriptions, the ghosts and my imagination was finally unlocked again.
I so look forward to the next releases.
Downside of it ....late nights because I cant put them down.
X
I originally got this series as a free book and since purchased them all .
I loved the series and it reignited my love of reading.
I enjoy everything about it, the characters, the descriptions, the ghosts and my imagination was finally unlocked again.
I so look forward to the next releases.
Downside of it ....late nights because I cant put them down.
X
June 27, 2023
pure awesome
Whenever I read any of these books I can never put it down! It feels line there is a spell put there to keep reading. I love the story lines of the characters. Can’t wait to read more of The Gateway Trackers. Hope is more to come!
Whenever I read any of these books I can never put it down! It feels line there is a spell put there to keep reading. I love the story lines of the characters. Can’t wait to read more of The Gateway Trackers. Hope is more to come!
June 29, 2023
Great as usual!
As usual, this series did not disappoint! The characters are lively. The story is enticing, and review wanting more. I very much enjoy your work, and I’m looking forward to the next one!
As usual, this series did not disappoint! The characters are lively. The story is enticing, and review wanting more. I very much enjoy your work, and I’m looking forward to the next one!
July 2, 2023
A worthy installment in the series
I was thrilled to see my friends return for this next installment. As always, the story does not fail to intrigue and entertain. I look forward to the next one, as the story begun in this book will need to unfold in the next.
I was thrilled to see my friends return for this next installment. As always, the story does not fail to intrigue and entertain. I look forward to the next one, as the story begun in this book will need to unfold in the next.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews