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Weirdsville #2
Immortal Remains
Four freak accidents. Four mysterious deaths. Four signs of trouble. Welcome back to Weirdsville… "You see, the girls that died – it wasn't by accident. They were cursed, every one of them. Cursed to meet a horrible death… And I'm going to be next." Four girls from posh school Riverbank have been killed in seemingly random but freakish ways and it’s not long before Bethan and co. are lured into investigating the grisly case. Is it really just coincidence or is there something more sinister going on?
Meanwhile Hashim’s playing truant, Kelly’s on the warpath and Jay’s trying to avoid someone even more close to home… Himself. Scary, paranormal and supernaturally chilling experiences are everyday in a town like Weirdsville…
Meanwhile Hashim’s playing truant, Kelly’s on the warpath and Jay’s trying to avoid someone even more close to home… Himself. Scary, paranormal and supernaturally chilling experiences are everyday in a town like Weirdsville…
232 pages, Paperback
First published September 2, 2010
6 people are currently reading
357 people want to read
About the author
Rook Hastings
4 books42 followersRook Hastings has been a writer of fiction for eight years. With a life long fascination for the paranormal, Rook has lived in two haunted houses. Once as a child, when an invisible ghost cat would make Rook break out in an allergic rash whenever it brushed by, and once as an art student when a recently deceased former housemate caused all sorts of spooky goings on for a whole year. Rook now lives very happily in a non-haunted house in Hertfordshire.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
September 2, 2010
I really enjoyed Nearly Departed so I was looking forward to revisiting Woodsville and the characters in Immortal Remains. I was expecting a creepy read but Rook Hastings outdid herself and Immortal Remains was positively scary in places. If you're a fan of ghost stories then I'd highly recommend this series but you might have to sleep with the lights on afterwards!
We were already introduced to the main characters in Nearly Departed but we get to know them even better in Immortal Remains. Hashim is still the popular, sporty teenager he was before but he is struggling to deal with the events of the previous book. He sees ghosts everywhere he goes but is living in denial and has stopped speaking to the others because he just wants to forget everything that has happened. He doesn't want to think about the reality of the events that are taking place in Woodsville and I can completely understand how he feels. He is a likable character but features less in this story - although he still has an important part to play - and I'm hoping we get to see more of him in future installments to the series.
Kelly is one of the popular crowd who used to bully other members of the group. She was the character who I wasn't expecting to like at all when I started reading the first book but she quickly became my favorite character in Immortal Remains. We already knew she has a tough home life but we get to find out more about her life in this story and you can't help but feel sorry for her. Since starting to hang out with the others she is being ostracised by her former friends and is losing her popularity, this is difficult for her to deal with but I was pleased to see the way her feelings changed throughout the book. Kelly is tough and she has attitude - she had me laughing out loud on several occasions with her snarky one liners.
Bethan is the goth girl with blue hair and a ghost blog that everyone at school loves to tease. She has never really fitted in before but seems to be finding her place within the group. When she is contacted by Charlotte (a pupil from the local posh school) via her blog Bethan is the one who gets the others involved. Four of Charlotte's friends have died in mysterious circumstances and Charlotte believes that they were all cursed after playing on an Ouija board - she thinks that she will be next. She asks the friends to help her but will they be able to free Charlotte from the curse?
Jay seems to be the glue that holds the group together, without him I get the feeling that the others would drift apart and head in opposite directions. Jay was very much the geek in the first installment but he is starting to shed his nerdy image and I'm curious to see if this continues in the next book. All of the characters are very lifelike and remind me of people I was at school with. It is very easy to relate to each of them and I think the story is more frightening because it reminds me so much of being a teenager and the things that used to give me nightmares when I was younger.
I would highly recommend this series to any fans of a good ghost story - if you enjoy a spookily good read you'll love both of these books. I'm looking forward to seeing what Rook Hastings comes up with next.
We were already introduced to the main characters in Nearly Departed but we get to know them even better in Immortal Remains. Hashim is still the popular, sporty teenager he was before but he is struggling to deal with the events of the previous book. He sees ghosts everywhere he goes but is living in denial and has stopped speaking to the others because he just wants to forget everything that has happened. He doesn't want to think about the reality of the events that are taking place in Woodsville and I can completely understand how he feels. He is a likable character but features less in this story - although he still has an important part to play - and I'm hoping we get to see more of him in future installments to the series.
Kelly is one of the popular crowd who used to bully other members of the group. She was the character who I wasn't expecting to like at all when I started reading the first book but she quickly became my favorite character in Immortal Remains. We already knew she has a tough home life but we get to find out more about her life in this story and you can't help but feel sorry for her. Since starting to hang out with the others she is being ostracised by her former friends and is losing her popularity, this is difficult for her to deal with but I was pleased to see the way her feelings changed throughout the book. Kelly is tough and she has attitude - she had me laughing out loud on several occasions with her snarky one liners.
Bethan is the goth girl with blue hair and a ghost blog that everyone at school loves to tease. She has never really fitted in before but seems to be finding her place within the group. When she is contacted by Charlotte (a pupil from the local posh school) via her blog Bethan is the one who gets the others involved. Four of Charlotte's friends have died in mysterious circumstances and Charlotte believes that they were all cursed after playing on an Ouija board - she thinks that she will be next. She asks the friends to help her but will they be able to free Charlotte from the curse?
Jay seems to be the glue that holds the group together, without him I get the feeling that the others would drift apart and head in opposite directions. Jay was very much the geek in the first installment but he is starting to shed his nerdy image and I'm curious to see if this continues in the next book. All of the characters are very lifelike and remind me of people I was at school with. It is very easy to relate to each of them and I think the story is more frightening because it reminds me so much of being a teenager and the things that used to give me nightmares when I was younger.
I would highly recommend this series to any fans of a good ghost story - if you enjoy a spookily good read you'll love both of these books. I'm looking forward to seeing what Rook Hastings comes up with next.
October 5, 2011
I enjoyed this book, after the last one ended with jay running away from another version of himself, I was really intrigued to find out what would happen next. we find out the other vision of Jay was a ghost omen, and most of the book is from Jay's viewpoint then the others, overall this part of the book was good and interesting, but I think it would have been better if Jay's other self visited him more then twice.
I was surprised that we didn't really learn anything extra about the army of the dead, they were mentioned a few times in the book.
We meet the characters in the first book, but in this book we learn about them and we see how they change. Also we met a new character named Charlotte, she isn't really a main character but she's the girl that they help in this book, who's always hiding something about what happened.
There didn't seem to be a big ending like in the last book, which wasn't the best but still good, I liked the last chapter when Bethan is in hospital and she mentions Kelly's mum, so I can't wait to find out what happens next.
Overall a good book, with interesting twists and good descriptive writing. xx
I was surprised that we didn't really learn anything extra about the army of the dead, they were mentioned a few times in the book.
We meet the characters in the first book, but in this book we learn about them and we see how they change. Also we met a new character named Charlotte, she isn't really a main character but she's the girl that they help in this book, who's always hiding something about what happened.
There didn't seem to be a big ending like in the last book, which wasn't the best but still good, I liked the last chapter when Bethan is in hospital and she mentions Kelly's mum, so I can't wait to find out what happens next.
Overall a good book, with interesting twists and good descriptive writing. xx
November 5, 2018
It's a shame that this series wasn't picked up for more books it had the potential to be one of those great spooky, long running paranormal mystery solving kinda deals.
December 12, 2025
This book had me quite hooked at the beginning, 4 girls all dying mysteriously all within a month of each other. The gang is back together to find out what’s going on as they are approached by a friend of the girls Charlotte, who is terrified and needs help as she knows she’s next.
This book is spooky, the gang are dealing with the ghost army, death omens, witches. Hashim wants nothing to do with it all but keeps getting drawn back in, Jay is going through some things after seeing himself at the end of the last novel, Kelly does not trust Charlotte and thinks there is something strange about her and Bethany is pining after Jay whilst investigating what’s going on. They all have a lot on their plates but in the end their priority is helping Charlotte.
It was a great book and it didn’t take me long to read it but I was really disappointed jn the end as it ended on a cliffhanger and there is no more to the series, so there is no closure. We don’t get to find out more about the ghost army and (possible spoiler alert) it ends with mention of Kelly’s mum and her needing help. I would have loved for the story to continue. Overall though it was a short and spooky read that kept me wanting to know what was going to happen next.
This book is spooky, the gang are dealing with the ghost army, death omens, witches. Hashim wants nothing to do with it all but keeps getting drawn back in, Jay is going through some things after seeing himself at the end of the last novel, Kelly does not trust Charlotte and thinks there is something strange about her and Bethany is pining after Jay whilst investigating what’s going on. They all have a lot on their plates but in the end their priority is helping Charlotte.
It was a great book and it didn’t take me long to read it but I was really disappointed jn the end as it ended on a cliffhanger and there is no more to the series, so there is no closure. We don’t get to find out more about the ghost army and (possible spoiler alert) it ends with mention of Kelly’s mum and her needing help. I would have loved for the story to continue. Overall though it was a short and spooky read that kept me wanting to know what was going to happen next.
August 1, 2025
Love being surprised by a quick read. Didn't have high expectations as both books are under 250 pages but thoroughly enjoyed them both. Perfect little paranormal book duo for those in between reads. Really likeable characters and found myself wanting more at the end. 👌🏼
November 8, 2010
For me this is the eagerly anticipated sequel to Nearly Departed. The chilling modern tale of a ghost-busting gang of high school students. I had been warned how scary this one was so I think I had mentally prepared myself.
The sequels starts with the apparent suicide of 4 teenage girls, all from the same school. This is very topical for me as you will know if you saw my Saturday Spotlight on Bullying a few weeks age. The beginning immediately sets a dramatic and tense atmosphere, plunging the reader into the story where Nearly Departed ended.
The third person narrator is an unobtrusive presence within the story. Focalization of different characters perspectives within different chapters gives a well rounded frame of reference. The characters balance each others personalities beautifully, Kelly's snarky comments and one liners certainly lighten what could be an oppressive mood. I literally giggled out loud at the description of a Ouija board being a form of twitter for ghosts. Interactions between the characters become strained due to circumstances but it is also these circumstances that bond them together.
The illustration of the crosses at the chapter headings give a sense of foreboding. The description of the freakishly gory deaths occurring within such a small town is really ominous in its illustration. Elements of quantum physics interwoven into the plot take the story to a whole new level. The saying 'sends shivers down your spine' takes on a whole new meaning in the narrative. Little plot teasers are placed throughout although some are a form of subtle misdirection. Very clever plot development culminates into an action pact finale with an electrifying cliffhanger.
Phew - so it roundup: an intense psychological/paranormal suspense which really plays with your mind and lingers in your imagination. I can't wait for the next one.
The sequels starts with the apparent suicide of 4 teenage girls, all from the same school. This is very topical for me as you will know if you saw my Saturday Spotlight on Bullying a few weeks age. The beginning immediately sets a dramatic and tense atmosphere, plunging the reader into the story where Nearly Departed ended.
The third person narrator is an unobtrusive presence within the story. Focalization of different characters perspectives within different chapters gives a well rounded frame of reference. The characters balance each others personalities beautifully, Kelly's snarky comments and one liners certainly lighten what could be an oppressive mood. I literally giggled out loud at the description of a Ouija board being a form of twitter for ghosts. Interactions between the characters become strained due to circumstances but it is also these circumstances that bond them together.
The illustration of the crosses at the chapter headings give a sense of foreboding. The description of the freakishly gory deaths occurring within such a small town is really ominous in its illustration. Elements of quantum physics interwoven into the plot take the story to a whole new level. The saying 'sends shivers down your spine' takes on a whole new meaning in the narrative. Little plot teasers are placed throughout although some are a form of subtle misdirection. Very clever plot development culminates into an action pact finale with an electrifying cliffhanger.
Phew - so it roundup: an intense psychological/paranormal suspense which really plays with your mind and lingers in your imagination. I can't wait for the next one.
August 3, 2011
Picking up a short while after the events of “Nearly Departed” (the first Weirdsville book) - and assuming a working knowledge of said book - this has the gang of ghosthunters almost at breaking point. Jay has seen something that has shaken him to the core, Bethan has set up a ghost blog and made herself the target of ridicule and Kelly is being pulled back to the ‘in-crowd’ though she doesn’t really want to be. As for Hashim, he’s had enough of seeing ghosts everywhere and wants nothing more to do with the others. This changes after four suicides at a local boarding school - though they’re not suicides at all - when the gang are approached by American student Charlotte Raimi, who wants them to help her investigate the cause since she believes that she’s next in line to die. Told with the same breathless energy as its predecessor (though focussing much less on the concrete jungle of Woodsville), this has some good gory moments and plenty of spooky atmosphere and Hastings works well to round out the characters. Whilst not as intimate as “Nearly Departed” - Charlotte is a vain, annoying character (as is right), whilst Emily was a quiet, lost soul - the mystery works well though, for my money, the climax could have been a bit longer. Otherwise, a cracking read, well worth the time (with a terrific epilogue) and very much recommended.
April 28, 2015
4.5 Stars
I really enjoyed Nearly Departed so I was looking forward to this one. I am pleased to say I think it's even better!
Taking place shortly after the events of the first book we have some new ghostly goings-on to deal with. This time it's a possible curse and the group decide to investigate. With Hashim avoiding them in order to live a 'normal' life and Jay worried about what his 'encounter' really means we have quite a bit going on!
I've got to say I think this may have been even creepier than the last one. I usually have a pretty good threshold when it comes to horror but even I found myself a little creeped out in parts. The supernatural mystery was really good - and even though I had my suspicions I was only partly correct!
The character interactions were really good this time as well - I think it really is here that Hastings excels. I loved all the romantic and friendship material just as much, and possibly even more than the supernatural mystery. I also really enjoyed that we got some more insight into Kelly's home life. I'm hoping this will continue and extend to the other characters as well.
I can't wait for more - this is fast becoming a favourite series of mine. And with an ending like that it sets up the next book as a must read!
I really enjoyed Nearly Departed so I was looking forward to this one. I am pleased to say I think it's even better!
Taking place shortly after the events of the first book we have some new ghostly goings-on to deal with. This time it's a possible curse and the group decide to investigate. With Hashim avoiding them in order to live a 'normal' life and Jay worried about what his 'encounter' really means we have quite a bit going on!
I've got to say I think this may have been even creepier than the last one. I usually have a pretty good threshold when it comes to horror but even I found myself a little creeped out in parts. The supernatural mystery was really good - and even though I had my suspicions I was only partly correct!
The character interactions were really good this time as well - I think it really is here that Hastings excels. I loved all the romantic and friendship material just as much, and possibly even more than the supernatural mystery. I also really enjoyed that we got some more insight into Kelly's home life. I'm hoping this will continue and extend to the other characters as well.
I can't wait for more - this is fast becoming a favourite series of mine. And with an ending like that it sets up the next book as a must read!
November 28, 2011
Where do I begin with Immortal Remains. Well, I loved the first book Nearly Departed and this one was even better in some ways (if that's even possible).
Kelly, Bethan, Jay and Hashim have some trouble hanging with each other after what happened at the ending of the last book(no spoilers). As they are driven apart something or someone is about to bring them back together. There has been four freak accidents, leaving four dead girls at a private school near them. When Charlotte, a girl form that school, contacts Bethan and claims that she is the next victim, they have to gather their forces to face the new threat. No matter what it seems to be.
This book was an emotional roller coaster, it had me crying, laughing, getting angry and then terrified all at the same page. Never knowing what will happen. A lot of twists and turns, mystery and totally unexpected scenarios. Just like in the first book, I love the way the author lets us inside each character's head and allows us to learn his every fear and hope.
I realized that there is no next book out yet, I hope it will be out at least next year! I want to know what's going to happen next. I need to know!!!
Kelly, Bethan, Jay and Hashim have some trouble hanging with each other after what happened at the ending of the last book(no spoilers). As they are driven apart something or someone is about to bring them back together. There has been four freak accidents, leaving four dead girls at a private school near them. When Charlotte, a girl form that school, contacts Bethan and claims that she is the next victim, they have to gather their forces to face the new threat. No matter what it seems to be.
This book was an emotional roller coaster, it had me crying, laughing, getting angry and then terrified all at the same page. Never knowing what will happen. A lot of twists and turns, mystery and totally unexpected scenarios. Just like in the first book, I love the way the author lets us inside each character's head and allows us to learn his every fear and hope.
I realized that there is no next book out yet, I hope it will be out at least next year! I want to know what's going to happen next. I need to know!!!
November 22, 2012
I adore this series. I'm really loving the characters and the main plot arc about Woodsville, but this book wasn't as strong for me as the first one. I did like the plot about the accidents the girls were having, and I also liked the plot about Jay's doppelganger. I just wish they'd explored that second one a bit more, though I think that the reason it's probably not given a conclusion is that it's going to be sorted out in the third book (where is the third book?!?!?!? I can't believe it's not out yet, I need to know what happens).
I like the way the group's friendship had changed, and I thought the friendship between Beth and Kelly was really great. I enjoyed learning more about Kelly's life - she's not the easiest character to like, so it was nice to see her background and being to understand more about her motivations.
Overall, this wasn't as good as the first book, but I still enjoyed it, and I'm really keen to read the third one, whenever it comes out!
I like the way the group's friendship had changed, and I thought the friendship between Beth and Kelly was really great. I enjoyed learning more about Kelly's life - she's not the easiest character to like, so it was nice to see her background and being to understand more about her motivations.
Overall, this wasn't as good as the first book, but I still enjoyed it, and I'm really keen to read the third one, whenever it comes out!
April 15, 2012
I liked this book, but where’s the next book? The author (who writes under other names as well) seems to have just disappeared online; it reminds me of when I used to read fanfiction when I was younger and authors would just stop writing, leaving me feeling annoyed that I’d bothered to invest time in the story in the first place (as well as money in this case). That’s the reason for the 1 star, not the story, which was actually quite enjoyable. Sorry!
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July 23, 2014Hi fans.
Do you know that both of the books were written in 2010.
And the 3rd one is still not out... I keep searching the internet for information, but even articles and reviews and things are years old.
Could something have happened to MS. Hastings to prevent her from finishing the series?
Does anyone know any other information?
Do you know that both of the books were written in 2010.
And the 3rd one is still not out... I keep searching the internet for information, but even articles and reviews and things are years old.
Could something have happened to MS. Hastings to prevent her from finishing the series?
Does anyone know any other information?
May 21, 2011
I really loved this book it has everything i was looking for ghosts, romance, action and mystery. enjoyed everything about it.
i can't wait to see what happens to this complicated group of friends.
i can't wait to see what happens to this complicated group of friends.
June 21, 2013
Another girl form Woodwile American girl Charllote said she'll be the next to die after she lost her 4 best friend. she beg them to help her..
They helped and she free. but Jay and Bethan left in the hospital..cos they were fighting with the ghost whatever that is...
kinda Good..!!
They helped and she free. but Jay and Bethan left in the hospital..cos they were fighting with the ghost whatever that is...
kinda Good..!!
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July 16, 2014wow
September 16, 2014
It was okay, but I think it needs a little more drama but I still enjoyed it! It's worth reading
April 24, 2017
awesome
June 27, 2018
really enjoying this series! its nice easy reading and creepy! not terrifying or anything but definitely creepy
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews