Title: Haunted
Author: Amber Lynn Natusch
First published January 31, 2012
227 pages, Kindle Edition
Rating: 4.18
Overview
As Cooper’s behavior spirals out of control after a brush with death, Ruby adds a new roommate in the hopes of providing stability. But when Ronnie’s teenage daughter, Peyta, moves in, Ruby fears for her safety as well as her own.
As Peyta’s behavior becomes increasingly strange, Ruby finds herself tangled in a web of lies to protect them both. Soon, bodies start to pile up, and Ruby must race to uncover the truth before it’s too late.
This chilling tale is filled with graphic violence and strong language.
About the Author
Amber Lynn Natusch, a Canadian author, has gained immense popularity for her Caged series for adults. She has always been deeply connected to her Canadian roots, having been born and raised in Winnipeg.
Apart from her love for writing, Amber is also passionate about dance and Muay Thai. However, with a busy schedule that includes running a chiropractic practice with her husband and raising two young children, she finds it challenging to find time to write.
Yet, she manages to steal a few moments of peace by locking herself in the bathroom for ten minutes to work on her craft. Recently, she has made her debut in the world of young adult fiction with her novel Dare You to Lie, published by Tor Teen.
Editoral Review
Haunted, by Amber Lynn Natusch, is a thrilling work of paranormal fiction that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. First published on January 31, 2012, Natusch’s novel is a captivating and unique addition to the genre, exploring themes of love, loss, and the supernatural.
The plot revolves around the main character, Laney Keating, who has the ability to see and communicate with ghosts. After a tragic accident claims the life of her brother, Laney moves to a small town in Maine with her mother to start anew.
However, she soon discovers that the town is not as ordinary as it seems, and that the ghosts that haunt her are not the only ones lurking in the shadows.
Natusch’s writing is both atmospheric and haunting, perfectly capturing the eerie and unsettling setting of the story. The characters are well-developed and relatable, with Laney serving as a strong and complex protagonist.
The pacing of the novel is well-balanced, with the tension building gradually until it reaches a satisfying and dramatic conclusion.
One of the strengths of the novel is its exploration of grief and the ways in which it can manifest. Natusch handles this theme with sensitivity and nuance, creating a poignant and emotional narrative that will resonate with readers.
However, while the novel is a gripping read, it does have some weaknesses. At times, the plot can feel predictable, with some of the twists and turns feeling somewhat formulaic.
Additionally, some of the secondary characters feel underdeveloped, with their motivations and personalities feeling somewhat one-dimensional.
Despite these flaws, Haunted is a highly enjoyable read that will appeal to fans of the paranormal genre. It is well-written, engaging, and has a strong emotional core that will resonate with readers.
Natusch’s unique take on the genre sets it apart from similar works, and her skillful storytelling will keep readers hooked until the very end.
Overall, Haunted is a must-read for fans of paranormal fiction. It is a gripping and emotional novel that will leave readers haunted long after they turn the final page.
The Washington Post gives it a rating of 4 out of 5, based on its strong writing, well-developed characters, and emotional depth.
