I will admit, paranormal/ghost romance stories are not something that I usually seek out. My logical brain has a hard time letting go and really enjoying the story. But I tried to go with the story as much as I could this time because I really do enjoy Sarah Ready's writing! Overall, I thought this was a really well crafted story. At times, when there were questions popping up in my brain - the characters actually addressed them on the page (the time loop, the ghost capabilities, etc.). This one was a bit longer than I was expecting at 480 pages, but I didn't feel like it dragged very often (there were a few sections that felt like they didn't really add to the overall storyline).
This was an enjoyable story - and kind of perfect for this time of year with the ghost character, even though it's not overtly a fall themed story. The audio was really well done and definitely kept me engaged in the story and was not a distraction at all. Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC to read and review.

If I could dream, I'd only dream about you."
"If I could live, I'd live for you." *swoons*
As Jillian would say Oh my word! I really didn't expect to love this book as much as I do.
This book can be divided into two parts, the first and second half. And at first I thought the second half would be underwhelming because by then they were already in love hence I thought if they already love each other, what more can happen in the second half? But Sarah Ready created an insanely entertaining plot that had my jaw dropping to the floor (and tears running down my cheeks) more than once. I found myself pausing my reading to absorb the amazingness of this story several times throughout the book. This was really good not really for me but loved it I posted it on all my social medias including my main accs

Paranormal romance is not something I’d usually pick up, but I’d heard so much about this book and its comparisons to The Time Travelers’s Wife that I just had to read it. And, guess what? I loved it!

The story of Jillian and Daniel’s unconventional romance hit me with all the feels. It was sweet and funny but also came with a serious undertone that made it more than a standard rom-com.

I totally bought into the idea that Jillian and Daniel were predestined to meet and fall in love; and that fate had brought them together to fulfil an important purpose. I thought both characters were sympathetic and really well drawn, and I was rooting the whole way through for them to overcome the inconvenience of Daniel being a ghost.

For sure this was a lot easier to follow than The Time Traveler’s Wife, but the emotional rollercoaster was the same. The twist in the middle, which sent the narrative off in a completely unexpected direction, completely floored me.

All told, this was a deliciously satisfying read, made all the more so by the audiobook narrator, who gave Jillian a really distinctive voice. As for the sliding doors moment of the second epilogue, where we got to hear Daniel’s voice for the one and only time, it gave me goosebumps.

My first book by this author, but I’ll definitely be seeking out some of her other titles.

I have quickly become a Sarah Ready fan. I was excited to delve into Ghosted and really enjoyed it. This book definitely had a clever premise. I had several theories about what I thought was happening when Jillian and Daniel initially meet. I'm pleased to say that none of my theories were correct and I liked how the author handled this "situation."

Jillian is columnist for relationship advice and stories. Yet, she struggles to speak to men directly and it's made it more than challenging for her to meet men and almost impossible to have a relationship. So, when she meets Daniel and can actually talk to him, she's stunned. It's totally not her norm. However, things can't be that easy because she and Daniel aren't on the same page, so to speak.

I enjoyed Jillian and Daniel's characters and the way the author chose to develop them. I also thought this storyline was a clever premise and it kept me interested for the most part. My only down side was that the story felt a bit longer to me than was needed. I think a few things could have been handled more concisely. I really did like the story and the author's writing but felt it was just too long which left me feeling a little disinterested in places. I'd much rather have a shorter book that keeps me completely hooked. It's definitely a fine line deciding what part of the story isn't needed - I do get that. But I felt that something needed to be tightened up with the plot. Overall though, an enjoyable book with well developed characters.

AUDIOBOOK: The narration for this book was done well and kept me entertained. In the places where the story felt slow to me, I did find that my mind could drift off but for the most part that didn't happen. 4 stars

Thank you to NetGalley for early copies of both the ebook and audiobook. I voluntarily chose to read/listen to them and write a review and the opinions contained within are my own.

This book was, although a premise that has been done before, quite a refreshing take on a romance for me.
Jillian starts off as a quiet character, literally, she doesn't speak to men. While I found this idea kind of irritating at first I appreciated the backstory which explained why and I felt it was believable and gave the story so much more depth.
Daniel turns up in Jillian's apartment and together, they try to figure out why he's there.
The journey they go on together and that Jillian goes on all on her own, combined with the work-family dynamic made this story one that I really enjoyed.
Although there were some cheesy parts, and some REALLY cheesy parts, it was still a really good read.

I was really ready to give it a 5 star but unfortunately, the 2 epilogues ruined it for me personally for reasons I obviously can't disclose without spoilers.

This book was different and unexpected but I loved it and it had me captivated and on the edge of my seat. I loved it.

Wow. This book was an attention grabbing, edge of your seat, didn’t want to put it down kind of book. Jillian was a lovable, relatable character and Daniel was one you could easily swoon for. I was wrapped up in the emotions and didn’t want the book to stop. The twists and turns were perfect, the other characters through the book were spot on, and the descriptions of the people and places were just enough to picture and not overwhelming. There were a couple typos, but nothing too distracting. The cover art fits perfectly. I love Switzerland so getting to read about it was a fun little trip down memory lane. I would recommend this book to my friends in a heart beat.

This one was odd.
I finished it, but it was a struggle.
I felt the plot was weak and though the MC was relatable it just wasn't for me.
I tried to like it which is why i finished it.
but it just missed the mark

Thank you Netgalley and publisher for this ARC copy

I read for pleasure, so I often find great joy in the stories I pick, more often than not. But this experience was like next-level joy for me. It was like getting mini endorphin hits every time I picked it up to read a little bit more. It was a fun, sweet, deeply romantic, and highly addictive read… and I’m crashing hard with a book hangover now it’s over.

Jillian and Daniel’s love story was a beautiful, heartfelt thing to witness. Starting with a bit of a Ghost vibe, but quickly evolving into more of a Just Like Heaven inspired tale, I immensely enjoyed the twists and turns this story took, making the reader open their mind and hearts to the potential of unexplainable phenomena relating to fate and universe.

As other readers have mentioned, this story felt like it was split into two distinct halves, but I enjoyed them both of equal measure.

The first part of the story follows shy, virginal relationship columnist, Jillian Nejat, as she finds herself “haunted” by a half-naked man when she moves into her new apartment in NYC. After determining she’s not going insane, Jillian and Daniel (the supposed ghost), hit it off and become quick friends, feeling a connection deeper than either has experienced with another human being before now.

Daniel, not knowing who he really is, beyond his name and an innate sense of small things remembered, takes it upon himself to try and help Jillian in her struggle to connect with men and in her need to be inspired for her writing. But along the way, over weeks of shared proximity, they fall in love, happily spending every minute of their days together forging what they acknowledge is an unconventional and potentially hopeless relationship.

Right up until Daniel disappears without a trace.

The second half kicks in with a new vibe and a new sense of purpose for Jillian, who is lovestruck and heartsick worrying she’ll never see Daniel again, but determined to open herself up to the life Daniel was sure she deserved.

Going into any further detail would ruin the wonder of the lovely and heart-warming story that unfolds in the second half, but romance readers rest assured that the tone of this story remains low on the angst and high on the romance and swoon-factor, with an ending well and truly worthy of the Happily Ever After stamp of approval.

I enjoyed this story a good deal, and I liked the characters and the originality of the story even more. Literally the only complaint I could come up with when trying to move from my happy-satisfied emotional response, to my critical-thinking side of my brain, is that perhaps the story was overlong, drawing out chapters and scenes that may not have been necessary to the story to have the exact same impact. But even then, that’s such a minor complaint of mine, it hardly bares mentioning.

In terms of a new-to-me-author experience, Ghosted was an absolute delight and pleasure to read. It honestly won’t take any convincing on my part to interest me in attack-reading sequels to this story, especially considering that next-up is Serena’s story (Jillian’s physicist bestie), who stole damn-near every scene she was in (even if it was just over the phone because she lives in Geneva). I’m open and eager to read what Ready does next!

3.5⭐️

I love Sarah's writing, I think it's safe to say she is one of my favorites, but I didn't love this story as much as her previous ones. :(

The last 40% of the book saved the book for me though. It has the usual emotional depth, writing and maturity I came to expect from Sarah Ready. It finally picked up and became the kind of story I can get invested into. I even got weepy at some point.

But for the first part, I almost rolled my eyes, some parts were a bit cringy and cheesy and happening too fast.

It's not even the ghost or paranormal aspect or the "Just like Heaven" vibe that didn't sit well with me (btw, totally different story except for the way the hero/heroine meet!!), it's the insta-love.

Ironically enough, the love story was less believable than the there is a ghost in my living room thing. They were exchanging "I love you's" and "you're my light" and "I see you and I see your heart" in a matter of days but I feel like there wasn't enough depth or context for that too happen. To me, it was rushed and unrealistic, sweet to the point of too sweet. And the heroine went from very shy to very clingy in what felt like a blink of an eye.

Then, obviously something happened (no spoilers!) as they couldn't have lived in that happy bubble "I know you're a ghost and you probably need to move on but all I want is you so I don't care" and after some more fumbling, reality came knocking. Aaand that's when we got to see the true characters, their life, their interactions, their spirit, their beliefs, their connections with friends or family and all that beautiful thing that was missing at the beginning. Where the story shined.

Or maybe I am too jaded and I'm more drawn to the tragedy and poor characters breaking apart than being bubbly happy these days. Entirely possible, considering my latest reads. 😂🫣 Sorry.

So. All in all. I did enjoy the story, but it has ups and downs so it's not my favorite of Sarah. That space will always be for Jace and Andrea in my heart. 💙🫶🥹

Oh btw, there is a HEA and a very nice one at that.

But I am looking forward to her next book whatever that may be. She has such a beautiful way with words and emotions and especially with describing the world and making you feel part of it, that I cannot wait to see where she takes us next.

*ARC provided by the publisher through Netgalley in exchange for a honest review. Thank you

Memorabe quotes:

“Maybe,” I say, then at Daniel’s raised eyebrows I say, “Fine. We’ll be friends.” Kindred spirits. Emphasis on spirit.

“If I could live,” he says, “I’d live for you.”

“If I could give you anything,” Daniel says, “I’d give you heaven.”

“Of course I love you,” he says, his voice a low rumble that caresses me, warm like the breeze of his touch. “Me loving you is the only solid thing I have to hold onto in this half- life. It’s the only thing I know is real.”

You’re like a flame. I’m drawn to you. Everyone else is muted, but you burn bright.

This definitely wasn’t for me. A little too much open door content for my preference… and while I was hoping to jump on board with the whole paranormal romance, I just wasn’t able to

This was a bit of a stretch for me, given the ghost plot 😂 but it was really fun and tenderhearted at times. I enjoyed the banter and the chemistry between the leads. This was my first Sarah Ready and I’ll definitely read more maybe one with a less bonkers plot 😂

I did not finish this book at about 45%. Initially, it seemed very promising and the main character was so quirky and relatable.

However, I was not a fan of the Insta-love plot line and it seemed too twee and cutesy most of the time. I found I was really struggling to get through it so eventually just had to give up.

Thanks to netgalley and publisher for the arc!

Daniel my beloved omgggg! Wow that was a rollercoaster of emotions! I adored them together and wish we had even more time with them. The twist wasn't what I expected and I loved the subplot romance so much! I've not read a story like this before it is unique in its plot completely. I could have done without the angst and sadness it hurt my soul for them.

I loved this!!!! It was such a fun read and really enjoyable. I definitely recommend it. Thanks so much to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC on exchange for an honest review.

Ghosted is a paranormal romantic comedy about a relationship specialist who is unable to communicate with men, save for the ghost that haunts her apartment. The novel is entertaining and enjoyable to read, with a touch of heart and comedy. It is not a wonderful read, though, because of several problems and restrictions.

The main character in the book is Jillian, a podcaster and blogger who struggles with acute social anxiety around males. When a guy named Daniel shows up in her flat, she has just moved into a lavishly mirror-adorned Manhattan studio with Star Trek memorabilia in tow. In actuality, he haunts the location as a ghost. Daniel, a wealthy playboy in real life, gives Jillian dating advice and story ideas so she can prevent her following from dwindling. It's a setup that's surprisingly helpful.

The book's premise and the chemistry between Jillian and Daniel are two of its strong points. The author does a wonderful job of constructing some humorous and heartwarming sequences between them thanks to the novel and humorous premise of a ghost assisting a dating expert. There are some funny and enduring lines in the conversation, which is clever and compelling. With a slow-burn enemies-to-lovers dynamic that is both infuriating and fulfilling, the romance is lovely and sensual.

However, the book also has some weaknesses, such as the lack of character development, the excessive use of tropes, and the poor editing. The characters are not very likable or relatable, especially Jillian, who is too insecure and passive for most of the book. She has no personality or agency, and she is constantly being saved or manipulated by others. She also falls for Daniel too quickly and easily, despite his questionable actions and motives.

Overall, this book is an enjoyable and entertaining read, but it could have been better with more creativity and complexity. I would recommend it to fans of paranormal romance who are looking for a quick and easy escape.

Thank you to NetGalley and W. W. Crown for providing the ARC.

Another absolute banger of a book from Sarah Ready.

I've been on a kick of ghost romance stories lately, but I think this is the best take on the trope. Where the story ended up was not where I thought it was heades and Ready does an excellent job at subverting expectations.

I love Jillian and Daniel's interactions and conversations, and how they were so willing to help each other with their predicaments. I loved how the story played out on the page. I am already a fan of Ready's works, but I think this one just became my new favorite. I laughed, I cried, and I rejoiced at the ending. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.

Thank you so much to Net Galley, W.W. Crown Publishers, and Sarah Ready for providing this cute paranormal romance for my honest review. I really enjoyed this book. It is sweet, quirky, romantic, and very entertaining. I could have done without the Star Trek references and it drags a bit in the middle, but overall I enjoyed this book very much. If you love paranormal romances then I highly recommend this one. Thank you again for allowing me to review it.

I wanted to like this book. I really, really wanted to like this book but sadly that didn’t happen. When I first saw it on Netgalley and read its description and all the good reviews, I thought I had found the perfect book to kick off my Halloween Series. And I did enjoy it initially. The quirky characters, the mystery around the ghost, and his importance in the main character, Jillian's life. It had me thoroughly entertained.

But then it started to go downhill. For the most part the story dragged on with scenes that could have been fit in a few paragraphs but were spread over an entire chapter with repetitive descriptions of the littlest things. And the constant Star Trek references (which I’m sure the fans of the series would enjoy) felt like inside jokes where people like me who weren’t born in the US or are unfamiliar with the series were left out. I could never understand its significance in the scene or how it helped it move forward.

I was very much into the story in the beginning but started to lose interest around the 30% mark. From 40% I just skimmed over the book because reading it started to feel like a task instead of something I was doing for fun. The story did pick up at around the 60% mark which brought back my lost interest. I was sure I was going to give two stars for this book but the last part about time travel and the rush of seeing whether the main characters would end up together added one star to the initial rating.

Final comments? This could have been an amazing book with the most intriguing plot but it lost its charm along the way. It had a lot of potential which could have been realized with better execution.

I’d like to preface this by saying I am in the minority of people who reads spoilers for everything possible. I need to know what happens so I can emotionally prepare. The reviewers at Goodreads offered zero spoilers, so I went through the rollercoaster of this book completely blind.

That being said, I LOVED this book. If anyone were to ask me my favorite book for the last 15+ years, I would automatically tell them The Time Travelers Wife, but this book might be fighting for that spot.

I am usually not into insta love unless it’s fated mates style, but there was something special in this. I kept looking at the percentage read on my kindle asking myself “ok so we are in love WHAT is going to happen?!”

There were so many layers (and I don’t want to spoil it since I had to “suffer” without them everyone else has to as well) but ugh it was just SO good.

Not to be dramatic but this book might be my new personality for a while.