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Ghost Hunter Mystery #1
What's a Ghoul to Do?
M.J., her partner Gilley, and their client, the wealthy, de-lish Dr. Steven Sable, are at his family's lodge, where his grandfather allegedly jumped to his death from the roof-although Sable says it was foul play. But the patriarch's isn't the only ghost around. The place is lousy with souls, all with something to get off their ghoulish chests. Now M.J. will have to to quell the clamor-and listen for a voice with the answers...
281 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published April 3, 2007
232 people are currently reading
7818 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Laurie
56 books3,135 followersVictoria Laurie is the New York Times bestselling author of 32 books and counting. Over the past 16 years Victoria has created several series and a few stand-alone novels. Her mystery series include: The Psychic Eye Mysteries, The Life Coach Mysteries, and The Ghost Hunter Mysteries. She's also the author of two YA books, When and Forever Again, as well as a middle-grade series called The Oracles of Delphi Keep.
Currently, Victoria is working on the 17th book in both the Psychic Eye Mysteries and the 3rd book in the Life Coach Mysteries, along with also working to produce a brand NEW series called Spellbound set for release winter/spring 2020.
Victoria loves to connect with her fans, and you can find her on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/groups/Victo...
Currently, Victoria is working on the 17th book in both the Psychic Eye Mysteries and the 3rd book in the Life Coach Mysteries, along with also working to produce a brand NEW series called Spellbound set for release winter/spring 2020.
Victoria loves to connect with her fans, and you can find her on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/groups/Victo...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 632 reviews
November 28, 2009
I was really excited to read this book because I love the Psychic Eye Mysteries Victoria Laurie also writes. I'm not a picky reader, but I'm sorry, this didn't quite do it for me and I ended up very disappointed.
I was hoping they'd be different from the P. E. Mysteries, but still have similar elements of style. Even though I like romance, this book was supposed to be a mystery, hence A Ghost Hunter Mystery on the cover, but the mystery is thrown in around the rather awkwardly written romance between M. J. and Steven. I did think the first chapter was good because I thought M. J. would be different than Abby and more antisocial and a bit cranky (at least that's what I got from the first chapter), but then she ended up giggling throughout the whole book (seriously). What I like about the P. E. Mysteries are that they are fresh, fun, very well written, and the characters are (for the most part) believable. Not to mention, I got extremely tired of reading Steven's choppy English ('what do you say...?', 'Yes, that too', etc.), which made the dialogue even choppier and flatter than it already was, not to mention irritating as all get out. I don't know why V. L. couldn't have made him more fluent in English, especially since he was so well educated, it would only have been a small tweak in the plot. But I've noticed Ms. Laurie has a bit of a redundancy problem in her books, even if I do love Abby Cooper, Psychic Eye, which has the 'liar, liar, pants on fire' repetition, where when someone lies, Abby's 'inborn lie detector' goes off with that chant.
Overall, the dialogue was choppy, the plot and mystery were subpar, the characters were clichés and unbelievable (Doc was a nice addition though), and the whole book badly needed editing. I would not recommend this, although I'm sure many (as seen in the numerous four and five star ratings) would like this as it's not completely horrible; it's just not very fresh even if the subject is interesting. I haven't quite made up my mind if I'll pick up the next in the series.
I was hoping they'd be different from the P. E. Mysteries, but still have similar elements of style. Even though I like romance, this book was supposed to be a mystery, hence A Ghost Hunter Mystery on the cover, but the mystery is thrown in around the rather awkwardly written romance between M. J. and Steven. I did think the first chapter was good because I thought M. J. would be different than Abby and more antisocial and a bit cranky (at least that's what I got from the first chapter), but then she ended up giggling throughout the whole book (seriously). What I like about the P. E. Mysteries are that they are fresh, fun, very well written, and the characters are (for the most part) believable. Not to mention, I got extremely tired of reading Steven's choppy English ('what do you say...?', 'Yes, that too', etc.), which made the dialogue even choppier and flatter than it already was, not to mention irritating as all get out. I don't know why V. L. couldn't have made him more fluent in English, especially since he was so well educated, it would only have been a small tweak in the plot. But I've noticed Ms. Laurie has a bit of a redundancy problem in her books, even if I do love Abby Cooper, Psychic Eye, which has the 'liar, liar, pants on fire' repetition, where when someone lies, Abby's 'inborn lie detector' goes off with that chant.
Overall, the dialogue was choppy, the plot and mystery were subpar, the characters were clichés and unbelievable (Doc was a nice addition though), and the whole book badly needed editing. I would not recommend this, although I'm sure many (as seen in the numerous four and five star ratings) would like this as it's not completely horrible; it's just not very fresh even if the subject is interesting. I haven't quite made up my mind if I'll pick up the next in the series.
May 11, 2015
Since that night a couple of weeks ago when I kept reading this idiotic book, I haven't had any desire to pick it up again. I think I was having an emotional night that briefly shut my brain down.
This book is basically every reason I don't read "chick-lit". There's the sassy, beautiful, totally independent gal who is not looking for love, but is momentarily thrown by an encounter with a very attractive man.
Uh oh, I thought. The last thing I need is a client this attractive.
The words Roman nose are used to describe people. I think all chick-lit authors must be following the same manual that insists that they use "Roman nose" or "aquiline nose". In the name of sanity, are there no other kinds of noses out there?!?!?
This phrase:
"What are you about a size four?" "About that," I said, thanking myself for my daily run and a healthy metabolism.
Because heaven forbid anyone be above a size four!
There's also the scene where her heel breaks (another requisite chick-lit scene) and we get this thrilling writing: limping quickly down the street up three inches, down three inches, up three inches, down three inches.
Yay.
And don't even get me started on Steven. He's this renowned foreign surgeon who is apparently brilliant but doesn't know the difference between the word "skeptic" and "septic" because I'm sure a surgeon working daily in a hospital would NEVER use the word "septic". Basically every freaking interaction with Steve had M.J. correcting his grammar. I don't know, maybe it wasnot fun the first couple times, but when it's already happened about a dozen times (or so it felt) and I'm only 76 pages in...Lord save us all. Good thing super smart, intelligent M.J. is there to nitpickingly fix every little error.
So yeah, this is major DNF. If it wasn't on my kindle I'd probably burn it.
This book is basically every reason I don't read "chick-lit". There's the sassy, beautiful, totally independent gal who is not looking for love, but is momentarily thrown by an encounter with a very attractive man.
Uh oh, I thought. The last thing I need is a client this attractive.
The words Roman nose are used to describe people. I think all chick-lit authors must be following the same manual that insists that they use "Roman nose" or "aquiline nose". In the name of sanity, are there no other kinds of noses out there?!?!?
This phrase:
"What are you about a size four?" "About that," I said, thanking myself for my daily run and a healthy metabolism.
Because heaven forbid anyone be above a size four!
There's also the scene where her heel breaks (another requisite chick-lit scene) and we get this thrilling writing: limping quickly down the street up three inches, down three inches, up three inches, down three inches.
Yay.
And don't even get me started on Steven. He's this renowned foreign surgeon who is apparently brilliant but doesn't know the difference between the word "skeptic" and "septic" because I'm sure a surgeon working daily in a hospital would NEVER use the word "septic". Basically every freaking interaction with Steve had M.J. correcting his grammar. I don't know, maybe it was
So yeah, this is major DNF. If it wasn't on my kindle I'd probably burn it.
October 11, 2010
I fully admit I didn't even make it half-way through this book before stopping. Not only that, but it took me months to make it that far (I carried it around in my purse, and only read it while waiting in line at stores), and I found myself dragging my feet every time I had a few minutes to read it.
The characters leave something to be desired. Each of them was a walking stereotype. Flamboyantly gay assistant, gorgeous best friend (so good looking men walk into walls when she's around), and a European doctor who asks at least once a page, "How do you say ____," or mispronounces something. (The doctor part wasn't funny to begin with, and certainly not after the dozenth time in as many pages.)
But my real problem is that I read on the inside back cover that the author considers herself a "psychic." Oh, right. It directs me to her website if I have additional questions, so I mosey on over. For the low, low price of $150 I can have a phone consultation with the "psychic" author. Does she really like writing books, or is it just a great way to drum up business for her psychic hotline? Every time M.J. explains her psychic abilities to secondary characters in the story, I found myself rolling my eyes, imagining that this is how she thinks of herself / explains her "abilities" to others, as in, "Well, Bob, let me tell you what it really means to be a psychic." The main character gets to explain her abilities to multiple other characters within the story, and it got old quickly. We get it already, M.J.'s just a regular old gal underneath that psychic exterior.
My husband has been forced to listen to my griping about this book, and when I told him I was finally giving up on it and writing a decidedly negative review he said, "Don't worry, I'm sure the author's already expecting it." *giggles*
The characters leave something to be desired. Each of them was a walking stereotype. Flamboyantly gay assistant, gorgeous best friend (so good looking men walk into walls when she's around), and a European doctor who asks at least once a page, "How do you say ____," or mispronounces something. (The doctor part wasn't funny to begin with, and certainly not after the dozenth time in as many pages.)
But my real problem is that I read on the inside back cover that the author considers herself a "psychic." Oh, right. It directs me to her website if I have additional questions, so I mosey on over. For the low, low price of $150 I can have a phone consultation with the "psychic" author. Does she really like writing books, or is it just a great way to drum up business for her psychic hotline? Every time M.J. explains her psychic abilities to secondary characters in the story, I found myself rolling my eyes, imagining that this is how she thinks of herself / explains her "abilities" to others, as in, "Well, Bob, let me tell you what it really means to be a psychic." The main character gets to explain her abilities to multiple other characters within the story, and it got old quickly. We get it already, M.J.'s just a regular old gal underneath that psychic exterior.
My husband has been forced to listen to my griping about this book, and when I told him I was finally giving up on it and writing a decidedly negative review he said, "Don't worry, I'm sure the author's already expecting it." *giggles*
June 15, 2020
A good start to a series that I've wanted to read in ages. I'll admit I skipped a good part of the first chapter as it was very unpleasant in more ways than one, making it a little harder to get back into the story for the next couple of chapters. But it eventually took off for me and I'm all for trying the second book in the series.
May 25, 2012
I almost gave this 4 stars, but I think it has room to grow as a series. I liked the ghost hunting aspect. Some of the spectral activity seemed a bit over the top, but the author is a clairvoyant and a police psychic, so I'll give her the benefit of the doubt. I loved the gay sidekick, Gilley, and the African parrot, Doc. M.J. I'm not too sure about yet - perhaps her personality will develop more in time. Steven Sable - nice romantic interest, but the running joke with his English started wearing thin about halfway through the book. The plot was interesting, but had some holes. On the whole, I enjoyed it and want to see where the series goes.
Description (from book jacket): M.J. Holliday has two rules. One, she and her partner, Gilley Gillespie, work alone; and two, she doesn't date clients. But when handsome Dr. Steven Sable needs her help, the specter-spotting sleuth is ready to break both of her rules. It seems the doc's grandfather jumped from the roof of the family lodge in an apparent suicide. But Dr. Sable knows in his bones it was foul play, and strange things keep happening at the lodge. He'll hire M.J. and Gilley - but only if he can come along. Hey, the duo needs the money - and looking at eye candy all weekend doesn't sound too bad either... But once they reach the lodge, the three realize they're dealing with more ghosts than just Grandpa Sable's. And the spooks keep playing nasty tricks on their human visitors. To the untrained eye, it would appear that ghouls just want to have fun. But M.J. knows they're communicating their distress - and it's up to her to figure out why...
Series info:
Ghost hunter mystery series
01. What's a ghoul to do - read
------------------------
02. Demons are a ghoul's best friend
03. Ghouls just haunt to have fun
04. Ghouls gone wild
05. Ghouls, ghouls, ghouls
06. Ghoul interrupted
07. What a ghoul wants
Description (from book jacket): M.J. Holliday has two rules. One, she and her partner, Gilley Gillespie, work alone; and two, she doesn't date clients. But when handsome Dr. Steven Sable needs her help, the specter-spotting sleuth is ready to break both of her rules. It seems the doc's grandfather jumped from the roof of the family lodge in an apparent suicide. But Dr. Sable knows in his bones it was foul play, and strange things keep happening at the lodge. He'll hire M.J. and Gilley - but only if he can come along. Hey, the duo needs the money - and looking at eye candy all weekend doesn't sound too bad either... But once they reach the lodge, the three realize they're dealing with more ghosts than just Grandpa Sable's. And the spooks keep playing nasty tricks on their human visitors. To the untrained eye, it would appear that ghouls just want to have fun. But M.J. knows they're communicating their distress - and it's up to her to figure out why...
Series info:
Ghost hunter mystery series
01. What's a ghoul to do - read
------------------------
02. Demons are a ghoul's best friend
03. Ghouls just haunt to have fun
04. Ghouls gone wild
05. Ghouls, ghouls, ghouls
06. Ghoul interrupted
07. What a ghoul wants
December 30, 2016
This is a new author for me. It is first book in the Ghost Hunter series which I am reading for a Yahoo group. I found a well written book by an experience author. At times I was enthralled with the story, other times I was disgusted with it and stopped reading for awhile. I am finding it hard to rate. I would like to give it 3 1/2 stars I normally give the book the higher rating. I found Dr Steven's language idiotic by the end of the book. At times I found the paranormal activities hard to believe. What mystery there was did not become apparent until the end of the story.
MJ has been a physic all her life and teamed up with Gilley in grade school. MJ owns a parrot called Doc and he livens up the tale. The romances were really a distraction. MJ will no longer do readings for anyone she wants a ghost to help pass over to the next plane. The firm is just making it when Dr Steven Sable hires them to find what happened when his grandfather jumped/fell from the roof of the hunting lodge. At the lodge, lights, TV and other objects turn off and on at well. Objects move around and there appears to be more than one ghost in the building. Will the ghosts find peace? I will read other books in series and will read her other series.
MJ has been a physic all her life and teamed up with Gilley in grade school. MJ owns a parrot called Doc and he livens up the tale. The romances were really a distraction. MJ will no longer do readings for anyone she wants a ghost to help pass over to the next plane. The firm is just making it when Dr Steven Sable hires them to find what happened when his grandfather jumped/fell from the roof of the hunting lodge. At the lodge, lights, TV and other objects turn off and on at well. Objects move around and there appears to be more than one ghost in the building. Will the ghosts find peace? I will read other books in series and will read her other series.
September 21, 2011
This is the first book in the series. I enjoy Victoria Laurie's other book series, but this book was somewhat dull. I had high hopes for this series, but I won't be rushing out to get the second book.
January 13, 2021
M.J. Holliday ist ein Medium, die zusammen mit ihrem Partner Gilley eine Geisterjäger-Agentur betreibt. Eines Tages kommt Dr. Steven Sable in ihre Agentur und möchte, dass sie ihn zu seiner Jagdhütte begleiten, da ihm dort sein Großvater erschienen ist.
Ich habe das Buch sehr gerne gelesen, obwohl die Sprache manchmal etwas locker war. Ich mochte die eher furchtlose M.J. und ihren deutlich ängstlicheren Kollegen, der dafür sehr gut im Hacken von Internetseiten ist. Auch die Dynamik zwischen M.J. und Steven war mir sehr sympathisch. Die Charaktere werden gut eingeführt und man bekommt auch Hintergrundinfos, warum zum Beispiel M.J. zur Geisterjägerin wurde.
Das Buch ist sowohl spannend als auch amüsant und ich hatte eine richtig schöne Zeit mit dieser nicht ganz perfekten Geisterjägeragentur. Beim nächsten Fall bin ich gerne wieder dabei.
Ich habe das Buch sehr gerne gelesen, obwohl die Sprache manchmal etwas locker war. Ich mochte die eher furchtlose M.J. und ihren deutlich ängstlicheren Kollegen, der dafür sehr gut im Hacken von Internetseiten ist. Auch die Dynamik zwischen M.J. und Steven war mir sehr sympathisch. Die Charaktere werden gut eingeführt und man bekommt auch Hintergrundinfos, warum zum Beispiel M.J. zur Geisterjägerin wurde.
Das Buch ist sowohl spannend als auch amüsant und ich hatte eine richtig schöne Zeit mit dieser nicht ganz perfekten Geisterjägeragentur. Beim nächsten Fall bin ich gerne wieder dabei.
November 30, 2009
Okay, so I'm a flibbertigibbet; I'm wishy-washy, flaky. So sue me. I've been rethinking my original impressions of this book and came away with the awful realization: I got snowed by the bird. I was so entranced by Doc (who was the most well-rounded character of all) that I completely ignored the annoying flaws of this book, the most glaring of which was the idiotic foreign-speak of the love interest, Dr. Steven Sable. C'mon, the guy's supposed to be educated! You can be educated and foreign without sounding like a complete imbecile. His continual "How do you say this?" and variations on that theme became as irritating as a poison ivy rash after the first half a dozen times, not to mention M.J.'s nauseatingly girly (read: giggly) reactions when she corrects him.
The storyline, although not brilliantly complex, was fairly interesting; I did enjoy the whole 'ghost-busting' angle and the interactions between M.J. and the spirits. However, the characters were either so cliched (her gay partner who's terrified of the ghosties) or so bungled in execution (see complaints above), not to mention the author's infantile reactions to negative reviews (I'd like to see what she makes of mine), I have been completely turned off of reading not just the rest of this series, but her books altogether.
The storyline, although not brilliantly complex, was fairly interesting; I did enjoy the whole 'ghost-busting' angle and the interactions between M.J. and the spirits. However, the characters were either so cliched (her gay partner who's terrified of the ghosties) or so bungled in execution (see complaints above), not to mention the author's infantile reactions to negative reviews (I'd like to see what she makes of mine), I have been completely turned off of reading not just the rest of this series, but her books altogether.
January 28, 2013
MJ Holliday and her partner, Gilley are ghostbusters. She is growing very popular ridding places of spooks who seem to want to linger for various reasons. Gilley is terrified of ghosts – but a whiz with the broken down equipment that is required to assist locating recalcitrant ghosties – he stays outside in the safety of the van. Dr. Steven Sable, hires them to find out what happened to his recently departed grandfather. The grandfather has been written off as a suicide victim and he has been seen flitting around his big country house – so Steve wants to find out why he has not gone to the light.
When the trio arrive at the house MJ finds there is more than one ghost and each seems to be telling a different story. It is fast paced and funny as the truth behind the deaths of the ghosts comes out before all is revelled in a big bang ending.
The characters just bounce off each other with sassy one-liners – and I loved the parrot ‘Doc’ This is the first in the series and I am looking forwards to the next one. The story is very clever, but is suppose to entertain and that is what the author has done.
When the trio arrive at the house MJ finds there is more than one ghost and each seems to be telling a different story. It is fast paced and funny as the truth behind the deaths of the ghosts comes out before all is revelled in a big bang ending.
The characters just bounce off each other with sassy one-liners – and I loved the parrot ‘Doc’ This is the first in the series and I am looking forwards to the next one. The story is very clever, but is suppose to entertain and that is what the author has done.
July 7, 2023
*2023 edit* My review stands. I liked and disliked all of the same things.
I liked this book. The story was fast paced and exciting. The ghosts were creepy and really made the story good. So why is it only three stars?
I CANNOT STAND THE DOCTOR'S HORRIBLE ENGLISH! At first it was endearing, but by the end I wished he just wouldn't speak anymore. I will keep reading the series, but I really hope Steven's English improves!
I liked this book. The story was fast paced and exciting. The ghosts were creepy and really made the story good. So why is it only three stars?
I CANNOT STAND THE DOCTOR'S HORRIBLE ENGLISH! At first it was endearing, but by the end I wished he just wouldn't speak anymore. I will keep reading the series, but I really hope Steven's English improves!
August 12, 2017
What's a Ghoul to Do? (Ghost Hunter Mystery #1) by Victoria Laurie
Author: Victoria Laurie
Title: What's a Ghoul to Do?
Series: Ghost Hunter Mystery
Cover Rating:
Book Rating:
Buy This Book:
M.J., her partner Gilley, and their client, the wealthy, de-lish Dr. Steven Sable, are at his family's lodge, where his grandfather allegedly jumped to his death from the roof-although Sable says it was foul play.
But the patriarch's isn't the only ghost around. The place is lousy with souls, all with something to get off their ghoulish chests.
Now M.J. will have to to quell the clamor-and listen for a voice with the answers...
Its taken me a long time to put in the effort to read and write a review for self proclaimed psychic and author Victoria Laurie's book What's a Ghoul to Do because when I bought her books I wound up stumbling onto the whole Amazon/ DAM/ Reader vs. Author / Blog drama when I looked up her social pages since I wanted to know more about her.
I didn't care for what I learned. So I shelved her books and forgot about them for awhile.
I wasn't fully convinced that I was eager to read books with the Zombie/Ghoul themes since I'm not a big fan of the whole zombie movement.
I mean no insult to fans of both. My fault at the time for not knowing that there actually is a difference between the two.
Eventually I found my interest was piqued by someone who turned me onto Diana Rowland's Zombie series. I read the books and was forced to admit that I rather enjoyed them. A lot. So I figured since I still had Laurie's books on my shelves I might as well give those a go now that I was willing to give the undead a turn and now that Laurie's whole I'm out to punish all negative reviewers escapades was over - just in case I didn't like them either.
What's a Ghoul to Do was interesting - not really for me when it came to her portrayal of her characters personalities. MJ kind of felt too childlike/ valley girl for me to feel interested in her. I'm the complete opposite of that so its hard for me as a reader to relate to that kind of character.
Most of Laurie's characters felt like on one hand they were described as this fascinating person but on the other, the moment that character actually did or said something it reversed everything that had been built up about them that made me interested in them to begin with.
I do think that there is potential in this series being really good with some minor changes I just didn't think as the first installment to a series that it was all that great.
It probably would have been better suited as a YA book if Laurie took out the more adult content (its not explicit just adult geared) and kept her characters young since the maturity level of her characters feel more like children/teenagers than an adults.
The biggest reason I wanted to read the books - my wanting to get into the zombie/ ghoul thing... I have to admit I'm a poor candidate to judge the level of ghoulishness of this book. The only thing I have to compare it to is Rowland's books and unfortunately What's a Ghoul to Do doesn't even begin to compare. I hate that because its not fair to Laurie but that's all I have to base it on right now.
In my mind What's a Ghoul to Do just felt more like a clever title than actual ghoulishness in the book.
In the end I think I was the wrong reader at the wrong time for this book and this author.
But I encourage you to give a try. See what you think. Could be maybe you'll enjoy it more than I did. I'd be interested in hearing what your thoughts are if you have read it.
Until next time book lovers...
Krissys Bookshelf Reviews purchased a print copy for personal collection.
All thoughts, comments and ratings are my own.
If any of Krissy's Bookshelf Reviews has been helpful please stop by to like my post or leave a comment to let me know what you think. I love hearing from you!
Thank you so much for stopping by!
Krissys Bookshelf Reviews
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Author: Victoria Laurie
Title: What's a Ghoul to Do?
Series: Ghost Hunter Mystery
Cover Rating:
Book Rating:
Buy This Book:
M.J., her partner Gilley, and their client, the wealthy, de-lish Dr. Steven Sable, are at his family's lodge, where his grandfather allegedly jumped to his death from the roof-although Sable says it was foul play.
But the patriarch's isn't the only ghost around. The place is lousy with souls, all with something to get off their ghoulish chests.
Now M.J. will have to to quell the clamor-and listen for a voice with the answers...
Its taken me a long time to put in the effort to read and write a review for self proclaimed psychic and author Victoria Laurie's book What's a Ghoul to Do because when I bought her books I wound up stumbling onto the whole Amazon/ DAM/ Reader vs. Author / Blog drama when I looked up her social pages since I wanted to know more about her.
I didn't care for what I learned. So I shelved her books and forgot about them for awhile.
I wasn't fully convinced that I was eager to read books with the Zombie/Ghoul themes since I'm not a big fan of the whole zombie movement.
I mean no insult to fans of both. My fault at the time for not knowing that there actually is a difference between the two.
Eventually I found my interest was piqued by someone who turned me onto Diana Rowland's Zombie series. I read the books and was forced to admit that I rather enjoyed them. A lot. So I figured since I still had Laurie's books on my shelves I might as well give those a go now that I was willing to give the undead a turn and now that Laurie's whole I'm out to punish all negative reviewers escapades was over - just in case I didn't like them either.
What's a Ghoul to Do was interesting - not really for me when it came to her portrayal of her characters personalities. MJ kind of felt too childlike/ valley girl for me to feel interested in her. I'm the complete opposite of that so its hard for me as a reader to relate to that kind of character.
Most of Laurie's characters felt like on one hand they were described as this fascinating person but on the other, the moment that character actually did or said something it reversed everything that had been built up about them that made me interested in them to begin with.
I do think that there is potential in this series being really good with some minor changes I just didn't think as the first installment to a series that it was all that great.
It probably would have been better suited as a YA book if Laurie took out the more adult content (its not explicit just adult geared) and kept her characters young since the maturity level of her characters feel more like children/teenagers than an adults.
The biggest reason I wanted to read the books - my wanting to get into the zombie/ ghoul thing... I have to admit I'm a poor candidate to judge the level of ghoulishness of this book. The only thing I have to compare it to is Rowland's books and unfortunately What's a Ghoul to Do doesn't even begin to compare. I hate that because its not fair to Laurie but that's all I have to base it on right now.
In my mind What's a Ghoul to Do just felt more like a clever title than actual ghoulishness in the book.
In the end I think I was the wrong reader at the wrong time for this book and this author.
But I encourage you to give a try. See what you think. Could be maybe you'll enjoy it more than I did. I'd be interested in hearing what your thoughts are if you have read it.
Until next time book lovers...
Krissys Bookshelf Reviews purchased a print copy for personal collection.
All thoughts, comments and ratings are my own.
If any of Krissy's Bookshelf Reviews has been helpful please stop by to like my post or leave a comment to let me know what you think. I love hearing from you!
Thank you so much for stopping by!
Krissys Bookshelf Reviews
Krissys Bookshelf Reviews has a QR code for your phone!
Save
July 29, 2019
I loved Laurie's other series, but never really went into this one prior. However, there's no new Abby Cooper book near the future, and I still miss Laurier's writing, so I decided to check this one up.
I liked M.J. enough, she was a non-sense kind of girl. BUT, I wasn't big fan of Dr. Steven Stable, despite the funny enough moments of him butchering American slang, but he was too flirty and I didn't feel he was a good match for M.J.
Overall story was enjoyable though -- I think I'm going to like reading about this ghost-hunting business.
I liked M.J. enough, she was a non-sense kind of girl. BUT, I wasn't big fan of Dr. Steven Stable, despite the funny enough moments of him butchering American slang, but he was too flirty and I didn't feel he was a good match for M.J.
Overall story was enjoyable though -- I think I'm going to like reading about this ghost-hunting business.
July 8, 2017
I really enjoyed this book. I enjoyed the friendship between M.J. and Gilly. The mystery was strong enough to keep me guessing. It is probably a 3.5 star - which I rounded to 4 because it surprised me.
April 8, 2015
What's a Ghoul to Do?
3.5 Stars
M.J. Holliday has the ability to see ghosts and hires herself out as a “ghostbuster”. Her latest client, Dr. Stephen Sable, is convinced that his recently deceased grandfather was the victim of foul play and that his ghost is haunting the family lodge. When M.J. and her partner, Gilly Gillespie, arrive on the scene, it soon becomes clear that there is more than one troubled spirit in need of help and that the solution may lie with the living rather than the dead...
As this is the first book in the series, it takes time to establish the setting and the characters. Consequently, the mystery only picks up about halfway through. Although there are some good red herrings and a few exciting scenes, there is also a gigantic plot hole, and the rather convoluted resolution sort of comes out of nowhere.
The romance is also problematic as despite his sexy accent and hilarious mutilation of English idiom, M.J.’s love interest is an arrogant and obnoxious ass. That said, M.J. is a delightful heroine and the premise of the series is entertaining enough to continue with the series.
On a final note, Eileen Stevens' narration is really good. She has an excellent grasp of accents and her voice for Doc the parrot is fantastic!
3.5 Stars
M.J. Holliday has the ability to see ghosts and hires herself out as a “ghostbuster”. Her latest client, Dr. Stephen Sable, is convinced that his recently deceased grandfather was the victim of foul play and that his ghost is haunting the family lodge. When M.J. and her partner, Gilly Gillespie, arrive on the scene, it soon becomes clear that there is more than one troubled spirit in need of help and that the solution may lie with the living rather than the dead...
As this is the first book in the series, it takes time to establish the setting and the characters. Consequently, the mystery only picks up about halfway through. Although there are some good red herrings and a few exciting scenes, there is also a gigantic plot hole, and the rather convoluted resolution sort of comes out of nowhere.
The romance is also problematic as despite his sexy accent and hilarious mutilation of English idiom, M.J.’s love interest is an arrogant and obnoxious ass. That said, M.J. is a delightful heroine and the premise of the series is entertaining enough to continue with the series.
On a final note, Eileen Stevens' narration is really good. She has an excellent grasp of accents and her voice for Doc the parrot is fantastic!
April 13, 2010
This is the first in the Ghost Hunter series featuring MJ who had a brief cameo in Victoria Laurie's Psychic Eye series. The main characters in both series are very similar. MJ is head-strong and won't suffer fools gladly and the reason why she has been so successful as a ghost hunting is because she has her rules and doesn't bend them. Unfortunately these rules are shattered when a gorgeous doctor approached her about his Grandfather's death.
It is a fast paced book with characters who you immediately feel an affinity for, who wouldn't love a parrot who can sing YMCA and her best friend Gilley who also manages her business (and her love life too) - I think that everyone would like a friend like Gilley!
What I enjoyed about this book was that you were immediately drawn to the characters and as a result, immersed into the story. Like all of Victoria Laurie's books, the mystery part was very well planned with lots of twists and turns - reading her books are a joy because you aren't frustrated after solving the mystery half way through!
Finally, I love the cover art and the matt feel of the cover. I would have read the books anyway, but the artwork sums the essence of the book, which is sometimes lacking in some "cozy" mysteries.
It is a fast paced book with characters who you immediately feel an affinity for, who wouldn't love a parrot who can sing YMCA and her best friend Gilley who also manages her business (and her love life too) - I think that everyone would like a friend like Gilley!
What I enjoyed about this book was that you were immediately drawn to the characters and as a result, immersed into the story. Like all of Victoria Laurie's books, the mystery part was very well planned with lots of twists and turns - reading her books are a joy because you aren't frustrated after solving the mystery half way through!
Finally, I love the cover art and the matt feel of the cover. I would have read the books anyway, but the artwork sums the essence of the book, which is sometimes lacking in some "cozy" mysteries.
February 7, 2012
This was the first book I've read by this author and I really liked it. Just the right amount of paranormal elements, suspense, mystery, romance, and humor. I particularly liked Doc, the talking parrot.
M.J. Holliday is a psychic medium who got tired of the whole medium thing and started ghostbusting instead. Now she helps ghosts (kindly and vengeful) to cross over to the other side. When Dr. Steven Sable requests her assistance in finding out what really happened to his grandfather and if his newly inherited lodge is haunted, M.J. and Gilley (her gay friend and partner) jump right on that money train. But this is one ghostbusting experience that may be the death of her and Gilley...and the client. Turns out the lodge is very haunted by two ghosts not one. Now the biggest mystery is who is the second ghost and why is it trying to kill them.
This is a sweet romance that is super funny. Steven is a Argentinian native who grew up in Germany and vacationed in Boston so his English is screwy and his accent is devine. And we cannot forget M.J.'s parrot Doc. He is the funniest pet I've heard about in months. His one-liners are spot on and hysterical. A wonderful start to A Ghost Hunter Mystery series.
M.J. Holliday is a psychic medium who got tired of the whole medium thing and started ghostbusting instead. Now she helps ghosts (kindly and vengeful) to cross over to the other side. When Dr. Steven Sable requests her assistance in finding out what really happened to his grandfather and if his newly inherited lodge is haunted, M.J. and Gilley (her gay friend and partner) jump right on that money train. But this is one ghostbusting experience that may be the death of her and Gilley...and the client. Turns out the lodge is very haunted by two ghosts not one. Now the biggest mystery is who is the second ghost and why is it trying to kill them.
This is a sweet romance that is super funny. Steven is a Argentinian native who grew up in Germany and vacationed in Boston so his English is screwy and his accent is devine. And we cannot forget M.J.'s parrot Doc. He is the funniest pet I've heard about in months. His one-liners are spot on and hysterical. A wonderful start to A Ghost Hunter Mystery series.
October 14, 2021
This is my second time reading this, I read it first back in 2013. I never got around to reading the final book in the series, so I wanted to do a complete series re-read and this being October, what better time to read a ghost hunting book?
In this book, we're introduced to M.J., a psychic medium who can communicate with ghosts and (hopefully) move them on and best friend Gilley. They're hired by wealthy and debonair Dr. Steven Sable to contact his recently deceased grandfather, Andrew, at the family lodge. The investgation concluded that Andrew committed suicide, but Steven doesn't believe it. They set out to investigate and uncover a dangerous plot.
This one is on the outer edges of cozy mystery (there's a few *ahem* adult situations that are more than what are typically seen in a cozy, but not explicit, think PG-13 rather than R rated) but the crackin' good plot; while a bit over the top, made for an exciting read (the swimming pool scene! *gasp*) and I think that's what I love about this series, along with how well the paranormal element is woven into the story. The ghosts offer up a few clues, but the actual investigating comes down to M.J., Steven and Gilley.
An excellent read, definitely recommended for fans of paranormal cozy mysteries.
In this book, we're introduced to M.J., a psychic medium who can communicate with ghosts and (hopefully) move them on and best friend Gilley. They're hired by wealthy and debonair Dr. Steven Sable to contact his recently deceased grandfather, Andrew, at the family lodge. The investgation concluded that Andrew committed suicide, but Steven doesn't believe it. They set out to investigate and uncover a dangerous plot.
This one is on the outer edges of cozy mystery (there's a few *ahem* adult situations that are more than what are typically seen in a cozy, but not explicit, think PG-13 rather than R rated) but the crackin' good plot; while a bit over the top, made for an exciting read (the swimming pool scene! *gasp*) and I think that's what I love about this series, along with how well the paranormal element is woven into the story. The ghosts offer up a few clues, but the actual investigating comes down to M.J., Steven and Gilley.
An excellent read, definitely recommended for fans of paranormal cozy mysteries.
September 8, 2022
MJ is a physic medium who "ghost-busts" (moves people on to the next stage) homes. Her best friend Gilly is her business partner-he also does the books and is an excellent hacker. MJ also has a parrot, Doc, who has a habit of saying something funny, but inappropriate depending on the situation.
She and Gilly are hired by Dr Sable (Jr). His grandfather committed suicide. But did he really?
This was entertaining. I enjoyed the dynamics between MJ, Gilly, Doc, and Steven. I thought the mystery was a good one; and there was more than 1 thing going on.
An interesting end with possible romance between MJ and Steven & Steven possibly being a partner.
She and Gilly are hired by Dr Sable (Jr). His grandfather committed suicide. But did he really?
This was entertaining. I enjoyed the dynamics between MJ, Gilly, Doc, and Steven. I thought the mystery was a good one; and there was more than 1 thing going on.
An interesting end with possible romance between MJ and Steven & Steven possibly being a partner.
November 1, 2018
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Basic Info
Format: Kindle
Pages/Length: n/a
Genre: Mystery; Paranormal
Reason For Reading: I liked the cover.
At A Glance
Love Triangle/Insta Love/Obsession?: Tad insta
Cliff Hanger: No.
Triggers: Suicide.
Rating: 3.75 Stars
Score Sheet
All out of ten
Cover: 8
Plot: 8
Characters: 8
World Building: 8
Flow: 9
b>Series Congruity: n/a
Writing: 7
Ending: 7
Total: 8/10
In Depth
Best Part: Underground tunnels and a cool MC.
Worst Part: Steven, ugh.
Thoughts Had: Pretty good start.
Conclusion
Continuing the Series: yes
Recommending: yes
Short Review: I really like this MC who is named MJ btw. She isn't written like a helpless damsel in distress and actually makes fun of those acting that way. I hated the fact that she legit says "I don't mix work and pleasure", then like maybe a day later, is basically fucking the guy in his car!!!! Which then she says some weird thing about rolls of quarters being in his jeans and if it's a fucking python! GAG ME PLEASE! I didn't really see the ending, i knew one person was really in it, but the actually killed, i figured out who the letters were from right away but didn't realize it was the killer as well. Steven rubbed me wrong, my husband's second language is English, and never has he talked like this dude does, it's just so bad and hard to read and i was becoming enraged about it. And the freaking bird, Doc, god i love him.
Misc.
Book Boyfriend: Pass.
Best Friend Material: MJ! and Gilly!
Want to read
May 2, 2019I couldn't really get past the first few chapters. There were huge plot holes and not a lot of research. A man not from the US that still heavily carries his native accent probably doesn't eat eggs and bacon a regular breakfast. Most of the world doesn't eat bacon. Ham is more likely. Anyway, I found the humor weak and didn't connect with the characters. It's a shame as I really like this author's other series.
January 3, 2020
It was good but not my cup of tea
September 19, 2015
3.5 Stars
I’ve had this series on my shelf for a long time, and as it was All Hallow's Eve and I fancied a mystery I thought it was a good time to start Victoria Laurie’s ‘Ghost Hunter Mystery’ series.
I really enjoyed Laurie’s writing. It’s a nice easy writing style and the pages flew by pretty quickly. The characters are fun, especially MJ’s African Grey parrot who sits on her shoulder and chats away – sometimes saying very inappropriate but funny things.
M. J. herself is a lovely character and I connected with her straight away. She is a medium who can talk to the dead, but she’s created a business with her friend and partner, Gilley, by ghostbusting – sending spirits over to the other side. Sometimes this kind of job can be dangerous, which is what they found out when hired by sexy doctor and millionaire, Steven Sable.
M. J. and Gilley are hired by Steven to find out how his grandfather died, even though the police put it down as a suicide. But Steven doesn’t believe it and wants M. J. to talk to his grandfather’s ghost in the hope of finding out the truth. But things go a lot deeper than that and there are many twists and turns. I really didn’t know where this story would end up and enjoyed the fact that I really didn’t know ‘who dunnit’.
I did find that although I enjoyed M. J. and all the other characters, I would have liked a lot more ‘ghostbusting’. There just wasn’t enough of it in my opinion, which was disappointing. Much of the book is researching the mystery and following living people, rather than interacting with the ghosts.
VERDICT:
Overall, “What’s A Ghoul To Do?” is an entertaining read with fun and quirky characters. A really good start to a series and one that I will be continuing, with the next book in the series, ‘Demon’s Are A Ghoul’s Best Friend’.
I’ve had this series on my shelf for a long time, and as it was All Hallow's Eve and I fancied a mystery I thought it was a good time to start Victoria Laurie’s ‘Ghost Hunter Mystery’ series.
I really enjoyed Laurie’s writing. It’s a nice easy writing style and the pages flew by pretty quickly. The characters are fun, especially MJ’s African Grey parrot who sits on her shoulder and chats away – sometimes saying very inappropriate but funny things.
M. J. herself is a lovely character and I connected with her straight away. She is a medium who can talk to the dead, but she’s created a business with her friend and partner, Gilley, by ghostbusting – sending spirits over to the other side. Sometimes this kind of job can be dangerous, which is what they found out when hired by sexy doctor and millionaire, Steven Sable.
M. J. and Gilley are hired by Steven to find out how his grandfather died, even though the police put it down as a suicide. But Steven doesn’t believe it and wants M. J. to talk to his grandfather’s ghost in the hope of finding out the truth. But things go a lot deeper than that and there are many twists and turns. I really didn’t know where this story would end up and enjoyed the fact that I really didn’t know ‘who dunnit’.
I did find that although I enjoyed M. J. and all the other characters, I would have liked a lot more ‘ghostbusting’. There just wasn’t enough of it in my opinion, which was disappointing. Much of the book is researching the mystery and following living people, rather than interacting with the ghosts.
VERDICT:
Overall, “What’s A Ghoul To Do?” is an entertaining read with fun and quirky characters. A really good start to a series and one that I will be continuing, with the next book in the series, ‘Demon’s Are A Ghoul’s Best Friend’.
May 2, 2012
I picked up this book because my fiancé recommended the series. Since we have the same taste in books I figured that I was in good hands. Now, I will admit that at the beginning I was concerned that this story would just be another see-through dime store romance novel with a little paranormal thrown in but I was pleasantly surprised that I managed to read through it as quickly as I did. The Author's wit and sarcasm as well as a strong female character really do make this book worth reading. If you are the type of person that likes to read about the princess locked up in the tower waiting for prince charming to come save the day then this book is not for you. This girl is more of a cross between Peter Venkman and Buffy the Vampire slayer and I will admit as a guy that I like the female leads who can hold their own in a book.
There is really only two small things I can say against this novel that kept it from getting a five star rating. The first is that I wish there had been a little more character development in the book. I am the type of person that likes really complex characters but I am hopeful for the series moving forward. The second is that I actually saw the ending coming a mile away and figured out the big "mystery" way before the end, but since I have that problem with a lot of the novels I read I am only taking off one star for both.
I would suggest this book to anyone who likes paranormal romance novels where it is not just about sex every other page. definitely work the read and I look forward to more.
There is really only two small things I can say against this novel that kept it from getting a five star rating. The first is that I wish there had been a little more character development in the book. I am the type of person that likes really complex characters but I am hopeful for the series moving forward. The second is that I actually saw the ending coming a mile away and figured out the big "mystery" way before the end, but since I have that problem with a lot of the novels I read I am only taking off one star for both.
I would suggest this book to anyone who likes paranormal romance novels where it is not just about sex every other page. definitely work the read and I look forward to more.
June 11, 2012
This is a cute little mystery. M.J. and Gilley are great characters and they are joined by her parrot, Doc, and are ghost-busters. I loved Doc's appearances. M.J. is an interesting character... closed off from relationships, she stumbles upon Dr. Steven Sable who not only has come to her as a client, but maybe as a love interest too. Gilley thinks they need this client, but Dr. Steven Sable is not one to back down and only will hire them if he can tag along. M.J. is torn... take the job and have to work side beside next to him (sexual tension or not), or walk away. Well, although she is convienced that having her client with her on the job is nothing but trouble she takes the job. Having Dr. Sable along with her is the least of the issue... This job is not as straight forward as it seems and the lodge and the surrounding town holds many secrets that are just waiting for her and the good looking doctor to discover.
I don't know if it is just a cozy mystery thing, but the only thing that bothered me was that Dr. Sable was constantly messing up american phrases. It was cute at first, but then got a bit too much for me. Although, I did not really mind it so much by the end of the story. The good doctor has a sort of charm that I could not help but like... I just worry that his grasp of the english language will not improve as the series continues. I will definitely check out the next book though!
I don't know if it is just a cozy mystery thing, but the only thing that bothered me was that Dr. Sable was constantly messing up american phrases. It was cute at first, but then got a bit too much for me. Although, I did not really mind it so much by the end of the story. The good doctor has a sort of charm that I could not help but like... I just worry that his grasp of the english language will not improve as the series continues. I will definitely check out the next book though!
September 25, 2015
My first paranormal mystery! It was very cute, with a good plot and funny, interesting characters.
Steven had me cracking up with his attempt at the English language. I kept wanting to call him Sven...I have no idea why. To me, it suits him haha.
The book touches on dark topics, but keeps it light and fun, mostly. I really enjoyed the opening scene that had nothing to do with the centric plot, but rather introduced us to the characters and what they do. It was a nice little pre-case before the actual mystery got started.
I enjoyed my time with this book, and I'm looking forward to solving another mystery with these zany, fun characters!
3 solid stars.
Steven had me cracking up with his attempt at the English language. I kept wanting to call him Sven...I have no idea why. To me, it suits him haha.
The book touches on dark topics, but keeps it light and fun, mostly. I really enjoyed the opening scene that had nothing to do with the centric plot, but rather introduced us to the characters and what they do. It was a nice little pre-case before the actual mystery got started.
I enjoyed my time with this book, and I'm looking forward to solving another mystery with these zany, fun characters!
3 solid stars.
October 5, 2020
I'm not that big on paranormal books but this isn't too out there so I enjoyed it. There was also a nice mystery thread through out the book which I really liked with some romance thrown in for good measure. #readforkimberly
May 16, 2020
This was my first experience with Ms. Laurie and this series, but it was a good one. I needed a lighter, fun read. MJ is a medium turned paranormal ghost hunter who's set up a mediocre business ghost hunting with her gay best friend, Gill. She accepts a case that tests both her abilities, and her rules, about working alone, and dating clients.
This was a light, fun, quick and easy read. At just under 300 pages it only took a few hours to finish. I really liked the way she described talking to the dead, and the feelings and experiences with them. Upon reading the back cover and finding that Ms. Laurie is a real-life psychic, it really clicked and made sense that she could articulate those experiences so well in novel form. Happily, I have 3 more in the series to read, so this isn't the end of Ms. Laurie, or MJ, for me.
This was a light, fun, quick and easy read. At just under 300 pages it only took a few hours to finish. I really liked the way she described talking to the dead, and the feelings and experiences with them. Upon reading the back cover and finding that Ms. Laurie is a real-life psychic, it really clicked and made sense that she could articulate those experiences so well in novel form. Happily, I have 3 more in the series to read, so this isn't the end of Ms. Laurie, or MJ, for me.
December 6, 2018
I’d give this about 3.5 stars. Great read for a quick mystery. I loved the paranormal and ghost hunting aspect. Loved the secret tunnel. It reminds me of the books I used to loved as a kid. What’s awesome is that the author herself is a medium, so I read, which makes the book seem more realistic. Like what MJ goes through and feels is more realistic. I thought the end was rushed though, and some of it was either too easy and cliché or it was too much and didn’t make sense. BUT the first in a series are often not as good as the rest. I will definitely read more in the series!!
October 12, 2019
3 1/2 stars. This was better than I was expecting. Yes, there is some cheesy dialogue, but the mystery was more complicated than I thought it would be. Also, the paranormal part didn't really solve the mystery. It required some digging up of clues and deduction. Gilley and M.J. have a good rapport and the parrot gives some comic relief. Dr. Sable is interesting. I just didn't like how M.J. kind of mooned over him. That wasn't necessary.
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