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Ripsters #1
Date with the Dead
Sixteen-year-old Jolie Livingston’s closest and only friend Drew is this really hot dead guy, and it bites that the self-absorbed princesses at school cannot even see him. That’s right she can communicate with the dead. It’s the living she has trouble with. She and her mom inherited this awesome crib in Plymouth, MA. It’s quite a step-up from the homeless shelter in New Orleans, but there’s a catch. They can’t afford the past due mortgage, so Jolie’s working on that.
She starts a ghost hunting business called Ripsters. Somehow she’s managed to recruit Brittany, a glamour SAP smothered in pink, and a techie allergic to ghosts. Brit actually thinks he resembles the R&B singer Chris Brown. All that pink has clouded her vision. They both have special talents Jolie’s hoping will be useful to their venture. Right now, they’re working for a family in need of major therapy due to a dead guy with a hole in his head.
She starts a ghost hunting business called Ripsters. Somehow she’s managed to recruit Brittany, a glamour SAP smothered in pink, and a techie allergic to ghosts. Brit actually thinks he resembles the R&B singer Chris Brown. All that pink has clouded her vision. They both have special talents Jolie’s hoping will be useful to their venture. Right now, they’re working for a family in need of major therapy due to a dead guy with a hole in his head.
313 pages, ebook
First published June 16, 2012
4 people are currently reading
624 people want to read
About the author
Chris Myers
12 books145 followers
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
August 12, 2013
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review for the blog tour. My stop can be found at Donnie Darko Girl.
Usually I'm not drawn to mysteries, but the premise of a supernatural themed mystery had me intrigued. I love a good ghost story and hunting ghosts is even better. I must admit, I'm jealous of the abilities of Jolie and her mom. I'd love to be able to help spirits cross over and give families closure. Jolie and her mom come from a line of women in their family who all have the ability to see and speak to the dead or be a medium through which a spirit can communicate with the living. How cool would that be to inherit that kind of ability?
I loved the characters, especially when they're together. From appearances alone, Jolie, Reese, Brittany, and Drew don't seem like they would be friends, but the supernatural brings them together. Somewhere along the way, they realize they have become friends who depend on one another. I connected with Jolie right away - the way she thinks and the style of clothes she wears plus her background is so interesting and made me want to know more about her. The author gives a few hints of some of the work with ghosts Jolie did when she lived in New Orleans.
The ghost hunting expeditions, the seances, and the mystery surrounding it all was so much fun to read! I couldn't get enough. Jolie is braver than most people would be when it comes to the spirit world - I know that though I'd love to have her abilities, I'm not so sure I'd be as brave as she was, especially when the ghost with the hole in his head turns menacing.
Overall, this is a light read that you'll fly through, pun intended. I relished every minute of it with all of the twists and turns. The author did a fantastic job of keeping me on my toes and guessing the identity of the murderer. I'm so excited for the sequel!
Usually I'm not drawn to mysteries, but the premise of a supernatural themed mystery had me intrigued. I love a good ghost story and hunting ghosts is even better. I must admit, I'm jealous of the abilities of Jolie and her mom. I'd love to be able to help spirits cross over and give families closure. Jolie and her mom come from a line of women in their family who all have the ability to see and speak to the dead or be a medium through which a spirit can communicate with the living. How cool would that be to inherit that kind of ability?
I loved the characters, especially when they're together. From appearances alone, Jolie, Reese, Brittany, and Drew don't seem like they would be friends, but the supernatural brings them together. Somewhere along the way, they realize they have become friends who depend on one another. I connected with Jolie right away - the way she thinks and the style of clothes she wears plus her background is so interesting and made me want to know more about her. The author gives a few hints of some of the work with ghosts Jolie did when she lived in New Orleans.
The ghost hunting expeditions, the seances, and the mystery surrounding it all was so much fun to read! I couldn't get enough. Jolie is braver than most people would be when it comes to the spirit world - I know that though I'd love to have her abilities, I'm not so sure I'd be as brave as she was, especially when the ghost with the hole in his head turns menacing.
Overall, this is a light read that you'll fly through, pun intended. I relished every minute of it with all of the twists and turns. The author did a fantastic job of keeping me on my toes and guessing the identity of the murderer. I'm so excited for the sequel!
May 20, 2013
More of my reviews @ Reading 24x7
Date with the Dead was brilliantly written. It was mysterious, engrossing, and totally fun to read!
The story was really nicely developed. It had a mysterious edge to it throughout which I liked. Jolie's POV was very interesting to read since the character itself was intriguing. Chris Myers did a wonderful job at executing this story.
Jolie was a fun girl. I liked her from the beginning because even after the hardships she had been through, she was still strong. Her willingness to help people was heart-warming. I didn't get bored even once while reading this novel mainly because Jolie's POV kept it interesting through and through!
All the other characters were really nicely built-up. In the beginning I kept my suspicions on Hayden for being the villain of the story so I never really got a chance to really appreciate him . Drew however, took all the brownie points from me. He was funny, charming and totally sweet! If a love triangle does happen to happen, I'm all for Team Drew! Even though he's a ghost. Which can be a slight drawback for their love story but still.
Brittany was very fun too. The author gave a very nice message through her. You can't judge who the person really is just on the way they look. Brittany was a superb character. She was quirky and frank. Sort of reminded me of Alona from The Ghost and the Goth, as did some other characters but that's okay. :)
Only a very good author can write a mystery story where the reader keeps on guessing what the suspense is gonna be till the end and still gets it wrong. Hats off to the author for writing that part so well! If you like a YA supernatural book with kick-ass characters and a great mystery, the Date with the Dead is definitely for you. :D
Date with the Dead was brilliantly written. It was mysterious, engrossing, and totally fun to read!
The story was really nicely developed. It had a mysterious edge to it throughout which I liked. Jolie's POV was very interesting to read since the character itself was intriguing. Chris Myers did a wonderful job at executing this story.
Jolie was a fun girl. I liked her from the beginning because even after the hardships she had been through, she was still strong. Her willingness to help people was heart-warming. I didn't get bored even once while reading this novel mainly because Jolie's POV kept it interesting through and through!
All the other characters were really nicely built-up. In the beginning I kept my suspicions on Hayden for being the villain of the story so I never really got a chance to really appreciate him . Drew however, took all the brownie points from me. He was funny, charming and totally sweet! If a love triangle does happen to happen, I'm all for Team Drew! Even though he's a ghost. Which can be a slight drawback for their love story but still.
Brittany was very fun too. The author gave a very nice message through her. You can't judge who the person really is just on the way they look. Brittany was a superb character. She was quirky and frank. Sort of reminded me of Alona from The Ghost and the Goth, as did some other characters but that's okay. :)
Only a very good author can write a mystery story where the reader keeps on guessing what the suspense is gonna be till the end and still gets it wrong. Hats off to the author for writing that part so well! If you like a YA supernatural book with kick-ass characters and a great mystery, the Date with the Dead is definitely for you. :D
May 5, 2015
Jolie Livingston sees dead people. She always has. As a child she was terrified. As a teenager she makes profit from them. She comes from a long line of bad ass women. Psychic women who specialize in the dead.
Hurricane Katrina evacuates Jolie & her mother from New Orleans to Plymouth, MA. Jolie has had a hard life. She doesn't have a father. Her mother is broke. Her only friend is a ghost. But she has a heart of gold and trudges on.
Ripsters Inc gets its first case in Plymouth with an angry ghost who has a bullet hole in his head. While doing what she loves most, Jolie makes new friends. They are perfect misfits. The goth girl. A techy nerd. A spoiled princess covered in Pepto Bismol. The depressed jock.
Things just pile up. A fiery ghost. A love-sick cling on. A country crossing stalker. A killer on the loose. The psychic Guild. Jealous ex-lovers. Groping ghosts. Dread lock bullies. Bank foreclosures. Dead relatives. Fatally ill teenagers. How will they ever close the case with so much drama?
Chris Myers is such a talented author. Her ability to create this intricate world just sucks you right into the pages. I loved all the different things going on in this book. It was enough to pull my mind in different directions and keep me on my toes!
I cannot wait to read the rest of this series and watch Jolie's love life unfold. Team Drew!
Hurricane Katrina evacuates Jolie & her mother from New Orleans to Plymouth, MA. Jolie has had a hard life. She doesn't have a father. Her mother is broke. Her only friend is a ghost. But she has a heart of gold and trudges on.
Ripsters Inc gets its first case in Plymouth with an angry ghost who has a bullet hole in his head. While doing what she loves most, Jolie makes new friends. They are perfect misfits. The goth girl. A techy nerd. A spoiled princess covered in Pepto Bismol. The depressed jock.
Things just pile up. A fiery ghost. A love-sick cling on. A country crossing stalker. A killer on the loose. The psychic Guild. Jealous ex-lovers. Groping ghosts. Dread lock bullies. Bank foreclosures. Dead relatives. Fatally ill teenagers. How will they ever close the case with so much drama?
Chris Myers is such a talented author. Her ability to create this intricate world just sucks you right into the pages. I loved all the different things going on in this book. It was enough to pull my mind in different directions and keep me on my toes!
I cannot wait to read the rest of this series and watch Jolie's love life unfold. Team Drew!
August 11, 2013
This was a cute read that reminded me of ghost busters.
All the characters are well-developed, and it was full of mystery.
It had me guessing the killer right 'til the end, and even then I was wrong about my suspicions.
Full review: http://kitkat1242.blogspot.co.uk/2013...
All the characters are well-developed, and it was full of mystery.
It had me guessing the killer right 'til the end, and even then I was wrong about my suspicions.
Full review: http://kitkat1242.blogspot.co.uk/2013...
January 17, 2018
I've said this before, but I always mean it. This time is no different. I love this book. I love the main character--so sassy and snarky. So tough and thick-skinned. I know she should be considered flawed and rough around the edges, but she spoke to me.
Oh. And I love a good nerd sidekick.
I need more of this genre. It doesn't get enough recognition. The only thing I can compare it to that was nearly as enjoyable is the Anna Dressed in Blood duology by Kendare Blake, and it's my absolute favorite.
Oh. And I love a good nerd sidekick.
I need more of this genre. It doesn't get enough recognition. The only thing I can compare it to that was nearly as enjoyable is the Anna Dressed in Blood duology by Kendare Blake, and it's my absolute favorite.
January 17, 2013
This book was a huge surprise. I didn't think I was going to like it at all. I was always told to never judge a book by its cover, but I did. I don't really like the cover of this book, and it made me not want to read it. I am so glad I did though. I loved Date with the Dead. This book was very action-packed and full of mystery. There was also a little romance in there as well for us romance junkies. It is very refreshing to read a book that unique and original. I haven't read a book like this before. That gives it even more points. Chris Meyers did a fantastic job on creating a story that was very intriguing. I didn't want to put the book down, because I had to know what happened next. Date with the Dead was beautifully written. I was able to see and feel what the characters did. I love reading stories like that.
Jolie can see and talk to the dead. Her best friend is a ghost named Drew. When they move to Plymouth, they find out that they can't afford the past mortgage due on the house. Jolie starts up her ghost hunting business called Ripsters to help out. She takes on a case that she has to solve the murder mystery of John Distal. On her first meeting there she meets Reese. He doesn't know anything about ghost hunting, but he has nice equipment. Reese becomes her partner in crime as well. While trying to solve this murder mystery, bad things start to happen. Jolie put a target on her back. Someone doesn't want her looking into John Distal's death. Brit has a ghost following her and can't get rid of him. He is constantly all over her so she asks Jolie for help. Brit helps Jolie out on Distal's case while Jolie helps her out with the soldier. While trying to solve the mysteries, Hayden starts helping out. He wants to be apart of the group, but Reese is against it. While these four work on the case, more stuff starts to happen to them. Will this group solve the murder mystery and be able to send John Distal into the light? Will the four make it out alive?
I loved Jolie as a character. She was an all around sweet girl. Jolie was very smart as well. I loved how she always put other people before herself. She really wanted to save Lizzie and that was more important. Even though she put a target on herself and was constantly attacked, Lizzie was her top priority. I LOVE Drew!!!! He is just so adorable. I love the relationship between Jolie and Drew. He is so protective of her and becomes very possessive of her at times. I was laughing so hard through the book, because of him. He has a great personality, and I couldn't help but love him. Reese was a sweet guy as well. He was the techie of the group, and Jolie and Drew were very thankful over that. Reese was also allergic to ghosts which is very funny. Every time he was around a ghost he would know. Brit really grew on me. I thought she was going to be one of those stuck up characters, but she wasn't. She loved people and everyone loved her. Brit was able to see and talk to ghosts as well. I loved how Brit and Jolie became friends. She had a soldier following her through the book and she couldn't get rid of him. Hayden was a sweet guy. He seemed to really care about Jolie. Always has. He remembers all the time they spent together when they were little. Hayden can hear the dead and read minds. That is very interesting.
I don't know how I feel about the relationship between Jolie and Hayden. Something about it is off. I don't feel that they have a connection with each other. Drew is a whole other story. I truly believe that they love each other unconditionally. I am hoping that somehow in this series Drew comes back to life somehow. I really, really want them to be together. They make a perfect couple. I was so happy when she finally gave him a kiss. It was very sweet.
Date with the Dead was a great book. I really enjoyed it. The mystery of the story was set up really well. I couldn't figure out who the murder was. Every time I thought I had it figured out, I ended up changing my mind. I loved that about this story. I also loved how the four people became a group. The relationship between them all was very sweet. I can't wait to read the sequel and see what the Ripsters have in store!!! I recommend this book to everyone!!! I absolutely loved it!!!
Favorite Quote/Scene
I'm going to die, and I'll never see Drew again because he's right. I'll probably go into the light right away while he's stuck here. The thought of never being with him, listening to his sophomoric commentary, and not seeing his adorable, smiling face overwhelms me. With my bound hands, I draw him near and kiss him on the lips, I did it. I touched him.
Jolie can see and talk to the dead. Her best friend is a ghost named Drew. When they move to Plymouth, they find out that they can't afford the past mortgage due on the house. Jolie starts up her ghost hunting business called Ripsters to help out. She takes on a case that she has to solve the murder mystery of John Distal. On her first meeting there she meets Reese. He doesn't know anything about ghost hunting, but he has nice equipment. Reese becomes her partner in crime as well. While trying to solve this murder mystery, bad things start to happen. Jolie put a target on her back. Someone doesn't want her looking into John Distal's death. Brit has a ghost following her and can't get rid of him. He is constantly all over her so she asks Jolie for help. Brit helps Jolie out on Distal's case while Jolie helps her out with the soldier. While trying to solve the mysteries, Hayden starts helping out. He wants to be apart of the group, but Reese is against it. While these four work on the case, more stuff starts to happen to them. Will this group solve the murder mystery and be able to send John Distal into the light? Will the four make it out alive?
I loved Jolie as a character. She was an all around sweet girl. Jolie was very smart as well. I loved how she always put other people before herself. She really wanted to save Lizzie and that was more important. Even though she put a target on herself and was constantly attacked, Lizzie was her top priority. I LOVE Drew!!!! He is just so adorable. I love the relationship between Jolie and Drew. He is so protective of her and becomes very possessive of her at times. I was laughing so hard through the book, because of him. He has a great personality, and I couldn't help but love him. Reese was a sweet guy as well. He was the techie of the group, and Jolie and Drew were very thankful over that. Reese was also allergic to ghosts which is very funny. Every time he was around a ghost he would know. Brit really grew on me. I thought she was going to be one of those stuck up characters, but she wasn't. She loved people and everyone loved her. Brit was able to see and talk to ghosts as well. I loved how Brit and Jolie became friends. She had a soldier following her through the book and she couldn't get rid of him. Hayden was a sweet guy. He seemed to really care about Jolie. Always has. He remembers all the time they spent together when they were little. Hayden can hear the dead and read minds. That is very interesting.
I don't know how I feel about the relationship between Jolie and Hayden. Something about it is off. I don't feel that they have a connection with each other. Drew is a whole other story. I truly believe that they love each other unconditionally. I am hoping that somehow in this series Drew comes back to life somehow. I really, really want them to be together. They make a perfect couple. I was so happy when she finally gave him a kiss. It was very sweet.
Date with the Dead was a great book. I really enjoyed it. The mystery of the story was set up really well. I couldn't figure out who the murder was. Every time I thought I had it figured out, I ended up changing my mind. I loved that about this story. I also loved how the four people became a group. The relationship between them all was very sweet. I can't wait to read the sequel and see what the Ripsters have in store!!! I recommend this book to everyone!!! I absolutely loved it!!!
Favorite Quote/Scene
I'm going to die, and I'll never see Drew again because he's right. I'll probably go into the light right away while he's stuck here. The thought of never being with him, listening to his sophomoric commentary, and not seeing his adorable, smiling face overwhelms me. With my bound hands, I draw him near and kiss him on the lips, I did it. I touched him.
December 8, 2017
ARC provided by Netgalley for an honest review *
This was such a fabulous book! I honestly enjoyed it immensely and loved all the supernatural elements! I loved learning about Jolie and her family and which special talents they had as well as seeing the friendships blossom between characters. It was also hilarious at times and creepy too! I really am intrigued by the ending and really really hope there is more to this book!
This was such a fabulous book! I honestly enjoyed it immensely and loved all the supernatural elements! I loved learning about Jolie and her family and which special talents they had as well as seeing the friendships blossom between characters. It was also hilarious at times and creepy too! I really am intrigued by the ending and really really hope there is more to this book!
July 8, 2012
4½ stars out of 5
Jolie Livingston has some pretty cool super powers. She can see the dead, talk to the dead, and help the dead cross over into the afterlife. The down side? Currently, her best and only friend is a ghost named Drew, she and her mom are so poor they are on the verge of being homeless yet again, and, last but not least, Jolie has caught the not-so-wanted attention of the Self-Absorbed Princesses or the SAPs. It’s tough being in high school!
What I liked:
1. The plot. Not only does Jolie need to get rid of a ghost, but she also has a murder to solve and a little girl’s life to save. Myers manages to weave all of these elements into one cohesive and massive plot that has a great tempo with lots of action and very little angst. Angst sucks.
2. The major characters. Jolie is a pretty tough cookie who, because of circumstances beyond her control, has had to mature quickly. She carries a lot of weight and worry on her shoulders, but only occasionally allows herself a smallish pity party. For the most part, Jolie is smart and determined and often jumps into action rather than allowing herself to wallow in worry and self-doubt. Drew is a tortured hotty with a penchant for causing trouble. However, when the chips are down, and Jolie is in trouble, Drew is there and ready to help.
3. The minor characters. The cast of minor characters is one of the novels’ absolute highlights. Here’s the rundown: Reese: the ultra-smart, ultra-rich newest member of Ripsters. Although Reese has no supernatural abilities (or does he?), he has a desire to help Jolie and hunt ghosts. Although he is surly and often a bit timid, Reese’s heart is in the right place. Hayden: hello, not-dead hotty! This football player is so sad and so perfect, all at once. Hayden has recently lost his mother, has a huge secret that he thinks only Jolie will understand, and is one of the most dependable guys in Jolie’s newly-populated life. I love that Hayden doesn’t let his sadness define him. When he’s needed and/or called on, Hayden is there and ready to roll. Brittany: I LOVE HER! By far, Brittany is my favorite character in this book. She is a SAP who wears way too much pink, is ridiculously wealthy, and willing to risk her social status by crossing the line into enemy territory when she begins to work with Jolie and Reese. For Brittany, it’s personal; she has a Revolutionary War soldier’s ghost that won’t leave her side and is desperate to get rid of him. Seriously, the guy follows her to the bathroom ☺ While Brittany is often the butt of the group’s jokes (Pink, Day-Glo Pink, Pink Barbie . . .), she is resilient, funny, smart, and tenacious. I adore Brittany and really hope to see her appear in later installments of this series.
What I didn’t like:
1. Reese’s attitude: Overall, I like Reese and know he will be a major factor in later books, but he has got to get the multiple chips off of his shoulder. Seriously, he has a bag of Lay’s on should right now.
2. Jolie’s dad: I know, I know, Dad is one of the major hooks to keep the reader coming back for more, but this book had just too little of him to make much of a difference.
The bottom line: this book doesn’t have much that I don’t like, and I am very much looking forward to the second installment in the series. I like the humor, the detailed and intriguing plot, and the characters, who are quite fun and just quirky enough to keep me wanting more. Without reservation, I would absolutely recommend this book to young adult and adult readers alike.
Jolie Livingston has some pretty cool super powers. She can see the dead, talk to the dead, and help the dead cross over into the afterlife. The down side? Currently, her best and only friend is a ghost named Drew, she and her mom are so poor they are on the verge of being homeless yet again, and, last but not least, Jolie has caught the not-so-wanted attention of the Self-Absorbed Princesses or the SAPs. It’s tough being in high school!
What I liked:
1. The plot. Not only does Jolie need to get rid of a ghost, but she also has a murder to solve and a little girl’s life to save. Myers manages to weave all of these elements into one cohesive and massive plot that has a great tempo with lots of action and very little angst. Angst sucks.
2. The major characters. Jolie is a pretty tough cookie who, because of circumstances beyond her control, has had to mature quickly. She carries a lot of weight and worry on her shoulders, but only occasionally allows herself a smallish pity party. For the most part, Jolie is smart and determined and often jumps into action rather than allowing herself to wallow in worry and self-doubt. Drew is a tortured hotty with a penchant for causing trouble. However, when the chips are down, and Jolie is in trouble, Drew is there and ready to help.
3. The minor characters. The cast of minor characters is one of the novels’ absolute highlights. Here’s the rundown: Reese: the ultra-smart, ultra-rich newest member of Ripsters. Although Reese has no supernatural abilities (or does he?), he has a desire to help Jolie and hunt ghosts. Although he is surly and often a bit timid, Reese’s heart is in the right place. Hayden: hello, not-dead hotty! This football player is so sad and so perfect, all at once. Hayden has recently lost his mother, has a huge secret that he thinks only Jolie will understand, and is one of the most dependable guys in Jolie’s newly-populated life. I love that Hayden doesn’t let his sadness define him. When he’s needed and/or called on, Hayden is there and ready to roll. Brittany: I LOVE HER! By far, Brittany is my favorite character in this book. She is a SAP who wears way too much pink, is ridiculously wealthy, and willing to risk her social status by crossing the line into enemy territory when she begins to work with Jolie and Reese. For Brittany, it’s personal; she has a Revolutionary War soldier’s ghost that won’t leave her side and is desperate to get rid of him. Seriously, the guy follows her to the bathroom ☺ While Brittany is often the butt of the group’s jokes (Pink, Day-Glo Pink, Pink Barbie . . .), she is resilient, funny, smart, and tenacious. I adore Brittany and really hope to see her appear in later installments of this series.
What I didn’t like:
1. Reese’s attitude: Overall, I like Reese and know he will be a major factor in later books, but he has got to get the multiple chips off of his shoulder. Seriously, he has a bag of Lay’s on should right now.
2. Jolie’s dad: I know, I know, Dad is one of the major hooks to keep the reader coming back for more, but this book had just too little of him to make much of a difference.
The bottom line: this book doesn’t have much that I don’t like, and I am very much looking forward to the second installment in the series. I like the humor, the detailed and intriguing plot, and the characters, who are quite fun and just quirky enough to keep me wanting more. Without reservation, I would absolutely recommend this book to young adult and adult readers alike.
January 20, 2013
This was a tour, come check it out on my blog: http://theread-a-holic.blogspot.com/
How I Acquired This Fantabulous book: Oh, how I loooooooove book tours ^_^ seriously, if you get a review position, it usually means you get a copy of the book. And come one, free books! Who doesn't love that. I should also probably mention that just cuz I got this book free of charge did in no way affect the rate it or review it :) lol, anyway, I'd actually looked at this book before I realized there was a tour and thought the book looked really awesome. If there is one thing I love in paranormal young adult novels, it's when someone can see ghosts. Why? Cuz it cracks me up when people catch them talking to thin air and you know what's happening but I love imagining their faces at the moment. It's kind of stupid how hilarious I find it, but I do. So, when I saw there was a tour open, I was like, "COUNT ME IN!" And I'm so happy I did ;)
The Hilarious Charries: Ohhhh where to start? I guess we should start with Jolie, our guide throughout this story. She's funny, has one of those, I-could-care-less attitudes that I kind of admire, and was pretty. Cool. The only thing that seriously bugged me about her was how she kind of seemed to drift between Hayden and Drew, it's like she really couldn't make up her mind. Next, let us move onto her invisible companion, Drew. Drew is her best friend, hot, and a ghost. I loved him. He was sarcastic and funny and watching him and Jolie together was hilarious! I can no longer listen to the song Big Girls Don't Cry without imagining Reese, the tech whose allergic to ghosts and can sing amazingly, singing along and playing guitar while Jolie and Drew dance and sing too :) I love when a book is able to give you a happy memory ^_^ Hayden was nice, but personally, I like Drew better ;) but I am still quite curious about him.... We didn't get a lot of information on him but, yeah. Brittany was awesome to. I could see Jolie's annoyance with her some times, but I actually really liked her. She was pretty cool and really sweet.
The Plot ( I ran out of adjectives): Okay, so we have all established that the characters are hilarious, which helps keep this book nice and light, considering it deals with a quite disturbing case. The plot is the most unique twist of horror-comedy-thriller-ya-slight-romance I have ever read. And I really enjoyed it. Quite honestly, I can't explain, it's kind of just something you have to read for yourself. But if there is one word that describes this book it would be unique. It's a funny cool story that I definitely recommend!
The End: THERE HAS TO BE A SECOND!!!! Seriously!!! I don't know what I'll do without more of these guys O.o This book was just so wonderfully different and unique there just has to be more! In the end, I loved this book, and there is a lot of stuff I hope will be mentioned in a second book. Till then, I wait with bated breath (who came up with that saying anyway?) :D
August 7, 2013
This review was originally posted at Paperback Princess
Date with the Dead is a fun murder mystery based novel with loveable characters that make you want so much more. Chris Myers writing is engrossing and the mystery unfolded perfectly, despite the novel revolving around teens the mystery was not easily guessed. There was also several sub-plots which kept the story more interesting. I'd probably say this is somewhat in between the Nancy Drew Series and the mystery-side of Charlaine Harris' Sookie Stackhouse series.
Jolie Livingston recently moved with her Mother to Plymouth after inheriting her Aunt Ophelia's home. In Plymouth Jolie starts her own ghost eradicating company, Ripsters (Rest In Peace Sophisticated Technology for Efficient Removal of Spirits), now seriously, how can you not love a writer that creates such an awesome name/slogan? Jolie's first "case" is the ghost plaguing a local family, the Caldwells, this is where she meets one of her co-Ripsters, Reese, who also had his own ghost hunting company, with Reese's fancy equipments and Jolie's expertise they made a fantastic team.
The characters were so fun and their investigative techniques were so entertaining to read about. I really enjoyed the characters and I think that it's definitely one of the strong points of this book. Eventually Ripsters had expanded to include Brit, a local Judge's daughter, then towards the end Hayden, Jolie's crush, and we can't forget Drew, Jolie's best friend and the team's ghost! The Ripsters had a fantastic relationship between them and I just enjoyed the way they interacted.
Despite the Caldwell's ghost being the main mystery plot of this novel, there were other mysteries that the Ripsters had to solve, one being a soldier ghost that's following Brit around, then there's also the Paranormal Guild which wasn't really explained in this book, along with a stalker that followed Jolie and her Mother from New Orleans, and to top it off Jolie has made enemies at her school with a group of girls that can prove to be more dangerous than the ghosts that she's hunting.
Date with the Dead is a fast paced, engrossing mystery novel with loveable characters that have the Readers wanting so much more. I cannot wait to read Dead and Missing. Date with the Dead still had a fantastic conclusive ending despite it being part of a series and I really liked how Myers ended Date with the Dead, it was still rounded off nicely and if Myers left Date with the Dead as a standalone it would have still worked, I would have just been sad that I couldn't enjoy the characters more.
Date with the Dead is a fun murder mystery based novel with loveable characters that make you want so much more. Chris Myers writing is engrossing and the mystery unfolded perfectly, despite the novel revolving around teens the mystery was not easily guessed. There was also several sub-plots which kept the story more interesting. I'd probably say this is somewhat in between the Nancy Drew Series and the mystery-side of Charlaine Harris' Sookie Stackhouse series.
Jolie Livingston recently moved with her Mother to Plymouth after inheriting her Aunt Ophelia's home. In Plymouth Jolie starts her own ghost eradicating company, Ripsters (Rest In Peace Sophisticated Technology for Efficient Removal of Spirits), now seriously, how can you not love a writer that creates such an awesome name/slogan? Jolie's first "case" is the ghost plaguing a local family, the Caldwells, this is where she meets one of her co-Ripsters, Reese, who also had his own ghost hunting company, with Reese's fancy equipments and Jolie's expertise they made a fantastic team.
The characters were so fun and their investigative techniques were so entertaining to read about. I really enjoyed the characters and I think that it's definitely one of the strong points of this book. Eventually Ripsters had expanded to include Brit, a local Judge's daughter, then towards the end Hayden, Jolie's crush, and we can't forget Drew, Jolie's best friend and the team's ghost! The Ripsters had a fantastic relationship between them and I just enjoyed the way they interacted.
Despite the Caldwell's ghost being the main mystery plot of this novel, there were other mysteries that the Ripsters had to solve, one being a soldier ghost that's following Brit around, then there's also the Paranormal Guild which wasn't really explained in this book, along with a stalker that followed Jolie and her Mother from New Orleans, and to top it off Jolie has made enemies at her school with a group of girls that can prove to be more dangerous than the ghosts that she's hunting.
Date with the Dead is a fast paced, engrossing mystery novel with loveable characters that have the Readers wanting so much more. I cannot wait to read Dead and Missing. Date with the Dead still had a fantastic conclusive ending despite it being part of a series and I really liked how Myers ended Date with the Dead, it was still rounded off nicely and if Myers left Date with the Dead as a standalone it would have still worked, I would have just been sad that I couldn't enjoy the characters more.
December 13, 2017
Received from NetGalley
I LOOOVE this book. Such a fun and quick read. I just flew through the pages and couldn't put it down.
Jolie has a very hard life. She lives with her mother. They moved from New Orleans after Katrina, to her aunts place in Plymouth, MA. Aunt died in sea previously and left them the house. There are bills and mortgage payments due and they are about to lose the house, but Jolie has a plan.
She has a special gift that runs in the family, she can talk to ghosts. (Her mom can channel dead, so they speak through her). There is one ghost Drew, that doesn't cross over, she is always with her and is her best friends. She wishes he was alive, so they could be together.
In New Orleans she was a part of ghost hunting group so she decides to open one her, to help ghost cross over and earn a bit of money.
In the night of her first job she meets Reese, that wanted to do job himself. She convinces him, that they should work together. He has the equipment, she can see ghosts, perfect match. Later on Brit joins them, she is one of the most popular girls in school and has a ghost following her, that she can't shake. She also has a gift, similar to Jolie's.
The form a group, Ripsters, and have to join all their skills to get rid of especially violent ghost, girls life is dependent on it.
I love the story, is captivating from the first page, a lot happens, many twist and turns. My second favourite thing are characters, each is unique in their own way and I love reading about them. My favourite being Drew, I wish he could come back to life. He is funny, at times annoying to Jolie, however he is also very protective and cares for her a lot. My least favourite is definitely Hayden, there is just something about him, that annoys me very much.
I can't wait to read the next one!
Highly recommend it!
I LOOOVE this book. Such a fun and quick read. I just flew through the pages and couldn't put it down.
Jolie has a very hard life. She lives with her mother. They moved from New Orleans after Katrina, to her aunts place in Plymouth, MA. Aunt died in sea previously and left them the house. There are bills and mortgage payments due and they are about to lose the house, but Jolie has a plan.
She has a special gift that runs in the family, she can talk to ghosts. (Her mom can channel dead, so they speak through her). There is one ghost Drew, that doesn't cross over, she is always with her and is her best friends. She wishes he was alive, so they could be together.
In New Orleans she was a part of ghost hunting group so she decides to open one her, to help ghost cross over and earn a bit of money.
In the night of her first job she meets Reese, that wanted to do job himself. She convinces him, that they should work together. He has the equipment, she can see ghosts, perfect match. Later on Brit joins them, she is one of the most popular girls in school and has a ghost following her, that she can't shake. She also has a gift, similar to Jolie's.
The form a group, Ripsters, and have to join all their skills to get rid of especially violent ghost, girls life is dependent on it.
I love the story, is captivating from the first page, a lot happens, many twist and turns. My second favourite thing are characters, each is unique in their own way and I love reading about them. My favourite being Drew, I wish he could come back to life. He is funny, at times annoying to Jolie, however he is also very protective and cares for her a lot. My least favourite is definitely Hayden, there is just something about him, that annoys me very much.
I can't wait to read the next one!
Highly recommend it!
August 8, 2013
What a lot of fun this book is! With a mix of the paranormal, a bit of romance and a murder mystery that keeps our ghost hunters guessing almost till the end, nearly any reader can find something to like in Date with the Dead. Even the romance is appealing to those of us who’ve grown tired of the insta-love that’s so prevalent in young adult fiction because here it’s natural and, while there are plenty of roadblocks in the way, there’s no overblown angst. As a matter of fact, there’s a good deal of humor involved, especially with all the ghosts hanging about.
We’ve seen ghost hunter books before but this one is a cut above, full of charm and a good dollop of suspense, along with a little pathos involving less-than-stellar family situations. I really enjoyed spending time with Jolie and Drew and their pals and the whole idea of a town teeming with stray spirits works because of the setting. Where better than the heart of Pilgrim country and the American Revolution to find enough ghostly hangers-on to keep a budding ghost-hunting business rolling along for years to come? It doesn’t hurt, either, that these teens actually know what they’re doing most of the time although they certainly weren’t expecting to have to solve a missing person case that turns into something much worse.
I have to give Ms. Myers props for a couple of things. First, the editing of this book was very nicely done and I found no glaring errors beyond the occasional—and minor—typo. Second, her characterizations of these kids and the villains involved is lively and makes them feel real despite their tendencies to be involved in supernatural goings-on. I especially liked that each of the teens brings a different touch to the story and each has his or her own talents as well as weaknesses.
Make no mistake, this is not just a humorous piece of fluff. There is certainly a lot about it that’s amusing but we also get to see that even those kids who seem to have it all together have problems and, sometimes, they’re pretty serious. Jolie, in particular, is a girl with reasons to be very cynical about life in general but she’s still a most appealing teen who refuses to be beat down. I’m looking forward to reading about the next adventures of the Ripsters gang.
Reviewed by Lelia Taylor, August 2013.
We’ve seen ghost hunter books before but this one is a cut above, full of charm and a good dollop of suspense, along with a little pathos involving less-than-stellar family situations. I really enjoyed spending time with Jolie and Drew and their pals and the whole idea of a town teeming with stray spirits works because of the setting. Where better than the heart of Pilgrim country and the American Revolution to find enough ghostly hangers-on to keep a budding ghost-hunting business rolling along for years to come? It doesn’t hurt, either, that these teens actually know what they’re doing most of the time although they certainly weren’t expecting to have to solve a missing person case that turns into something much worse.
I have to give Ms. Myers props for a couple of things. First, the editing of this book was very nicely done and I found no glaring errors beyond the occasional—and minor—typo. Second, her characterizations of these kids and the villains involved is lively and makes them feel real despite their tendencies to be involved in supernatural goings-on. I especially liked that each of the teens brings a different touch to the story and each has his or her own talents as well as weaknesses.
Make no mistake, this is not just a humorous piece of fluff. There is certainly a lot about it that’s amusing but we also get to see that even those kids who seem to have it all together have problems and, sometimes, they’re pretty serious. Jolie, in particular, is a girl with reasons to be very cynical about life in general but she’s still a most appealing teen who refuses to be beat down. I’m looking forward to reading about the next adventures of the Ripsters gang.
Reviewed by Lelia Taylor, August 2013.
January 18, 2013
Jolie and her mother have just moved from New Orleans to Plymouth, Massachutes. After loosing their home to hurricane Katrina and living out of shelters, they inhereit her aunt's house after her aunt goes missing and is presumed dead. Jolie is excited about the fresh start. Her only friend is Drew, her handsome spirit that only she can see. She has always been the outcast and the fact that people see her talking to herself doesn't up her social status. Never having enough money, Jolie and her mother discover they have two weeks to pay back taxes on their house or they will be evicted. Jolie actually likes it here and she doesn't want to move again, especailly back to New Orleans. What to do?
Jolie is hired by a terrified local family to remove a ghost from their house. The ghost is scaring them and making thier oldest daughter physically ill. Upon arriving at the home, we meet Reese. He is somewhat annoying but has all the right equipment. At school, Jolie meets the beautiful, popular, pink-loving Brittany, who has a ghost of her own. The only problem is she doesn't like hers and wants to get rid of him. Drew is the gorgeous football player who Jolie is secretly attracted to, much to her dismay. With this fine cast to characters, they set out to solve the mystery of the haunting and solving a murder mystery in the process. The only problem is that someone doesn't want them to solve the case and will go to desperate measures to make sure they don't.
What a wonderful and fresh story. I have always been fascinated with this topic. I know that their are people who can see the dead. I have never met one, that I know of. To actually have a best friend as a spirit and be able to see spirits would be amazing. I loved everything about this book. The characters are so different from each other but fit together nicely. I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
Jolie is hired by a terrified local family to remove a ghost from their house. The ghost is scaring them and making thier oldest daughter physically ill. Upon arriving at the home, we meet Reese. He is somewhat annoying but has all the right equipment. At school, Jolie meets the beautiful, popular, pink-loving Brittany, who has a ghost of her own. The only problem is she doesn't like hers and wants to get rid of him. Drew is the gorgeous football player who Jolie is secretly attracted to, much to her dismay. With this fine cast to characters, they set out to solve the mystery of the haunting and solving a murder mystery in the process. The only problem is that someone doesn't want them to solve the case and will go to desperate measures to make sure they don't.
What a wonderful and fresh story. I have always been fascinated with this topic. I know that their are people who can see the dead. I have never met one, that I know of. To actually have a best friend as a spirit and be able to see spirits would be amazing. I loved everything about this book. The characters are so different from each other but fit together nicely. I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
September 14, 2012
Date with the Dead is an action-packed mystery filled with romance, edgy suspense, and delightful characters. The main character Jolie has a great, updated teen voice. When she moves from New Orleans to Plymouth, MA, a place teeming with the dead, she starts a business called Ripsters to eradicate pesky spirits and make enough cash to help her mom pay for the mortgage that's in arrears. Jolie is fatherless and often thinks about her missing parent, adding sympathy for this hard-working, ambitious teen.
The story solves the mystery of a haunting, which was most likely caused by a brutal murder. Besides solving the haunting terrifying a local family, Jolie also works on sending another ghost packing, who dogs a fellow classmate, Brit.
The story is filled with characters that come alive on the page. Even the antagonists and red herrings are memorable. The interaction and friendships of the following characters make this story an enjoyable read:
Jolie (MC): intelligent, wry, ghost-hunting, chic-dressing Goth girl.
Drew (Sidekick): snarky, fun-loving, dead guy.
Brit (Jolie's classmate with a few secrets of her own): very pink, self-absorbed princess.
Reese (Jolie's newly acquainted partner in Ripsters): ghost hunter technician extraordinaire, who sneezes whenever a ghost is near.
Hayden (Love interest): Solemn, GQ, and caring guy with a few special talents of his own.
This story is part Ghost Hunters, Ghost and Mrs. Muir, Veronica Mars, and Ghost Whisperer with a lot more humor and suspense. I'm looking forward to see what happens next in the series and where the author will take the characters. They all have their own unique tales. I loved all the plot twists and the surprise double ending. They not only wrap up the mystery but start new ones waiting to be solved.
The story solves the mystery of a haunting, which was most likely caused by a brutal murder. Besides solving the haunting terrifying a local family, Jolie also works on sending another ghost packing, who dogs a fellow classmate, Brit.
The story is filled with characters that come alive on the page. Even the antagonists and red herrings are memorable. The interaction and friendships of the following characters make this story an enjoyable read:
Jolie (MC): intelligent, wry, ghost-hunting, chic-dressing Goth girl.
Drew (Sidekick): snarky, fun-loving, dead guy.
Brit (Jolie's classmate with a few secrets of her own): very pink, self-absorbed princess.
Reese (Jolie's newly acquainted partner in Ripsters): ghost hunter technician extraordinaire, who sneezes whenever a ghost is near.
Hayden (Love interest): Solemn, GQ, and caring guy with a few special talents of his own.
This story is part Ghost Hunters, Ghost and Mrs. Muir, Veronica Mars, and Ghost Whisperer with a lot more humor and suspense. I'm looking forward to see what happens next in the series and where the author will take the characters. They all have their own unique tales. I loved all the plot twists and the surprise double ending. They not only wrap up the mystery but start new ones waiting to be solved.
May 5, 2014
Jolie was a socially awkward girl whose only friend was Drew, a ghost. she had the ability to communicate with the dead, her mom read palms and cards for a living, and they had difficulties paying the rent. to help her mom with the money, Jolie made use of her ability and started a ghost hunting business, called Ripsters (Rest In Peace Sophisticated Technology for Efficient Removal of Spirits). in the previous town they resided, Jolie had a group of ghost hunters that worked with her; but now in a new town, she was forced to work alone until she came across unlikely people that would formed quite an interesting team with her.
i received a free e-book from the author in exchanged for a review. the book was such a fun and fast read that i found myself flying through the pages in no time. having Drew with her made Jolie a very interesting and funny character to read. their romance was seemingly serious yet hilarious at times, i often found myself battling against myself whether Jolie should get a living guy to date or stay with Drew since they were so perfect together. i didn't see myself liking Reese or Hayden, even Brit, but before i knew it, i was rooting so hard for them that i surprised even myself with how much more i wanted to know about them. the charm of Ripsters lied in the unique combination of its members, so different yet so compatible together. while i still voted Drew over Hayden, the friendship Jolie built with Brit truly overwhelmed me, bringing tears to my eyes at times. now that i am so hooked, i can't wait to lay my hands on the second installment just to have more adventure with Jolie.
my review: here
i received a free e-book from the author in exchanged for a review. the book was such a fun and fast read that i found myself flying through the pages in no time. having Drew with her made Jolie a very interesting and funny character to read. their romance was seemingly serious yet hilarious at times, i often found myself battling against myself whether Jolie should get a living guy to date or stay with Drew since they were so perfect together. i didn't see myself liking Reese or Hayden, even Brit, but before i knew it, i was rooting so hard for them that i surprised even myself with how much more i wanted to know about them. the charm of Ripsters lied in the unique combination of its members, so different yet so compatible together. while i still voted Drew over Hayden, the friendship Jolie built with Brit truly overwhelmed me, bringing tears to my eyes at times. now that i am so hooked, i can't wait to lay my hands on the second installment just to have more adventure with Jolie.
my review: here
January 15, 2013
I can't even get over how much I loved the idea of Date with the Dead! Girl can see ghosts so she starts up her own ghost hunting/mystery solving business, and hijinks ensue. It was like Nancy Drew meets Medium. Plus the name of her business is called RIPSTERS- Rest In Peace Sophisticated Technology For Efficient Removal Of Spirits. Way too cute!
Jolie and Drew are adorable. I loved the ghost hunting duo they made. It kind of seamed like Jolie was a loner but then right at the start of the story all of these new people started popping up in her life. Looking back, it seemed a little sudden but I didn't notice it at all while reading it, so it didn't bother me. Jolie is just a likable girl. She is quirky and brave. In some ways she seems like just a normal teen, with crushes and hilarious nicknames for everyone.
"Pretty in Pink", aka Brittany joins Jolie's group and she can actually touch the ghosts, and I think I actually felt Jolie and Drew's pain. Did I say already that they are adorable? Anyways, once Brittany joins the group and tells us who she liked, my jaw literally dropped open. I didn't see it coming at all but I loved it. I will say that I don't really love the cover, but don't let that affect your decision to read Date with the Dead. It's a really good book!
The murder mystery in Date with the Dead is pretty good too. I really enjoyed the thought out story of John Distal and his death. It was all really interesting. What I liked most about Date with the Dead is that it wasn't quite like anything else that I had been reading. It was unique. And that was really refreshing to see. I can't wait to see what RIPSTERS will be up to next!
Jolie and Drew are adorable. I loved the ghost hunting duo they made. It kind of seamed like Jolie was a loner but then right at the start of the story all of these new people started popping up in her life. Looking back, it seemed a little sudden but I didn't notice it at all while reading it, so it didn't bother me. Jolie is just a likable girl. She is quirky and brave. In some ways she seems like just a normal teen, with crushes and hilarious nicknames for everyone.
"Pretty in Pink", aka Brittany joins Jolie's group and she can actually touch the ghosts, and I think I actually felt Jolie and Drew's pain. Did I say already that they are adorable? Anyways, once Brittany joins the group and tells us who she liked, my jaw literally dropped open. I didn't see it coming at all but I loved it. I will say that I don't really love the cover, but don't let that affect your decision to read Date with the Dead. It's a really good book!
The murder mystery in Date with the Dead is pretty good too. I really enjoyed the thought out story of John Distal and his death. It was all really interesting. What I liked most about Date with the Dead is that it wasn't quite like anything else that I had been reading. It was unique. And that was really refreshing to see. I can't wait to see what RIPSTERS will be up to next!
January 14, 2013
Date With The Dead is a very funny, unique read. I really loved the descriptions of Plymouth of Plymouth seeing as I live 45 minutes from there. I really enjoyed how Chris took the whole ghost hunter thing to another level. I have read a lot of ghost books but this one by far was the most pleasurable.
Jolie and her mother move into a house that in Plymouth. They both move there to start over because quite frankly they were not making it in New Orleans. Jolie has a gorgeous ghost best friend that no one can see or hear but her. As she starts her new school she realizes just how weird she can be but soon makes friends and starts her own ghost hunting business. She starts the business with two friends she has made at school and one girl is a SAP you know the kind stuck up and snotty for the sake of appearances but these guys make it work and soon they are on their first case.
Jolie and the gang have to figure out whether or not their first case is a murder or accident. John died but his ghost won't rest and so Jolie and the gang have to pick through the clues and see what happened to him. If this is not stressful enough Jolie is starting to have a crush on a guy named Hayden who wants to join them in hunting out ghosts. What is a girl to do? What will she find out about John? Will she and Hayden have anything more than friendship?
Read this incrediblt funny fast paced suspense story!
Jolie and her mother move into a house that in Plymouth. They both move there to start over because quite frankly they were not making it in New Orleans. Jolie has a gorgeous ghost best friend that no one can see or hear but her. As she starts her new school she realizes just how weird she can be but soon makes friends and starts her own ghost hunting business. She starts the business with two friends she has made at school and one girl is a SAP you know the kind stuck up and snotty for the sake of appearances but these guys make it work and soon they are on their first case.
Jolie and the gang have to figure out whether or not their first case is a murder or accident. John died but his ghost won't rest and so Jolie and the gang have to pick through the clues and see what happened to him. If this is not stressful enough Jolie is starting to have a crush on a guy named Hayden who wants to join them in hunting out ghosts. What is a girl to do? What will she find out about John? Will she and Hayden have anything more than friendship?
Read this incrediblt funny fast paced suspense story!
November 18, 2015
Publishers Weekly Review:
Plymouth, Massachusetts, is the perfect setting for this tale of ghostly hauntings and murder. High-school student Jolie offers a first person account of her life as a ghost hunter. Working together with cohorts Reese, Hayden, Brittany and Drew (a ghost), Jolie seeks to solve the haunting of a home by John Distal, a man who was most likely murdered. As Jolie gets closer to uncovering the identity of Distal's murderer, she is pursued by an unknown assailant driving an SUV. A subplot involving a dead soldier haunting Brittany provides some light-hearted relief to the intensity of the mystery as the ghost hunters forge through Burial Hill to help the soldier find his lost love. And one of the most appealing aspects of this novel is the author's ability to create suspense as Jolie and her friends come closer to solving the mystery behind Distal's murder. Well-crafted characters fill the pages of the swift-moving plot which culminates in an explosive finale.
Awards:
Top 100 semi-finalist of 2009 Amazon Breakthrough Novel
2008 Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers Gold Contest Finalist for Ripsters
Plymouth, Massachusetts, is the perfect setting for this tale of ghostly hauntings and murder. High-school student Jolie offers a first person account of her life as a ghost hunter. Working together with cohorts Reese, Hayden, Brittany and Drew (a ghost), Jolie seeks to solve the haunting of a home by John Distal, a man who was most likely murdered. As Jolie gets closer to uncovering the identity of Distal's murderer, she is pursued by an unknown assailant driving an SUV. A subplot involving a dead soldier haunting Brittany provides some light-hearted relief to the intensity of the mystery as the ghost hunters forge through Burial Hill to help the soldier find his lost love. And one of the most appealing aspects of this novel is the author's ability to create suspense as Jolie and her friends come closer to solving the mystery behind Distal's murder. Well-crafted characters fill the pages of the swift-moving plot which culminates in an explosive finale.
Awards:
Top 100 semi-finalist of 2009 Amazon Breakthrough Novel
2008 Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers Gold Contest Finalist for Ripsters
June 24, 2013
Jolie Livingston could be just like your average sixteen-year old girl but she isn't , ever since Jolie was a baby she has had the ability to not only see the dead but communicate with them. Think Jennifer Love-Hewitt in The Ghost Whisperer or Patricia Arquette in The Medium . When Jolie and her mum move into her Aunt's house after her Aunt Ophelia's death , Jolie can't help but think that things aren't as they seem in Plymouth. Especially when she is called to do a ghost exorcism and help a ghost who is causing real danger to the household. It is here she meets Reece - a guy who is allergic to ghosts, Brit aka Pretty in Pink - she can also see ghosts and currently like Jolie has with Drew - her ghostly counterpart , Britney has a dead soldier attached to her. Soon Jolie will realise that nearly all the teens in the town have some sort of psychic ability. Has Jolie finally found a group of friends whom she can fit in with and will solving the case of the haunted house , be her ticket into the exclusive group - The Paranormal Guild ?
Find out in this fun Teen Ghosty Novel "Date with the Dead " and stay tuned for the upcoming sequel "Dead and Missing:.
August 5, 2013
I had purchased Date with the Dead because I am a fan of Chris Myers, and before I had signed up for the Dead and Missing blog tour, but unfortunately I had not had time to read it.
I admit that initially the story did not engage me as fully as I wanted it to but Jolie is an interesting character and the way in which Chris Myers generates mystery is inspired.
I found myself drawn into the story because of the personalities. Jolie struggles with being 'different' and her best friend is a ghost! Yet, Jolie still dresses individually and uses her talents; Drew's opinions on people often had me giggling out loud, especially when he teams up with the lovable Brittany!
Although this is a young adult book there are definitely serious undertones including Drew's death; Brittany's mother's illness; the Paranormal Guild and Distal's ghost. These are all issues I feel that the author deals with appropriately to the paranormal content of the book and intended age of the reader.
Yes, Date with the Dead may have had a slow start for me but this is one of those books I could have put down and wondered about . . .now I know it was worth reading!!!!
I admit that initially the story did not engage me as fully as I wanted it to but Jolie is an interesting character and the way in which Chris Myers generates mystery is inspired.
I found myself drawn into the story because of the personalities. Jolie struggles with being 'different' and her best friend is a ghost! Yet, Jolie still dresses individually and uses her talents; Drew's opinions on people often had me giggling out loud, especially when he teams up with the lovable Brittany!
Although this is a young adult book there are definitely serious undertones including Drew's death; Brittany's mother's illness; the Paranormal Guild and Distal's ghost. These are all issues I feel that the author deals with appropriately to the paranormal content of the book and intended age of the reader.
Yes, Date with the Dead may have had a slow start for me but this is one of those books I could have put down and wondered about . . .now I know it was worth reading!!!!
November 11, 2012
Ghosts, hot guys (dead and alive!), and an intriguing mystery. What’s not to like? And Chris Myers promises more to come.
Spirited (pun intended) main character Jolie has a lot on her plate. She’s just moved from New Orleans to Plymouth, Mass., which means a new high school. She’s different, and doesn’t fit in with the popular set. When she finds out that she and her mom are up to their ears in debt, Jolie realizes there’s no time to waste in getting her ghost hunting business going.
She forms an unlikely alliance with the “pretty in pink” girl who’s been irritating her from day one, and a fellow ghost hunter who seems to be allergic to ghosts. Resident hunk Hayden wants to join them as well, but Jolie’s grandmother has warned her about “his kind.” It seems his mother, who has died, was Wiccan.
Once you start Date With The Dead, you’ll want to stick around for the exciting climax. The only question is: How long do we have to wait for the next installment?
Spirited (pun intended) main character Jolie has a lot on her plate. She’s just moved from New Orleans to Plymouth, Mass., which means a new high school. She’s different, and doesn’t fit in with the popular set. When she finds out that she and her mom are up to their ears in debt, Jolie realizes there’s no time to waste in getting her ghost hunting business going.
She forms an unlikely alliance with the “pretty in pink” girl who’s been irritating her from day one, and a fellow ghost hunter who seems to be allergic to ghosts. Resident hunk Hayden wants to join them as well, but Jolie’s grandmother has warned her about “his kind.” It seems his mother, who has died, was Wiccan.
Once you start Date With The Dead, you’ll want to stick around for the exciting climax. The only question is: How long do we have to wait for the next installment?
January 25, 2015
I think of a book about ghost hunting with ghost characters and talking with the dead as a dark book, but I found Date with the Dead to be witty and humorous despite its serious topics. Jolie is a smart teen with ancestors who can communicate with the dead. She and her mom lost everything in Hurricane Katrina, and they have a hard life. She is strong willed and desperately working at ghost hunting to save the home they inherited from an aunt. You have to feel for a kid who’s an outcast and doesn’t know how much she has going for her.
A young adult reader will not only learn about ghost hunting, but also about teen suicides, history of witch hunting in the Plymouth area, the Revolutionary War, and the shock of attempted rape. I think teen readers will relate to the characters, who range from dressed in all-pink rich beauties to intellectual nerds, jocks, and kids traumatized by ghosts.
This book is fast paced and fun with an incredible array of characters.
A young adult reader will not only learn about ghost hunting, but also about teen suicides, history of witch hunting in the Plymouth area, the Revolutionary War, and the shock of attempted rape. I think teen readers will relate to the characters, who range from dressed in all-pink rich beauties to intellectual nerds, jocks, and kids traumatized by ghosts.
This book is fast paced and fun with an incredible array of characters.
May 31, 2013
This was a wonderful book! It was very well written and the characters are great as well as the storyline. I loved the whole my best friend is a dead hot ghost and how they relied on each other for a lot of things (even though he was a ghost). And I especially loved the friendly banter between characters. Banter between the characters is probably my favorite thing about a book because it makes me look stupid while I'm laughing and people are wondering what I'm laughing at. This is definitely one thing that draws me into a book and this book has quite a bit. I suggest this book to anyone really. It's an all around GREAT book! Looking forward to the next one, even though I'm not sure I like how the person telling the story will change.... I hope it doesn't disappoint because this one sure didn't.
June 16, 2012
This story kept me up late at night. Teenaged Goth girl Jolie is a ghost hunter at night accompanied by her very dead haunt Drew. Jolie gathers a cast of unlikely friends: Reese--the techie who's allergic to ghosts, Brit--a very pink SAP, and Hayden--Jolie's very cute love interest.
They search for the killer of a ghost haunting a family. The stakes are raised when a young girl becomes ill from the haunting. ROFL humor, great characters, and fast-pace plotting make this a quick read.
The story heats up with Hayden and Jolie while she tries to help him get over his mother's sudden death. The other subplot of sending Brit's annoying haunt to the afterlife adds much needed LOL breaks from from this tense mystery.
Where's the next book?
They search for the killer of a ghost haunting a family. The stakes are raised when a young girl becomes ill from the haunting. ROFL humor, great characters, and fast-pace plotting make this a quick read.
The story heats up with Hayden and Jolie while she tries to help him get over his mother's sudden death. The other subplot of sending Brit's annoying haunt to the afterlife adds much needed LOL breaks from from this tense mystery.
Where's the next book?
September 12, 2012
Jolie is one cool girl, even if she is in to dead guys. I love how smart and witty she is, and how she's such an average teenager, even while she's kind of gothy/quirky and dealing with some really heavy grown up stuff, like mortgages. The mix makes it all totally believable and fun. Jolie is such a great character. The story reads fast and is completely engrossing, and even though the dead guy part is, yeah, kind of strange... kind of super cool, too. Loved it.
November 10, 2016
I really liked this book!! It was up my ally. It was so fun and interesting. Really reminded me of my paranormal days too :3 this was Rey fun and interesting, it was a page turner. It's a fun and fast read. Keeps you interested the entire time. The book was filled with mystery, I really had no idea who killed the man, but I was guessing the wife.
January 4, 2013
This is a great young adult story! Definitely a page turning read! It has an intriguing mystery, a great cast of characters - each with their own quirks, and a heroine who's clever and smart. The Ripsters were very entertaining and kept me turning pages. I look forward to the next book in this series.
June 16, 2012
like that it flows quickly and is a kind of modern day, ghost hunting Nancy Drew with friends. A cooler, less popular Nancy Drew. Looking forward to reading more books by this author.
December 5, 2012
i liked this story, i am looking to see if there are any more.
December 29, 2020
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me of a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Jolie is a teen ghost hunter who, along with her mother and ghostly best friend, has moved from New Orleans to Plymouth. When she sets up her ghost hunting business there, she becomes caught up in a mystery that only she and her fellow ghost hunters can solve. I adored this book. I loved the characters and the story, while having many familiar elements, was also fresh and exciting. It has a little romance, a lot of action, and plenty to keep you entertained. I’m looking forward to the next in the series.
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