A Journey into the Enchanting World of Among Ghosts
From the moment I first heard about Among Ghosts, I knew it was destined to capture my heart. Rachel Hartman, the brilliant mind behind this tale, has a way of weaving worlds that I simply adore. Having been enamored with her previous work, Seraphina, I was thrilled to dive into this new narrative, set before the events of that beloved book. While Among Ghosts can be enjoyed on its own, you’ll undoubtedly find yourself enchanted by Hartman’s unique storytelling style across her entire repertoire.
At its core, Among Ghosts follows the story of thirteen-year-old Charl, who navigates life with his mother in the quaint, albeit troubled, town of St. Muckle’s. They have a beautiful bond, shaped by their shared history of escaping a darker past with Charl’s menacing father. The emotional depth of their relationship is palpable, and as a reader, you find yourself rooting for Charl—an incredibly relatable protagonist—who faces the challenges of adolescence while being burdened by a tumultuous past.
The story kicks off with a high-stakes encounter between Charl and the local bully, Rafe, that lures him into an abandoned location where chaos erupts. The excitement of this opening scene drew me in immediately, intertwining tragedy and action in a way that set the tone for the rest of the book. The plot thickens as a mysterious plague begins to creep through St. Muckle’s, adding layers of suspense that kept me at the edge of my seat.
Hartman’s writing is nothing short of mesmerizing. Each scene unfolds effortlessly, allowing you to become fully immersed in the hauntingly beautiful world she crafts. The juxtaposition of Charl’s everyday struggles with fantastical elements—like the ghosts of young girls who inhabit an ancient abbey—creates a delicate balance between the mundane and the magical. I found myself particularly touched by Charl’s interactions with the spirits, as their backstories add a haunting richness to the narrative.
Beyond the supernatural, Among Ghosts delves deep into themes of friendship, bravery, and the sheer weight of growing up. The characters, from Sister Agnes to Mother Trude, are woven with layers that make them feel deeply authentic. I loved how Mother Trude evolves, revealing her complexities and secrets that tug at your heartstrings. In moments of quiet reflection, Hartman encourages readers to confront their emotions, beautifully illustrating Charl’s growth as he grapples with his feelings of love, loss, and resilience.
If I had to express just one more aspect of what made this reading experience so profound, it would be the tender moments that explore familial bonds. Charl’s fierce love for his mother shines through, reminding readers of the strength that comes from connection. And as the story unfolds, a hint of potential romance emerges—while bittersweet, it speaks to the universal truth of young love lingering on the horizon.
Ultimately, Among Ghosts is a mesmerizing tale that will resonate with readers of all ages, particularly those who appreciate middle-grade narratives laced with emotional complexity and fantasy. It’s a heartfelt invitation to explore the beauty in vulnerability, the weight of history, and the power of human connection. This book is not just a story; it’s an experience that lingers long after you’ve turned the final page.
I am so grateful to PRH International for providing me with an eARC of this stunning book. It has solidified my admiration for Rachel Hartman’s work, and I eagerly anticipate adding Among Ghosts to my personal collection when it publishes. If you’re looking for a book that beautifully intertwines ghostly tales with heartfelt truths, I cannot recommend it enough! You won’t regret picking it up.
For more of my thoughts, feel free to check out my blog at Carina’s Books. Happy reading!