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The premise of this book came to me when I was out driving the country backroad. The song 'Love Will Keep Us Alive' came on the radio as I saw a beautiful, white Victorian house come into view. It was located next to a cemetery. The song and visual elements all came together as a ghost story in my mind. And, since I love everything about the 19th century, I incorporated that element into the story by making the ghosts from that era.
Reviewed by Anne-Marie Reynolds for Readers' Favorite
Blood and Brume by Maki Morris is a YA paranormal tale. Ellie Porter is only 16 but when she s assaulted by her alcoholic mom's boyfriend, she's done. Taking off with no intention of ever going back home, she is persuaded by Sam, her best friend, to take refuge in an old abandoned house. And then the nightmare really begins. Two men dressed in 19th-century clothing appear to be inhabiting the house and they claim they are the owners. At first, Ellie thinks it's all a joke but she soon realizes they are real ghosts and she begins to regret entering the house. The veil between the material and spirit world is opening and Ellie realizes that problems in her life need to be resolved before she can find peace. When her mom reports her missing and calls her a thief, Sam has to involve his father, a police officer. Will Ellie's life ever get back to normal? Will she find the peace and closure she needs?
Blood and Brume by Maki Morris is an amazing story that will keep you reading all the way through - once you begin, you won't put it down. It's a fast-paced plot that deals with all kinds of subjects in a sensitive way and, although it feels like a one-off to start with, the ending suggests that it may just be the beginning of a satisfying new series. The characters were excellent, real-life people dealing with real-life drama and problems. They are likable and easy to relate to and their growth throughout the story is second to none. I will say that, unlike many YA stories, this one is not for the faint-hearted. It deals with heavy subjects, especially right at the start, and may not be suitable for younger readers. All in all, a thoroughly enjoyable story, and I hope there is a sequel.
