Adam Perry

This novel is a 2024 Lone Star selection.

I should begin by stating that I don't like horror or, particularly, ghosts. Liza and John lost their parents to the Spanish flu and now live with a family member, Mr. Spencer. Mr. Spencer cons people, so he requires Liza to help. He makes photos that show ghosts hanging around the person being photographed. Liza adds the fake stuff to make the photo look like a photo with a ghost. Needless to say, they get thrown out of town when they're discovered as frauds. It's not a great life. They arrive at the Silver Star Society house, a place where the veil is thin between worlds. Liza is to arrive after John and Mr. Spencer to appear as if they don't know each other. When Liza arrives, she appears to be injured, so they take her in. As the "inside" con, Liza is able to fake the plates that are needed for photos, as one of the society men, Charles, watches Mr. Spencer closely. They want to catch his con.

Here's the deal. The ghosts are getting restless and they want to cross over. This restlessness translates into horrible storms that tear up the house and grounds. Liza thinks the ghosts are after her brother. She works tirelessly to keep him safe.

Overall, I think a lot of students will really enjoy this novel. It's quite creepy.… (mere)