Book Review: Uninvited House Ghosts (East House Mysteries Book 1)
When I first stumbled upon Uninvited House Ghosts by Rachel Ford, I couldn’t resist the quirky premise: a woman named Tennessee Evans, caught in a whirlwind of familial ghosts and a murder mystery that lands her as the prime suspect in her ex-fiancé’s death. Immediately, I was hooked—what’s not to love about a cozy mystery featuring spectral assistance and a dash of slow-burn romance? As I dove into this enchanting story, I found myself in a delightful blend of laughter, intrigue, and heartfelt moments.
Tennessee is a relatable protagonist, wrestling with her not-so-stellar family history of crooks and con artists while striving for a more respectable life. The juxtaposition of her earthy worries—like recovering from a breakup and keeping her house—against the backdrop of her late ancestors, who bicker and plot from beyond the grave, creates a wonderful tapestry of humor and tension. As she grapples with the fallout from finding her ex dead in her backyard, the ancestral spirit council dispatches two contrasting ghosts to help: Raymond, a tax expert from the 20th century, and Jack, an 18th-century rogue. Their dynamic is both entertaining and enlightening, as Ford expertly weaves their wit and wisdom into Tennessee’s personal crisis.
Ford’s writing style is engaging and conversational, filled with rich descriptions that paint vivid pictures of Marshmeadow, the haunted house, and the eccentric characters that populate it. I loved how she juggles multiple points of view; it’s a refreshing technique that keeps the narrative lively and allows us to experience the story from various perspectives—especially that of Tennessee and her ghostly companions. The pacing kept me turning pages, with just the right balance of whimsical humor and poignant moments.
One standout aspect of the novel is its humor, sparking chuckles at the most unexpected times, notably during the ghosts’ failed attempts to help Tennessee navigate her troubles. I was continuously amused by their banter, a blend of historical context and modern sensibilities that made them relatable despite their ethereal nature. A memorable quote that stuck with me was when Raymond quipped, “Death doesn’t mean you get to stop being a pain in the ass.” It encapsulates not only the ghosts’ personalities but also the light-heartedness that permeates the narrative.
Readers can expect plenty of twists and turns, with insights that keep you guessing—and the mystery itself is intriguingly layered, subtly unveiling clues that challenge your perceptions of the characters. Yet, while there is a hint of romance between Tennessee and the lead detective, Shania Wagner, it’s more of a slow-burn subplot than I initially anticipated. If you’re looking for a full-blown love story, you might find yourself slightly disappointed, but I appreciated the authentic and unhurried nature of their relationship.
I wholeheartedly recommend Uninvited House Ghosts to fans of cozy mysteries, supernatural shenanigans, and those who enjoy a touch of humor in their narratives. If you’re intrigued by family secrets, quirky characters, and a story that unfurls with charm, Rachel Ford’s first installment in the East House Mysteries series is a must-read. Personally, it was a refreshing escape into a world where the past doesn’t really let go, and sometimes, it’s the ghosts that can help light the way forward. As I close the book, I find myself eagerly awaiting the continuation of Tennessee’s journey—and the next round of family ghostly antics!
You can find Uninvited House Ghosts (East House Mysteries Book 1) here >>