THE HAUNTING OF HILLWOOD FARM by Kathryn Knight

Fiction, Paranormal Romantic Suspense (196 pages) (This title previously published in the USA TODAY Bestselling Love Under Fire Romantic Suspense Thrillers Box Set 2018) 

4****

Blurb: After tragedy strikes, Callie Sinclair is left with a gift she never wanted—the ability to communicate with ghosts. But when a desperate widow begs for her help, she reluctantly agrees to investigate the strange occurrences at Hillwood Farm. She quickly realizes she’s dealing with a dangerous presence beyond anything she’s ever experienced, and something else becomes equally clear—the only other living person in the house, Mrs. Turner’s handsome grandson, thinks she’s a scam artist. While she’d prefer to just ignore him, her heart beats a little faster every time he’s nearby. Luke Turner doesn’t believe in spirits. He’s moved back to restore the family farm, but living on the property serves a dual purpose—he can watch out for his grandmother. He’s not happy about the sudden appearance of a self-described psychic, or his inexplicable attraction to her. His initial suspicions crumble as evidence points to an actual haunting, but he’s still determined not to fall for Callie—the past has taught him it’s best to avoid relationships. As Callie is drawn deeper into the mystery, she becomes the target of a vengeful spirit, and Luke can no longer fight his feelings for her. Unable to resist their desire, passion ignites…even as the paranormal activity escalates to a final deadly confrontation. 

Thoughts: After a nasty accident, Callie discovers that she can talk to ghosts. Because of her ability, Alice Turner of Hillwood Farm contacts her to find out who’s haunting her farm. Her grandson, Luke, lives with her and he is certain Callie is a con artist—until dangerous things start happening not just on the farm, but to Callie herself. There is danger here, but also some other spirit who’s trying to help. 

Pluses: The story started off right away with a haunting episode that lets you know there is something both good and bad happening here. Callie is a believable character with a tragic past. Luke’s past isn’t tragic, but he brings some baggage with him too, which makes their romance build from wary friendship to love. There’s plenty of conflict here to keep the story moving. Descriptions of the characters, the spooks, and the setting are well done. 

Minuses – I really didn’t see any need for Luke’s family to be around (until I did). I knew the who as far as the spirits were concerned early on, but not the why/what happened. For me, the ending felt a bit rushed, but it was a good ending that satisfied all the questions. 

Recommendation: For a truly chilling read with a satisfying ending, you won’t be disappointed with this. I know I’ll be looking for more from this writer.

Disclaimer: Disclosure of Material: I received a final and/or advanced reader copy of this book with the hope that I will leave my unbiased opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that… My Opinions. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”