
A parent would reach for this book when their teenager feels like an outsider or is struggling with the burden of a secret that makes them feel different from their peers. It is particularly resonant for children navigating blended families or moving to a new environment where they feel the pressure to perform normalcy while managing internal chaos. Suze Simon is a relatable protagonist who juggles the typical trials of high school, such as unwanted crushes and social hierarchies, with the heavy responsibility of being a 'mediator' between the living and the dead. The story explores themes of justice, bravery, and the ethics of helping those who cannot help themselves. While the paranormal elements provide high-stakes excitement, the heart of the book lies in Suze's journey toward self-confidence and finding her place in a world that doesn't always see the 'real' her. It is an ideal pick for readers aged 12 to 17 who enjoy fast-paced mysteries with a touch of romance and a strong-willed female lead who isn't afraid to stand up for what is right.
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Sign in to write a reviewThe protagonist faces physical danger from both ghosts and human antagonists.
Flirting, a few kisses, and discussions of high school crushes and attraction.
Backstory involves murder victims, and their deaths are discussed as part of the mystery.
Occasional mild teen slang and insults typical of early 2000s YA fiction.
The book deals with death and murder in a secular, matter-of-fact way. The ghosts are remnants of people with unfinished business. The resolution is hopeful, as Suze provides justice for the victims, though it acknowledges the reality of human greed and malice.
A 14-year-old girl who feels like a 'black sheep' or who uses sarcasm as a shield. She likely enjoys urban fantasy and wants a protagonist who is physically and emotionally tough.
Read cold. The book is light on 'horror' and heavy on 'adventure.' Parents should be aware of some mild teen rebellion and the romantic tension between Suze and a ghost. A parent might see their child withdrawing from family activities or acting out due to the stress of 'carrying the world on their shoulders' or keeping a personal secret.
Younger teens will focus on the cool factor of the supernatural powers and the mystery. Older teens will resonate more with Suze's struggle to balance her private identity with her public persona.
Suze is not a passive victim of her circumstances: she is a 'mediator' who uses physical strength and wit to resolve conflicts, flipping the trope of the 'haunted' girl on its head.
Suze Simon is a mediator, a teen with the ability to see and touch ghosts. In this second installment, she is settling into her new life in California. When she is tasked with helping the ghost of a murdered woman, she uncovers a dark secret involving a local wealthy family. Meanwhile, she must navigate her feelings for Jesse, the handsome 19th-century ghost haunting her bedroom, and the unwanted advances of a popular classmate.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.