Title: The Ghosts of New Cheltenham
Author: Chautona Havig
Series: Christmas in New Cheltenham, book 1
Major Themes: Christmas, Romantic Mystery
Synopsis: An unexpected inheritance gives Mitchell a home, on the condition that he participate in a ghost story competition…and he’s afraid of ghosts.
I’ve had The Ghosts of New Cheltenham on my to-read list for at least five years now, partly because it’s one that somehow never got reviewed here, and partly because I have the goal to read all of Chautona’s books eventually, and this was one I hadn’t read yet. I’m so glad I took the time to read it! This is a lighthearted, easy read, and in true Chautona style, it has several twists you don’t see coming that makes the book that much more endearing.
Publisher’s description:
What’s a guy to do when the ghosts of his past converge on his Christmas present?
Mitchell Bogaert hasn’t done much with his life in the four years since college, to which his negative-digits bank account and credit score will attest. So when news of an inheritance from a man he hasn’t seen in years arrives on the same day as his eviction notice, Mitchell considers the odd terms of the will to be a no-brainer.
Sure, he’ll move into a building in the tourist village of New Cheltenham. Of course, he’d be happy to live there for a year as a condition of inheritance. And yes, he’ll suffer the humiliation of creating, entering, and presenting at the annual Dickens Ghost Story Competition.
But someone either doesn’t want him in New Cheltenham or doesn’t want him to receive that inheritance, because the more he works on his story, the more convinced he is that a ghost resides in the narrow building he now calls home.
My thoughts:
I’d classify this book as a rom-com, except it’s got more of the comedy than the romance in it. The premise of this book is hilarious—and I loved watching it pan out as the story unfolded! I don’t have a ghost phobia, but the way different things are described here, even I could understand Mitchell’s fear. At the same time, I couldn’t help but laugh at some of his reactions—the circumstances were just too funny!
New Cheltenham is a great place, and it’s got some wonderful characters in it. I loved Brenna and Lauren. Lauren’s opinions and attempts to be helpful were endearing, even if a little misplaced at times. Brenna’s no-nonsense approach to life was something I could relate to, and I loved how she came alongside Mitchell when he needed it (and sometimes gave him a push when he needed that). The community aspect of the town came through well, and I loved getting to meet the different ones that keep the town going—even Mrs. Clodt, who is more opinionated and bossy than anyone has a right to be!
The Ghosts of New Cheltenham is a perfect lighthearted Christmasy read. It’s a cozy story, has just a hint of mystery, a bit of romance, and is set in an endearing little town. Plus, I loved the faith element of the story—there isn’t a lot, but what’s there is convicting and encouraging. Recommended!
WARNING: I swear is used in ch. 4, 13, and 16. There are kisses in ch. 20, 21, and 22.
Age levels:
Reading Independently—Ages 15 and Above, Adults
Links to buy this book:
Amazon: Paperback | Kindle
AbeBooks: View Choices on AbeBooks.com
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