
Since it’s Throwback Thursday, I’m featuring one of my favorite, lesser known series. I read the first book but switched to audio for the rest as the narration is outstanding…and creepy.
Amelia Gray restores graveyards, having spent her whole life in cemeteries as her father is a caretaker of them. And, she sees ghosts and has since she was nine-years old. Her father sees them, too, and he’s taught her the rules to follow to protect herself, one of them being to never let ghosts know she can see them. Amelia has also never told anyone else about her gift.
Amelia is on an assignment in Charleston, restoring an old cemetery associated with a university and gets embroiled in a murder mystery when a body is discovered there. She finds herself connected in odd and mysterious ways to the tortured, handsome and sexy detective assigned to the case, John Devlin, as well the investigation.
This was a fantastically written story, capturing the essence of old Charleston, the creepy but ethereal beauty of the ancient cemetery and the assembly of odd characters connected with the case. Amelia and John’s relationship is in the background mostly but sets the tone for this captivating story. While the murder mystery is resolved, there are so many issues remaining to uncover and explore. It’s great storytelling and the beginning of a fantastic series.
Book Info
- Release Date: May 1, 2011
- Series: Graveyard Queen #1
- Page Numbers: 400
- Publisher: MIRA

This sounds intriguing. Just checked it out on Audible, only books 4,5 and 6 are available. Could I start with #4 and pick up the story do you think? I’ll never catch up starting to read another series.
No, the first book is crucial! A lot happens there to set the foundation for the series. My memory is flawed about #2 & 3, though.
Cathy, I found the whole series available in Audible Escape.
I tried Audible Escape but still only books 4,5 & 6. I’ll read the first one and see how I go, then maybe go to book 4 on audio. Thanks, Jonetta
Are you in the UK? It shows up in the US.
Yes, I am. I thought it must be something to do with my location.
Send them a query.
It’ll be publishing rights, it’s happened before. I can never understand why some publishers can’t/won’t publish in certain countries.
Her first books were published by Harlequin and the late ones via Tantor.
Sounds very interesting. It might be a bit too far into this series for me to catch up though.
It ends with #6.
Not too many then.
Nope! And the last three are available via Tantor.
I listened to this one. It didn’t stick with me but I remember this series
It just got better!
Oooooh this sounds like one I could get down on. Great review!!
Thanks, Christina💜 It’s definitely in your wheelhouse.
I’m so glad you reminded me of this series. I have a few of her books, but never got around to reading them. I’ll have to try and fit them into my reading schedule! Wonderful throwback review!
Thanks, Julie! I ended up loving this series, especially on audio. If you l8kd ghost stories, this is one of the best.
Wow, I love the sound of this. Cemeteries, ghosts, and a murder mystery? Yup, adding this to my TBR pile. Great review, Jonetta.
Thank you, Christopher💜 It’s got all of that, deliciously so.
My favorite too. I think I have read all. Jonetta I love this series. I think I read till book 4
What about you?
I only have #6 to read. So glad you love this series, too, Shalini💜
I just featured this series in my Series on Saturday Ghosts in October. Excellent review!
Thank you, Anne💜 I’m remembering that now!
I love hearing about (amazing) but lesser known books! Amelia’s obsession with the cemetery is intriguing as well as creepy 😛 I’m keen to give this one a try. Lovely post Jonetta! Jen
Jen, thank you and this is one you’ll want to try out💜
I love the cover! It sounds amazing – thanks for sharing!
You’re welcome, Lisa💜
I’ve only listened to this book in the series (earlier this year). I really enjoyed it and need to grab the next book soon. Thank you for reminding me of it.
Melanie @ Hot Listens & Books of My Heart
You’re welcome, Melanie💜 The narrator is SO good and I still have the last book to listen to.