Step into the thrilling world of the Ghost Hunter Mysteries, where psychic medium M.J. Holliday and her tech-savvy sidekick Gilley Gillespie tackle mischievous spirits and solve chilling mysteries! Written by Victoria Laurie, this cozy paranormal mystery series blends supernatural suspense, witty humor, and heartwarming camaraderie, offering readers a delightful escape into a world where ghosts are real and danger lurks around every corner.
With its unique mix of ghostbusting adventures and clever whodunits, the series has carved a niche in the cozy mystery genre, captivating fans who crave a spooky yet lighthearted read. Let’s dive into the origins, stories, and lasting charm of the Ghost Hunter Mysteries!
How Ghost Hunter Mysteries Began
Victoria Laurie, a New York Times bestselling author and former professional psychic intuitive, launched the Ghost Hunter Mysteries in 2007 with What’s a Ghoul to Do?. Drawing from her own experiences communicating with the spirit world, Laurie crafted M.J. Holliday, a medium with a knack for talking to the dead and a passion for busting troublesome ghosts. Inspired by her love for mystery and the paranormal, Laurie wanted to create a series that combined the thrills of ghost hunting with the charm of cozy mysteries, resulting in a fresh and engaging narrative style.
The series grew from Laurie’s desire to explore the challenges and ethics of psychic work, weaving in action, romance, and humor. Her background lent authenticity to M.J.’s abilities, making the supernatural elements feel grounded and relatable, even for skeptics.
The Heart of Ghost Hunter Mysteries
The Ghost Hunter Mysteries series spans 11 books, each with a playful title that swaps “girl” for “ghoul” in familiar phrases. Key titles include What’s a Ghoul to Do? (2007), where M.J. and Gilley investigate a haunted lodge and uncover a murder mystery tied to restless spirits; Demons Are a Ghoul’s Best Friend (2008), which sees the duo battling a demonic entity at a boarding school; Ghouls Just Haunt to Have Fun (2009), set in a haunted San Francisco hotel during a TV show pilot; and A Ghoul’s Guide to Love and Murder (2016), the series finale involving a stolen dagger and vengeful demons.
Themes of friendship, courage, and the balance between the living and the dead run throughout the series. M.J.’s psychic abilities are portrayed with nuance, highlighting the emotional and physical toll of ghostbusting. The stories, set in diverse locations like Boston, San Francisco, and Wales, blend spooky atmospheres with cozy mystery staples—think quirky characters, romantic subplots, and clever clues. Laurie’s witty dialogue and fast-paced plots keep readers hooked, while the paranormal elements add a thrilling edge.
The series stands out for its character-driven storytelling. M.J. is a relatable heroine—brave yet vulnerable—while Gilley’s tech skills and comedic fear of ghosts provide levity. Romantic arcs, particularly with Heath Whitefeather in later books, add depth without overshadowing the mysteries. Fans praise Laurie’s ability to balance scares with humor, making each book a satisfying blend of eerie and endearing.
Why Ghost Hunter Mysteries Resonates
The Ghost Hunter Mysteries have left a mark on the cozy paranormal mystery genre, offering a refreshing take on ghost stories that appeals to fans of shows like Ghost Hunters and readers of Charlaine Harris. Laurie’s authentic portrayal of psychic work and her knack for crafting memorable characters have earned a dedicated fanbase. The series’ ability to evolve—introducing new settings, deeper character arcs, and escalating stakes—keeps readers invested across its decade-long run.
Its legacy lies in its accessibility and charm. By blending supernatural thrills with cozy mystery warmth, the series invites readers to explore the paranormal without overwhelming dread. Fans on platforms like Goodreads celebrate its mix of humor, heart, and spooky fun, ensuring its place as a beloved niche gem.
- First Book Published: 2007 (What’s a Ghoul to Do?)
- Total Books: 11
- Author: Victoria Laurie, a former psychic intuitive
- Genre: Cozy Paranormal Mystery
Ready to join M.J. and Gilley on a ghostbusting adventure? Grab What’s a Ghoul to Do? and dive into the spooky, witty world of the Ghost Hunter Mysteries!