Step into the eerie, enchanting world of the Graveyard Queen series, where ghostly mysteries and gothic chills await! Crafted by Amanda Stevens, this modern gothic saga follows Amelia Gray, a cemetery restorer who sees ghosts and navigates a shadowy realm where the living and dead collide. With its haunting atmosphere, intricate plots, and a dash of forbidden romance, Graveyard Queen beckons readers into a thrilling supernatural adventure.
Blending urban fantasy, paranormal horror, and southern gothic vibes, the series has captivated fans with Amelia’s journey from a cautious ghost-seer to the titular Graveyard Queen. Whether you’re a fan of spooky tales or character-driven mysteries, this series offers a unique twist on the classic ghost story that’s hard to resist.
How Graveyard Queen Began
Born in the folklore-rich Ozarks, Amanda Stevens drew inspiration from her love of gothic novels and supernatural tales. Her passion for symbolism and eerie aesthetics shaped the Graveyard Queen series, which began with The Restorer in 2011. Stevens’ fascination with cemeteries and their hidden stories led to Amelia Gray, a heroine whose ability to see ghosts sets her apart in a world steeped in mystery. The series’ blend of horror and heart earned a RITA Award nomination, cementing its place in paranormal fiction.
The Heart of Graveyard Queen
The series kicks off with The Restorer, where Amelia, bound by her father’s rules to avoid ghosts, consults on a murder investigation in a Charleston graveyard. Her connection with haunted detective John Devlin sparks tension and romance, unraveling dark secrets. The Kingdom takes Amelia to Asher Falls, South Carolina, where a submerged cemetery and a hidden grave reveal a town’s cursed past. The Prophet dives deeper into witchcraft and malevolent spirits, while The Awakening, the sixth book, wraps up Amelia’s arc with a chilling child ghost mystery.
Themes of loss, identity, and the clash between duty and desire weave through the series. Stevens’ lyrical prose paints vivid, creepy settings—think misty graveyards and forgotten tombs—that immerse readers in a southern gothic world. Amelia’s evolution, from a rule-follower to a bold “death walker,” anchors the narrative, while her intense bond with Devlin keeps romance fans hooked. The series’ mix of mystery, horror, and historical graveyard lore makes every book a page-turner.
Why Graveyard Queen Resonates
Graveyard Queen has left a mark on urban fantasy and gothic horror, offering a fresh take on ghost stories that balances scares with emotional depth. Fans praise Stevens’ atmospheric world-building and Amelia’s relatable growth, with reviews calling the series “creeptastic” and “unputdownable.” Its niche appeal—blending cemetery history with supernatural thrills—has built a loyal following, and rumors of a TV adaptation have sparked excitement. Even as a lesser-known gem, its evocative storytelling continues to haunt readers long after the final page.
- First Book: The Restorer (2011)
- Total Books: 7, including a prequel novella, The Abandoned
- Award: RITA Award nomination for The Restorer
- Setting: Primarily Charleston, South Carolina
Ready for a spine-chilling adventure? Grab The Restorer and dive into the Graveyard Queen’s haunting world of ghosts, mysteries, and gothic romance!