Dive into the electrifying world of The Paranormals, where supernatural teens wield powers that are as dangerous as they are dazzling! J.L. Bryan’s young adult series, spanning four gripping novels, blends horror, romance, and paranormal fantasy with a fresh twist. Centered on characters like Jenny Morton, whose touch spreads a deadly plague, this series hooks readers with its raw emotion and moral dilemmas, perfect for fans craving a darker take on the YA genre.
From small-town secrets to epic supernatural showdowns, The Paranormals explores what it means to be different in a world that fears the unknown. Ready to meet Jenny and her fellow outcasts? Let’s unravel the magic and mayhem of this under-the-radar gem!
How The Paranormals Began
J.L. Bryan, an American author with a knack for horror and fantasy, crafted The Paranormals after studying English literature at the University of Georgia and Oxford. Inspired by classic horror like Stephen King and his love for supernatural storytelling, Bryan launched the series in 2010 with Jenny Pox. His goal? To create a YA series that didn’t shy away from mature themes, blending gritty realism with paranormal flair. The result was a cult favorite that resonated with readers seeking stories about identity and power.
The Heart of The Paranormals
The series kicks off with Jenny Pox (2010), introducing Jenny Morton, an 18-year-old whose touch unleashes a deadly supernatural disease. Isolated and lonely, Jenny’s life changes when she meets Seth, a boy with a healing touch immune to her curse. But a manipulative rival, Ashleigh, with her own dark powers, threatens their bond. Tommy Nightmare (2011) shifts focus to Tommy, whose touch inspires fear, while Alexander Death (2011) introduces a charming necromancer who raises zombies. The finale, Jenny Plague-Bringer (2012), weaves past and present, resolving Jenny’s journey with epic stakes.
At its core, The Paranormals tackles themes of isolation, morality, and the cost of power. Set in the eerie, small-town South, the series blends gritty horror with heartfelt romance, creating a vivid backdrop where teens grapple with their identities. Bryan’s writing shines for its complex characters—Jenny evolves from a frightened recluse to a fierce heroine, while villains like Ashleigh reveal surprising depth. Fans praise the series for its bold, unflinching take on supernatural consequences, often comparing it to a darker Carrie.
Why The Paranormals Resonates
The Paranormals carved a niche in the YA paranormal genre by embracing mature themes and avoiding clichéd tropes. Its raw depiction of supernatural struggles—think plague-spreading teens and zombie-raising charmers—captivated readers who craved originality. Reviews on Goodreads highlight the series’ addictive pacing and emotional depth, with fans calling it “life-changing” for its portrayal of healthy yet complex relationships. Though not a mainstream blockbuster, its cult following proves its lasting appeal, especially for those who love dark, character-driven fantasy.
Despite its niche status, The Paranormals influenced the YA landscape by showing that teen stories could tackle heavy topics without losing heart. Its blend of horror and hope continues to inspire readers to embrace their own uniqueness, making it a hidden treasure worth discovering.
- Publication Years: 2010–2012
- Number of Books: 4
- Genre: Young Adult Paranormal Fantasy
- Setting: Small-town USA
Ready to get swept away by Jenny’s haunting journey? Grab Jenny Pox and plunge into The Paranormals’ thrilling, eerie world today!