Step into the snarky, supernatural world of That Ghoul Ava, where a sharp-tongued ghoul named Ava Birch navigates the chaos of Portland’s paranormal underbelly with wit, humor, and a hunger for the dead! T.W. Brown’s urban fantasy series blends horror, dark comedy, and heart, delivering a fresh take on the genre that’s as addictive as Ava’s love for 80s rock. With its quirky protagonist and laugh-out-loud storytelling, this series has carved a unique niche in paranormal fiction, captivating readers who crave something delightfully different.
From Ava’s unexpected transformation into a ghoul to her misadventures with psychics, vampires, and zombies, the series hooks you with its fast-paced action and Ava’s unapologetic attitude. Whether you’re a fan of urban fantasy or just love a good chuckle with your chills, That Ghoul Ava is a must-read!
How That Ghoul Ava Began
T.W. Brown, known for his horror series like Dead and Zomblog, wanted to shake things up with a lighter, funnier take on the supernatural. Inspired by his love for witty heroines and 80s pop culture, Brown crafted That Ghoul Ava in 2012, launching the series with May December Publications. Ava, a former waitress who becomes a ghoul after a failed suicide attempt, was born from Brown’s desire to create a character who could thrive in a gritty, humorous world of monsters and mayhem, proving he’s no one-trick pony in the horror genre.
The Heart of That Ghoul Ava
The series kicks off with That Ghoul Ava: Her First Adventures (2012), a duo of novellas introducing Ava’s transformation and her bond with human sidekick Lisa Jenkins. Ava tackles a rogue vampire and meets the haughty Vampire Queen Belinda, setting the tone for her chaotic life. That Ghoul Ava & The Queen of the Zombies (2013) sees Ava facing zombies while jamming to her favorite 80s tunes, her snarky humor shining through. In That Ghoul Ava Finds an Appetite for Deception, Ava dives into Portland’s tribute band scene, only to battle a succubus kidnapping a Guns N’ Roses impersonator. That Ghoul Ava… On the Lam! (2015) ramps up the stakes as Ava, now Public Enemy Number One to the Templars, investigates child murders while dodging supernatural foes.
The series thrives on its blend of dark comedy, horror, and urban fantasy, set against the vibrant backdrop of Portland, Oregon. Themes of self-discovery, resilience, and found family resonate as Ava learns to embrace her ghoul identity. Brown’s conversational style, paired with Ava’s ADD-fueled antics and love for music, creates a vivid, immersive world where ghouls, psychics, and vampires collide in hilarious, action-packed ways.
Why That Ghoul Ava Resonates
That Ghoul Ava stands out for its fearless protagonist and genre-bending charm, earning praise for its originality and humor. Fans compare Ava to heavyweights like Kim Harrison’s Rachel Morgan or Richelle Mead’s Georgina Kincaid, lauding her sustainability as a character who could anchor the urban fantasy genre for years. The series’ mix of horror and comedy appeals to readers seeking a break from traditional vampire or werewolf tales, while its niche status makes it a hidden gem for those craving unique paranormal adventures.
Despite its smaller footprint, the series has built a loyal fanbase, with audiobook narrator Celia Aurora de Blas bringing Ava’s sass to life, earning high marks for her performance. Its influence lies in proving that lesser-known series can still pack a punch, inspiring readers to explore beyond mainstream titles.
- First Published: 2012
- Number of Books: 8
- Setting: Portland, Oregon
- Author: T.W. Brown
Dive into That Ghoul Ava: Her First Adventures and join Ava’s wild ride through a world of ghouls, zombies, and 80s rock anthems. Trust us, you’ll be hooked!