Book Title/Author: Beyond: A Ghost Story by Graham McNamee
Publisher/Year: Wendy Lamb Books (imprint of Random House) 2012
Genre: YA Horror/Paranormal
Series: No.
Other Books From Author: Acceleration, Bonechiller, Hate You
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On the outside it may appear to people that Jane is clumsy, reckless or maybe suicidal. After all, she’s had some near fatal accidents. But only Jane and her best friend, Lexi, know the truth about all Jane’s “accidents” and how it’s her own shadow that take hold of her body and guides her to do these things. As Jane and Lexi work to figure out what’s happening to Jane they find a connection to Jane’s shadow mystery they would have never believed.
I thought this book was really creepy — not scary — but just plain ol’ creepy. I mean, I just think about the premise of your shadow warring against you and making you do things that you don’t want to do and it gives me the heebie jeebies. So many of the things that go bump in the night are outside forces and this one is something that is inside you and you can’t even control! Seriously, it could be a cool movie, I think. I mean, let’s recap here: HER SHADOW IS TRYING TO KILL HER. The premise alone simultaneously creeped me out yet thrilled me.
Beyond by Graham McNamee was very slim in size but it was one of those books that you really felt like you got this very whole and complete story — which was nice considering I’ve been reading SO many series. It was just darn nice to have a paranormal-like story and have it be a standalone. I read this SO quickly because it’s pacing is so great! I just kept wondering — is she possessed or is it a ghost or is her shadow an actual entity. And then when other things were revealed I was even more intrigued! I did think that they ending was a little predictable, at least to me, but it still was enjoyable nonetheless.
And let me tell you, I love Jane and Lexi! They were awesome characters and I love seeing a pair of besties who are THIS close. They had a really awesome bond and I have to say that I loved that a romance didn’t get inserted as the main plot in this book. I don’t want to give anything away regarding the plot but I’ll say there is somebody Jane has her eye on but it’s not a driving force of this novel!
This was a perfect addition to my Halloween reading! It was a quick and creepy read that gave me something more unusual to read about! I mean, your own shadow tries to kill you on multiple occasions? I loved the path to figuring out the how’s and why’s of Jane’s shadow and was thoroughly engaged the whole time. If you are looking for a quick ghost-y/paranormal book for Fall that’s creepy, but not scary, and is NOT a series, I’d say pick this one up! Also, if you are wanting a break from a romance or a love triangle plot, this might be your thang.
For Fans Of: YA Horror, ghost stories, paranormal type stories without the romance focus (there IS a love interest but it’s not the focus), love triangles or sequels
Let’s Talky Talk: Have you read this one? Heard of it? What did you think if you have read it? What other good, truly creepy reads have you encountered? The bigger the creep factor the better!
Nikki @ Foil the Plot says
Oooooh, me likey! I can definitely see how this would make an awesome movie concept—it’s original, that’s for sure. And I totally know what you mean about love triangles and series. I feel like that’s all there is anymore so it’s nice to see someone stepping totally outside the box and doing their own thing. Props for that!
Jen says
what. the. WHAT. this one sounds awesome and, like you said, creepy. i love a good scary read, as long as i can put it in the freezer. i always have to make sure the freezer is cleared out 😛
Asheley (@BookwormAsheley) says
“…this might be your thang.” –> Sounds like you’re from around here, m’dear. Makes me chuckle.
I have NOT heard of this one but it does indeed sounds creepy as heck. To be perfectly honest with you, I’ve never really tried reading too many creepy books. I’m not really sure why. I’m not opposed to them, but I’ve just never made a conscious decision to do Halloween reading. This does sound perfect for it though!
Andrea says
I love the idea of taking something so normal and making it evil. I mean seriously… your own shadow trying to kill you, that definitely is creepy! I know what you mean by it being nice to read a standalone story with all these series coming out around us. Can’t wait to check this one out now, sounds like it was such a fun Halloween read
Alexa @ Alexa Loves Books says
If my shadow was trying to kill me, I think I would be the most nervous/paranoid/scared person alive. That thing is practically ATTACHED to me, and just contemplating the idea of it taking control of my body… Yeesh. Way to freak a girl out!
This does sound like a really cool read though, despite the creepy factor.
Johannah says
I love creepy reads! I will have to check this out!