2013*Signed 1st* Haunted - William Hussey(Oxford University Press)

Signed paperback quite rare in good clean condition. 

“Haunted” by William Hussey is a gripping YA horror novel that blends supernatural elements with themes of fear, identity, and acceptance. Here’s a quick rundown of what to expect:

Plot Summary

The story follows a teen named Elliott, who is dealing with the grief of losing his father. Elliott’s father was a ghost hunter with a popular YouTube channel, but he tragically died in mysterious circumstances. Elliott has been trying to distance himself from his father’s ghost-hunting legacy and the painful memories associated with it. However, he gets pulled back into the world of the supernatural when he starts receiving strange messages that seem to be coming from beyond the grave.

As Elliott investigates, he discovers a dark, eerie mystery connected to his small town. He teams up with his crush, Ophelia, and his ex-best friend, Rath, as they try to uncover the truth. What they find is a chilling tale of a haunted house, vengeful spirits, and secrets that stretch back generations.

Themes

• Grief and Loss: The novel explores the weight of grief and the journey of processing the loss of a loved one.

• Identity and Acceptance: Elliott’s struggle with his identity and the challenges of coming out as gay are central to his personal journey.

• Friendship and Love: The dynamics between Elliott, Ophelia, and Rath are filled with tension, nostalgia, and a desire to reconcile with the past.

• Fear and Courage: The supernatural elements serve as metaphors for facing one’s fears and the courage it takes to confront the unknown.

Writing Style

William Hussey is known for his ability to create an atmospheric and haunting mood. The prose is suspenseful, with vivid descriptions that bring the haunted settings to life. The narrative maintains a balance between spine-chilling moments and heartfelt, emotional scenes.

Reception

“Haunted” has been praised for its compelling characters and the way it handles important themes like coming out, grief, and forgiveness. Fans of the horror genre, particularly YA horror, have found it to be a well-paced, eerie, and engaging read.

If you enjoy stories that mix real-life struggles with supernatural scares, “Haunted” by William Hussey might be a perfect pick for you.