Riveting Indie YA: Leigh Howard and the Ghosts of Simmons-Pierce Manor by Shawn M. Warner

This indie Tiktok darling showed up as a video of a lonely author at a book signing. A video was made, books were bought, and the influencer changed the author’s life. I may have shed a few tears, but I didn’t run right out and buy the book. My TBR list is long, too long.

But then I found myself picking up the book one day while I was out and I started reading. I’ve read lots of YA books as a middle school librarian so I wasn’t sure if this one would live up to they hype. As soon as I started though, I was drawn in by the main character and I saw why the book became a hit.

Leigh Howard has lost both her parents in mysterious circumstances, circumstances the police are investigating however badly. She has found herself with long-lost relatives. A very wealthy family that she never knew existed at a very large manor house full of its own ghosts.

Leigh is the only one in the family who can see the ghosts that haunt the manor even though her cousin wishes she could as well. Will the ghosts help her find out who killed her parents or lead her into more trouble than she asked for?

Shawn Warner created a fantastic character in Leigh Howard. She is relatable and her friendship with her wealthy cousin, which most authors would cast as a mean girl but he makes her a true friend, is satisfying. It is nice to see girls who truly care about each other and want the best.

The ghosts and the mystery all were engaging and this is definitely a must-read if you like YA paranormal mystery. I can’t wait to read his next book and I’m so happy I gave this one a chance.

If you like YA mystery or fantasy you might like Mystery Royale or Hold Back the Tide.

Don’t miss our weekly reviews of new releases and our latest reads. If you have any questions or suggestions for future posts, contact us or leave a comment. We’d love to have you follow us on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube to see our latest reviews and reads!