A Fine and Private Place by Peter S. Beagle is the kind of book that feels like wandering through an overgrown cemetery at twilight—strange, quiet, melancholic, but unexpectedly full of life. It’s more than a ghost story; it’s a slow, philosophical meditation on love, regret, and what it really means to live.

Jonathan Rebeck is a fascinating character—a man who’s spent nearly two decades hiding from the world, living among the dead with only a wisecracking raven for company. And yes, the raven talks. (Beagle was way ahead of his time on quirky animal sidekicks.) Rebeck doesn’t just survive in his hidden graveyard world—he belongs there in a way that feels equal parts tragic and comforting. He offers solace to spirits who aren’t quite ready to move on, acting as a kind of spectral therapist while stubbornly refusing to rejoin the living himself.

The core of the story is the romance between two ghosts, Michael and Laura, who manage to find love despite the fact that, well, they’re dead. Their love story is tender and beautifully bittersweet, and while it’s not the most action-packed narrative, it makes you reflect on how much we take for granted when we’re alive. The contrast between their hopeful romance and Rebeck’s self-imposed exile from life creates a quiet but poignant tension.

But Beagle isn’t just waxing poetic about the afterlife—he also brings in a subtle but sharp wit. The raven (who insists that he’s “not sentimental, just practical”) steals nearly every scene he’s in. There’s also an oddball security guard whose role becomes more significant as the story unfolds, adding a touch of mystery to the cast of characters.

That said, this is not a book for those who want plot twists and page-turning suspense. It meanders. It pauses for long, introspective musings about existence and mortality. And while Beagle’s prose is lovely, sometimes it feels like the narrative is stuck in place, much like its characters. There were moments I found myself wanting the story to do something rather than reflect on things yet again. The pacing can feel almost meditative—calming if you’re in the right mood, frustrating if you’re not.

Ultimately, A Fine and Private Place is one of those reads where the mood and atmosphere do most of the heavy lifting. It’s not about grand resolutions but quiet revelations. At its heart, it’s a story about choosing life, even if it’s scary, messy, and full of grief.

3.5 stars. I admired it more than I loved it, but Beagle’s ability to blend whimsy and melancholy is undeniable. It’s a beautifully strange story that lingers, like an echo of a conversation with someone who’s long gone but still remembered fondly.

Note: I received a free unpublished proof of this book, for a limited time, in exchange for an honest review. All opinions here are my own.

I knew that the author of The Last Unicorn had written other books, but was not prepared to see one offered for review in 2024! The book was technically published in 1960, so this is a reprint, but I am glad that it is being reprinted because I think that modern readers will still enjoy it in 2025.

A Fine and Private Place has 320 pages, so it’s not a “short” book exactly, but it gets a lot of mileage out of a relatively simple concept, so I am not going to go into detail on every element of the book. It is not “busy”; there are not a lot of characters to remember, complex magic systems, or extensive worldbuilding. None of these are marks against it, in fact—as much as I like rich, atmospheric, and detailed books, it is kind of nice to read a story that manages to get 320 pages out of “there’s a guy living in a graveyard with some ghosts.”

The overall tone of this book is relatively solemn, melancholy, and philosophical. It’s a relatively low-energy story but by no means low-stakes, and it manages to strike a balance between being a Comforting Fantasy Book with Familiar Elements and a Literary Book about Important Things. Beagle was only 19 when he wrote this, which is impressive as it’s quite a philosophical book, but in a way I am not particularly surprised given that life, death, mortality, and morality are the sorts of things that one writes about when they are 19.

I think this book will appeal to readers who appreciate thoughtful, character-driven stories that raise thought-provoking questions while also being comforting, heartwarming, and humorous. Some elements of the story might feel a bit dated, but most of the book feels very modern for something written in 1960.

The introduction to this edition of the book was written by Neil Gaiman, which I did not particularly like given the recent allegations towards Gaiman, the details of which I will not go into here because other people have written about them very well online and I do not wish to miscommunicate anything. Suffice to say that I have reason to believe that he has done some massively concerning things.

That said, I didn’t know that when I requested this book, and I genuinely don’t know if Gaiman was chosen as the introduction writer before or after that information came to light, so I can not make much of a value judgment on that. I also don’t know if he is getting any money from sales of this version of the book. That said, if you do not wish to support Gaiman, there are almost certainly older versions of the book out there somewhere.

Also, since you may have thought of this already—yes, this book is similar to, and even inspired, Gaiman’s The Graveyard Book. Having read both, I think that Beagle’s take on the themes is superior, and not just because of anything that Gaiman may have done outside of his writing. I think that Beagle addresses the topics with some depth that Gaiman’s only begins to touch. (If you’re wondering, I read The Graveyard Book back in 2023, before any of this information about Gaiman came out.)

Overall, I enjoyed and recommend the original book that Peter S. Beagle has written, and encourage readers to seek out a copy of the original text.

A Fine and Private Place (Paperback)
by Peter S. Beagle
the audible was introduced by Neil Gaiman. His comprehensive introduction shows the wonderful nature of this story. You see the influence of the characters on Gaiman's crow Matthew, and other characters. It is a charming look at the ideology of death, mankind, and love. The book shows the nature of life as fleeting and momentary.
The reader seems to be the same as whom recorded other Gaiman editions of audible books. I love his voice and expression.

The time between death and being mentioned for the last time in the living world is one that depends on the person. This book discusses that and the deeper meaning of what life means once we are gone.

A Fine and Private Place, written when Peter Beagle was just 19, is a masterpiece. I have long loved this book and its places and people, every one of them, and have entire scenes memorized. This new edition is unfortunately marred by the foreword by Neil Gaiman, who has creditable been accused of multiple assaults on many women. His words have no place here with Beagle's, much less prefacing a novel about love and desire. If Saga Press does not remove the foreword, I urge readers very strongly to buy a copy from a different source--A Fine and Private Place has been published by various presses over the years, as well as in a collection called The Fantasy Worlds of Peter S. Beagle. The novel is a joy and a wonder, and should not be even remotely attached to Gaiman.

More what we've come to expect from Beagle, more great prose and story that reads like poetry. If you've liked Beagle in the past, you'll love this.

*The Winter Goddess* by Megan Barnard is a captivating fantasy novel that blends mythology with rich storytelling. The book follows a powerful protagonist who must navigate her identity as the Winter Goddess while facing complex challenges and threats. Barnard’s writing is lush and immersive, bringing the mystical world and its characters to life with vivid detail. Themes of power, responsibility, and self-discovery are explored with depth, and the pacing keeps the reader hooked throughout. With its strong character development and enchanting world-building, *The Winter Goddess* is a must-read for fans of fantasy, magic, and epic journeys.

I hadn’t ever heard of Beagle until his latest novel, “I’m Afraid You’ve Got Dragons” came out. I really loved it and I’m so glad Saga is reprinting his earlier works. If I didn’t know going in that Beagle was only 19 when he wrote this, I couldn’t have guessed it at all. While it has similar fantasy elements to his other works, this one is a lot more grounded in reality and a lot more openly ponderous and philosophical. Despite being written in 1958, this one is definitely a timeless story and I really appreciated it.

Peter S. Beagle's A Fine and Private Place is a beautifully crafted, poignant exploration of love, loss, and the meaning of life. Set in a quiet cemetery, the novel follows the enigmatic Mr. Rebeck, who lives among the dead and serves as a bridge between the living and the spirits lingering in the afterlife. Beagle's lyrical prose and gentle humor breathe life into a cast of unforgettable characters, both living and deceased, creating a tale that is as touching as it is thought-provoking.

The novel’s quiet pacing might not suit readers seeking action, but for those who enjoy introspective, character-driven stories, this book is a treasure. Beagle’s meditations on human connection and mortality are timeless, making the narrative resonate long after the final page.

With its whimsical charm and profound emotional depth, A Fine and Private Place earns a glowing 4.5 stars. It’s a hauntingly beautiful read that reminds us of the fragile yet enduring threads that connect us all.

We follow a lonely, homeless man who lives in a New York cemetery and feels like he doesn't fit in with the world. His friends are a talking raven, who also brings him food, and 2 ghosts who have just recently died. While the ghosts are reflecting on their deaths, Mr. Rebeck meets a widow, Mrs. Flapper and starts to learn about life and love. This is truly such a beautiful exploration into love, loss, and the search for the meaning of life. Forewarning for anyone who is a more plot driven reader, this is very character driven so definitely know that before going into it. Although, I think everyone can read this and find something to relate to and take from it!

🪦 A Fine and Private Place 🪦

My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Finished: 11/13/24


First, I would like to give a thank you to @sagapressbooks #sagasayscrew for the free book!

It seems like Saga Press is rereleasing some of Peter S. Beagle's books, and I'm so glad they are because I wouldn't have heard of this gem otherwise.

This book follows the lives of the living and the dead, as well as a talking raven. Jonathan Rebeck has been living in a cemetery for 19 years. Being delivered food by the mentioned talking raven and befriending the newly deceased residents of the Yorkchester Cemetery. But when the ghosts, Michael and Laura show up, Rebecks life is forever changed.

I loved reading about Rebeck, Michael, Laura, and Gertrude! This was a great ghost story in a classic setting but with an interesting twist. I was thoroughly invested in each of their stories and the choices they made that brought them to the present.

I particularly enjoyed reading about Mrs. Klapper and Mr. Rebeck's conversations and their relationship from stranger to companion. I found it very heartwarming but also quite funny with their stubbornness.

I just finished reading A Fine and Private Place by Peter S. Beagle. I received an eARC from NetGalley.

Jonathan Rebeck lives in a mausoleum. It hasn't always been that way, he used to live in the hustle and bustle of the "regular world", but an unfortunate turn of events has made him feel like a castaway. His friendly neighborhood raven brings his meals, the public toilets serve his needs, and he is quite content indeed in his small corner of the cemetery.

Michael Morgan wakes up in a coffin. He can hear the procession above his head, including his crying wife. When he gets out, he meets a curious man-- Mr. Rebeck. Mr. Rebeck can see and talk to ghosts. When Michael finds out that he has died in the prime of his life, he refuses to capitulate to it. He hangs on with every shred of his being. Then he meets Laura, and the two of them hang on together.

This is a reprint of an old Peter S. Beagle novel, and clearly an inspiration for Neil Gaiman's The Graveyard Book (Gaiman even writes the introduction to this edition). At it's core, this book is about 4 lost souls finding each other, and their own meaning in life and death. It's a languid journey through the cemetery, stopping to look at all the old headstones along the way, as Beagle explores what it means to be alive, apart of something, and in love. It also unpacks a lot about societal expectations, and who gets to really "belong" somewhere. Overall it was a satisfying, if at times slow novel.

Loved this book! A great book for the beginning of autumn with philosophical musings on life, love, and death. Thoroughly enjoyed and would highly recommend! Thank you so much Net Galley!

Such a beautiful story about love and loss. Jonathan after a run of bad luck and is living in a cemetery with his only friends a raven that looks after him and the ghosts that haunt the place. As he goes through life he then meets and falls in love with a lonely widow who enjoys his company and peculiarity’s. Wonderfully written I loved every minute of this.

An excellent read perfect for the fall. A cozy paranormal fantasy filled with a strange sort of macabre whimsy. It was humorous, sweet, and unexpected. Gorgeous prose, well-developed characters, and themes worth pondering over.

What a spooky season treat! While not a *ton* happens in this story, it still has substance. My favorite was the raven and I wish I had a talking raven as a companion.

**Thank you to NetGalley and Publisher for the ARC, all opinions are my own.**

4⭐️

Peter S. Beagle has a very magical way with writing the mundane. I don't know how he does it. If I had read this book in high-school, it would've helped shaped my perspective on the world even more. This book will not be for everyone, and that's alright, but if you need something a little quirky, a little morbid, a little questioning, then I beg you to give this a go.

If you like:
☆ existentialism
☆ love stories
☆ found family & happiness
Then this is the book for you!

The writing in this is superb. I like the author's style and prose. I felt his words and thoroughly enjoyed the book.

The story is interesting and compelling. This is a perfect read for spooky season, while also being humorous. It sheds light on many complex human emotions while also having strong and clear characters. Every character I can picture in my head and each one I can connect to.

I do think at times the story is a tad slow but I think it really makes it with emotional attachment of the reader and the messaging of the story.

Really impressed by the writing!

Thank you to Saga Press and NetGalley for the eARC!

Thank you to Saga Press and NetGalley for sending me an ARC of A Fine and Private Place in exchange for review.

3 stars

You can never go wrong with anything written by Peter S Beagle. A wonderful storyteller with fun and interesting characters. A special shoutout is deserved to Mrs Klapper and her absolute sass.

This was a quick easy and short read about love, life, and death and acceptance, but with a spooky twist. It felt like the perfect cozy fall read so I’m grateful October is when I’ve read it.

While not a lot of events happen since this story takes place in a cemetery, it still had enough substance to keep me interested. It makes me wish that I had a raven that would steal food for me, especially a talking one.

Thank you so much for sending this to me!

A Fine and Private Place is about a man named Jonathan, who has lived in a cemetery for the last 19 years and how he was changed by two ghosts and a widower. Jonathan is a man who has forgotten how to live after being alone for so long and never leaving the cemetery. His only companionship is the ghosts of the people buried there and also a sarcastic talking raven. I loved this raven so much. He had many great lines throughout.

Jonathan’s lonely life changes after a university professor, Michael Morgan, gets buried there. They become friends, spend many days discussing life, death, and relationships, and also play games of chess. As time moves on, a woman named Laura is buried there too. She builds a friendship and later, a relationship with Michael. I loved how they all learned from each other.

Jonathan tries to avoid anyone else alive who comes to the cemetery. One day when he is walking with Michael, he cannot avoid a woman named Gertrude Klapper. She is a widower who comes to visit the grave of her deceased husband. They build a friendship, which helps Jonathan get over his issues with human interaction and also gives Gertrude the companionship she has been lacking since her husband passed away.

This book was funny, sad, and quite insightful. It is a story about learning how to live even with many of the characters being deceased. I love philosophical books that get you thinking, and this one was a great example. It is not a heavy plot-driven book. Many scenes focus on discussions, but there is so much beauty in these conversations. The heart of the story is about the relationships you build in life and how important they are. It’s my favorite type of ghost story, and I could not get enough of Peter S. Beagle’s writing style. I cannot believe he wrote this book at 19.

I highly recommend this book.