Maddie's Ghost

Semifinalist, 2024 Society of Midland Authors Award

“An irresistible narrative, rich with exciting clues... This tantalizing tale will engage readers from the first page to the last.” —Publishers Weekly Booklife (Editor’s Pick)

"A fine mystery with winsome characters and a complicated old house." —Kirkus Reviews

“An exciting exploration of history, justice, and the long-lasting impact of the past.” —Readers’ Favorite (5 stars)

“A great read with a touch of paranormal for the designated age group and beyond.” —Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers

"Intricate plotting and convincing characterization. I quickly warmed to the Uncs and Grampa Jack. Lainie's elderly trio hits just the right balance: supportive but not intrusive. Lainie herself comes to life on the pages, a strong, flawed, believable girl." —Paula Morrow, children's book editor and librarian

"I would have loved this as a kid. Mystery, ghosts, crushes, secret staircases, believable friendships, and librarians. A page-turner." — Louise Brueggemann, librarian

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NetGalley Member Reviews 2023

*****  Susan M, Reviewer. The author has written an account that has clues throughout the story. The mystery has chills in it. It is a suspenseful mystery as the historical information is discovered and the family drama occurs. While this story has been written for middle grade children but I think any age can enjoy this thrilling mystery.

***** Kathryn M, Reviewer. This had everything that I was hoping for in a young adult psychological suspense, it had everything that I wanted from this type of book. The characters were what I expected and enjoyed how good the mystery was. Carol Fisher Saller has a great writing style and can't wait to read more.

**** Liliyana S, Reviewer. Lainie is a great MC, and I loved her friends. She had a unique start to life, and getting to know her, her friends, and her family, was a lot of fun. I especially liked her grandpa and great-uncles. I liked that we get to switch between modern day and the past, getting some insight into what happened so long ago, just little pieces at a time. Just enough to keep you interested, but not so much that you get the whole story all at once. A great read for middle schoolers!

***** Crysta A, Educator. First of all, this cover is really cool. But so is the book itself! The writing was good and the story was really interesting. I found myself really caring about the characters and itching to see where the story was going. This book is a bit above my current student's reading level, but if I ever move up in the grades, this story will for sure be in my back pocket.

***** Heather H, Reviewer. This was the first book I have read of Carol Fisher Saller. I know this is for middle school readers but I really enjoyed it. I really enjoyed the spooky vibes and I loved the unique cover!! I loved the mystery behind Maddie's great-grandmother. I fill like this is an Indie author to follow. I would definitely recommend this book.

**** Holly S, Librarian. Maddie's Ghost is about a girl named Lanie who is about to be interviewed by a TV station for a segment on people born on the first day of the new millennium. But her family fears it will stir up speculation about her great-grandmother, who was executed for murder. Lanie begins to follow clues in an effort to prove her grandmother's innocence. Lanie is a likable main character and I can see kids really enjoying the clue hunting parts.

***** Reviewer 1084098. I would have loved to read this book when I was in middle school (I still loved reading it as a 37 year old woman). Loved the protagonist and the story.

*** Educator 364311. "Maddie's Ghost" is an edge-of-your-seat mystery and ghost story with strong female characters. Lainie's Uncs and Grandpa Jack add to the warmth and charm of the story which helps to balance some of its darkness. Recommended. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.