Book Review: The Dead and Buried by Kim Harrington

The Dead an Buried
Author: Kim Harrington
Reading Level: YA
Genre: Paranormal/Ghost/Thriller
Released: January 1st 2013
Review Source: Scholastic
Available: Amazon

Summary: (from goodreads) A haunted house, a buried mystery, and a very angry ghost make this one unforgettable thriller.

Jade loves the house she's just moved into with her family. She doesn't even mind being the new girl at the high school: It's a fresh start, and there's that one guy with the dreamy blue eyes. . . . But then things begin happening. Strange, otherworldly things. Jade's little brother claims to see a glimmering girl in his room. Jade's jewelry gets moved around, as if by an invisible hand. Kids at school whisper behind her back like they know something she doesn't.

Soon, Jade must face an impossible fact: that her perfect house is haunted. Haunted by a ghost who's seeking not just vengeance, but the truth. The ghost of a girl who ruled Jade's school — until her untimely death last year. It's up to Jade to put the pieces together before her own life is at stake. As Jade investigates the mystery, she discovers that her new friends in town have more than a few deep, dark secrets. But is one of them a murderer?

Horror, ghost stories, and mysteries aren't at the top of my favorite list of genres to read. So it is always my hope that when I do read a book of this genre that an author comes along and changes that for me. Unfortunately, this was not the one. The cover is simplistic and provides no anticipation of a great read ahead. However, I began this book with a very clear mind, hoping for the best. Wishing for something fresh that would keep me intrigued throughout. Jade is the main character of this mystery. She is quickly faced with the charge to figure out a murder. The only problem, the request has been given to her through a ghost, the murder victim. herself.

Jade and her family have moved to a new town, new home and new school. On her first day she is challenged with making new friends. Along the way she meets a cute boy that just so happens to be the former boyfriend of the murder victim. This portion of the storyline was very predictable for me. However, I won't spoil it for you "ghost story", "who did it" lovers out there. Kayla Sloan the murder victim, has written journal entries before her death, that has been sprinkled throughout the book, giving the reader little hints here and there. Allowing you to put the puzzle pieces together mentally. When the end comes, you have pretty much figured out who did it.

This was the first book that I have read by Kim Harrington. It was a very quick and easy read. It keeps a very steady pace. I feel however that it is truly missing development of characters, setting, and plot. When I read a book, I want to grab it, embrace it, visualize all I can in my mind when I read. I like to see the words come into action via a painting in my imagination. This did not happen. As always, I am just one voice among a sea of many! Check this one out for yourself and you be the judge.