Changes

Against this background, the narrative is driven forward by a very Gothic tale of the unexpected surrounding Emily and her missing mother. I saw the twist before it came, but not that far before. The writing is relaxed, but smart and sassy and the character interaction is good. Emily, Jay, Hashim, Kelly and Bethany represent the usual classroom stereotypes, but Hastings has rounded them into fully three dimensional people, who are interesting. It's an easy read, but a genuinely creepy one and I think it will find a strong place in this very popular genre.

If they like the look of ''Nearly Departed'', [[Ghost Chamber by Celia Rees]] will also appeal. Those who prefer their horror of a more classical bent would love [[My Swordhand Is Singing]] by Marcus Sedgwick.