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Ghosted #1

Ghosted

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Jillian Nejat is the only dating and relationship expert on the planet who is incapable of speaking to men. If they’re living, if they’re breathing, it’s game over. With her bank account at zero, her career a dumpster fire, and her dating life in a ten-year slump, she moves into a tiny, dirt-cheap NYC apartment. Unfortunately, the apartment is already occupied. Daniel (no-last-name) is a sexy, shirtless, six-pack wielding heartthrob who is also…dead. He isn’t living. He isn’t breathing. He’s a ghost. He’s also the only man on the planet who Jillian can talk to. Soon, Daniel’s convinced that it’s his afterlife mission to resurrect Jillian’s love life. He knows, if he helps her fall in love then he can move on. Jillian agrees. The last thing she needs is a Lothario ghost haunting her living room. But then, one practice date leads to another, one confession leads to more, and suddenly Jillian fears she’s falling for the one man she can never have.

457 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 21, 2023

About the author

Sarah Ready

20 books1,110 followers

Author Sarah Ready writes contemporary romance and romantic comedy.


Her books have been described as “euphoric”, “heartwarming” and “laugh out loud”. Her debut novel The Fall in Love Checklist was hailed as “the unicorn read of 2020”. She loves to write fast-paced, emotionally compelling romances about quirky, smart women and the men who love them.


Her works include Josh and Gemma Make a Baby, Josh and Gemma the Second Time Around, French Holiday and romcoms in the Soul Mates in Romeo series. Her debut novel The Fall in Love Checklist was hailed as “the unicorn read of 2020”. She lives in the Caribbean with her family and water-loving pup.



Find more books and interesting tidbits at www.sarahready.com.


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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,019 reviews
Profile Image for Lilyya ♡.
415 reviews2,466 followers
September 15, 2023
4.5 stars

❛❛ “If I could live,” he says, “I’d live for you.”❜❜


the book's writing captivated me from the opening line. I adored how it blended immaculately crafted scenes, nuanced thoughts, and agonizing quotes. the author's fast-pass plume and audacious storyline made it a rhythmic and engaging story.

"Because when you’re in love with a man who is already dead, there’s no way to make a life together. There’s no life at all."


the book was divided into two distinct parts. the first one was dedicated to Jillian's struggles to comprehend the constant presence of a ghost in her quotidian, while juggling between her chaotic dating and professional life. it also explored the relationship she built with Daniel-the ghost- and their beautifully elegiac friendship wish evolved into a love story. in these chapters, their chemistry was undeniable. their spark and connection were without contest alive and palpable, even though they couldn't even touch each other. i surprisingly loved how the 'insta love' arc was drawn.

“It’s only ever been you,” I tell him. “Even if you never remembered, if you never wanted me, it’s only ever been you.”


the second portion of the storyline focused on how she tried to figure out her life without Daniel's constant presence and involvement in every infime aspect of her life. it was also the most heartbreaking part of the book.

“If I could give you anything,” Daniel says, “I’d give you heaven.”


i enjoyed how the plot was well constructed and orchestrated. the storytelling was brillant in distilling the truth and epiphany surrounding Daniel, with fragmented answers scattered throughout.
•who’s Denial?
•how did he die?
•why is he half naked ?
•why did he die half naked?

but i found the big question mark that was pending on "how come she can seen and hear him when no one seems capable of it?" cleverly answered it also involved a -somehow-rational and scientific explanation which made perfect sens.

“If I could dream,” he says, “I’d only dream about you.”


I don't want to go deeper into the details because I may spoil and ruin something unintentionally. plus, it’s preferable to read only knowing that it’s a beautiful and atypical love story featuring a ghost.

p.s. : i honestly excepted the book to be the 'Ghost' movie’s retelling but, what was my surprise when i ended up noticing more similarities with 'Just Like Heaven'. i think this romcom is such an underrated movie. so, if you haven’t watched yet, what are you waiting for ? and mark your calendar for 26th september when this heartbreaking masterpiece comes out!

many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an arc in exchange of an honest review.

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5am and swollen eyes.. rtc until i figure out how to write a spoiler-free one💀
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kinda scared of this one 😭
Profile Image for ♥︎ Heather ⚔ .
655 reviews1,303 followers
July 17, 2024
This was actually pretty cute, I even got a little choked up a time or two. But other parts are really cringe. The making love scene was giving major second hand embarrassment- and the obsessive stalking was a little...

-ˋˏ✄┈┈┈┈
Last min decision to start this next. It's giving me The Dead Romantics/The Seven Year Slip combined type vibes? Idk- guess I'm about to find out... 😍
Profile Image for Kay.
2,179 reviews1,104 followers
September 26, 2023
“Love sometimes expresses itself in sacrifice.”
- Captain James T. Kirk

Wow, you guys!! Not often does a romance novel keep me guessing to the very end like Ghosted did!! 😯💗

Jillian Nejat is down on love, money, and her journalism career is in shambles. She rents a cheap studio in NYC. The place comes with mirrors everywhere, rumor to be a former sex den, and with it, a very hot shirtless ghost!

But maybe that's not so bad because Jillian is struggling with writing a relationship advice column when she doesn't talk to men or date. Daniel, the ghost who doesn't remember his past life can help her and perhaps he can then move on.

I love the main characters as well as the supporting ones. Especially Fran who never gives up and often sets Jillian up on blind dates. The chemistry and connection between the MCs are more than perfect!

On a deeper level Ghosted explores grief and forgiveness.

Ghosted is charming with endearing characters, and I love the Star Trek references throughout. 🖖🥰 Sarah Ready is extremely gifted and her writing keeps me glued the whole time through this (kinda) very long novel (457 pages on Kindle). Yes, you may need to recharge your earbuds for this audiobook. But I was in for the ride, how will this story have a happily ever after when one is already dead? I love the epilogues. Yes, there are TWO! 4.5⭐

The narrators Sarah Naughton and Rob Brinkman are excellent!

TW: Off-page bullying, suicide

Thank you W. W. Crown and Netgalley for an ALC.
Published Sep 26, 2023!
14 Hours and 3 Minutes
Profile Image for Debra.
2,767 reviews35.9k followers
January 14, 2024
I love Sarah Ready books. They are a must read for me. Seriously, if you have not read one of her books, you are missing out! Ghosted is an enticing paranormal romance that I found to be delightful and wonderfully narrated. As with her other books, I found this book to be gripping from the beginning and I was instantly transported into the world of Jillian and Daniel. Sarah Ready knows how to create characters that I care about. This book was not only thought provoking, but it was emotion evoking as well.

Jillian Negat writes articles about dating and relationships. Which is funny since she is socially awkward around men, barely able to speak in complete sentences around them. After she moves into a small apartment in NYC, she is soon met with a sexy shirtless man named Daniel, who just happens to be dead. Yep, her apartment is inhibited by a ghost. A ghost who initially isn't aware he is dead and has no idea how he got into her apartment or why he is there. He also is not able to recall what his former life was like.

After they get over their initial shock of seeing each other, they begin to have fun and interesting banter. As Jillian and Daniel begin to know each other, Jillian finds that there is one man with whom she can comfortably talk. Daniel goes on a mission to help Jillian improve her articles to increase her readership and to find love. Once he succeeds, he can move on. Can't he?

This was a delightful tale of paranormal love. I enjoyed how the characters interacted. Both were likeable and I enjoyed seeing Jillian become more self-confident and assertive. She also comes to terms with a painful part of her past and learns to forgive herself. This book does take a little leap of faith as one character is a ghost, but it is so worth it. This book had just the right amount of love, longing, humor, talk of Star Trek (Yes, Star Trek!). I enjoy how Sarah Ready works her characters likes/interests into her books with ease. Fans of Sarah Ready will enjoy this book.

I listened to the audiobook and loved the narrators. They did a fantastic job. I highly recommend listening to this book.

Well written, delightful, sweet, and hard to put down! I can't wait to read what Sarah Ready writes next.


Thank you to W. W. Crown, Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' Audiobooks and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.

Profile Image for Heather Adores Books.
1,214 reviews1,237 followers
June 26, 2024
3.5⭐
Genre ~ contemporary romance
Series ~ Ghosted #1
Setting ~ NYC
Publication date ~ September 26, 2023
Page Count ~ 457 (58 chapters + 2 epilogues)
Audio length ~ 14 hours 3 minutes
Narrators ~ Sarah Naughton, Rob Brinkmann
POV ~ all single 1st, except epilogue #2 is Daniel's POV
Featuring ~ 2 parts, paranormal, insta-love, references to suicide and bullying (not main characters), minimal steamage

Jillian & Daniel are an unlikely couple that you can't help but root for. I don't think I've ever read a similar plot before, so yay for uniqueness, but I'm not sure I fully believe it. Yes, I do believe in ghosts and do want to be one one day, but I don't know, I'm mixed about this right now.

What in the ever loving with their first se*ual encounter? A bit odd to me because it can't be real, well duh because he's a ghost, so it's not, but yet it kind of gave off a realistic vibe, as well.
I did admire Jillian's tenacity in the 2nd part, but in turn she was clingy and stalkerish and I can't say I was fully in love with her. I'd like to know how she got the gig of a relationship expert when she has trouble talking to men, she's never really been in a relationship and is a virgin? I liked Daniel, both ghost and real, but I feel the story would have benefited with his POV. Also, he's a shirtless ghost so why is he wearing a shirt on the cover?

Overall, it had cute, sad, fun, heartbreaking, and just a few eye rolling moments.

Narration notes:
It was pretty long, but I was able to listen at 3x perfectly fine, so it didn't take up too much time. Sarah did a lovely job. Rob only narrated one chapter, so I don't have any complaints.

Series notes:
Next up Serena's story ~ add to your TBR ➡ Switched

*Thanks to the author, W.W. Crown and NetGalley for the audio copy. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*

Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ Twitter
Profile Image for Coco (Semi-Hiatus).
952 reviews80 followers
October 12, 2023
3.75 Stars

Jillian is a columnist who specializes in dating and relationships. Despite her professional expertise, Jillian struggles with her own love life and finds it challenging to interact with men. After moving to a new apartment, Jillian discovers that she is not alone - a ghostly presence shares her new apartment. Surprisingly, Jillian can communicate with the male ghost (Daniel), and the two begin to form a relationship. Initially, Daniel assists Jillian with her dating difficulties, and over time, the relationship deepens until the two become romantically involved. However, they face a unique obstacle: how can they make this work? Jillian is alive, while Daniel is not.

I must admit that I wasn't entirely fond of the first quarter of the novel. It felt a bit too cheesy and corny. However, as the story progressed, it became more emotional and delved deeper into its themes.

Overall, a fun read with some twists! Would recommend it to fans of contemporary romances.

***Thank you to NetGalley, Sarah Ready, and W.W. Crown for graciously sending me the audiobook to review. As always, all thoughts are my own.***
Profile Image for Meags.
2,303 reviews584 followers
October 8, 2023
4.5 Stars

I read for pleasure, so I often find great joy in the stories I pick, more often than not. But this experience was like next-level joy for me. It was like getting mini endorphin hits every time I picked it up to read a little bit more. It was a fun, sweet, deeply romantic, and highly addictive read… and I’m crashing hard with a book hangover now it’s over.

Jillian and Daniel’s love story was a beautiful, heartfelt thing to witness. Starting with a bit of a Ghost vibe, but quickly evolving into more of a Just Like Heaven inspired tale, I immensely enjoyed the twists and turns this story took, making the reader open their mind and hearts to the potential of unexplainable phenomena relating to fate and universe.

As other readers have mentioned, this story felt like it was split into two distinct halves, but I enjoyed them both of equal measure.

The first part of the story follows shy, virginal relationship columnist, Jillian Nejat, as she finds herself “haunted” by a half-naked man when she moves into her new apartment in NYC. After determining she’s not going insane, Jillian and Daniel (the supposed ghost), hit it off and become quick friends, feeling a connection deeper than either has experienced with another human being before now.

Daniel, not knowing who he really is, beyond his name and an innate sense of small things remembered, takes it upon himself to try and help Jillian in her struggle to connect with men and in her need to be inspired for her writing. But along the way, over weeks of shared proximity, they fall in love, happily spending every minute of their days together forging what they acknowledge is an unconventional and potentially hopeless relationship.

Right up until Daniel disappears without a trace.

The second half kicks in with a new vibe and a new sense of purpose for Jillian, who is lovestruck and heartsick worrying she’ll never see Daniel again, but determined to open herself up to the life Daniel was sure she deserved.

Going into any further detail would ruin the wonder of the lovely and heart-warming story that unfolds in the second half, but romance readers rest assured that the tone of this story remains low on the angst and high on the romance and swoon-factor, with an ending well and truly worthy of the Happily Ever After stamp of approval.

I enjoyed this story a good deal, and I liked the characters and the originality of the story even more. Literally the only complaint I could come up with when trying to move from my happy-satisfied emotional response, to my critical-thinking side of my brain, is that perhaps the story was overlong, drawing out chapters and scenes that may not have been necessary to the story to have the exact same impact. But even then, that’s such a minor complaint of mine, it hardly bares mentioning.

In terms of a new-to-me-author experience, Ghosted was an absolute delight and pleasure to read. It honestly won’t take any convincing on my part to interest me in attack-reading sequels to this story, especially considering that next-up is Serena’s story (Jillian’s physicist bestie), who stole damn-near every scene she was in (even if it was just over the phone because she lives in Geneva). I’m open and eager to read what Ready does next!

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! <3

***A special thanks to the publishers (via Netgalley) for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Sheyla ✎.
1,913 reviews578 followers
March 25, 2024
Enjoyed this paranormal romance!

Jillian Negat is unable to speak to men which makes it really hard to date them. Her life in NYC is not easy. She loves her job but she might not be able to keep it for too long since her column is about dating and she has no clue how to do that. Yes, she has gone on hundreds of dates but without being able to articulate you can guess how things haven't worked for her.

Jillian believes in not changing and that people should love you the way you are and she will stick to this no matter what.

Due to her poor finances, she moves into a tiny apartment full of mirrors and a ghost. Daniel is the ghost. He is sexy, shirtless, six-pack-wielding man. Too bad he is not alive!

It takes little time for Daniel to guess that the reason Jillian can see him is that he needs to help her find a good relationship. Yet, the more time they spend together the harder is for Daniel to see her with other men and for Jillian not to compare every new man she meets to her ghost. They both understand the limitations of their relationship are obvious so how can it work?

Warm and sweet is the best way to describe this story.

I'm excited this is a series and I already know that I'll read the second book since I already like the protagonist.

Cliffhanger: No

4/5 Fangs


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Profile Image for Ines.
74 reviews26 followers
July 31, 2024
"If I could dream, I'd only dream about you."
"If I could live, I'd live for you."
*swoons*

As Jillian would say Oh my word! I really didn't expect to love this book as much as I do.

This book can be divided into two parts, the first and second half. And, at first, I thought the second half would be underwhelming, because by then they were already in love and a conflict cannot last for half of a book, right? But Sarah Ready created an insanely entertaining plot that had me on the edge of my seat. I found myself pausing my reading to absorb the amazingness of this story several times throughout the book.

When I started reading Ghosted I was fairly confident I knew what was going to happen; assuming it would be like every other "living human x ghost" romance story out there. Like, for example, The Dead Romantics or Et si c'était vrai.... But, my jaw? On. The. Floor. I won't spoil anything so I'll just say: when we find out how Daniel became a ghost and wether there's a possibility for a happy ending, it all made so much sense but was at the same time such a unique and original take on this trope (as far as I know).

I loved the characters. Daniel and Jillian were adorable together. And I loved Jillian's colleagues; they all had quirks which made me love them more, I was so invested in their stories too.

I also alternated between the audiobook and digital copy and both experiences were amazing. Sarah Naughton couldn't have done a better job, I hadn't loved an audiobook as much in a long time.

I definitely recommend this book. Sarah Ready has a very easy writing (which I love) and I 100% will be checking out her other novels!

Thank you NetGalley and IPBA for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 14, 2023
Thank you NetGalley and WW Crown for this copy in exchange for an honest review!

I liked the concept of this one, but it felt a little disjointed to me. Dead Romantics was very similar to this, but I think the execution was better. This was almost like reading two different stories, two different books. The characters both seemed so different in the first half vs the second half.

The FMC starts off having issues talking to men in general, obviously doesn't have that issue when it comes to Daniel's ghost, and then like a switch, she all of a sudden doesn't have that problem and can talk to anyone in the latter half of the book. Not to mention, all the scenes where she's trying to talk to someone else but using him to do it were all really awkward. Not to say there aren't people out there who have a problem just like this, and I don't want to undermine what I'm sure are some very valid feelings, but it was pretty uncomfortable to read and a little cringey.

And because Daniel was a ghost and didn't have his memories, he just wasn't the same character as he ended up being in the second half when he's alive, so there was a lot of awkward moments.

Plus, they're both fully in love before we even hit the halfway mark, which felt super rushed. So yeah, this one had some potential but didn't quite hit the mark.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Linda (Lily)  Raiti.
458 reviews69 followers
August 7, 2023
Look at me reading ghostly rom-com’s! Annnnd, I loved it! This was my first read by this author, and I’ll definitely be reading more. This little paranormal mystery, turn rom-com was full of heady emotion. Just the right type of book for in between some of my dark reads. Did I have to suspend belief? - Yes. Was the main MC a little needy and immature at times? - Yes. I easily forgave any niggles for what was overall a cute, fun, highly humorous and entertaining audiobook. 4 ⭐️

Many thanks to @netgalley #wwcrown for ALC 🙏
Profile Image for Noi.
392 reviews256 followers
June 11, 2024
This book had 3 stages, which felt like 3 different books - but I did not hate it!

The 1st part:
- Loved them getting to know each other
- That movie where the MMC gives dating advice to the FMC (The Ugly Truth)
- The smut was 0-to-100
- Hints of insta-love
- Love all the side characters

The 2nd part:
- Cringeeee
- That kiss was HOT
- Stalker galore

The 3rd part:
- Love all the side characters
- Where was the build-up? I WANT MORE
- The second point but also for the side characters!

& I did not guess the plot after all!
Profile Image for Jonann loves book talk❤♥️❤.
870 reviews164 followers
August 8, 2023
Ghosted
Book by Sarah Ready
Audiobook narrated by Sarah Naughton and Rob Brinkman
Pub Date 26 Sep 2023
W. W. Crown, Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' Audiobooks
New Adult | Romance | Women's Fiction
Spice: 🌶🌶
Rating: 4/5

Ghosted by Sarah Ready is a paranormal romance about Daniel, a ghost, and Jillian, the only person who can see him. As they journey through the realms between the living and the dead, they discover a world of untapped emotions. Watching them connect and offer comfort to one another filled my heart with warmth.

Jillian Negat feels awkward and has trouble talking to men until a shirtless ghost named Daniel shows up in her apartment. Daniel is also struggling as he cannot recall the circumstances of how he died or how he became a ghost. Through their dialogue, Daniel reveals he may be the key to unlocking secrets of Jillian's past, allowing her to uncover the truth and take control of her future. Jillian's communication skills are improved, but she also discovers her true passion and purpose thanks to Daniel's guidance. In the most unusual circumstances, this is a sweet story of friendship and love.

I listened to the audiobook as well as reading the book. Sarah Ready is one of my favorite authors, and I have read several of her books which are always delightful. Her stories are captivating and I often cannot put the book or audiobook down, wanting to find out what happens next. Sarah Naughton and Rob Brinkman deliver engaging and believable characters in their audiobooks. There is no doubt that both of them are excellent narrators. I recommend this book and audiobook to anyone who enjoys cozy paranormal romances. The characters are well-developed and the narration is superb. It was a pleasure to listen to the audiobook and read this book.

Thank you NetGalley and W.W. Crown for the opportunity to review Ghosted in the book and audiobook versions.

#Ghosted #SarahReady #NetGalleyreviews #Netgalleyreviewers #books #tbrpile #bookaddict #bookreviewer #bookishcommunity #bookstagramcommunity #readingcommunity #Books #bookfriends #booksbooksbooks #booksta #bookstagram #newtobookstagram #bookreview #bookreviews #instabookstagram #bookish #bookishielife #newtobookstagram #newtoinsta #newtoinstagra #audiobooks
Profile Image for Katie Beasley.
407 reviews34 followers
November 10, 2023
When I originally read the premise for this book I had no idea where this was going to go or how the author was going to be able to pull this off, and yet she did. I loved the quirkiness of our FMC (Jillian). I loved the ghost aspect and all the mystery around who Daniel really was and where he came from. I loved watching them develop together and see Jillian come out of her shell and be herself.

Meet Jillian. She is a star trek loving woman who has not been able to deal with the grief from a tragedy that happened earlier in her life. This makes it where she can't have a conversation with men that she is "dating." Despite that, she has let a family friend set her up for over 100 dates to find her Mr. Right. Which she somehow does meet in the form of a ghost in her new apartment that is literally covered in mirrors. Daniel shows up the first night she is there with no shirt on and displaying his fabulous body to her. At first of course she is completely freaked. Is she hallucinating? Can anyone else see the shirtless Adonis in her apartment? But what is really shocking is that she can actually talk to him, Like have a full on convo which is so freeing for her she doesn't know what to do with herself.

Daniel doesn't know anything about his past. He doesn't remember anything. He remembers being above a woman who he feels a connection with and then immense pain. He tries to stay with Jillian but sometimes gets pulled away. He realizes that he must be here in this time to help her get past this hump of men in general. So he decides to follow her on some dates to have the conversation with her so she can respond to her date, but he finds himself not liking the guys she is going out with. He finds himself having a lot of fun with her. Their relationship blossoms until they have spicy ghost scenes and then when Jillian wakes up after declarations of love- Daniel is nowhere to be found. Where did he go? How will Jillian find him? Has he passed on before she was ready? She finds out that and everything more when she runs into Daniel in the present, and in the flesh at the Met. But of course, he doesn't recognize her and so the rest of the story unfolds.

This is a book about how the right person at the right time can help you through things you maybe have never wanted to face. They make you want to be a better you. They make you feel comfortable and like you have known them for a long time. I liked how Jillian and Daniel reconnected on the other side and how she made him from a grump to the sunshine that she knew him as when he was her ghost. This was a very cute, easy read. I am excited about book 2 which involves Jillian's friend.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Profile Image for Inna.
1,585 reviews328 followers
July 18, 2024
4.5 stars.

So, I haven’t really been on goodreads for several months now - just taking a break from reviews. But I had to come back and write one for this book because I am shocked by how few of my Goodreads friends have read this!!

This book is about a woman who is so socially inept that she is unable to speak to men. (Side note: I think this is the part of the book that lost a half star for me - it was somehow more unbelievable than the ghost stuff! 😂) Still, she manages to live her life, although she’s struggling through each day. She moves into a new apartment, and in her apartment she finds a man… who happens to be a ghost. It turns out she can actually talk to him, since he’s dead and all. They soon theorize that for him to move on from his ghostly state, he needs to help her get her life back on track - both romantically and with her career.

There is so much more I could say about this book, but I really want to avoid spoiling anything. I think the mystery and how everything comes together is very well thought out. Even with the MC being a ghost, somehow the author almost managed to make me believe that everything is plausible scientifically!! 👻 I actually love that she tried to explain the woo woo elements in this book, and not just leave the story with an “it’s just magic” explanation.

Safety is really very good overall. There were times when the hero was made out to be a major manwhore, but let’s just say that things were not as they appeared. He definitely wasn’t a monk, but nothing as bad as initially assumed. Heroine was a virgin though… which I didn’t like, but I guess it makes sense given her inability to communicate with living men. Mild OM drama, no OW drama, no scenes with OM/OW, no cheating or others after meeting.
Profile Image for Shannon.
5,857 reviews330 followers
September 17, 2023
Sarah Ready sure knows how to rip your heart out with star crossed love stories and put it back together in the most satisfying ways!! I LOVED her last book, The Space between so, so much and was shocked to learn she had this one publishing so soon after that.

Highly recommended if you enjoyed Ashley Poston's The dead romantics or The seven year slip, this book is a unique mash up of both those, that sees, relationship advice columnist Jillian moving into a new apartment only to be confronted with Daniel, a shirtless ghost only she can see.

Daniel is sure helping Jillian is the key to him being able to move on. Unable to remember anything about his past Jillian helps Daniel learn who he was while he helps her with her job and dating woes as a nerdy Trekkie who has a hard time talking to men, making her a terrible dating expert.

Emotional and full of depth, this was great on audio and a terrific slow burn. If you like Nora Ephron movies and stories with a touch of magical realism, this is the perfect read for you. Many thanks to NetGalley and the author for early digital and audio copies in exchange for my honest review!
Profile Image for Dun's.
348 reviews20 followers
March 14, 2024
This sweet paranormal romance (didn't know it was an actual genre 😅) is not my usual cup of tea, and I enjoyed it regardless. The main characters and their chemistry made me think of the Last Christmas movie with Emilia Clarke and Henry Golding.

Sarah Ready's writing style is excellent. The Star Trek references made me smile. The plot line is interesting - just remember this is fiction and use your imagination.

Many thanks for the e-copy of the book I received in a Goodreads giveaway. Publication date: September 2023.
Profile Image for romancelibrary.
1,213 reviews566 followers
August 29, 2023
I received an ALC & ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Here's the thing about me: you say ghostly romance, and I am in—no questions asked. Jillian moves into a new apartment in New York, and sure, the décor makes it look like a porn set, but this is her own space, away from her parents. As soon as she moves in though, she realizes that the apartment is already occupied by a sexy ghost named Daniel.

I'll start with the positives. I've read a number of ghostly romances, but Sarah Ready's version is unique. I really like the way the author incorporated the ghostly trope. The first thing I usually wonder is how can a ghost and a human live HEA? Let's just say that I really like the author's version of that. I had never come across it before, but it worked especially well here. To be honest, I only kept reading this book because I wanted to know how Jillian and Daniel would live HEA. I'm glad I pushed through because I liked the resolution of the ghostly situation.

But I also have so many issues with this book and I don't even know where to start. Don't get me wrong, the prose is good, but the story is waaaayyyyyy too long. The first half of the story falls victim to long-winded play by play narration. There are so many lengthy descriptions of superfluous things, making the book longer than it should be. I also did not like the insta-love. I literally could not understand how Jillian and Daniel fell in love so quickly?? Not to mention that Jillian was super clingy with Daniel, even though she knew nothing about the man. Daniel was also immediately jealous of Jillian's dates, but I think his jealousy made a bit more sense after we find out the truth behind his ~ghostliness~ I think what bugged me the most is that Jillian and Daniel didn't even try to figure out why he was haunting her LOL. They just assumed he was here to help her with her love life and her advice column. But they didn't even try to figure out who he was, how he died, and why he's linked to her only. They were both so focused on him being here to help her, without ever questioning WHY. It was so annoying and frustrating.

I had such a hard time with Jillian omg. She was just so stupid. She wanted Daniel to stay with her even though he was dead LOL. Instead of wanting him to move on to "the light," she selfishly wanted him to haunt her for the rest of her life. She was so disgustingly needy. Also, the ghost sex scenes were WEIRD LOL. I'm sorry, she literally could not feel anything except for cold breezes. Please explain to me how she was able to find pleasure?? I'm so confused!!

As for the second half of the story, it was interesting enough, especially after finding out the truth behind Daniel's ghostliness. But I still found Jillian super irritating with the way she kept inserting herself into other people's lives. I just could not stand her. The climax was fine...but the conflict leading to the climax was stupidly executed.

Anyway...I kind of rambled. I really wish I loved this one. The concept is interesting. The prose is good. The execution and the characters are just not my cup of tea. I didn't buy into the romance at all. Honestly, it's not the worst book I've ever read, but I just did not like it overall.

P.S. Is Jillian Persian? Why is her white mom named Geeta? I'm so confused. I have questions about Jillian's background.

P.P.S. Not one, but two epilogues. This book is unnecessarily long. The second epilogue is told from Daniel's POV, but not even that made me happy. I just wanted the book to be over.
Profile Image for Jamie Morton.
64 reviews42 followers
August 10, 2023
DNF at 20%

I was really excited about the premise, but the insta-love, immediate jealousy, needy FMC, and forgettable side characters were too much for me to push through. The writing felt clunky, and while I always try to make it to at least 50% before I DNF a book, I found myself rolling my eyes and looking for an excuse to put the book down within the first 10%.

ARC provided by Netgalley
Profile Image for AvidReader.
1,302 reviews277 followers
September 27, 2023
Read this book RIGHT NOW!

Easily one of my favourite book this year. God, I haven’t had this much fun in so long. In fact I was in worst mood when I started but boom, I forgot everything and couldn’t put this book down.
God, I was laughing and snorting so hard from Page one. The banter, monologue and dialogue were fantastic. Each chapter was a delight to read.

Daniel and Jillian…..Where do I even start with them? My love for them is absolute!
Daniel was one se*y, smouldering ghost.
Their story took me through a roller coaster of emotions. First it deceptively made me fall in love then broke my heart, repaired and then broke again. I’m still hungover and I’ll never stop recommending this book.

The secondary characters were awesome. Like, they all were different and quirky but the way they stood and loved each other was… sigh!
Written so well with amazing plot, twists and turns it made me cry in two places when I was totally not expecting it. Like how the author scattered crumbs throughout the story and then later it all made sense.
Even at 70% I was thinking how freaking cute Daniel and Jillian was.

I have never read a book where New York is described this beautifully. Did I mention I loved the writing style?

Safe, TW (Michael broke my heart), and irrevocably recommended.

Those who love Star Trek, you Guys NEED to read this.

P.s Second epilogue? Yeah, i’m still not over it.
Profile Image for iris.
119 reviews
September 6, 2023
I received an advanced review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I do not even know where to start with this one. This was so good. I was hooked from the first chapter.

Daniel's character was utter perfection. As a ghost and as a human. Though I think he was my favourite as a ghost. He was cute, sexy and really funny. I was judging Jillian for falling in love with a ghost at first and then I fell in love with him too and now we're both romantic idiots.

The chemistry between Daniel and Jillian was so wonderfully presented. I actually cried when he didn't remember who she was. This book got me feeling raw emotions for people that don't even exist. Sure it happens with me a lot but this was just...wow.

Kudos to the author for that second epilogue. I didn't realize how much I needed that until I actually read it. I will most definitely be checking out Sarah's other books and will be keeping an eye out for any future projects.

To those reading this review, make sure you get this book when it comes out. You do not want to miss out on this.

Thank you to NetGalley and W. W. Crown for this arc.
Profile Image for Calista.
324 reviews45 followers
May 24, 2024
With a unique and interesting concept, Ghosted by Sarah Ready is about two people who first meet in the weirdest circumstances (where one of them is a ghost) and find each other again and again despite the odds.

Summary: Jillian Nejat moves into her new apartment and meets a handsome shirtless man… who is also dead. Though eager to get rid of him at first, the two soon become closer.

Tropes/Genres:
• strangers to friends to lovers
• paranormal (ghost)
• science fiction
• contemporary fiction

Review: I find the concept of this book very interesting. For starters, there’s a ghost! While I was reading, I made a theory for the two main characters (a human woman and a ghost man) to have a happy ending, but the story was way more complicated than that. It’s actually nice that what I got wasn’t what I’d expected. The best part is that it made sense!

The concept of always finding each other is just so nice. And I feel like the reactions of the characters just make sense. I also like how the author gave a scientific explanation (or hypothesis) regarding the existence of ghosts. And while Jillian and Daniel are cute, I also love Hayley and Bernardo. The people at The Daily Exposé are also so fun! I like how everything in the story ties together.

I recommend this book to readers who want to try a fast-paced romance that’s a bit different from others. I personally enjoyed this read, but some people may be weirded out by the concept, especially of getting turned on and making love through the mind even though it’s an actual thing. I feel the distraught of knowing one may have to part someday due to fundamental differences, which in this case is the fact that one of them is a ghost. It’s worth a read if you’re open to new things! I’m certainly open to rereading this book just to see if I’ve missed anything. There are also Star Trek references in this book since the main character is a trekker, as she calls herself, so if you love Star Trek, perhaps you can connect with Jillian!

Thank you, NetGalley, for the read!

Related Reviews:
Ghosted (Book 1)
Switched (Book 2)
Fated (Book 3)
Profile Image for Stephanie.
488 reviews57 followers
March 1, 2024
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.

I’m a little back up on my ARC list but trying to play catch up! I’m sad that I didn’t get to this one sooner! It was such a cute, endearing, magical romance story and I’ll be waiting patiently for the next book in the series. I really like the main characters meet cute and how there were magical elements and science fiction woven in! And if you’re a Trekkie, you need to read this book ASAP!
Profile Image for Ivonne G..
17 reviews2 followers
August 18, 2023
I did not expect to love this book as much as I did especially with all the Star Trek references as I’m not a “Trekkie”, but this gave me allllllll the feels and I ATE THIS UP. This is a paranormal rom-com that was heartwarming and with great character development.

Jillian is a “love expert” who gives dating advice through her ‘Just Julian’ column section of and online news site (The Daily Exposé). Ironically, she has 0 to none (successful) dating experience as she physically can not talk to men. She’s been on over 150 dates, but quite literally can’t engage in conversation. That is, until a handsome, shirtless spirit appears in her new apartment named Daniel.

Daniel is initially in denial that he is dead, but after getting confirmation from a psychic, he concludes that his unfinished business on Earth is to helping Jillian out with her dating life and career that seems to be going downhill.

This book reminded me a lot of the movie Just Like Heaven starring Reese Witherspoon and Mark Ruffalo, which could be why I also adored this book so much. However, there are still so many other subplots, elements, and twists that it’s still a completely different and unique storyline. And the bonus epilogue.. just, wow. 🥹🥹

I alternated between the ebook and audiobook and equally enjoyed both. Sarah Naughton did an AMAZING job at narrating and bringing each characters personalities to life. A million thanks to NetGalley and W. W. Crown for the opportunity to get to both read and listen to this phenomenal book. This was my first Sarah Ready book, but it definitely won’t be my last!
Profile Image for Dani.
1,465 reviews131 followers
August 8, 2023
I enjoyed this. It was an interesting spin on the "there's a hot ghost in my apartment" trope that I've seen a bit lately.

I thought Jillian was sweet. I didn't entirely understand her reasoning for why she quit talking to men entirely but it falls under the grief umbrella. The idea of a silent woman who only interacts in awkward chuckles and shrugs sounds like an awful dating partner and I cringed hard at the idea that she was set up on 150 dates. I loved that she didn't have any issues opening up to Daniel when she finds him in her apartment.

Daniel remembers nothing from what he assumes is an accident except that he feels safe and calm next to Jillian. He accompanies her on her horrible dates and helps to coach her through awkward situations. They end up becoming extremely close and the plot diverges here from where I thought it would.

I thought this was such an interesting take because I expected him to be in a coma or something and he absolutely was not. I actually "oooh-ed" when everything came out the way it did. It took me DAYS to finish the book because I knew the blow up was going to be absolutely brutal and it was.

Thank you to Netgalley for a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Sonja Charters.
1,492 reviews88 followers
August 24, 2023
Wow! What a rollercoaster of emotions!

As soon as this started, I knew that I was going to love this book!
I'm not sure whether it was the characters, the storyline, the humour or those pesky nostalgic feelings I got every time there was a Star Trek reference! But this book had everything!

As the title suggests, when we meet Gillian, she's just moved into a new (strange) apartment in New York and discovers that it's haunted by a ghost.
As she comes to terms with this and they get talking, they realise that they're there to help each other and their friendship starts to develop.

I loved that Gillian was different. Not your confident, sassy leading female character, but a little quirky, geeky and shy - so shy in fact that she can't even talk to men.
When this storyline develops and we discover why, I felt so sorry for her.
I equally loved all the side characters - all of Gillian's work colleagues - what an odd bunch - but they all played their parts perfectly and helped the different storylines flow together.
Daniel was such a great character to explore too. I can't even really say much about him as I'm definitely not giving any spoilers away!!

This also applies to the storyline - I can't really say any more than I have done - but I assure you that it's amazing! There are twists all the way through, even to the last chapter and they're literally genius! I was totally not expecting anything that was happening! Just brilliant!

The writing style was really easy to read and written from Gillian's pov throughout, we really got to connect with her. It was like having a conversation with a friend - which also meant that you felt every emotion along with her.
The descriptive writing was amazing, not only were you transported to their world, you got to experience the sights, sounds, smells and tastes along with them too!

I have to mention the Star Trek references! When we were younger, it was mine and my husband's thing, to get a takeaway on a Sunday evening and enjoy it in front of the TV watching Star Trek. We'd seen them all!
Nowadays, I totally deny it and roll my eyes when my boys want to watch the new episodes!
When I got to the first reference in this book, I rolled my eyes - but by the end, every single reference made me smile a little and remember those happy times 😁 (🤫 don't tell my boys!)

A great read which I honestly couldn't put down - I read far too late into the night towards the end as I just had to know what was going to happen. A solutely loved this and will definitely be keen to read more by this author!



**I also listened to this as an audio book and think that the narrator was just perfect.

I really got the feeling that Gillian was there chatting away to me and they easily conveyed all the emotion and excitement of the storyline.

A real joy to listen along to**
Profile Image for Beyond the Pages with Eva K.
2,443 reviews147 followers
September 3, 2023
Quick Summary: A beautiful supernatural romance

My Review: Ghosted by Sarah Ready stole my heart. I absolutely loved it. It was so sweet and utterly unique. It reminded me of Ghost, The Lake House, Sliding Doors, Somewhere in Time, and Truly, Madly, Deeply all rolled up into one. It was tragic and heartwarming at the same time.

What I Liked: There were so many things to like about this story. The characters were peculiar and endearing. The leads were easy to relate to. They were somehow familiar. I really appreciated how both of the main characters fought to find their own version of happiness despite the hardships they faced. I also liked their meet cutes and the reunion scenes. They were priceless.

About the Characters: Everyone that was associated with this story played their role so well. I liked every character, from the grump to the style guru with the sports knowledge. Even Daniel's sister with her feisty ways and the neighbor mom with her matchmaking tendencies -- I understood them. I'll just say that there was a lot of love happening in this novel.

About the Ahas: Hidden nuggets were weaved into the storyline. Science, conspiracy theories, temporal twists, paranormal activity and more were mentioned. Those things kept the story engaging. It added just enough texture to make the story action entertaining.

About the Intimacy: Much has been said (by other readers) about the coupling that happened between Jillian and Daniel when he was in his ghost form. It is my hope that readers will begin to see that the emphasis should not be on the physical-supernatural act of Jillian and Daniel's togetherness, rather the focus should be on the intimacy that they shared. There was so much depth to what was really taking place in the noted scenes. It went deeper than the obvious. It unraveled both characters on an emotional level. I thought it was brilliantly done.

My Final Say: This "New Adult/Romance/Women's Fiction" book was outstanding, in my opinion. I believe readers who enjoy ghosty love stories and/or stories with the inevitability of finding a forever love will adore this novel. It defied logic in the very best way.

Rating: 5/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: A
Re-read: Yes
Keeper: Yes
Favorites Shelf: Yes
Audiobook: Yes
Status/Level: 💓🍨💞

Sincere appreciation is extended to the author, to the publisher (W.W. Crown, IBPA, Members' Audiobooks), and to NetGalley. Thank you for providing access to this title in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for ReadingWithMyCats Allie Cat meow.
192 reviews54 followers
August 9, 2023
Oh my! So many feels. What a beautiful experience.
Another top unexpected favorite!

Jillian , a writer for a relationship column is deeply deeply shy and awkward around men. This doesn't stop her from going on blind dates and writing about being authentic in life and love. The men she has been set up with are perfectly fine with doing all the talking , and Jillian sees the good in everyone, so she isn't bothered by this as long as she doesn't have to talk.
In her personal life with family and her bestie ( who is a badass physicist living in Geneva) she's a companionable charming type of awkward, a die hard Trekkie as well. Love her.

When Jillian moves into her new apartment , it's covered in mirrors ( seriously the ceilings as well ) and looks like the setting of a 1980's Porn shoot.. This doesn't seem to perturb her despite her parents comment about the creepy factor.

One day when working on an article she is talking aloud and someone answers her, a casual male voice. She doesn't really know what to think- an intruder ?

The rising action starts here and ohhh is it fun.

Daniel, the hunky hunk without a shirt is the first guy she vibes with, forms whole sentences with in years!

The love story begins, bittersweet, hopeful, confusing and full of lots of feel good and relatable moments
Oh what a delight it was to read this .

I tore through this late night into the morning and finished in another session..


You will laugh, possibly cry and for sure empathize with the characters in this amazing book.

I look forward to reading more by Sarah Ready

Thanks #netgalley
Profile Image for Mia Reads Romance.
434 reviews24 followers
September 8, 2023
Sarah Ready is once again the queen of romance books that are super emotional. This one didn't have me sobbing like The Space Between but it did have it's heart breaking moments. I'm always super interested in ghost romance books because I feel like they are hard to do. Usually, either you set them in a paranormal world where it's possible to bring people back from the dead or you know that the love interest is not actually dead they just think they are. This can make them a tad predictable. This book surprised me by coming up with a path I hadn't thought of and not being predictable in the least. I loved Daniel and Jillian's story, particularly how he taught her to stand up for herself. I also liked that they had a shared understanding of the trauma's they had experienced in the past. I definitely recommend this one! The perfect fall read or really any time of year!

I listened to the audiobook version of Ghosted and thought the narrators did a great job! This is a duel narrator audiobook for those who have a preference.

I was provided this audiobook free via netgalley in exchange for my honest review. Thanks to netgalley and WW. Crown publishers for the opportunity to read it early!
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