Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

The Ghost Ring is a fictional work combining paranormal adventure, action, and mystery. The book is intended for young adults and contains some mild death-centric themes as the ghosts take center stage in the story. Penned by Tom Hoffman, this highly engaging drama introduces us to our teenage protagonist, Simon Moody, just as he is swept away from all he knows in Brooklyn. The death of a relative brings Simon to the Victorian mansion of Wilder House and a little village with some really big secrets. Inheriting his Great-Uncle Edmund’s mysterious ring is only the beginning of Simon’s supernatural journey.

Tom Hoffman knows how to pitch a powerful mystical tale to his YA audience, and he keeps them on the edge of their seats from cover to cover as the various ghostly mysteries and hidden secrets of Wilder House unfold throughout this well-written and atmospheric novel. One of the things I especially enjoyed about the story was how introspective it is in revealing Simon’s character to us and crafting a poignant story arc of a displaced young man discovering who he is and the kind of adult he’ll grow into based on the challenges he faces. Simon’s central relationship with his new friend Clara is rich in realistic teen dialogue, amusing asides, and deeper emotional moments that keep you just as invested in their journey together as in the overall mystery plot. I would not hesitate to recommend The Ghost Ring for fans of intricately penned paranormal adventures, heartfelt YA characters, and plenty of Victorian atmosphere.