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The Dusk Duo #1
The Ghostly Grammar Boy
For a dead guy with unfinished business, he was pretty cute.
Fiona is a completely ordinary fifteen-year-old from Canberra—at least that’s what she’d like you to think. She doesn’t want anyone to know her secret. She can see and touch ghosts and it’s all thanks to her pesky twin sister, Ella, who happens to be dead.
Following the mysterious death of a boy from the local grammar school, Fiona navigates the perilous high school social hierarchy to investigate. With the help of Ella, Fiona uncovers a dangerous web of family secrets and betrayal, and learns more about the perplexing world of ghosts and boys. High school is hard enough without having to sort out your dead sister’s love life as well…
Fiona is a completely ordinary fifteen-year-old from Canberra—at least that’s what she’d like you to think. She doesn’t want anyone to know her secret. She can see and touch ghosts and it’s all thanks to her pesky twin sister, Ella, who happens to be dead.
Following the mysterious death of a boy from the local grammar school, Fiona navigates the perilous high school social hierarchy to investigate. With the help of Ella, Fiona uncovers a dangerous web of family secrets and betrayal, and learns more about the perplexing world of ghosts and boys. High school is hard enough without having to sort out your dead sister’s love life as well…
217 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 15, 2013
427 people want to read
About the author
Sandra Thompson
703 books7 followersSandra grew up in Sydney, Australia as a black-haired girl with two blonde sisters. She was not adopted, despite what they told her. She first discovered her passion for writing in primary school when she was forced to write a short story for a school assignment. She was surprised to discover that she really enjoyed it and began to read and write avidly.
After graduating from university in Sydney, Sandra began working as a full-time statistician. Her days were filled with number crunching, whilst her evenings were filled with Fiona’s exciting supernatural adventures as she wrote the first book of the Dusk Duo series, The Ghostly Grammar Boy.
Sandra now lives in Tokyo, Japan where she is continuing to work as a daytime statistician and a nighttime author. She is currently working on book two of the Dusk Duo series, The Deadly School Camp.
‘Hai!’ Sandra also speaks some Japanese and is learning a lot about Japanese culture by making lots of mistakes. She writes about her experiences on her blog and is also working on a romantic suspense novel set in Tokyo called The Sakura Vacancy.
Sandra really appreciates the support of her readers. You can find her online at http://sandrathompsonauthor.blogspot.jp/
After graduating from university in Sydney, Sandra began working as a full-time statistician. Her days were filled with number crunching, whilst her evenings were filled with Fiona’s exciting supernatural adventures as she wrote the first book of the Dusk Duo series, The Ghostly Grammar Boy.
Sandra now lives in Tokyo, Japan where she is continuing to work as a daytime statistician and a nighttime author. She is currently working on book two of the Dusk Duo series, The Deadly School Camp.
‘Hai!’ Sandra also speaks some Japanese and is learning a lot about Japanese culture by making lots of mistakes. She writes about her experiences on her blog and is also working on a romantic suspense novel set in Tokyo called The Sakura Vacancy.
Sandra really appreciates the support of her readers. You can find her online at http://sandrathompsonauthor.blogspot.jp/
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
January 25, 2014
The Ghostly Grammar Boy takes us into the realm of the TV series Ghost Whisperer, and I think it’s fair to say that if you enjoyed the exploits of JLH, then you’ll love Ms Thompson’s heroine too.
The premise is that 16-year old Canberra High School girl Fiona can see and talk to ghosts. She is a twin, although her sister Ella died when they were age two. Ever since that moment, Fiona has been able to talk to her sister, have a relationship with her, and all the while see other ghosts too.
Ella kick-starts the plot when she asks Fiona to help her ghostly boyfriend - Chris (recently deceased). There is the suspicion that Chris’s stepmother (subcategory: wicked) might have had Chris killed and may also be planning a similar fate for younger brother Alan.
As soon as Fiona begins her investigation, so begins a number of interesting twists, turns, ups and downs, encompassing wicked stepmother Sharelle, the school stud Shane, mean girl Carly, and the band of Fiona’s (perhaps too numerous to keep tabs on) friends.
I think the biggest positive about the book is the main character herself. Fiona is likeable, realistic, and a good plucky heroine. Carly, meanwhile is a good nemesis (if perhaps falling into the category of genre trope), and Shane provides an element of sexual interest for Fiona (and also threat).
The only slight negative, and it is purely my opinion, is that the end felt a bit too overcooked. The denouement all happens in one room, and it encompasses about 15-20% of the book. Revelations are repeated, some of the characters stop sounding like normal teenagers and resort to mad-scientist style threats. I kept thinking the entire last quarter of the book needed a bit more of a polish to do justice to the set up.
It’s probably fair to say that I don’t fall into the target readership of The Ghostly Grammar Boy (and generally it’s not really the type of book I go for), but the fact that I enjoyed it means that it’s appeal goes beyond it’s intended teen audience.
Overall it is a fun book with an engaging central character, and plenty of breathing room to develop into an enjoyable series.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
The premise is that 16-year old Canberra High School girl Fiona can see and talk to ghosts. She is a twin, although her sister Ella died when they were age two. Ever since that moment, Fiona has been able to talk to her sister, have a relationship with her, and all the while see other ghosts too.
Ella kick-starts the plot when she asks Fiona to help her ghostly boyfriend - Chris (recently deceased). There is the suspicion that Chris’s stepmother (subcategory: wicked) might have had Chris killed and may also be planning a similar fate for younger brother Alan.
As soon as Fiona begins her investigation, so begins a number of interesting twists, turns, ups and downs, encompassing wicked stepmother Sharelle, the school stud Shane, mean girl Carly, and the band of Fiona’s (perhaps too numerous to keep tabs on) friends.
I think the biggest positive about the book is the main character herself. Fiona is likeable, realistic, and a good plucky heroine. Carly, meanwhile is a good nemesis (if perhaps falling into the category of genre trope), and Shane provides an element of sexual interest for Fiona (and also threat).
The only slight negative, and it is purely my opinion, is that the end felt a bit too overcooked. The denouement all happens in one room, and it encompasses about 15-20% of the book. Revelations are repeated, some of the characters stop sounding like normal teenagers and resort to mad-scientist style threats. I kept thinking the entire last quarter of the book needed a bit more of a polish to do justice to the set up.
It’s probably fair to say that I don’t fall into the target readership of The Ghostly Grammar Boy (and generally it’s not really the type of book I go for), but the fact that I enjoyed it means that it’s appeal goes beyond it’s intended teen audience.
Overall it is a fun book with an engaging central character, and plenty of breathing room to develop into an enjoyable series.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 29, 2016
In The Ghostly Grammar Boy by Sandra Thompson, Fiona has to deal with her sister and her sister’s new boyfriend’s problems. It’s a typical teenager’s life, except for the fact that her sister and her boyfriend are both dead. When Fiona’s twin sister, Ella, died when they were toddlers, Fiona gained the ability to not only see ghosts but also to communicate with and touch them. Now Ella wants Fiona to use her gift to help her new boyfriend solve the mystery of how he died. On top of all of her secret ghost issues, Fiona has other things to deal with too, including high school, work, friends, and boys. This is going to be one tough year.
There can only be one word to describe Sandra Thompson and The Ghostly Grammar Boy: AMAZING. Thompson’s first book in the Dusk Duo series was written incredibly well. The dialogue was realistic, the characters were completely believable, and the plot was entertaining yet surprisingly suspenseful. I literally could not put the book down. I stayed up for hours reading, determined to finish. And when I did, I was so frustrated that I would have to wait for the next book in the series. I rarely feel this way about a book, and since I am a huge bookworm, that says a lot.
This book has it all. There were times where I couldn’t help but laugh out loud, and then there were some touching moments that just made my heart flutter a little. Throughout the entire book, I was on the edge of my seat. It was so unpredictable with just the right amount of twists and unexpected turns. If you like suspense, mystery, humor, heart, a little bit of romance, and a character that will remind you of your high school self, then give this book a chance. You definitely won’t regret it; I sure don’t. I now have a favorite new author. I will be counting down the days until the next book in the series comes out.
Reviewed by ME for Readers' Favorite
There can only be one word to describe Sandra Thompson and The Ghostly Grammar Boy: AMAZING. Thompson’s first book in the Dusk Duo series was written incredibly well. The dialogue was realistic, the characters were completely believable, and the plot was entertaining yet surprisingly suspenseful. I literally could not put the book down. I stayed up for hours reading, determined to finish. And when I did, I was so frustrated that I would have to wait for the next book in the series. I rarely feel this way about a book, and since I am a huge bookworm, that says a lot.
This book has it all. There were times where I couldn’t help but laugh out loud, and then there were some touching moments that just made my heart flutter a little. Throughout the entire book, I was on the edge of my seat. It was so unpredictable with just the right amount of twists and unexpected turns. If you like suspense, mystery, humor, heart, a little bit of romance, and a character that will remind you of your high school self, then give this book a chance. You definitely won’t regret it; I sure don’t. I now have a favorite new author. I will be counting down the days until the next book in the series comes out.
Reviewed by ME for Readers' Favorite
March 2, 2014
This is a great story for high school students. It’s a short read that is great. It reminds me of the Ghost Whisper so if you like that show or ghosts in general this would be great.
I really enjoyed reading The Ghostly Grammar Boy. The twists, turns and plots are so complex yet simple. Fiona’s been able to see ghosts since her twin sister Ella dead when she was two. Ella, whose dead, seems to have better luck finding a boyfriend then Fiona. But Ella’s boyfriends are dead though, so they don’t seem to stick around a lot. And her newest boyfriend died in a car accident. But he doesn’t believe it was an accident. Now his little brother is also in danger. Fiona barely was able to save him from drowning. But his life is still being threatened. But who’s in on it?
Spoilers!!!!!!!!!!!
I really liked how the reader is lead to believe one thing, only for them to be completely wrong. It was a great surprise. The bad guy, Shane, is still an ass, but a good asshole. As much as I didn’t like him, I am glad he is kind of good. And the fact his reputation got completely ruined. Muhaha.
Sandra did such a great job also of mixing paranormal problems and normal high school problems as well. Sometimes I think Ella was a bit of an idiot for not coming to the conclusion that Shane and Chris were twins. But I understood her inability to realize Jason liked her with him hanging out with another girl. Which is ironic considering he was having her help him get Ella’s attention to date her. Ain’t life funny.
I really enjoyed this book and believe high school students could also enjoy this as well.
I really enjoyed reading The Ghostly Grammar Boy. The twists, turns and plots are so complex yet simple. Fiona’s been able to see ghosts since her twin sister Ella dead when she was two. Ella, whose dead, seems to have better luck finding a boyfriend then Fiona. But Ella’s boyfriends are dead though, so they don’t seem to stick around a lot. And her newest boyfriend died in a car accident. But he doesn’t believe it was an accident. Now his little brother is also in danger. Fiona barely was able to save him from drowning. But his life is still being threatened. But who’s in on it?
Spoilers!!!!!!!!!!!
I really liked how the reader is lead to believe one thing, only for them to be completely wrong. It was a great surprise. The bad guy, Shane, is still an ass, but a good asshole. As much as I didn’t like him, I am glad he is kind of good. And the fact his reputation got completely ruined. Muhaha.
Sandra did such a great job also of mixing paranormal problems and normal high school problems as well. Sometimes I think Ella was a bit of an idiot for not coming to the conclusion that Shane and Chris were twins. But I understood her inability to realize Jason liked her with him hanging out with another girl. Which is ironic considering he was having her help him get Ella’s attention to date her. Ain’t life funny.
I really enjoyed this book and believe high school students could also enjoy this as well.
February 7, 2014
What if your twin sister who died when she was two, is now a teen ghost and visits you often? What if she and her ghost boyfriend suspect his twelve-year-old brother is being drugged and they ask for your help? You’d offer whatever help you could, wouldn’t you?
Author Sandra Thompson’s novel THE GHOSTLY GRAMMAR BOY, a paranormal story for young adult readers, follows fifteen-year-old Fiona, who, unlike most people, can see and talk to ghosts, as she attempts to discover who wants to kill the ghost Chris’ brother, Alan. Enter Shane, a friend of Fiona’s brother, and also a hunk who suddenly takes an interest in Fiona. To her surprise, he also can see ghosts. Soon the mystery gets more complicated, and Fiona doesn’t know whom to trust. To keep from giving away the plot, I’ll just say that Fiona finds more trouble than she ever imagined.
The author adds twists and surprises to keep the reader guessing who and most of all why Alan’s life is in danger. I was beginning to suspect what was going on toward the end of the story, but Sandra Thompson kept the suspense and tension high so I wasn’t sure how the story would end. THE GHOSTLY GRAMMAR BOY is a fun read with good guys and bad guys, jealousy and friendship, along with danger and revenge. This is the first book in the Dusk Duo Series. I wonder what the ghosts will be up to next. This novel would make a nice addition to school libraries, perhaps to show how jealousy and revenge can drive a person to do the unthinkable.
The author provided me with a copy of this book for my honest review.
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Author Sandra Thompson’s novel THE GHOSTLY GRAMMAR BOY, a paranormal story for young adult readers, follows fifteen-year-old Fiona, who, unlike most people, can see and talk to ghosts, as she attempts to discover who wants to kill the ghost Chris’ brother, Alan. Enter Shane, a friend of Fiona’s brother, and also a hunk who suddenly takes an interest in Fiona. To her surprise, he also can see ghosts. Soon the mystery gets more complicated, and Fiona doesn’t know whom to trust. To keep from giving away the plot, I’ll just say that Fiona finds more trouble than she ever imagined.
The author adds twists and surprises to keep the reader guessing who and most of all why Alan’s life is in danger. I was beginning to suspect what was going on toward the end of the story, but Sandra Thompson kept the suspense and tension high so I wasn’t sure how the story would end. THE GHOSTLY GRAMMAR BOY is a fun read with good guys and bad guys, jealousy and friendship, along with danger and revenge. This is the first book in the Dusk Duo Series. I wonder what the ghosts will be up to next. This novel would make a nice addition to school libraries, perhaps to show how jealousy and revenge can drive a person to do the unthinkable.
The author provided me with a copy of this book for my honest review.
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June 9, 2016
A quick fun read!
I loved the setting and the characters. We really see the division in between the 'popular' group and the 'invisible' group.
Fiona is a nice heroine. She doesn't like the fact that she can see ghosts, and yet that is the only way that she communications with her dead sister.
An interesting take on ghosts and seeing ghosts. I enjoyed this story, although a lot of it was predictable. A light read with a little mystery!
I loved the setting and the characters. We really see the division in between the 'popular' group and the 'invisible' group.
Fiona is a nice heroine. She doesn't like the fact that she can see ghosts, and yet that is the only way that she communications with her dead sister.
An interesting take on ghosts and seeing ghosts. I enjoyed this story, although a lot of it was predictable. A light read with a little mystery!
October 4, 2013
I follow a few emerging authors through their blogs and the Tokyo based Australian Sandra Thompson is definitely one to watch. The Ghostly Grammar Boy is a fabulous read. It is funny, full of unexpected twists and action. The writing style is descriptive yet informal and easy to read. I could almost feel the heat in the Australian school setting!
January 17, 2014
My Rating:
7.5/10
7.5/10
May 24, 2015
Fiona’s twin sister died when they were two and ever since then Fiona has been able to see ghosts (the ghostly Ella has grown up with her sister causing no end of mayhem for Fiona). Now Sixteen, Fiona is expected by her sister to solve or resolve the unfinished business of ghostly teens who Ella has befriended. This time it’s Ella’s new boyfriend who needs help along with his little brother who’s still alive (but not for long if the Stepmother has her way). Fiona sets out to save the younger brother’s life and save the day…only no matter how many clues she finds she remains fairly clueless (probably the stress of dealing with her sister’s impish humour at the moment inconvenient moments). I thought this was a brilliant read. It’s told from the point of view of Fiona so we only know what she knows which allows the plot to unfold. The characters are so real I could easily believe Fiona and Ella are squabbling right now as Fiona attempts to extricate herself from another mess. This is a YA novel set in a small Australian town. I can’t wait for the next book in the Series!
June 23, 2016
3.5 stars
I enjoyed this story. It was a different take on being a medium. At times, very predictable with the usual teenage angst but cleverly weaved with some twists that kept me interested. The characters are fleshed out well as the storyline progresses. The writing style is easy to follow and even though it's typical high school drama the main character is likeable. All of this makes a good read aimed at upper-teen audience.
I enjoyed this story. It was a different take on being a medium. At times, very predictable with the usual teenage angst but cleverly weaved with some twists that kept me interested. The characters are fleshed out well as the storyline progresses. The writing style is easy to follow and even though it's typical high school drama the main character is likeable. All of this makes a good read aimed at upper-teen audience.
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews