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The Passenger
A Literary Titan Book Award Recipient.
Received an honorable mention from Independent Book Review's "The Best Books We Read in 2024."
Burdened with her empathic gift, Elizabeth Reilly wants to be free of it and fit in with normal people. Nevertheless, when the spirit of an old man asks for her help, she travels across the country to help him return home.
Gio Clemente is still angry with his father who abandoned him as a child. To help the father pass on, Elizabeth must persuade Gio to let go of his anger. Though he resents her intrusion, they are both stunned to find themselves fighting a profound attraction. Elizabeth can accept his headstrong brand of love, but can Gio accept her gift—and believe in her?
Received an honorable mention from Independent Book Review's "The Best Books We Read in 2024."
Burdened with her empathic gift, Elizabeth Reilly wants to be free of it and fit in with normal people. Nevertheless, when the spirit of an old man asks for her help, she travels across the country to help him return home.
Gio Clemente is still angry with his father who abandoned him as a child. To help the father pass on, Elizabeth must persuade Gio to let go of his anger. Though he resents her intrusion, they are both stunned to find themselves fighting a profound attraction. Elizabeth can accept his headstrong brand of love, but can Gio accept her gift—and believe in her?
277 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 30, 2007
About the author
Joie Lesin
1 book130 followersAward-winning author, Joie Lesin is a life-long fiction writer and poet. She is most recently the author of THE PASSENGER (The Wild Rose Press, 2024). She has long been fascinated by anything otherworldly including mermaids and ghosts. Joie writes character-driven, emotional, atmospheric tales about heartache and hope.
Originally from Massachusetts, at six years old, Joie moved to her mother’s birthplace, Minnesota. By eight, Joie lost her New England accent, however, it's gradually returning as the years go by. She grew up in Minneapolis but now resides in St. Paul with her husband and their blended family—which includes a rambunctious grand-corgi.
Joie misses the ocean, but she often finds herself walking by one of Minnesota’s many lakes and travels to one of the coasts as often as she can. In fact, she considers California her home away from home. When she’s not writing, reading, or walking, you can find her listening to music. She absolutely loves music—especially live—and songs have sparked most of her story ideas.
Check out Joie's blogpost "The Flower Girl" to learn more about the songs that have inspired her stories.
Originally from Massachusetts, at six years old, Joie moved to her mother’s birthplace, Minnesota. By eight, Joie lost her New England accent, however, it's gradually returning as the years go by. She grew up in Minneapolis but now resides in St. Paul with her husband and their blended family—which includes a rambunctious grand-corgi.
Joie misses the ocean, but she often finds herself walking by one of Minnesota’s many lakes and travels to one of the coasts as often as she can. In fact, she considers California her home away from home. When she’s not writing, reading, or walking, you can find her listening to music. She absolutely loves music—especially live—and songs have sparked most of her story ideas.
Check out Joie's blogpost "The Flower Girl" to learn more about the songs that have inspired her stories.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
November 22, 2024
“The Passenger” by Joie Lesin, is a beautiful and heart-wrenching story about lost love and overcoming deep-seated emotions. The main characters, Elizabeth and Gio, both have their own past traumas. Elizabeth also has a gift that brings lost souls to her for help resolving the things keeping them tied to the present. The most recent happens to be the father that Gio believes abandoned him and his mother when he was a young child. This brings Elizabeth all the way across the country to try and help restore a relationship that never had a chance to blossom. And, in the process, she finds her own help with moving past her past traumas.
I really loved this story. I struggled at first, feeling like everything was a little rushed, but, as I thought about it, I no longer feel that way. The reason for my original concern was simply because the main characters were so quickly and deeply attracted to each other. Very much the “soulmates” kind of vibe. Upon further reflection and reading, I realized that it was simply because they both had already loved and lost and knew what to look for in someone else.
As far as the storytelling itself, I loved the way Lesin painted such a vivid picture without over-detailing. I was able to imagine walking through the vineyard and smelling all the lovely smells along with the characters of the story. Another thing that I was not sure about at first was the point of view. Lesin jumped from one mind to another throughout each chapter. At first, I worried that I would get confused as to who we were hearing from (I’ve experienced this in previous books), but she did an excellent job at differentiating between the different “voices” so that I was able to easily determine who it was at the time.
The characters were well-defined. None were perfect, they all had humanity about them. There was also a lot of growth in all the characters, some more than others. Lesin showed us the change and growth which I think is very important when trying to bring a reader into a story. She left it where there was room for more growth which allowed the reader to imagine it’s a real family with a real story.
I do believe my favorite character would be Gio’s mom, Adriana. She was a very strong woman who loved her husband so dearly, even though it had been years since she’d last seen him. She shouldered the responsibility of growing their vineyard to become something wonderful so that her son could one day take it over. Her love and acceptance of everyone else are so obvious through the way she handles everything.
I would personally recommend this book for a more adult audience because there are a lot of adult conversations and topics. I only recall minimal cursing and, while there is romance, kissing, and adult activities mentioned, there are no spicy scenes. However, there is a lot of talk about war, alcohol, sex, and death. This is a paranormal book as there are ghosts in it. Also, it’s set in 1945. If I had to give it a genre description, I would say it is an adult, historical paranormal romance. I definitely recommend taking the time to read Joie Lesin’s “The Passenger!”
I really loved this story. I struggled at first, feeling like everything was a little rushed, but, as I thought about it, I no longer feel that way. The reason for my original concern was simply because the main characters were so quickly and deeply attracted to each other. Very much the “soulmates” kind of vibe. Upon further reflection and reading, I realized that it was simply because they both had already loved and lost and knew what to look for in someone else.
As far as the storytelling itself, I loved the way Lesin painted such a vivid picture without over-detailing. I was able to imagine walking through the vineyard and smelling all the lovely smells along with the characters of the story. Another thing that I was not sure about at first was the point of view. Lesin jumped from one mind to another throughout each chapter. At first, I worried that I would get confused as to who we were hearing from (I’ve experienced this in previous books), but she did an excellent job at differentiating between the different “voices” so that I was able to easily determine who it was at the time.
The characters were well-defined. None were perfect, they all had humanity about them. There was also a lot of growth in all the characters, some more than others. Lesin showed us the change and growth which I think is very important when trying to bring a reader into a story. She left it where there was room for more growth which allowed the reader to imagine it’s a real family with a real story.
I do believe my favorite character would be Gio’s mom, Adriana. She was a very strong woman who loved her husband so dearly, even though it had been years since she’d last seen him. She shouldered the responsibility of growing their vineyard to become something wonderful so that her son could one day take it over. Her love and acceptance of everyone else are so obvious through the way she handles everything.
I would personally recommend this book for a more adult audience because there are a lot of adult conversations and topics. I only recall minimal cursing and, while there is romance, kissing, and adult activities mentioned, there are no spicy scenes. However, there is a lot of talk about war, alcohol, sex, and death. This is a paranormal book as there are ghosts in it. Also, it’s set in 1945. If I had to give it a genre description, I would say it is an adult, historical paranormal romance. I definitely recommend taking the time to read Joie Lesin’s “The Passenger!”
January 24, 2013
Fantastic! This story was a joy to read! Every character has such a distinct personality that you can't help but get sucked in. I will undoubtedly be reading this story again! Great Job Joie Lesin!!!
November 20, 2024
The Passenger by Joie Lesin is a romance woven with supernatural intrigue, transporting readers to a post-World War II era where two families grapple with the shadows of loss. Set against the contrasting landscapes of the East and West Coasts. The novel follows the fateful intersection of Elizabeth Reilly and Giovanni Clemente’s lives. Elizabeth, a 25-year-old widow from Boston, bears a gift she has despised since childhood. Her life remains haunted and aimless after the death of her husband until a chance encounter with an enigmatic old man named Paolo on the bus thrusts her into a journey of self-discovery. This meeting forces her to confront her deepest grief and find a way to remain among the living. Meanwhile, across the country, Giovanni returns from war to his family’s vineyard in California. He’s determined to immerse himself in winemaking, steadfastly resisting his mother’s matchmaking attempts. Distractions, particularly those in the form of romance, a wife, or children, hold no allure for him.
Lesin masterfully spins a romance layered with mystery and suspense. Each twist leaves the reader guessing, ensnared not only by Elizabeth and Giovanni’s evolving stories but also by the vibrant, multi-dimensional characters surrounding them. The narrative sweeps across generations, exploring themes of love, betrayal, and the enduring impact of loss. The author’s deft storytelling immerses us in a tale of hearts scarred by grief yet searching for redemption and connection. I found the writing style engaging and atmospheric, with Lesin's attention to detail bringing the post-war setting vividly to life. Take, for example, the way Giovanni’s vineyard in California is described: the scents of pine and fresh soil practically waft off the page, creating a warm, immersive atmosphere. This contrast with the cold, ghostly elements of Elizabeth’s storyline in Boston makes for a compelling narrative. I felt that the pacing, especially in the beginning, was a bit slow. The author takes her time establishing the characters and their emotional wounds, which, while beautiful, made me impatient for the plot to pick up speed. Elizabeth’s journey is, without a doubt, the heart of the novel. On the other hand, Giovanni’s reluctance to let anyone disrupt his life at the vineyard is immediately relatable, even if he comes off as harsh at times.
The Passenger delivers a unique blend of historical romance and the supernatural that feels fresh and engaging. It’s a book for anyone who loves romance novels with a twist, especially those who appreciate a slow-burn relationship mixed with themes of grief, love, and second chances. If you enjoy novels rich in atmosphere and character development, this is one to pick up. Lesin's exploration of love and loss will resonate with readers who believe in the healing power of connection.
Lesin masterfully spins a romance layered with mystery and suspense. Each twist leaves the reader guessing, ensnared not only by Elizabeth and Giovanni’s evolving stories but also by the vibrant, multi-dimensional characters surrounding them. The narrative sweeps across generations, exploring themes of love, betrayal, and the enduring impact of loss. The author’s deft storytelling immerses us in a tale of hearts scarred by grief yet searching for redemption and connection. I found the writing style engaging and atmospheric, with Lesin's attention to detail bringing the post-war setting vividly to life. Take, for example, the way Giovanni’s vineyard in California is described: the scents of pine and fresh soil practically waft off the page, creating a warm, immersive atmosphere. This contrast with the cold, ghostly elements of Elizabeth’s storyline in Boston makes for a compelling narrative. I felt that the pacing, especially in the beginning, was a bit slow. The author takes her time establishing the characters and their emotional wounds, which, while beautiful, made me impatient for the plot to pick up speed. Elizabeth’s journey is, without a doubt, the heart of the novel. On the other hand, Giovanni’s reluctance to let anyone disrupt his life at the vineyard is immediately relatable, even if he comes off as harsh at times.
The Passenger delivers a unique blend of historical romance and the supernatural that feels fresh and engaging. It’s a book for anyone who loves romance novels with a twist, especially those who appreciate a slow-burn relationship mixed with themes of grief, love, and second chances. If you enjoy novels rich in atmosphere and character development, this is one to pick up. Lesin's exploration of love and loss will resonate with readers who believe in the healing power of connection.
August 28, 2024
All Elizabeth wants is to fit in with people and not be burdened by her gift but when she goes across the country to help an old man’s spirit find closure and his son, Gio, find peace. Along the way, she finds something she never dreamed of: love. The Passenger is a heartwarming paranormal fantasy with themes of family, moving on, and living for today. The narration is deeply emotional yet detailed so the reader can dive into the story. The historical accuracy is flawless so that while reading, you feel transported. The world-building is layered so the supernatural elements are realistic, and I am able to suspend my disbelief. But it’s the characters in The Passenger who make this an unforgettable read.
Let’s start with the characters. I connected with Elizabeth right away. Her gift is the ability to speak to and help ghosts move on. She’s a wonderfully written heroine with a sympathetic heart. Experiencing all that she goes through, including her emotions, allows the reader to immerse themselves in the story. Her reactions to situations and events are realistic even though some of the events are supernatural.
Gio is a hero who’s been through one emotional turmoil after another. His heart is closed off due to the betrayal of his father. Only all is not as it appears and Gio is left reeling. Can he believe Elizabeth and her ghost theory? More importantly, can he let go of the anger and pain to heal and allow love into his heart? My heart broke for Gio over and over. He’s a hero who has to overcome his past hurts in order to live for today.
The descriptive narration together with the world-building to create a poignant story readers clamor for. There’s plenty of emotions built into the story along with intricate details. The world-building is flawless. The historical accuracy is on point. Every detail of the story speaks of the writing prowess of the author.
If you’re looking for an emotional paranormal fantasy you won’t be able to put down, pick up The Passenger. Highly recommend!
My Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by: Nancy
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
Let’s start with the characters. I connected with Elizabeth right away. Her gift is the ability to speak to and help ghosts move on. She’s a wonderfully written heroine with a sympathetic heart. Experiencing all that she goes through, including her emotions, allows the reader to immerse themselves in the story. Her reactions to situations and events are realistic even though some of the events are supernatural.
Gio is a hero who’s been through one emotional turmoil after another. His heart is closed off due to the betrayal of his father. Only all is not as it appears and Gio is left reeling. Can he believe Elizabeth and her ghost theory? More importantly, can he let go of the anger and pain to heal and allow love into his heart? My heart broke for Gio over and over. He’s a hero who has to overcome his past hurts in order to live for today.
The descriptive narration together with the world-building to create a poignant story readers clamor for. There’s plenty of emotions built into the story along with intricate details. The world-building is flawless. The historical accuracy is on point. Every detail of the story speaks of the writing prowess of the author.
If you’re looking for an emotional paranormal fantasy you won’t be able to put down, pick up The Passenger. Highly recommend!
My Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by: Nancy
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
July 25, 2024
Thoughts: This was a sweet romance with a lot of conflict, beautiful settings, and interesting characters. Set in 1945, mostly in the California wine country north of San Francisco, but also in Boston. Elizabeth is a young widow who can talk with spirits. When an old man she befriends dies in her arms, his ghost begs her to help him. She figures an easy crossover. Unfortunately, that’s not what fate has in store for her. She has to travel to California to meet his family and tell them about Paola. But his son Gio isn’t willing to listen. Elizabeth makes friends with Gio’s family, but getting through to the stubborn man may take a lot. But even with their problems, the two are still drawn to each other physically and emotionally. But fate does make their lives difficult. However, this is a romance, so we know it’s going to work out, but there’s a lot for them to go through first.
The only reason this didn’t get five stars was an idea that this might be a series. If it is, okay. Good. If it’s not, I’d be disappointed because I want to see what happens to the woman along the road, and Anna, Elizabeth’s sister. And maybe the daughter later on. But overall, a very good read.
Definitely recommended.
Disclaimer: Disclosure of Material: I received a final and/or advanced reader copy of this book with the hope that I will leave my unbiased opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that… My Opinions. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
The only reason this didn’t get five stars was an idea that this might be a series. If it is, okay. Good. If it’s not, I’d be disappointed because I want to see what happens to the woman along the road, and Anna, Elizabeth’s sister. And maybe the daughter later on. But overall, a very good read.
Definitely recommended.
Disclaimer: Disclosure of Material: I received a final and/or advanced reader copy of this book with the hope that I will leave my unbiased opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that… My Opinions. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
October 14, 2024
. . . The Passenger: a tale of family connections, life-changing choices, and love—lost and found . . .
About the Book: Elizabeth Reilly wants to be free of her empathic gift and fit in with normal people. Nevertheless, when the spirit of a lonely old man asks for her help, she travels across the country to help him return home.
Gio Clemente is still angry with his father who, he believes, abandoned him as a child. To help Paolo, the father, pass on, Elizabeth must persuade Gio to let go of his anger. Though he resents her intrusion, they are both stunned to find themselves fighting a profound attraction. Elizabeth can accept his headstrong brand of love, but can Gio accept her gift—and believe in her?
Our Review: From the first page this brilliantly written historical ghost story, we were entranced. The author’s skill at describing setting—from the foxholes of wartime Europe to the trolleys of Boston, then on to California’s vast wine country, the reader is absorbed. The desperately lonely and critically ill Paolo is heartbreaking. His only goal is to seek forgiveness from his wife and son. The still grieving Elizabeth is unable to refuse his plea for help. Then to meet taciturn Gio who, though he does not recognize it, is desperate for a love of his own, like the one his madre claims she had with his padre. Who doesn’t want that? The secondary plot line of enduring love of the generations is a real heart breaker. Do not pass on The Passenger. It’s a beauty.
Based on a scale of 1-5, The Passenger merits a 6.
Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews
About the Book: Elizabeth Reilly wants to be free of her empathic gift and fit in with normal people. Nevertheless, when the spirit of a lonely old man asks for her help, she travels across the country to help him return home.
Gio Clemente is still angry with his father who, he believes, abandoned him as a child. To help Paolo, the father, pass on, Elizabeth must persuade Gio to let go of his anger. Though he resents her intrusion, they are both stunned to find themselves fighting a profound attraction. Elizabeth can accept his headstrong brand of love, but can Gio accept her gift—and believe in her?
Our Review: From the first page this brilliantly written historical ghost story, we were entranced. The author’s skill at describing setting—from the foxholes of wartime Europe to the trolleys of Boston, then on to California’s vast wine country, the reader is absorbed. The desperately lonely and critically ill Paolo is heartbreaking. His only goal is to seek forgiveness from his wife and son. The still grieving Elizabeth is unable to refuse his plea for help. Then to meet taciturn Gio who, though he does not recognize it, is desperate for a love of his own, like the one his madre claims she had with his padre. Who doesn’t want that? The secondary plot line of enduring love of the generations is a real heart breaker. Do not pass on The Passenger. It’s a beauty.
Based on a scale of 1-5, The Passenger merits a 6.
Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews
June 12, 2024
The Passenger is a beautifully written historical romance that weaves a story of love, loss, and
self-discovery. Joie Lesin’s prose borders on poetic, with immersive imagery, intriguing family
secrets, and slow-burn romance that keeps you turning pages late into the night. Combining
historical romance with speculative elements, The Passenger is a captivating, unputdownable,
and satisfying read—right to the last page.
When Elizabeth travels to the Clemente Vineyard to help bring rest to the late Paolo’s soul, both
are shocked to find it being run by Giovanni, a son whom Paolo had thought died long ago.
Elizabeth must hide her ability to communicate with the deceased, a gift—or curse—passed
down from her mother, and tries to focus on one thing: helping Paolo find the peace he needs to
pass on.
But soon, she finds herself enraptured, and at times enraged, by the mysteriously broody Gio,
and her initial mission becomes muddied as they navigate family secrets, the past, her ability, and
a budding romance that’s igniting feelings both have worked hard to avoid.
As the story develops and secrets are revealed, the biggest shock of all is uncovered: her mission
didn’t just help Paolo—it set off a series of events that would irrevocably change Elizabeth, Gio,
and the Clemente vineyard forever.
Disclosure: I am delighted to have received a free ARC copy of The Passenger. The opinions expressed herein are my own.
self-discovery. Joie Lesin’s prose borders on poetic, with immersive imagery, intriguing family
secrets, and slow-burn romance that keeps you turning pages late into the night. Combining
historical romance with speculative elements, The Passenger is a captivating, unputdownable,
and satisfying read—right to the last page.
When Elizabeth travels to the Clemente Vineyard to help bring rest to the late Paolo’s soul, both
are shocked to find it being run by Giovanni, a son whom Paolo had thought died long ago.
Elizabeth must hide her ability to communicate with the deceased, a gift—or curse—passed
down from her mother, and tries to focus on one thing: helping Paolo find the peace he needs to
pass on.
But soon, she finds herself enraptured, and at times enraged, by the mysteriously broody Gio,
and her initial mission becomes muddied as they navigate family secrets, the past, her ability, and
a budding romance that’s igniting feelings both have worked hard to avoid.
As the story develops and secrets are revealed, the biggest shock of all is uncovered: her mission
didn’t just help Paolo—it set off a series of events that would irrevocably change Elizabeth, Gio,
and the Clemente vineyard forever.
Disclosure: I am delighted to have received a free ARC copy of The Passenger. The opinions expressed herein are my own.
October 19, 2024
3.75/5
This book takes place in 1945 and is about a woman named Elizabeth who can communicate with spirits. Elizabeth tries to help the spirit of Paolo say goodbye to his family and in the process falls in love with Paolo‘s son Gio.
This book is in the small section of the paranormal romance genre that I enjoy. There wasn’t any witches, vampires or shape shifters and it wasn’t horror, science fiction or fantasy. It was just simply a book about communicating with ghosts and I really appreciated that.
My only critique would be it needed a bit more editing. There were a few typos and some missing words here and there. But also (maybe it was just me and the day I read it), I felt like it could have been a bit smoother in places. I found myself rereading some sections to make sure I hadn’t missed something or to get my bearings on what was happening.
Overall, I enjoyed the story, characters and setting and was glad I read it.
I sincerely appreciated winning a copy of this book from a Goodreads giveaway.
This book takes place in 1945 and is about a woman named Elizabeth who can communicate with spirits. Elizabeth tries to help the spirit of Paolo say goodbye to his family and in the process falls in love with Paolo‘s son Gio.
This book is in the small section of the paranormal romance genre that I enjoy. There wasn’t any witches, vampires or shape shifters and it wasn’t horror, science fiction or fantasy. It was just simply a book about communicating with ghosts and I really appreciated that.
My only critique would be it needed a bit more editing. There were a few typos and some missing words here and there. But also (maybe it was just me and the day I read it), I felt like it could have been a bit smoother in places. I found myself rereading some sections to make sure I hadn’t missed something or to get my bearings on what was happening.
Overall, I enjoyed the story, characters and setting and was glad I read it.
I sincerely appreciated winning a copy of this book from a Goodreads giveaway.
September 2, 2024
I loved the plot of this book. Our MC is Liz has an empathetic gift with people. She wants to be normal and be with other people. However there is a spirit of an older man who wants to go home as it were. So Liz has to travel to help him go home. She is not going to let him just pass into darkness alone. This story takes place during the end of the war in about the mid 1940’s, which is a very interesting time in history.
Our MMC is named Gio, who is the son of Paolo the ghost or spirit that Liz is helping get back to his family. Paolo is a interesting Italian spirit who about his family even in his death. But Paolo tells Liz that Gio had died and so when he shows up in front of Liz she is skeptical too.
I love the interactions between Gio and Liz in this book, they are so cute together. The story was well written and engaging and worth a day’s read!
Our MMC is named Gio, who is the son of Paolo the ghost or spirit that Liz is helping get back to his family. Paolo is a interesting Italian spirit who about his family even in his death. But Paolo tells Liz that Gio had died and so when he shows up in front of Liz she is skeptical too.
I love the interactions between Gio and Liz in this book, they are so cute together. The story was well written and engaging and worth a day’s read!
August 22, 2025
Joie Lesin’s The Passenger was a captivating blend of romance, suspense, and emotional depth, set against the backdrop of the 1940s. From the first page, the story pulls you in and refuses to let go. The chemistry between Elizabeth and Gio was magnetic. Their connection unfolded with tension and tenderness. Lesin’s writing is immersive and evocative, painting a picturesque vineyard landscape, a touch of the supernatural, and emotionally charged scenes with equal finesse. With engaging characters, a suspenseful plot, and a heartfelt message, The Passenger is a beautifully written novel that explores what it means to heal, to connect, and to believe in something greater than oneself. A recommended must-read.
May 19, 2025
This Author told me to enjoy the Journey, and a Journey it was. Little Supernatural, little romantic not too much of either.
Elizabeth can see and talk to Ghosts. She meets Paulo and to help him pass on she travels across country to help with pass. Finds out his family is alive, he thought they were dead, and ends up falling in love with Gio, Paulo's son.
They have a real big will they wont they situation throughout the whole novel.
Entertaining. The Author does a real good job keeping the pace going, not getting bogged down in too many details or long dialogues.
Was a wonderful story.
I received this book through a free giveaway for an honest review.
Elizabeth can see and talk to Ghosts. She meets Paulo and to help him pass on she travels across country to help with pass. Finds out his family is alive, he thought they were dead, and ends up falling in love with Gio, Paulo's son.
They have a real big will they wont they situation throughout the whole novel.
Entertaining. The Author does a real good job keeping the pace going, not getting bogged down in too many details or long dialogues.
Was a wonderful story.
I received this book through a free giveaway for an honest review.
July 24, 2024
In The Passenger, readers travel on a poignant journey with Elizabeth, who is determined to help a regretful ghost find closure with the family he abandoned. As reluctant as she is to accept her ability, Elizabeth also fights the growing attraction to the man’s moody son, Gio. These fraught dynamics roll out in a lovely vineyard location with empathetic characters, including ghostly Paolo. I rooted for every one of them to overcome the dilemmas and difficulties as Elizabeth struggled with how to relay her message to the hurting family.
August 21, 2024
This was such an emotional, heartfelt, and beautifully told haunting historical romance with a hefty touch of spiritual, otherworldly, and esoteric things happening along the way and being a major part of the plot.
How far would YOU go if suddenly it happened to you? And how far would you go if on your journey to help a dead man’s soul you met your soulmate and fell in love, despite having alllll the possible obstacles being thrown in your way?
A gripping, engaging, emotional, and beautiful read.
How far would YOU go if suddenly it happened to you? And how far would you go if on your journey to help a dead man’s soul you met your soulmate and fell in love, despite having alllll the possible obstacles being thrown in your way?
A gripping, engaging, emotional, and beautiful read.
June 12, 2024
Elizabeth had a secret to hide, and stunning but sultry Gio had a chip on his shoulder. Together, they sizzled. I enjoyed their haunting romance from start to finish – and highly recommend The Passenger to anyone who enjoys a good ghost story!
October 30, 2024
wow!
I received a free kindle copy in the Goodreads sweepstakes.
What a delightful read! It had me scared for a min about the outcome! But I delighted in all the twist of the story with the multi perspectives, throughly enjoyed this read and will be suggesting it to others!
I received a free kindle copy in the Goodreads sweepstakes.
What a delightful read! It had me scared for a min about the outcome! But I delighted in all the twist of the story with the multi perspectives, throughly enjoyed this read and will be suggesting it to others!
July 11, 2025
For me, this was a classic summer read--a story I could easily fall into while sitting by the lake. It has been years since a read a good ghost story. This is one I'll keep. I expect it will haunt my bookshelves for years to come.
February 20, 2025
Such a good story. This reminded me of the TV show I really enjoyed, Ghost Whisper.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 6, 2025
This story, “The Passenger” by Joie Lesin, was a beautiful and heart-wrenching story about lost love and overcoming deep-seated emotions. The main characters, Elizabeth and Gio, both have their own past traumas. Elizabeth also has a gift that brings lost souls to her for help resolving the things keeping them tied to the present. The most recent happens to be the father that Gio believes abandoned him and his mother when he was a young child. This brings Elizabeth all the way across the country to try and help restore a relationship that never had a chance to blossom. And, in the process, she finds her own help with moving past her own traumas.
I would personally recommend this book for a more adult audience because there are a lot of adult conversations and topics. I only recall minimal cursing and, while there is romance, kissing, and adult activities mentioned, there are no spicy scenes. However, there is a lot of talk about war, alcohol, sex, and death. This is a paranormal book as there are ghosts in it, and it is set in 1945. Genre would be an adult, historical, paranormal romance. I definitely recommend taking the time to read this book!
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I would personally recommend this book for a more adult audience because there are a lot of adult conversations and topics. I only recall minimal cursing and, while there is romance, kissing, and adult activities mentioned, there are no spicy scenes. However, there is a lot of talk about war, alcohol, sex, and death. This is a paranormal book as there are ghosts in it, and it is set in 1945. Genre would be an adult, historical, paranormal romance. I definitely recommend taking the time to read this book!
For a more detailed review, check out the below link:
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