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Joni Jones and the Ghosts of Gower: Book 2
Book 2 in the Joni Jones series. A middle-grade paranormal fantasy adventure.
Joni Jones thought his ghost fighting days were behind him.
Little does he know that a message from beyond the grave is about to turn his life upside down again.
Is he willing to leave home?
Is he ready to re-join the Resistance in their time-travelling battles against the ghost armies?
The paranormal portal to the Parallel is open again…
… and The Dying Scotsman awaits.
Acclaim for JONI JONES AND THE GHOST TRAIN (Book 1)
‘An incredibly clever mystery.’ THE SUN
‘This spooky train tale is a fright night delight.’ THE EVENING POST
Joni Jones thought his ghost fighting days were behind him.
Little does he know that a message from beyond the grave is about to turn his life upside down again.
Is he willing to leave home?
Is he ready to re-join the Resistance in their time-travelling battles against the ghost armies?
The paranormal portal to the Parallel is open again…
… and The Dying Scotsman awaits.
Acclaim for JONI JONES AND THE GHOST TRAIN (Book 1)
‘An incredibly clever mystery.’ THE SUN
‘This spooky train tale is a fright night delight.’ THE EVENING POST
250 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 1, 2025
3 people are currently reading
2 people want to read
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November 26, 2025I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
They really emphasise the Welsh here.
So the follow-up in the Joni Jones series starts on the downbeat and then turns it up quite a bit. The grandparents are awesome, it turns out, and several characters like the headless librarian and the signalman return even briefly [BITTER!]. While I was disappointed that Cal didn’t have much of a role again but this history and horror middle-grade sequel turns it up on both accounts, though I think the history has a bigger role here. The Ghosts of Gower is a satisfying follow-up to a growing children’s multi-genre series.
They really emphasise the Welsh here.
So the follow-up in the Joni Jones series starts on the downbeat and then turns it up quite a bit. The grandparents are awesome, it turns out, and several characters like the headless librarian and the signalman return even briefly [BITTER!]. While I was disappointed that Cal didn’t have much of a role again but this history and horror middle-grade sequel turns it up on both accounts, though I think the history has a bigger role here. The Ghosts of Gower is a satisfying follow-up to a growing children’s multi-genre series.
November 25, 2025
Thank you @ghosttrainbook #partner for the gifted copy of this ebook!
Joni Jones is back and I thought it was so fun to revisit him and go on another epic adventure! This is the second book in the series and while you could technically jump in here I definitely recommend not doing that. If you start with Joni Jones and the Ghost Train you will get to know Joni and understand his backstory much better. (Trust me, it makes this one even more rewarding!)
After fighting so hard to get home in book one Joni receives another mysterious message from beyond the grave. Ope! Deep down he knows he has to answer because of who the quest involves. Once that decision is made buckle up because its another fascinating journey through a parallel world filled with curses, witches, and even quicksand! Quicksand is something I was terrified of as a kid so this just fits perfectly! This book is a thrilling high stakes race against time as Joni fights to save his mom.
It’s exciting, suspenseful and just like the first book...full of imagination. Leyshon does such a great job keeping the pace tight and the action constant. The strongest suit in my opinion is the descriptions because they are so vivid that I could picture every moment.
If you are in the mood for a unique paranormal middle grade adventure that will for sure keep your heart racing and your imagination spinning then pick up Joni Jones and The Ghost of Gower!
Joni Jones is back and I thought it was so fun to revisit him and go on another epic adventure! This is the second book in the series and while you could technically jump in here I definitely recommend not doing that. If you start with Joni Jones and the Ghost Train you will get to know Joni and understand his backstory much better. (Trust me, it makes this one even more rewarding!)
After fighting so hard to get home in book one Joni receives another mysterious message from beyond the grave. Ope! Deep down he knows he has to answer because of who the quest involves. Once that decision is made buckle up because its another fascinating journey through a parallel world filled with curses, witches, and even quicksand! Quicksand is something I was terrified of as a kid so this just fits perfectly! This book is a thrilling high stakes race against time as Joni fights to save his mom.
It’s exciting, suspenseful and just like the first book...full of imagination. Leyshon does such a great job keeping the pace tight and the action constant. The strongest suit in my opinion is the descriptions because they are so vivid that I could picture every moment.
If you are in the mood for a unique paranormal middle grade adventure that will for sure keep your heart racing and your imagination spinning then pick up Joni Jones and The Ghost of Gower!
December 20, 2025
4.5 strong stars!
Sometimes series books suffer from the sophomore slump, but in this case, I think I liked this story even more. The first book left us with Joni, Ellie and Osh returning home with Joni's brother Cal. What I loved was that for the first time, his grandparents were living life again, and we had the chance to learn just how cool they were. Cal obviously went through a traumatic experience, but I loved that when he heard Joni and his friends were going to go back, he had to make the tough decision about whether to go with them or stay behind. While I initially hoped that we would see more of him, I like that this story is more about Joni, Osh, and Ellie and how they grow and change over the course of this series. I also like that although they are very different from each other, and Joni and Osh initially thought Ellie was that weird kid that no one likes, they have learned to appreciate her strengths and have empathy for her weaknesses. In other words, they have her back and know she will have theirs as well. At least this is what starts to happen in the other world. Because this is not to say that they have changed in the ways that all three are now accepted by their town. If anything, they're being bullied just as much as ever, so when Joni receives a message from beyond the grave, so to speak, his impulsive self decides he HAS to go back even though the other world went through what they went through to get him and his friends back in the first place. Ellie absolutely hates her life here still, so she jumps at the chance to return (if anything, she wants to return even more badly), and Osh? He's still scared, but when push comes to shove, he will help his friend even when he doesn't want to.
What amazes me is how much time passes for them when they're away, even if this is a book about time travel of sorts. Leyshon has created a very engaging world and although they are obviously in a lot of danger and it can get scary at times, this is a story that would appeal to upper elementary and middle school students, as well as older folks like me!
Without revealing specific spoilers, I did love the headless librarian's cameo appearance at the end, and learning about her connection to their town. Also, there was a moment at the end when tears were streaming down my face. As before, this book ends on a cliffhanger, and we'll have to wait until the third book to resolve it. Still, Joni, Ellie, and Osh do accomplish their main goals in this book, so in that sense, this book is complete.
I am really loving these characters and this world and can't wait to read the next one!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from BookSirens. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Sometimes series books suffer from the sophomore slump, but in this case, I think I liked this story even more. The first book left us with Joni, Ellie and Osh returning home with Joni's brother Cal. What I loved was that for the first time, his grandparents were living life again, and we had the chance to learn just how cool they were. Cal obviously went through a traumatic experience, but I loved that when he heard Joni and his friends were going to go back, he had to make the tough decision about whether to go with them or stay behind. While I initially hoped that we would see more of him, I like that this story is more about Joni, Osh, and Ellie and how they grow and change over the course of this series. I also like that although they are very different from each other, and Joni and Osh initially thought Ellie was that weird kid that no one likes, they have learned to appreciate her strengths and have empathy for her weaknesses. In other words, they have her back and know she will have theirs as well. At least this is what starts to happen in the other world. Because this is not to say that they have changed in the ways that all three are now accepted by their town. If anything, they're being bullied just as much as ever, so when Joni receives a message from beyond the grave, so to speak, his impulsive self decides he HAS to go back even though the other world went through what they went through to get him and his friends back in the first place. Ellie absolutely hates her life here still, so she jumps at the chance to return (if anything, she wants to return even more badly), and Osh? He's still scared, but when push comes to shove, he will help his friend even when he doesn't want to.
What amazes me is how much time passes for them when they're away, even if this is a book about time travel of sorts. Leyshon has created a very engaging world and although they are obviously in a lot of danger and it can get scary at times, this is a story that would appeal to upper elementary and middle school students, as well as older folks like me!
Without revealing specific spoilers, I did love the headless librarian's cameo appearance at the end, and learning about her connection to their town. Also, there was a moment at the end when tears were streaming down my face. As before, this book ends on a cliffhanger, and we'll have to wait until the third book to resolve it. Still, Joni, Ellie, and Osh do accomplish their main goals in this book, so in that sense, this book is complete.
I am really loving these characters and this world and can't wait to read the next one!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from BookSirens. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 4, 2026
Woah! This was such a cool story! I loved that Joni and his friends feel a responsibility to the humans of this realm as well as the Resistance. I loved that their quick thinking enables Joni to fulfil his quest. I loved the unforeseen result of that. I look forward to the next book to find out what happens next! FANTASTIC!
December 3, 2025
I feel so privileged to have had the chance to read Joni Jones and The Ghosts of Gower before its official release. Having loved the first book, I was extremely excited to see what would follow, and I was not disappointed. From the very first page, the story is full of action, excitement, and adventure. It immediately draws young readers into a mysterious and thrilling world, with secrets, strange encounters, and unexpected twists that keep you guessing from the start.
We are soon reunited with Joni and with familiar favourites Osian Bosherston and Ellie Hopwood, whose personalities and dynamics feel just as engaging as in the first book. Leyshon does a brilliant job of reminding readers of key storylines from the first book. While it is possible to read this book on its own, I would highly recommend reading them in order to fully enjoy the flow of the story and the detailed descriptions.
The story moves quickly, with eerie and intriguing clues throughout.
Clocks are stuck on 12:06, and temperatures drop suddenly after midnight. The characters wake up at the same time every night, and a chilling message on the walkie-talkie from the Parallel hints that a return there is inevitable. The characters travel through multiple locations and time zones, and Leyshon's vivid descriptions make you feel as if you are right there in the Parallel with them. Short, fast-paced chapters keep you turning the pages and completely absorbed in the story.
For me, one of the most memorable moments was a brilliant and unexpected trip back to the 1980s, complete with colourful shell suits. The characters face many thrilling quests, and there are lots of twists and surprises that make you feel like you are solving the problems alongside them. I even found myself holding my breath during one particularly emotional encounter. The story is full of tension, adventure, and excitement throughout, leaving you asking more questions and eager to find out what happens next. The friendships, bravery, and teamwork make it both thrilling and inspiring for young readers.
Overall, Joni Jones and The Ghosts of Gower is a gripping, imaginative, and brilliantly paced sequel that builds beautifully on the world created in the first book. P.D. Leyshon's storytelling feels both familiar and refreshingly unpredictable. What sets this book apart is its ability to mix humour, mystery, and genuine emotion in a way that feels effortless. I would recommend it for upper Key Stage Two readers, especially those who enjoy fast-paced adventures, puzzles to solve, and a story full of mystery, suspense, and ghosts. This book kept me hooked the entire way through, with just the right mix of mystery and adventure.
We are soon reunited with Joni and with familiar favourites Osian Bosherston and Ellie Hopwood, whose personalities and dynamics feel just as engaging as in the first book. Leyshon does a brilliant job of reminding readers of key storylines from the first book. While it is possible to read this book on its own, I would highly recommend reading them in order to fully enjoy the flow of the story and the detailed descriptions.
The story moves quickly, with eerie and intriguing clues throughout.
Clocks are stuck on 12:06, and temperatures drop suddenly after midnight. The characters wake up at the same time every night, and a chilling message on the walkie-talkie from the Parallel hints that a return there is inevitable. The characters travel through multiple locations and time zones, and Leyshon's vivid descriptions make you feel as if you are right there in the Parallel with them. Short, fast-paced chapters keep you turning the pages and completely absorbed in the story.
For me, one of the most memorable moments was a brilliant and unexpected trip back to the 1980s, complete with colourful shell suits. The characters face many thrilling quests, and there are lots of twists and surprises that make you feel like you are solving the problems alongside them. I even found myself holding my breath during one particularly emotional encounter. The story is full of tension, adventure, and excitement throughout, leaving you asking more questions and eager to find out what happens next. The friendships, bravery, and teamwork make it both thrilling and inspiring for young readers.
Overall, Joni Jones and The Ghosts of Gower is a gripping, imaginative, and brilliantly paced sequel that builds beautifully on the world created in the first book. P.D. Leyshon's storytelling feels both familiar and refreshingly unpredictable. What sets this book apart is its ability to mix humour, mystery, and genuine emotion in a way that feels effortless. I would recommend it for upper Key Stage Two readers, especially those who enjoy fast-paced adventures, puzzles to solve, and a story full of mystery, suspense, and ghosts. This book kept me hooked the entire way through, with just the right mix of mystery and adventure.
November 11, 2025
It’s been 6 months since Joni, Osh and Ellie returned with Cai. After their initial return, things have died down and people are wary of the 4 kids. They can’t say where they were and they’re being interviewed by official looking men in black suits. So when Joni gets a message from the Parallel saying his mother is alive, he decides to return and his friends join him. But after a mix up, they have to find a way back to the correct time to join up with the Resistance and figure out who really sent the message and also to stay away from Azrael.
This book brought the 3 friends back together and none of them have really changed. Ellie still feels like an outcast, even more so now, so she jumps at the chance to go back. Osh is still not quite brave but he is getting there. Joni is still a little too rash but he has good reason with the message regarding his mother.
There is more time hopping adventures in this book, spanning much more time. There are adventures concerning Romans, the 80’s and the 1940’s again. These poor kids are always in the middle of some kind of trouble and you never know how they’re going to get out of it. And there are more reunions than you would expect as Joni searches for his mom as well! This is a wonderful, portal/time hopping adventure for kids/teens and I’ve already recommended this to my 8th grader.
This book brought the 3 friends back together and none of them have really changed. Ellie still feels like an outcast, even more so now, so she jumps at the chance to go back. Osh is still not quite brave but he is getting there. Joni is still a little too rash but he has good reason with the message regarding his mother.
There is more time hopping adventures in this book, spanning much more time. There are adventures concerning Romans, the 80’s and the 1940’s again. These poor kids are always in the middle of some kind of trouble and you never know how they’re going to get out of it. And there are more reunions than you would expect as Joni searches for his mom as well! This is a wonderful, portal/time hopping adventure for kids/teens and I’ve already recommended this to my 8th grader.
December 7, 2025
We were thrilled to be offered the chance to review an advanced reader copy of the second instalment in the Joni Jones series for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
My son (11 years old) and I were so excited to return to this world and the Parallel world, to find out what happens next, and we were not disappointed! This series is fast becoming one of our favourite ever.
Joni Jones and the Ghosts of Gower is one of those stories that pulls you in immediately— it’s an eerie, atmospheric mystery and we love to hear about stories set in Wales.
The ghostly elements in the stories are spooky and gruesome enough, but never so heavy that they overwhelm the fun of the plot. It’s got that perfect blend of supernatural and warm, character-driven storytelling. We love how it works in time travel to the plot, and reading all about the different periods of time, my son particularly enjoyed the Roman Gladiator parts of this book.
The characters are all so different and diverse and are instantly likeable, and we love the tropes of found family, and reluctant hero, so this ticked all the boxes. Overall, it’s a slightly spooky escape—great for readers who enjoy mystery with adventure and humour.
My son (11 years old) and I were so excited to return to this world and the Parallel world, to find out what happens next, and we were not disappointed! This series is fast becoming one of our favourite ever.
Joni Jones and the Ghosts of Gower is one of those stories that pulls you in immediately— it’s an eerie, atmospheric mystery and we love to hear about stories set in Wales.
The ghostly elements in the stories are spooky and gruesome enough, but never so heavy that they overwhelm the fun of the plot. It’s got that perfect blend of supernatural and warm, character-driven storytelling. We love how it works in time travel to the plot, and reading all about the different periods of time, my son particularly enjoyed the Roman Gladiator parts of this book.
The characters are all so different and diverse and are instantly likeable, and we love the tropes of found family, and reluctant hero, so this ticked all the boxes. Overall, it’s a slightly spooky escape—great for readers who enjoy mystery with adventure and humour.
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December 2, 2025Joni Jones and the Ghosts of Gower is a lively, imaginative paranormal adventure that expands the world of the first book with bigger stakes, sharper mysteries, and even more heart. Joni’s return to the Resistance brings back the thrill of time traveling battles, eerie supernatural threats, and that perfect blend of humor and bravery that made him such an endearing hero in Book 1. The new ghostly message, the looming danger of the Dying Scotsman, and the re-opened portal to the Parallel all give the story a pulsing sense of momentum. Fast, fun, and spooky in all the right ways this is a fantastic continuation for middle grade readers who love magic, mischief, and courageous kids facing impossible odds.
November 24, 2025
Another fabulous instalment in this series, and another enjoyable ride. Great to see the characters we knew and loved from book 1 go on another adventure.
I think there are 2 things in particular I like about this series. 1- its sense of place. Everywhere described feels real and vivid. I always smile at the Cornish and Welsh settings, the Welsh in particular making me step outside my front door and see what's right in front of me, but in technicolour and an added dash of imagination.
I also like the accidental history lesson accompanying it. Not in your face, but a great way to learn more about a time period in a fun way.
Brilliant read.
I think there are 2 things in particular I like about this series. 1- its sense of place. Everywhere described feels real and vivid. I always smile at the Cornish and Welsh settings, the Welsh in particular making me step outside my front door and see what's right in front of me, but in technicolour and an added dash of imagination.
I also like the accidental history lesson accompanying it. Not in your face, but a great way to learn more about a time period in a fun way.
Brilliant read.
December 1, 2025
Book two of the series sees Joni and his friends, Osh and Ellie, returning to the Parallel, this time to try to rescue Joni's mom. This book builds on the first and the twists are even better. The sense of adventure ramps up as we visit new time periods and new challenges, and a mystery that has everyone stumped.
I think the new twists make this a little better than the first book and will lead to even more excitement in the future.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I think the new twists make this a little better than the first book and will lead to even more excitement in the future.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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