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Ghost Bully
Roommates can be hell. Like when they’re late with the rent, late on bills, or constantly trying to kill you. Jonah Preston thought he knew what he was getting into after signing the paperwork to buy his new yardwork, a leaky pipe here and there, maybe the occasional squirrel in the attic. He just didn’t expect to share that new home with a ghost. Before all the boxes are unpacked, Jonah learns the previous owner, Willard Hensch, committed suicide in one of the bedrooms. It’s bad news, but Jonah and his (corporeal) roommate, Max, take it in stride. Jonah’s just happy to own a home and begin this new chapter in his adult life. Unfortunately, it’s an incredibly short chapter. Unhappy with his new roommates, the resident ghost quickly makes his presence known. Like, really known. When Jonah wakes up dead, he knows exactly who’s behind it. Willard. Effing. Hensch. For the newly deceased Jonah, that’s where his new chapter truly begins. He will befriend angels, fight demons, and take on a ghostly army in this comic-paranormal thrill ride through the freakish underworld of Austin, Texas.
345 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 6, 2018
322 people are currently reading
733 people want to read
About the author
Brian Corley
4 books26 followersBrian Corley is the praised YA author of Space Throne and Ghost Bully as well as the upcoming new release GILM!. He is also a songwriter and musician in the well-received rock band, The Mars McClanes, who have been recording for twenty-one years and are based in Portland.
Not all authors can say that their novel started out as a song lyric, but for Brian, that’s exactly what happened. GILM!, his contemporary YA magical realism novel, is currently being released in conjunction with a new song of the same name, a collaboration with his band. What began as a writing exercise trying to find a word that rhymes with film, ended as a circuitous creative journey that spawned an energetic rock song and the kernel of an idea to write a thrilling fantasy story about a new kid trying to impress a girl.
Brian believes a great story is a good mixture of emotion and craft, something you can tell someone poured their heart into. For him, there’s nothing like someone telling you what a passage or a lyric means to them. He hopes his stories evoke an emotion in his YA readers that stays with them long after the book is closed.
A member of the SFWA (Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers Association), Brian has received high praise from Publishers Weekly, Kirkus, and BookLife, among others, for his novels. He lives in Portland, Oregon, with his amazing dog, Brisket.
Not all authors can say that their novel started out as a song lyric, but for Brian, that’s exactly what happened. GILM!, his contemporary YA magical realism novel, is currently being released in conjunction with a new song of the same name, a collaboration with his band. What began as a writing exercise trying to find a word that rhymes with film, ended as a circuitous creative journey that spawned an energetic rock song and the kernel of an idea to write a thrilling fantasy story about a new kid trying to impress a girl.
Brian believes a great story is a good mixture of emotion and craft, something you can tell someone poured their heart into. For him, there’s nothing like someone telling you what a passage or a lyric means to them. He hopes his stories evoke an emotion in his YA readers that stays with them long after the book is closed.
A member of the SFWA (Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers Association), Brian has received high praise from Publishers Weekly, Kirkus, and BookLife, among others, for his novels. He lives in Portland, Oregon, with his amazing dog, Brisket.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
July 22, 2018
Wow. It's like this guy wrote the story I'd been thinking of reading for months—years even. Seriously, I've read this book more than any other in my life, you should buy it!
October 21, 2019
This is a fun read - no it’s not scary at all - well I didn't think so, but funny yes, I don’t think I actually laughed out loud but I can’t deny it amused me a lot and I certainly smiled often.
It was a really easy read with a very relaxed style of writing, very light hearted and the whole thing flowed well. Although nicely done it is not some great work of art, it’s not beautiful in any way and is often childish/blokey in its humour, I find that stuff amusing so I’m ok. Sometimes it’s good to have some cheap escapism which this is perfectly.
This is the story of ghosts and what people do when they become ghosts, some interesting ideas all told in a very entertaining way, with plenty of slapstick for good measure. I found I could really relate to Jonah, our protagonist too so that helped. He and his best mate Max remind me of Simon Pegg and Nick Frost - similar ish humour, if you like them you’ll like this.
My only disappointment was the ending, it wasn’t terrible but it was a little too neatly done for my liking, too nice and not actually funny.
I’m going to give this 4*/5 but I am rounding up from a 3.5+/5.
It was a really easy read with a very relaxed style of writing, very light hearted and the whole thing flowed well. Although nicely done it is not some great work of art, it’s not beautiful in any way and is often childish/blokey in its humour, I find that stuff amusing so I’m ok. Sometimes it’s good to have some cheap escapism which this is perfectly.
This is the story of ghosts and what people do when they become ghosts, some interesting ideas all told in a very entertaining way, with plenty of slapstick for good measure. I found I could really relate to Jonah, our protagonist too so that helped. He and his best mate Max remind me of Simon Pegg and Nick Frost - similar ish humour, if you like them you’ll like this.
My only disappointment was the ending, it wasn’t terrible but it was a little too neatly done for my liking, too nice and not actually funny.
I’m going to give this 4*/5 but I am rounding up from a 3.5+/5.
February 13, 2020
Enjoyable
I really liked this book. It is very entertaining and enjoyable. I didn't want to put it down. Thanks for sharing your imagination with us.
I really liked this book. It is very entertaining and enjoyable. I didn't want to put it down. Thanks for sharing your imagination with us.
June 4, 2019
Jonah Preston is pretty happy with the purchase of his new house. That is, until his new neighbor informs him there was a suicide in the home prior to his purchase. To top it off, he finds this out on moving day! The ghost of the previous tenant is not too happy as it is still his home and he liked it quiet and peaceful. Jonah figures this out pretty quickly when he wakes up dead and knows the ghost of Willard Hensch is behind it. As a new chapter in his (after)life begins, Jonah befriends angels, confronts demons, and fights his way through the underworld of Austin, Texas.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The funny part is that while reading this, I already pictured it as a movie. I know it would take a ton of special effects and have to be pretty high budget, but I can really see it. The humor through out was great and had me chuckling quite a few times. I envisioned Jonah's roommate, Max, as comedic actor Tyler Labine. So if this actually ever does get picked up as a movie, and anyone other than Tyler is cast to play Max, it'll be the wrong choice, I'm telling you.
Okay, my movie visions aside, this book was a lot of fun. There are some entertaining pop culture references thrown in here and there, some outright mentioned, and others are hinted, but aren't hard to figure out. I love the friendship dynamic between Max and Jonah as well as the quick bond formed between the group of psychics (or Psy-Kicks) that they end up working with through the mjaority of the book. There are a lot of other fun characters that are introduced, my favorites being Dee Dee and Jeremy who are architectural designers.
The writing is great and reminds me of some sort of cross between the Hulu series Deadbeat (featuring Tyler Labine - heh heh) and the television series Dead Like Me with a little Reaper television series sprinkled in at the end. Overall, I definitely recommend this book!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The funny part is that while reading this, I already pictured it as a movie. I know it would take a ton of special effects and have to be pretty high budget, but I can really see it. The humor through out was great and had me chuckling quite a few times. I envisioned Jonah's roommate, Max, as comedic actor Tyler Labine. So if this actually ever does get picked up as a movie, and anyone other than Tyler is cast to play Max, it'll be the wrong choice, I'm telling you.
Okay, my movie visions aside, this book was a lot of fun. There are some entertaining pop culture references thrown in here and there, some outright mentioned, and others are hinted, but aren't hard to figure out. I love the friendship dynamic between Max and Jonah as well as the quick bond formed between the group of psychics (or Psy-Kicks) that they end up working with through the mjaority of the book. There are a lot of other fun characters that are introduced, my favorites being Dee Dee and Jeremy who are architectural designers.
The writing is great and reminds me of some sort of cross between the Hulu series Deadbeat (featuring Tyler Labine - heh heh) and the television series Dead Like Me with a little Reaper television series sprinkled in at the end. Overall, I definitely recommend this book!
January 26, 2023
Jonah bought a new home to share with his best friend, Max. Unfortunately things go sideways when they realize that they are sharing the new house with Willard, the ghost of the previous owner. This realization sends them through the weirder side of Austin, Texas as they team up with priests, psychics, Wiccans, angels & demons in a quest to resolve the situation.
This book is witty with well-developed characters. I found myself laughing quite often. This book has some twists & unique things that happen that keep the reader engaged & interested.
This book is witty with well-developed characters. I found myself laughing quite often. This book has some twists & unique things that happen that keep the reader engaged & interested.
February 23, 2018
This book was hilarious at least through 7 chapters. It did take a turn that I was not expecting and however went into a whole different direction then I had anticipated. It's not a bad book but it's also not one that I would consider on my top 10. The description of how everything played out was great and very vivid.
November 26, 2018
I received a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
While I realize that this book was intended to be funny, I found it mostly tedious. There was the occasional spark of humor, but most of it read like that one friend we all have who constantly cracks jokes and only about a third of them land. I like the premise, but for the most part I was unimpressed.
While I realize that this book was intended to be funny, I found it mostly tedious. There was the occasional spark of humor, but most of it read like that one friend we all have who constantly cracks jokes and only about a third of them land. I like the premise, but for the most part I was unimpressed.
October 6, 2019
An amusing read.
Metaphysical novel with a nod and a wink.
You laugh and enjoy an adventure written entirely tongue in cheek.
I got to the end and realised that the author had managed to layer in some deep musings of life and death, and I hadn't even noticed.
I was entertained, and I enjoyed the ride.
Metaphysical novel with a nod and a wink.
You laugh and enjoy an adventure written entirely tongue in cheek.
I got to the end and realised that the author had managed to layer in some deep musings of life and death, and I hadn't even noticed.
I was entertained, and I enjoyed the ride.
October 10, 2019
It's not exactly what you would expect
It's better! I loved Jonah's travel through life, his best friend Max's interactions with everyone, and how ultimately it is a battle between good and evil, or at least kind-sorta-evil. It is a funny look at the world - you should read it!
It's better! I loved Jonah's travel through life, his best friend Max's interactions with everyone, and how ultimately it is a battle between good and evil, or at least kind-sorta-evil. It is a funny look at the world - you should read it!
October 8, 2019
Headline
This book is a fun read!! Laughter and action, enticing characters!! Do yourself a favor and read this!! Really , just read it!
This book is a fun read!! Laughter and action, enticing characters!! Do yourself a favor and read this!! Really , just read it!
November 25, 2019
Not bad. Could have done without the religious discussion at the 80%+ mark though.
Finally finished reading this thing over a year later. Oh well.
Finally finished reading this thing over a year later. Oh well.
January 25, 2018
This first novel by Brian Corley was a delightful surprise. It is not often you come across a novel that is equal parts scary, funny and insight-fully sweet. This is one of those few exceptions. Billed as falling into the comedic horror genre this novel really delivers. Do not get me wrong this is a scary story, but it is a story with heart, soul and a well developed funny bone.
The premise is just as preposterous as it sounds: two Bros buy a house where a cranky computer programmer ghost already lives that just wants them out. The battle for the house is the smallest part of the story but serves as a great gateway to the funny and poignant story within. After the initial twist very early on, the story really takes off. It is the remainder of the story that provides the largest insight into the main character, Jonah. The reader is invited to ride "shotgun" on this enjoyable road trip through Jonah's city and psyche. The abrupt shift in story line are at once jarring and hilarious. The veritable clown car of crazy characters creates a gleeful ensemble cast that will leave you with laughter bubbling up with every word.
The many sundry characters within this story are the true diamond of this novel. They are the joke, but not in a forced laugh track kind of way. Ghosts, angels, demons, priests, paranormal investigators and witches are just a few of the people we meet along the way. Despite the "brohamness" of the protagonist Jonah, he is not at all un-likeable. His is a kind, innocence of youth and not the more malignant ignorance that can often be associated with this type of character. He's your goofy, right out of college little brother who still eats while standing over the sink, plays too much X-Box and occasionally uses the phrase "Dude" as a verb. Lovable and well meaning. The supporting cast, as this novel feels very much like a sit-com, is played for laughs and not developed in any meaningful way. This takes nothing away from the over all novel however, as their job is simply to provide humorous backbone for the story to build on. In particular the demon Masephson is spot on. As a lover of all things Tim Curry, I was instantly reminded of his brilliant turn as Frankfurter in Rocky Horror Picture Show. Masephson is dramatic, English for no reason and just a little scary. It is the perfect blend of comedy and power. There are a few other creative characters which serve to enhance and advance our heroes plight and overarching goodness. These characters are the perfect tent poles to hold up the general kindness of our characters actions. In a novel that is not written for character development but for story line I found them to be near perfect in their superficiality.
In terms of genre this novel is an excellent example. Hard core horror fans will probably not give this book a chance as it is more funny and heartwarming and less terror and fear, however it would well be worth anyone's time. It is a quick and enjoyable read. The humor is breezy and at times belly laugh inducing. This is the Monty Python of ghost stories. It's silly, clever, quirky and thoroughly pleasurable. Being an escapist novel my only criticism would be the middle 100 pages. They are slightly too long and repetitive. As a reader I felt I was stuck in a bit of a wash, rinse, repeat cycle. There are only so many times I want to hear about mysterious meet/cutes with a hot but elusive chic. The author relies heavily on repetition to build drama and as such the story does drag in the middle. This is a minor point ultimately as the novel is a fairly quick read. The finale is satisfying and surprisingly endearing. This is the type of book even those uninterested in horror could appreciate.
The premise is just as preposterous as it sounds: two Bros buy a house where a cranky computer programmer ghost already lives that just wants them out. The battle for the house is the smallest part of the story but serves as a great gateway to the funny and poignant story within. After the initial twist very early on, the story really takes off. It is the remainder of the story that provides the largest insight into the main character, Jonah. The reader is invited to ride "shotgun" on this enjoyable road trip through Jonah's city and psyche. The abrupt shift in story line are at once jarring and hilarious. The veritable clown car of crazy characters creates a gleeful ensemble cast that will leave you with laughter bubbling up with every word.
The many sundry characters within this story are the true diamond of this novel. They are the joke, but not in a forced laugh track kind of way. Ghosts, angels, demons, priests, paranormal investigators and witches are just a few of the people we meet along the way. Despite the "brohamness" of the protagonist Jonah, he is not at all un-likeable. His is a kind, innocence of youth and not the more malignant ignorance that can often be associated with this type of character. He's your goofy, right out of college little brother who still eats while standing over the sink, plays too much X-Box and occasionally uses the phrase "Dude" as a verb. Lovable and well meaning. The supporting cast, as this novel feels very much like a sit-com, is played for laughs and not developed in any meaningful way. This takes nothing away from the over all novel however, as their job is simply to provide humorous backbone for the story to build on. In particular the demon Masephson is spot on. As a lover of all things Tim Curry, I was instantly reminded of his brilliant turn as Frankfurter in Rocky Horror Picture Show. Masephson is dramatic, English for no reason and just a little scary. It is the perfect blend of comedy and power. There are a few other creative characters which serve to enhance and advance our heroes plight and overarching goodness. These characters are the perfect tent poles to hold up the general kindness of our characters actions. In a novel that is not written for character development but for story line I found them to be near perfect in their superficiality.
In terms of genre this novel is an excellent example. Hard core horror fans will probably not give this book a chance as it is more funny and heartwarming and less terror and fear, however it would well be worth anyone's time. It is a quick and enjoyable read. The humor is breezy and at times belly laugh inducing. This is the Monty Python of ghost stories. It's silly, clever, quirky and thoroughly pleasurable. Being an escapist novel my only criticism would be the middle 100 pages. They are slightly too long and repetitive. As a reader I felt I was stuck in a bit of a wash, rinse, repeat cycle. There are only so many times I want to hear about mysterious meet/cutes with a hot but elusive chic. The author relies heavily on repetition to build drama and as such the story does drag in the middle. This is a minor point ultimately as the novel is a fairly quick read. The finale is satisfying and surprisingly endearing. This is the type of book even those uninterested in horror could appreciate.
May 18, 2018
Entertaining, humorous, and sometimes plain silly story that is overall an enjoyable read. Angels, demons, mortals, and both good and bad spirits provide a tale of what could happen in the afterlife if rules are not followed. Fantasy all the way. 3.5 star read.
I extend thanks to goodreads and the giveaway sponsor for the opportunity to win this book.
I extend thanks to goodreads and the giveaway sponsor for the opportunity to win this book.
January 18, 2018
A Couple of Paranormal Books in One, All Pretty Entertaining
There's a scene early on in this book in which our hero, Jonah, downloads some audible books to keep himself company. They are books by Neil Gaiman, Terry Pratchett, and Douglas Adams. That felt right, because those three seem pretty clearly to be our author's muses. And that's just swell, because you've got to start somewhere as an author and you have to think big.
And this book certainly acquits itself well. It starts a little Scooby-Doo as Jonah and his pal move into a haunted house and try to give the resident ghost the bum's rush. Once the ghost has killed Jonah, (comeon, that's not a spoiler; it's right there in all the blurbs), we have a long segment during which Jonah comes to grips with being a ghost himself and sort of starts to get into it. Jonah finds his calling as a ghosty-whisperer for abandoned souls and everything is paranormal mellow. But you know, there's always a demon somewhere, and they show up in spades. Then it's Jonah, some ghost pals, and some alive pals versus the villainous dead.
Here are the best parts - the book is funny, the hero is easy enough to root for, the afterlife is interesting without being overbuilt and overexplained, the pace is reasonably fast, and the angels and demons who show up are all deadpan funny, mercurial psychotics, and unabashed scene stealers.
Make no mistake, the main appeal here, at least for me, was the witty and sly dialogue and the first person narrator's wry and knowing observations and throwaway lines. I imagine that anyone who knows Austin would like all of the local color shoutouts, and readers who like paranormal angel/demon throwdowns would especially enjoy that part, but I liked the humorous crosstalk. We get Jonah, his pal Max, the paranormal eliminators with whom Jonah takes up, and even the occasional deadpan priest. And the angels get a lot of the best lines.
So, this was fun, and it was smart fun. That worked for me.
(Please note that I received a free advance ecopy of this book without a review requirement, or any influence regarding review content should I choose to post a review. Apart from that I have no connection at all to either the author or the publisher of this book.)
There's a scene early on in this book in which our hero, Jonah, downloads some audible books to keep himself company. They are books by Neil Gaiman, Terry Pratchett, and Douglas Adams. That felt right, because those three seem pretty clearly to be our author's muses. And that's just swell, because you've got to start somewhere as an author and you have to think big.
And this book certainly acquits itself well. It starts a little Scooby-Doo as Jonah and his pal move into a haunted house and try to give the resident ghost the bum's rush. Once the ghost has killed Jonah, (comeon, that's not a spoiler; it's right there in all the blurbs), we have a long segment during which Jonah comes to grips with being a ghost himself and sort of starts to get into it. Jonah finds his calling as a ghosty-whisperer for abandoned souls and everything is paranormal mellow. But you know, there's always a demon somewhere, and they show up in spades. Then it's Jonah, some ghost pals, and some alive pals versus the villainous dead.
Here are the best parts - the book is funny, the hero is easy enough to root for, the afterlife is interesting without being overbuilt and overexplained, the pace is reasonably fast, and the angels and demons who show up are all deadpan funny, mercurial psychotics, and unabashed scene stealers.
Make no mistake, the main appeal here, at least for me, was the witty and sly dialogue and the first person narrator's wry and knowing observations and throwaway lines. I imagine that anyone who knows Austin would like all of the local color shoutouts, and readers who like paranormal angel/demon throwdowns would especially enjoy that part, but I liked the humorous crosstalk. We get Jonah, his pal Max, the paranormal eliminators with whom Jonah takes up, and even the occasional deadpan priest. And the angels get a lot of the best lines.
So, this was fun, and it was smart fun. That worked for me.
(Please note that I received a free advance ecopy of this book without a review requirement, or any influence regarding review content should I choose to post a review. Apart from that I have no connection at all to either the author or the publisher of this book.)
May 27, 2018
this was the first book I’ve read by this author Brian Corley, but I certainly hope it’s not the last. He has a gift for writing descriptive and life-like scenes that make us feel like we are really there, experiencing this strange and entertaining and ‘ghostly’ world first hand. I like that this book didn’t feel stale or derivative of anything I’ve read before, especially when it comes to any sort of ghost story. Great characters and the humorous conversations that had me shaking my head at times. Although it starts off well and gets right into the story with Jonah buying his first home and quickly learning that it is haunted – and then becoming a ghost himself (clever), I do think it could have used more focus and tightening, for at times it just seemed to stall out without a central goal. Seemed like there was more talking ‘about’ stuff and ideas than forward action, but is on only sometimes (more about the heaven/hell spiritual stuff and toward the beginning) and then it picks back up. Fun fighting scenes at the end and its amusing to watch Jonah’s and Willard’s relationship with each other evolve over time. Very playful and intelligent, and even sentimental - But I liked the fact that despite some deeper underlying messages, the book doesn’t take itself too seriously. I was surprised to see that this looks like Brian Corley’s first (and only) book – pretty impressive job for debut author! Recommend to fans of paranormal/humor.
April 12, 2018
I'd say a more accurate rating would be 3.5 stars, but decided to err on the side of generosity, because it's a good read no matter how you slice it.
The basic story premise, of a man who is murdered by the ghost living in his house and comes back as a ghost himself is pretty unique. Corley's conception of the Austin, TX "afterlife" (undeath?) is pretty fun as well. Jonah takes to his new state of being pretty quickly, and comes to enjoy it and find more purpose than he had in life. The cast of characters is pretty memorable, particularly Jonah, Max, "Cat" and Zoe, but less prominent characters feel well realized, too.
The prose is neat, tidy and gets out of the way. Not really an experience in its own right, it doesn't distract from the story, either.
A few little things gang up to knock this down from a solid 4 for me. The narrative leans a little too hard on pop culture references, many of them from my own young adulthood. That's going to leave it dated pretty quickly. It also feels a bit lazy.
There were also a few things that felt inconsistent to me, like perhaps the author had changed his mind about some details of the world building but didn't go back and correct earlier references.
On the whole, though, a very enjoyable read. Quick, unusual and fun.
The basic story premise, of a man who is murdered by the ghost living in his house and comes back as a ghost himself is pretty unique. Corley's conception of the Austin, TX "afterlife" (undeath?) is pretty fun as well. Jonah takes to his new state of being pretty quickly, and comes to enjoy it and find more purpose than he had in life. The cast of characters is pretty memorable, particularly Jonah, Max, "Cat" and Zoe, but less prominent characters feel well realized, too.
The prose is neat, tidy and gets out of the way. Not really an experience in its own right, it doesn't distract from the story, either.
A few little things gang up to knock this down from a solid 4 for me. The narrative leans a little too hard on pop culture references, many of them from my own young adulthood. That's going to leave it dated pretty quickly. It also feels a bit lazy.
There were also a few things that felt inconsistent to me, like perhaps the author had changed his mind about some details of the world building but didn't go back and correct earlier references.
On the whole, though, a very enjoyable read. Quick, unusual and fun.
March 21, 2018
The 411:
I LOVED Ghost Bully. It took me longer than I wanted to read. It should have been read in a weekend but it took me a month. NOT because I didn't like it life got in the way but whenever I wasn't reading it I wanted to read it. I can't say that about a lot of books.
Jonah is our main guy and when he and a friend realize their place is haunted everything hits the fan. Their ghost is mean. JUST mean. He friggin kills Jonah. Really?! I thought only the living could hurt us. At least that is what my daddy told me when I said I was afraid of ghosts. Willard; Jonah's ghost murder is a true bully.
The rest of the book is good versus evil. My favorite parts are when Jonah learns to live with his new life after life and the witty dialogue.
This coming of age book is fast paced with a little adventure, a little drama, a little suspense, supernatural, a bit of horror and a whole lot of funny. Jonah, his friend Max and the rest of the Psy-kicks made this book so worth it. I loved this coming of age story with a twist. Think Scooby Doo, Little Reaper, Ghost Whisper mixed with pop culture references.
Perfect for all ages and not necessarily horror fans.
I LOVED Ghost Bully. It took me longer than I wanted to read. It should have been read in a weekend but it took me a month. NOT because I didn't like it life got in the way but whenever I wasn't reading it I wanted to read it. I can't say that about a lot of books.
Jonah is our main guy and when he and a friend realize their place is haunted everything hits the fan. Their ghost is mean. JUST mean. He friggin kills Jonah. Really?! I thought only the living could hurt us. At least that is what my daddy told me when I said I was afraid of ghosts. Willard; Jonah's ghost murder is a true bully.
The rest of the book is good versus evil. My favorite parts are when Jonah learns to live with his new life after life and the witty dialogue.
This coming of age book is fast paced with a little adventure, a little drama, a little suspense, supernatural, a bit of horror and a whole lot of funny. Jonah, his friend Max and the rest of the Psy-kicks made this book so worth it. I loved this coming of age story with a twist. Think Scooby Doo, Little Reaper, Ghost Whisper mixed with pop culture references.
Perfect for all ages and not necessarily horror fans.
May 27, 2018
Ghost Bully was a fun ride from start to finish. I only found one or two chapters near the beginning to be mildly creepy. Overall, the book elicited more chuckles than chills and absolutely delivered on the unique premise.
What really made Ghost Bully such a great read for me was that the world-building was on point. I think world-building is something I really care about in the books I read and I know the author has done a good job with it when I start wishing there were more books out so I could spend more time in the world they created. Or if I can imagine the story working as a movie or tv show, I know it’s become real to me.
All of the ghostly details were so fun and clever! It was a little bit like reading Harry Potter, where you’re given information you didn’t know you wanted, but once you have it, you can’t imagine the story without it. The world of Ghost Bully is clearly well-developed beyond the parts of it that appear in the text, which makes me excited for the possibility of there being more books.
The writing itself moves along quickly, delivering joke after joke. Not all of them quite landed for me, but I can be a little slow to get the joke.
Of course, the ultimate test of how much I’ve been enjoying a book is when I compare how many pages I actually read versus how many pages I meant to read. There were many nights where I meant to read a chapter before bed, but ended up putting the book down after three or four chapters because it was now super late.
If you’re looking for the perfect book to tote to the beach or pass the time on an airplane, you’ll definitely want to pick up a copy of Ghost Bully this summer!
What really made Ghost Bully such a great read for me was that the world-building was on point. I think world-building is something I really care about in the books I read and I know the author has done a good job with it when I start wishing there were more books out so I could spend more time in the world they created. Or if I can imagine the story working as a movie or tv show, I know it’s become real to me.
All of the ghostly details were so fun and clever! It was a little bit like reading Harry Potter, where you’re given information you didn’t know you wanted, but once you have it, you can’t imagine the story without it. The world of Ghost Bully is clearly well-developed beyond the parts of it that appear in the text, which makes me excited for the possibility of there being more books.
The writing itself moves along quickly, delivering joke after joke. Not all of them quite landed for me, but I can be a little slow to get the joke.
Of course, the ultimate test of how much I’ve been enjoying a book is when I compare how many pages I actually read versus how many pages I meant to read. There were many nights where I meant to read a chapter before bed, but ended up putting the book down after three or four chapters because it was now super late.
If you’re looking for the perfect book to tote to the beach or pass the time on an airplane, you’ll definitely want to pick up a copy of Ghost Bully this summer!
October 22, 2019
An extremely enjoyable, humorous story, with lots of great characters and fantastic ideas, although it did also tend to blow hot and cold at times. A strong, highly amusing start, weak middle, impressive hellish pre-end but sadly a disappointing overly long final ending which appeared to ramble on and on. Unfortunately, I also found parts a bit too repetitive, convenient and obvious with the dialogue being quite basic and simplistic on occasion although this did also make for a nice, easy read. Finally, not sure that the title Ghost Bully is really appropriate as the story was all about the hero Jonah rather than any of other more villainous participants. However, on the whole, this was still a very clever, novel idea which made for a really good, highly entertaining read. 3.8 stars.
October 4, 2024
Funny and such a weird concept
I couldn't stop reading it. No wokeism, a couple remarks about Republicans but dammed if I don't think the same thing about libs, so fair enough lol. A ton of heart, a ton of comedy, and such a streams and interesting concept - of you don't immediately go to Heaven, the afterlife is kind of like a ghost overlay of regular life. Parties, bar hopping, catching live music. Obviously an amazing nightlife because obviously ghosts sleep all day and are up all night. The protagonist Jonah went thru some insane shitand handled it all really well everything considered. His continued best-friendship with his goofy friend Max was great. An excellent read 👌🤌😎
I couldn't stop reading it. No wokeism, a couple remarks about Republicans but dammed if I don't think the same thing about libs, so fair enough lol. A ton of heart, a ton of comedy, and such a streams and interesting concept - of you don't immediately go to Heaven, the afterlife is kind of like a ghost overlay of regular life. Parties, bar hopping, catching live music. Obviously an amazing nightlife because obviously ghosts sleep all day and are up all night. The protagonist Jonah went thru some insane shitand handled it all really well everything considered. His continued best-friendship with his goofy friend Max was great. An excellent read 👌🤌😎
April 24, 2018
The life of a ghost
Jonah bought his first house, but didn't realize the ghost named Willard came in it. His best friend Max moved in with him, they found out there was a suicide in the house their neighbor told them. Willard made an appearance and Jonah and Max started to believe. Then when Jonah refused to be scared away from his own house, Willard the ghost killed him. I thought the book was pretty good. I love of a ghost is an interesting idea, however, the story started to drag for me towards the middle of the book. I do think it is a well written book with an original idea.
Jonah bought his first house, but didn't realize the ghost named Willard came in it. His best friend Max moved in with him, they found out there was a suicide in the house their neighbor told them. Willard made an appearance and Jonah and Max started to believe. Then when Jonah refused to be scared away from his own house, Willard the ghost killed him. I thought the book was pretty good. I love of a ghost is an interesting idea, however, the story started to drag for me towards the middle of the book. I do think it is a well written book with an original idea.
July 12, 2018
Ghost Bully is the funny and interesting story of Jonah Preston, in life and in death. While living, the most exciting thing that had happened to Jonah was buying a house, and in death, the fun really began. Visiting ghost jazz clubs, meeting ghost architects, and sticking up for living children being bullied by ghosts was all in his nightly forays. That is, until he’s propositioned by a demon to lead a ghostly army.
I loved the humor Brian Corley was able to achieve here, and was surprised by the different places he took the plot. The beginning was a tad slow for me, but I enjoyed the whole journey!
I loved the humor Brian Corley was able to achieve here, and was surprised by the different places he took the plot. The beginning was a tad slow for me, but I enjoyed the whole journey!
April 12, 2020
Didn't see that one coming
An excellent book, with a new take on Angels and demons. Jonah is killed by the ghost of the man whose house he has just bought, he could have gone into the next life but decided to stay and help out Max his housemate. Willard is determined to rid his house of these young interlopers and ties different ways to be them to leave. Just when Jonah thinks he knows what h is doing everything changes and the Demons try to recruit him.
He refused to join them and finds a means of escape and compromise with his killer.
A must read for anyone who loves supernatural stories of good verses evil
An excellent book, with a new take on Angels and demons. Jonah is killed by the ghost of the man whose house he has just bought, he could have gone into the next life but decided to stay and help out Max his housemate. Willard is determined to rid his house of these young interlopers and ties different ways to be them to leave. Just when Jonah thinks he knows what h is doing everything changes and the Demons try to recruit him.
He refused to join them and finds a means of escape and compromise with his killer.
A must read for anyone who loves supernatural stories of good verses evil
April 3, 2018
GHOST WORLD SOUNDS ALMOST INVITING!
5 STARS for Ghost Bully, Brian Corley's unique and terrific read. His description of the ghost world or afterlife is extremely entertaining and I for one found it to be an enjoyable read. I felt invested in Jonah almost as if he was a close friend or relative and found I could not put this book down. This is unlike any ghost story or any ghost contact story you have read. It does discuss good or bad but it doesn't get religious heavy handed. It is just a Ghost story you should not miss.
5 STARS for Ghost Bully, Brian Corley's unique and terrific read. His description of the ghost world or afterlife is extremely entertaining and I for one found it to be an enjoyable read. I felt invested in Jonah almost as if he was a close friend or relative and found I could not put this book down. This is unlike any ghost story or any ghost contact story you have read. It does discuss good or bad but it doesn't get religious heavy handed. It is just a Ghost story you should not miss.
April 30, 2019
Good story
I enjoyed this book. It was humorous and lighthearted. It was a good read.
Jonah bought a house. Turns out it's haunted and the current occupant isn't interested in roommates. After the ghost's threats fall on deaf ears, he makes good on them and kills Jonah. But Jonah promised if that were to happen he would make Willard's afterlife miserable. Jonah succeeds... Until Willard comes back for payback.
*I won a copy of this book from a Goodreads giveaway. The review is my own, honest and unsolicited.
I enjoyed this book. It was humorous and lighthearted. It was a good read.
Jonah bought a house. Turns out it's haunted and the current occupant isn't interested in roommates. After the ghost's threats fall on deaf ears, he makes good on them and kills Jonah. But Jonah promised if that were to happen he would make Willard's afterlife miserable. Jonah succeeds... Until Willard comes back for payback.
*I won a copy of this book from a Goodreads giveaway. The review is my own, honest and unsolicited.
July 18, 2022
This isn't your average, run-of-the-mill humorous, paranormal, horror, action, heaven vs hell, adventure novel. It is more than that. It also gives glimpse of life in Austin, Texas.
When nice guy and cubicle worker Jonah buys a house he feels like he is taking a step into actual adulthood. Then he finds out the house is haunted by the previous owner. Willard Henry committed suicide in the house.
Willard is not happy with Jonah or his best friend and roommate, Max. They are too noisy. From there things in Jonah's world go to hell, literally.
When nice guy and cubicle worker Jonah buys a house he feels like he is taking a step into actual adulthood. Then he finds out the house is haunted by the previous owner. Willard Henry committed suicide in the house.
Willard is not happy with Jonah or his best friend and roommate, Max. They are too noisy. From there things in Jonah's world go to hell, literally.
January 8, 2020
An unusual and funny ghost story.
Jonah moves into a house, and discovers it is haunted. The ghost is a bully who murders Jonah. Jonah discovers and enjoys he new existence as a ghost. I like the humor, and Jonah's adventures. He makes both friends and enemies. Jonah uses things he saw in movies and television to use with his ghostly powers, as he helps both the living and the dead.
Jonah moves into a house, and discovers it is haunted. The ghost is a bully who murders Jonah. Jonah discovers and enjoys he new existence as a ghost. I like the humor, and Jonah's adventures. He makes both friends and enemies. Jonah uses things he saw in movies and television to use with his ghostly powers, as he helps both the living and the dead.
April 1, 2020
The first third of this book was really hard for me to get through. The main characters are a couple of young men who behave, frankly, not too bright. There was nothing to either character that drew me in. I kept waiting and hoping for something interesting to kick in, or at least for there to be some humorous content. The story did towards the end have some good moments, but I cannot say that I really enjoyed the book.
May 17, 2021
Whee! An Ausrin ghost story!
Wow! What a fun romp! Having lived inn Austin since 1959, and having been a Realtor(r), I enjoyed this imaginative tale with very realistic characters thoroughly. The knowledge of south Austin, and other neighborhoods added to the delight of the story. I feel like I know Jonah and Max and the Ps-Kicks and even Willard. If you liked Ghostbusters, and Ghost, you’ll LOVE this. I do and I did!
Wow! What a fun romp! Having lived inn Austin since 1959, and having been a Realtor(r), I enjoyed this imaginative tale with very realistic characters thoroughly. The knowledge of south Austin, and other neighborhoods added to the delight of the story. I feel like I know Jonah and Max and the Ps-Kicks and even Willard. If you liked Ghostbusters, and Ghost, you’ll LOVE this. I do and I did!
October 23, 2022
This is a cute story about two men; Jonah and Max who purchase a home that has a history to it: it is haunted by Willard. Jonah and Max irritate the ghost so much that Willard the ghost kills Jonah, leaving Jonah with no idea what to do. Jonah discovers that he has certain 'powers' as a ghost, and he can use those 'powers' to release other ghosts, so they can "move on". This is a cute story with the theme of friendship as being powerful.
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