Finding Magic in “Good Spirits” by Lissa Borison
When I first laid eyes on Good Spirits (Ghosted #1) by Lissa Borison, I was immediately enchanted by the premise: a ghost of Christmas past haunting the wrong woman. I mean, who doesn’t appreciate a story that beautifully intertwines supernatural elements with themes of love and redemption? As the leaves began to turn and the air grew crisp, I felt the pull of this romance, wondering if it could encapsulate the warmth and magic of the holiday season. Spoiler alert: it absolutely did.
The beauty of this story lies in its exploration of loneliness and connection. Our protagonist, Harriet, is a soft yet resilient soul, grappling with the feeling of never truly fitting in. When she crosses paths with Nolan, a ghost trapped in limbo for a century, the two embark on a heartfelt journey that leads them to confront their pasts while discovering new joys in the present. Their romance is not just a plot device; it’s a deep exploration of healing and hope. From their first moments together, it’s evident that their connection provides them both with the comfort and understanding they’ve long sought.
Borison’s prose glimmers with a tactile quality. You can almost feel the warmth of flannel sheets and the comfort of peppermint coffee in each word. One of the most memorable moments resonates deeply: “You make me hope, Harriet. You make me want. I am haunted by you.” It’s a line that perfectly captures the bittersweet essence of their relationship, and I found myself lingering over it, reflecting on how a single person can ignite hope in another’s life.
The pacing flows smoothly, inviting readers to savor each moment. I found myself turning pages late into the night, wrapped up in the cozy charm of their small town and antique shop. Those elements, along with the whimsical yet poignant backdrop of Christmas, evoke a sense of nostalgia that I hold dear.
Both characters are beautifully fleshed out. Harriet’s struggles remind us of the universal fear of not belonging, which resonated with me. Through her journey of self-acceptance and newfound courage, readers are treated to a powerful arc that invites us to reflect on our own insecurities. Nolan, with his touch-starved existence, embodies the yearning for connection that many of us can relate to. His character really tugged at my heartstrings as I ached for his unfulfilled desires and craved the warmth that Harriet eventually brings into his long-lonely existence.
As I closed the book, I was left in a gentle puddle of emotions, transformed. Borison’s writing feels like a warm hug, and her ability to convey intimacy, both emotional and physical, had me feeling seen and understood—something I didn’t expect from a ghostly romance.
I wholeheartedly recommend Good Spirits to anyone who has ever felt like a "broken thing" waiting for their time to shine. It’s a heartfelt reminder that love can come in the most unexpected forms and that everyone deserves to feel cherished. Whether you’re a fan of holiday romances, supernatural tales, or simply looking for a story that echoes the beauty of belonging, this book will capture your heart. So grab your favorite blanket, a cup of cocoa, and lose yourself in this delightful story—trust me, you won’t regret it.
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