Unexpected School Reunion

Suze Simon, a mediator who communicates with ghosts, is startled when Paul Slater, a boy from her past, shows up at her school. Paul, who shares Suze's abilities, has a history of causing trouble, and his presence unnerves her. Despite her attempts to avoid him, Paul is persistent, hinting at knowledge about their shared gift that Suze doesn't have. Meanwhile, Suze is dealing with her feelings for Jesse, a ghost who resides in her home and with whom she shares a complicated relationship.

Secrets and Shadows

Paul reveals to Suze that they are not just mediators but "shifters," capable of moving between the realms of the living and the dead. He tempts Suze with the promise of teaching her more about her abilities, but his motives are unclear. Suze is torn between her curiosity and her distrust of Paul, especially as he seems to have a personal interest in her that goes beyond their shared abilities.

Ghostly Intrigues

Suze encounters Craig, a ghost who believes his brother Neil should have died instead of him. As Suze tries to mediate, she learns that Craig's unresolved feelings are keeping him earthbound. Meanwhile, Paul continues to insert himself into Suze's life, causing tension with Jesse, who is protective of Suze and wary of Paul's intentions.

Dangerous Alliances

Suze reluctantly agrees to meet Paul at his house, where he shows her ancient texts about shifters. Despite her better judgment, Suze is drawn to the knowledge Paul offers, even as she struggles with her feelings for Jesse. The situation becomes more complicated when Paul makes a move on Suze, leading to a confrontation that leaves her questioning her loyalties.

Heartfelt Confessions

Jesse, feeling the strain of his unspoken feelings for Suze, decides to move out of her home to the rectory, believing it's best for both of them. Suze is heartbroken, realizing that Jesse's departure is a result of his love for her and his belief that she deserves a life with someone living. This revelation forces Suze to confront her own feelings and the reality of her situation.

A Battle of Wills

At a party thrown by her stepbrother, Suze's world spirals into chaos as Paul and Jesse's tensions explode into a physical fight. The confrontation escalates when Craig's ghost intervenes, threatening Neil's life. Suze is forced to use her shifting abilities to save Neil, leading to a dangerous journey into the spirit realm.

A New Understanding

After the confrontation, Suze gains a deeper understanding of her abilities and the responsibilities they entail. She also realizes the depth of Jesse's feelings for her, as he confesses his love, acknowledging the challenges they face. Suze is left to navigate her complex emotions and the implications of her powers, with Paul still lurking as a potential threat.

The Final Confrontation

Suze confronts Paul, setting boundaries and demanding he leave Jesse alone. Paul, intrigued by Suze's strength and determination, agrees to a truce, though his intentions remain ambiguous. Suze and Jesse's relationship is solidified, but the future remains uncertain as Suze grapples with her identity as a shifter and the choices that lie ahead.

Characters

Suze Simon

Suze is a high school student with the unique ability to communicate with the dead. She is strong-willed and often finds herself torn between her duties as a mediator and her personal desires. Her relationship with Jesse, a ghost, is central to her emotional journey, as she navigates the complexities of love and responsibility.

Jesse de Silva

Jesse is a 19th-century ghost who resides in Suze's home. He is deeply in love with Suze but struggles with the implications of their relationship. His protective nature often puts him at odds with Paul, and his decision to move out reflects his selfless love for Suze.

Paul Slater

Paul is a fellow mediator with a dark past and a manipulative streak. He is fascinated by Suze and seeks to draw her into his world, offering knowledge about their abilities. Despite his charm, his true intentions are often suspect, making him both an ally and a threat.

Father Dominic

Father Dominic is the principal of Suze's school and a fellow mediator. He serves as a mentor to Suze, offering guidance and support as she navigates her abilities. His concern for Suze's well-being often puts him at odds with her impulsive nature.

Craig Jankow

Craig is a ghost who believes his brother Neil should have died instead of him. His unresolved feelings keep him earthbound, and his presence complicates Suze's life as she tries to mediate his situation.

Neil Jankow

Neil is Craig's brother, who survived the accident that killed Craig. He struggles with feelings of guilt and inadequacy, believing he should have been the one to die. His relationship with Suze becomes a focal point in resolving Craig's unrest.

Plot Devices

Shifting

Shifting is the ability to move between the realms of the living and the dead. This plot device is central to the story, as it represents both the potential and the danger of Suze's abilities. It serves as a metaphor for the choices she must make and the responsibilities she must accept.

Love Triangle

The love triangle between Suze, Jesse, and Paul creates emotional tension and drives much of the narrative. It highlights Suze's internal conflict and the challenges of balancing her personal desires with her duties as a mediator.

Ghost Mediation

Suze's role as a mediator involves helping ghosts resolve their unfinished business. This plot device is used to explore themes of forgiveness, redemption, and the impact of unresolved emotions on both the living and the dead.

Analysis

"Haunted" delves into themes of identity, responsibility, and the complexities of love. Suze's journey is one of self-discovery, as she learns to navigate her abilities and the emotional challenges they bring. The novel explores the idea that true strength lies in understanding and accepting one's own limitations, as well as the importance of making choices that align with one's values. Through Suze's interactions with Jesse and Paul, the story examines the nature of love and the sacrifices it often demands. Ultimately, "Haunted" is a tale of growth and empowerment, as Suze learns to embrace her unique identity and the responsibilities that come with it.

Last updated: February 26, 2025