Dickens & Rumi
Cover of THE HAUNTED

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THE HAUNTED

Jessica Verday

Sleepy Hollow plays a part in this tale of lost love and perfumery.

Ages 13+Source checked

Why this age? Ghostly danger, death and grief, suspense, and emotionally intense romance are central; sexual content appears limited, but the supernatural and relationship themes suit teens. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age13+

Strongest cautions

  • Death of a character4/5
  • Romance4/5
  • Frightening scenes3/5

Strongest positives

  • Positive messages3/5
  • Courage & resilience2/5
  • Creativity & curiosity2/5

What’s in it?

Death of a character4/5
Why this rating?

A friend's death and the resulting grief are central to the story, with ongoing supernatural contact shaping the characters' relationships.

Graphic injury1/5
Why this rating?

No graphic gore is depicted in the story.

Strong language1/5
Why this rating?

Some mild teen-level angst and occasional salty language.

Religious themes1/5
Why this rating?

The book includes ghosts and afterlife-related ideas, but these function as paranormal story elements rather than sustained religious practice or teaching.

Romance4/5
Why this rating?

Romantic attraction and relationship complications are major parts of the young-adult narrative.

Frightening scenes3/5
Why this rating?

Recurring ghosts, haunting, danger, and suspense create a distinctly eerie mood, though the story is generally atmospheric rather than relentlessly frightening.

Sexual content & nudity1/5
Why this rating?

Very mild romantic references; nothing explicit.

Alcohol or drugs1/5
Why this rating?

Not a focus or significant element in the narrative.

Violence2/5
Why this rating?

Includes brief moments of supernatural tension and mild physical confrontations.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience2/5
Why this rating?

Characters confront supernatural danger, grief, uncertainty, and painful revelations with ongoing determination.

Creativity & curiosity2/5
Why this rating?

The ghost-centered world, mystery, and imaginative supernatural premise can stimulate curiosity and creative thought.

Diverse representation1/5
Why this rating?

Characters are generally depicted as standard YA archetypes within the setting.

Kindness & empathy2/5
Why this rating?

Friends and the romantic interest provide support during a difficult time.

Positive messages3/5
Why this rating?

Explores themes of moving forward from grief and self-discovery.

Good role models2/5
Why this rating?

Characters are flawed teenagers going through emotional struggles.

Family discussion

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Conversation starters based on this title’s published content notes.

  1. What message do you think the story most wants you to remember?
  2. How did the story approach death or loss? What helped the characters cope?
  3. Which choice in THE HAUNTED would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in THE HAUNTED, and what caused that change?
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These content notes are a starting point, not a guarantee. Review the evidence and use your own judgment before choosing a title.

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