My The Ghost and the Goth Book Review - No Spoilers
Plot Summary
The Ghost and the Goth by Stacey Kade is a paranormal young adult romance about two very different teens: Alona Dare, the school’s most popular girl who suddenly dies, and Will Killian, an outcast goth guy who can see and talk to ghosts. After Alona’s accidental death, she’s stuck haunting her high school and quickly discovers that Will is the only living person who can see her. Desperate to move on (and a little desperate for answers), Alona strikes a reluctant deal with Will: she’ll help him handle the needy, sometimes dangerous ghosts haunting him, and in exchange, he’ll help her figure out how to “cross over.” As they untangle the mysteries around them, Alona and Will start to understand—and genuinely care for—each other, finding a friendship that neither expected and a connection that just might help them both heal. The story alternates between their points of view and combines ghostly adventures, high school drama, and the bumpy road from distrust to true bond.
Why I Love This Book
I love the humor and fast pace in this book. The banter between Alona and Will made me laugh, and their growing friendship slowly transforms both of them. Alona’s journey from shallow cheerleader to someone actually willing to care about others gives the story depth. Will is one of those rare “goth” heroes who feels real—awkward, guarded, but full of heart. Watching these two try to survive high school (one as a ghost, one almost as invisible as one) is fun and sometimes surprisingly moving. The alternating point of view makes each character’s arc feel honest and different. I appreciate that the story isn’t afraid to bring in tough topics—grief, being misunderstood, real loneliness—and still offer a satisfying, uplifting vibe. It’s not just about ghosts and high school clichés; it’s about figuring out who you are beyond what everyone expects.
Who Will Like This Book
If you like quirky, funny teen stories with a paranormal twist, you’ll have fun with this one. Readers who enjoy hate-to-friendship or opposites attract dynamics, dual perspectives, or ghostly hijinks will find what they’re looking for. It’s good for anyone wanting a story about found family, self-discovery, and acceptance—with plenty of sarcasm along the way. Content notes for mild swearing, brief suggestive remarks, and grief around parental loss and high school bullying. There’s more snark and emotional growth than romance or scares, so if you want a lighter ghost read, this fits.
Tagged As
young adult, paranormal romance, ghost romance, opposites attract, grumpy/sunshine, dual pov, enemies to friends, found family, high school, contemporary fantasy, witty banter, slow burn, sarcasm, coming of age, emotional healing, friendship, quirky heroine, outcast hero, light angst, supernatural, cozy, standalone, series, open-door romance
Steam Level
There’s some light flirtation and romantic tension, but it stays firmly in “clean” territory. Most of the sparks are emotional, and any physical moments are implied rather than detailed. If you like a sweet, PG ghost romance full of laughs and heartfelt moments, this one fits the bill.
