Karen S. (BoysMom) - , reviewed on 8/12/2025 + 1032 more book reviews

The Spirit of Vanderlaan by Susan Harris Howell

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


A fun, quirky start to a warm, non-traditional new mystery series.

The Spirit of Vanderlaan is the first book in author Susan Harris Howell's new mystery series featuring the nurturing university psychology professor, Dr. Samantha Hayes. In this first adventure, supernatural experiences on campus involving her and her students, including some more than coincidental room assignments linked to the professor's past, have them puzzled. This was a perfect kick-back, relax, and enjoy book for the end of my day, and I found the story warm, nostalgic, and completely engaging.

Samantha Hayes is a delight, and she is absolutely surrounded by outstanding supporting characters, especially her cadre of teaching assistants and the small knot of students who are regulars in her classes and during her office hours. I enjoyed the easy camaraderie that developed between Samantha and her students and was reminded of my college days with the fun and thoughtful mentors and friends I met while in school. I had to laugh at an incident early in the book where Samantha had to adjust a disgruntled and privileged student's demands for service! I really look forward to seeing more of this crew.

I recommend THE SPIRIT OF VANDERLAAN to readers of cozy paranormal tales.

I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advance Review Copy from the author through Great Escapes Virtual Book Tours.

Back to all reviews by this member
Back to Book Reviews
Back to Book Details