The Ghost Merchant
Nestled in the small village of Ringwood is a peculiar shop that sells the souls of the departed.
In life, Quill never stood up for himself or broke the rules, not even when it really mattered. Now, as the two-hundred-year-old proprietor, he dutifully matches each customer with the perfect soul-so long as they can pay the price and are willing to sign the contract.
When Erin's soul arrives at the shop, it becomes clear that she's more than just inventory. Somehow, she's able to maintain a connection to the living world. Quill takes Erin on as his apprentice, hoping to understand her mysterious abilities. But digging too deep will mean breaking the rules, and if The Boss finds out, someone's going to pay with their very soul.
Will Quill be able to do what he never could in life, or will he stay forever bound by the rules that have always restrained him?
290 pages
English edition · First published 2025 by Urban Fantasy · ISBN 9781836548867
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Ratings and reviews
4.5 ⭐️ Thank you Ben Andrews for the ARC! I absolutely loved The Ghost Merchant! This cosy fantasy follows Quill, a centuries-old merchant who runs a shop where souls are traded for years of life, and Erin, a newly-deceased girl who unexpectedly becomes his apprentice. From the start, I was drawn into Erin’s story - there’s something different about her, and uncovering that mystery kept me hooked. The book strikes a perfect balance between warmth and depth, with just enough darkness to ground the story without overwhelming its gentler tone. I appreciated that the heavier themes were handled subtly, which kept the overall vibe heartfelt and comforting. I especially adored Arthur - his story resonated with me deeply as a queer woman, and his presence added another emotional layer to the narrative. The themes of friendship, love, and self-forgiveness are beautifully woven throughout, making this more than just a whimsical ghost tale. The characters are rich, the world is intriguing, and the plot moves with a quiet, compelling energy. Though the story wraps up and gives closure, there's plenty of room left for more, and I would happily read more in the future.
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