Ghosts of Harvard

The synopsis of this book led me to believe that the story was a mystery / thriller set on the Harvard campus. In actuality, it’s a story about a dysfunctional family dealing with mental illness and the loss of a family member. If that is your “type” of book, I encourage you to read it. The book is well researched and written. It is quite long and goes into great depths to describe how the characters “feel”. In my opinion, the author is primarily focused on the psychological impact of the family issues. It wasn’t until I reached the 85% “read” point on my Kindle, that the story became exciting. It took a LONG time for any sort of action or intrigue. It’s a shame, the author creates great characters and backdrop for a wonderful thriller, if that had been her desire!

I read this book during the recent Covid-19 crisis, and since its a bit like watching a movie, I saw it as an alternative to Netflix. In that sense, it wasnt a bad read, but it certainly wasnt the literary work of art the author seems to imagine it is. The book tries to combine multiple genres, not always successfully: its a family drama focused on grief, a spiritual fantasy filled with ghosts, and a Russian spy story (in the novels most unlikely plot line). Mostly, I found it pretentious; the author (in her comments about herself) and the main character both insist on reminding the reader how privileged they are to have attended Harvard, what a remarkable place it is, etc. For me, a little name dropping goes a long way, snd I kept wanting to say, Just get over it. Again, this book was a not unpleasant way to pass the time; I wouldnt recommend it otherwise.

The sheer array of facets contained in Serritella’s first solo outing are nothing less than breathtaking. History, physics, psychology, and human/supernatural experience entwine in a captivating tale.
Told from the often fevered perspective of a young Harvard freshman, you are taken on a ride that is filled with careening hights and depths.
For anyone who has had experience with mental illness and suicide the story is both painful and a balm.
I look forward to anything that Serritella gifts us with.

the younger sister of a now dead brother goes to Harvard… the setting is interesting and there are flashes of the place that come across …the people aren’t that interesting ..the Mother who blames Harvard for her son’s death..Cady the younger sister and main character who goes to Harvard looking for the reasons her brother killed himself there..the plot just does not develop that well or perhaps it simply takes too long to develop.. how many times must the reader be told that Cady’s head is swimming? This novel is disappointing .

Well worth the wait! This debut novel is a page turner. Eloquently written with attention to sumptuous detail. The lush campus that is Harvard comes alive in this sensitive story of loss and hope. I highly recommend this beautiful and gut wrenching read!

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