I like the direction Edward Kendrick takes with this spin-off from the “Ghostly Investigations” series. Mike Harris and Sage Crewe actually step back with this investigation, being it’s more difficult to prove a serial killer is involved in the deaths of the homeless. Mike and Sage leave Brody, with his law enforcement experience, to guide the “Ghostie Boys” on solving the mystery. Everyone of the “Ghostie Boys” brings their own suggestions and purpose to help solving the crime.

Kendricks takes the loner Daw and young Russ in a new direction, as both have faced the struggles of being homeless. Daw and Russ find their own special purpose in striving to help others.

With the start of this spin-off and the new business endeavor for the “Ghostie Boys”, it seems everyone is excited about the new idea and have found a place to really fit in. As in all the novels in “A Ghostly Investigations” series it’s bitter-sweet as everyone has had to make a choice if they will stay or move beyond. “A Ghostly Investigations” has been one of my favorite series from Edward Kendrick and I hope there’s more mysteries for the “Ghostie Boys” to get into.

The first book that started this series is “Ghostly Investigations”. It introduces Jon Watts, just a normal young man and undercover cop Brody Ellis. Jon and Brody eventually meet Sage Crewe who is a medium/landscape architect and Detective Mike Harris who is a skeptic. It’s followed with: “Searching for My Killer”: Jon and Brody along with Sage and Mike are back trying to solve a new case that takes place in the theatre. Tonio Burton is a lighting technician and meets his demise. Mike is quick to close the case but the “Ghostie Boys” discover new evidence and Mike finds himself re-opening the case. “Dead and Hating It”: Jon, Brody, Sage and Mike return to solve another mysterious death. Kurt Foster thinks he’s found the love of his life but not all is what it seems. Tonio who has had a rough time with his ghostly situation gives-in and helps with the investigation too. This is a complex mystery to solve and the “Ghostie Boys” have their work cut out for them. “A Haunting of Ghosts”: the “Ghostie Boys” along with Sage and Mike have a drive-by murder mystery to solve. Van and Gene are writers and life partners. They are currently researching two cold cases. One of the cases happens to be Jon’s. Could Van and Gene’s research solve Jon’s case?

The “Ghostly Investigations” is entertaining and a fun series to read. It’s mixed with different mysteries, bitter sweet moments and mischief. The characters are all likable and bring something new and valuable to each story. In each of these novels, the characters all struggle with their own dilemmas as they have to make their own choices and decide what each of their purpose is and whether to continue as a ghost or move on.

Even though “A Long Way Down” is addressed as a spin-off, it could very well be a book five in the series. However Edward Kendrick decides to continue with this, as another installment to the series or the beginning of a new series, it’s a welcome addition, with a new direction for all the characters.