A paranormal mystery romance filled with heart and tragedy.
Today I’m partnering with Rebecca Crunden to review her standalone book Haze.
What is Haze about?
Eliza Owens is happy. She’s just gotten engaged to Erik, her best friend and love of her life.
That night, Eliza receives a warning call from Erik’s dead ex-girlfriend Paige. Her sister Sam questions her decision to marry the boy she loves based on what Paige has told her.
Their lives change forever from that night on. Erik leaves town and Eliza is left holding the broken pieces of what was once her life.
Five years later and Erik is back. Bringing with him the pain of that night, and all the unanswered questions they both still have. Including who really called Eliza that night? And why?
Haze follows Eliza and Erik as they try and piece back together the broken shards of their lives.
What I liked about Haze?
This was a great read!
Crunden weaves a tragic story of family loss, abuse and broken hearts. Through beautiful prose, she shows the wide ripples of the impact of grief. How it can affect people in different ways, breaking them apart.
The mystery was well done, and intriguing. I honestly wasn’t expecting the twists that occurred which is always refreshing!
The supernatural events that occur within the book are tasteful. These elements add to the plot rather than distract from the mystery. Crunden’s approach to particular elements of the supernatural is spectacular (Sorry, no spoilers! You’ll just have to read it to find out!).
I appreciated that Crunden’s characters are deeply flawed and struggling. Even as they strive to work together. Real life isn’t clean. So I appreciate characters who reflect this messiness, particularly after experiencing trauma.
The tale of Haze is engrossing and tragic. I flew through this book! While it does touch on the ‘star-crossed lovers’ trope, it isn’t overdone. Eliza and Erik are wonderful characters. You can’t help but fall in love with their beautiful, messy, and complex relationship.
If you’re a fan of the show
Riverdale you’ll really enjoy Haze!Haze features a small town with a dark side and mysterious happenings.
What I didn’t like about Haze?
There wasn’t much I disliked about Haze. It ticked a lot of boxes for me. Great pacing, character development and unique supernatural elements made this a great read.
A word of warning, this book contains references to drug use and sexual assault. Neither topic is described in graphic or gratuitous detail, but it is present as a plot feature. There is some coarse language. I didn’t feel this was problematic. Yet, it’s worth mentioning for readers who may be sensitive to these topics.
My recommendation?
Read this book. Fans of mystery and the paranormal genres will both be intrigued by this book. Romance fans, there’s plenty for you too. Haze delivers a satisfying story with a soulful blend of tragedy and romance.
About the author?
Rebecca Crunden is a self-published author of ten titles across several genres. These include fantasy, romance, dystopian, and mystery. If you’re interested in finding out more about her writing visit her website or Goodreads.
Where can I get a copy of Haze?
Haze is available on Amazon in both ebook and paperback. Buy a copy here.
Final Thoughts
Thanks for reading today’s review! I hope you end up getting a copy of Haze and enjoying it as much as I did. What was the last paranormal or mystery book you read?
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Steph Huddleston 
That’s a great review 💕
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Thank you!
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