Helen and Nate have searched everywhere for the perfect house for them, finally deciding to build it themselves. The land they purchase has a dark history, however, as Hattie Breckenridge was burned as a witch in the early 1920s. Meanwhile, a fourteen-year-old neighbor of Helen and Nate is also interested in the land they have purchased. Her missing mother told her a treasure was hidden in the bog and Olive wants to find the treasure- and discover where her mom went when she left her and her dad. What answers will they find hidden in the bog?

I love ghost stories and thoroughly enjoyed one of Jennifer McMahon's earlier books, THE WINTER PEOPLE. I'm afraid my high expectations somewhat skewed my enjoyment of THE INVITED, which is a solid book in its own rights but is nowhere as creepy as THE WINTER PEOPLE. THE INVITED is more eerie than it is scary.

Jennifer McMahon weaves THE INVITED seamlessly between past and present, crafting a tale that slowly engages the reader. The pace is a bit leisurely, but the vivid descriptions and strong character depictions push the plot forward. If you like ghost stories that are more atmospheric than creepy, then give THE INVITED a try.