Ghost Train to New Orleans

Ghost Train to New Orleans follows Zoe Norris, a travel writer who can see and interact with monsters and supernatural beings. As managing editor for Underground Publications, she embarks on a train journey to New Orleans to review supernatural destinations, accompanied by her coterie writer team. The narrative centers on their adventures aboard a ghost train that runs between New York and New Orleans, catering exclusively to supernatural clientele. Zoe must navigate both professional duties and mounting dangers while documenting the paranormal amenities and attractions for her publication's monster readership. The world-building expands beyond the first book in the series, introducing new supernatural creatures and deeper complexities of monster society. New Orleans serves as a backdrop with its mix of history, culture, and supernatural elements woven into the city's fabric. This urban fantasy explores themes of belonging and identity through the lens of both human and monster communities, while maintaining its foundation in travel writing and journalism. The story balances workplace dynamics with supernatural elements to create commentary on cultural differences and acceptance.

Readers found this sequel entertaining but not as strong as the first book in the series. Many noted it maintains the humor and supernatural elements while expanding the worldbuilding around ghost trains and New Orleans' paranormal community. Liked: - The concept of ghost trains and their mechanics - New Orleans setting details and atmosphere - Supporting character development - Humor and dialogue - References to regional food and culture Disliked: - Plot pacing drags in middle sections - Less compelling mystery than first book - Some found protagonist Zoe less engaging - Romance subplot feels forced - Supernatural rules become confusing Review Scores: Goodreads: 3.7/5 (1,200+ ratings) Amazon: 4.1/5 (80+ reviews) Notable Reader Comments: "Fun but meandering story that needed tighter editing" - Goodreads reviewer "Great atmosphere but plot loses steam halfway through" - Amazon reviewer "Solid sequel that captures New Orleans' weirdness perfectly" - LibraryThing review

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🚂 Ghost Train to New Orleans is the second book in The Shambling Guides series, following protagonist Zoe Norris as she writes travel guides for supernatural creatures. 🏙️ Author Mur Lafferty is a pioneer in podcasting fiction, launching her show "I Should Be Writing" in 2004, making it one of the longest-running writing podcasts. 👻 The book draws on New Orleans' rich history of supernatural folklore, including its famous haunted locations and voodoo traditions. 🏆 Mur Lafferty won the John W. Campbell Award for Best New Writer in 2013, the same year the first book in this series was published. 🎭 The novel features coterie (supernatural beings) who work in the tourism industry, reflecting the real-life importance of tourism to New Orleans' economy while adding a fantastical twist.