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  • Grove Hollow Metamorphosis: A 1980s Gothic Paranormal Romance Novel

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Grove Hollow Metamorphosis: A 1980s Gothic Paranormal Romance Novel Hardcover – October 1, 2023

4.3 out of 5 stars (796)

The year is 1985, and eighteen-year-old Jade Whitney is about to discover her family holds a secret that will change her life forever. Jade moves into her family's grand, gilded mansion with her Great Aunt Ruth, where she begins to uncover the scandalous history of her affluent ancestors. As she adjusts to her new life and a new private school, Jade struggles to navigate the social hierarchy that divides her friends, The Misfits, from the popular crowd of jocks and cheerleaders. When she meets the charming rugby captain, Bradley Phillips, she experiences falling in love for the first time-or so she thinks.


When Jade finds a cursed locket connected to a ghost named William, her life turns in an unexpected direction. While aiding Will in his quest to cross into the afterlife, Jade discovers a deep connection between them that goes far beyond what she could ever imagine.

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Editorial Reviews

Review

"The author's portrayal of Jade's character development is masterful, making her relatable and endearing as she navigates the challenges of a new school and the complexities of teenage life. The addition of a cursed locket and a ghost named William adds an intriguing supernatural element that kept me on the edge of my seat, eager to uncover every mystery. The writing style is beautifully immersive, transporting readers back to the '80s and making them feel like they are right alongside Jade and her band of misfit friends every step of the way. I was deeply moved by the emotions and relationships woven throughout the narrative, especially when Jade experiences the joys and heartaches of first love, which I know many of us have felt. With a perfect balance of suspense, romance, and coming-of-age themes, Grove Hollow-Metamorphosis is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a gripping and enchanting tale." - Meagan @meagen_reads


"Grove Hollow Metamorphosis is the first book in Shelby McFaddens debut series and let me tell you this book is one hell of a way to start off your writing career. This book was an outstanding debut, it was ghostly and dark and everything I could ask for in a paranormal romance. Based in 1985 this book was full of 80s nostalgia and pop culture references, being a lover of 80s music I couldn't get enough. The storyline was brilliant, I loved the split between high school drama and the relatable experience of first love to the paranormal adventure of solving the mysterious case of the beetle locket. Jade our MC is a brilliant quirky girl who's life gets turned upside down after her grandfather passes away. I am not going to mention the love interests because I am not going to spoil the fun for you lovely people, so you'll have to just trust my word that the love triangle is so good!" - Aaliyah @aaliyahsbookshelf._


"This was hands down, my all time favorite read this year. I loved it completely. I've been so ecstatic for this one! I couldn't stop reading this! There were so many times I caught myself smiling and laughing like I was a teenager again wanting to go back to my high school days. I don't think any book will top it for me this year. Absolutely beautiful, I was pulled in from the first page! Jade is the first FMC I've read that I resonated completely with, I felt more immersed for that. She was great, real, and for once I find a female main character who didn't drive me nuts, I really like her! I adore how it takes place in the 80s. It was all done so well, I'm throughly impressed! Vivid, memorable characters. There wasn't any character that was boring or didn't serve a purpose. The dialogue was fun between the characters! I can't gush enough how well everything was written, you can tell there was so much heart and soul that went into this story. And WILL! Oh my gosh. So beautifully archaic and passionately poetic. He took over everything as soon as he hit the scene, what a dream. He spoke with so much passion and raw emotion-I am MELTING." - Carmella @carmella_grace_books

About the Author

Shelby Nicole McFadden is an author, business owner, artist, and graphic designer known for her exciting debut series, Grove Hollow. This enthralling gothic paranormal journey breathes new life into the genre. With intricate narratives, mysterious plotlines, and fantastical elements, Shelby immerses readers in an emotional world of secrets, exploring complex relationships and the transformative power of love.

Product details

  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CF52WRPX
  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Maple Projects, LLC.
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ October 1, 2023
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 330 pages
  • ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 979-8988874607
  • Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 1.22 pounds
  • Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 6 x 0.94 x 9 inches
  • Book 1 of 2 ‏ : ‎ Grove Hollow
  • Best Sellers Rank: #1,924,745 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.3 out of 5 stars (796)

About the author

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Shelby Nicole McFadden
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Shelby Nicole McFadden is a multi-talented author, business owner, artist, and graphic designer known for her captivating Grove Hollow series—an enthralling gothic paranormal journey. With intricate narratives, mysterious plotlines, and fantastical elements, Shelby breathes new life into the paranormal romance genre, transporting readers to otherworldly realms. Her attention to detail immerses readers in a world of secrets waiting to be unraveled, while her skilled characterization explores complex relationships and the transformative power of love. Fearlessly tackling profound themes, Shelby invites reflection on the human condition and the enigmatic nature of life itself. Through her magnetic storytelling, Shelby sets herself apart as an author to watch, leaving readers eagerly awaiting the next thrilling chapter in the Grove Hollow series.

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Customer reviews

4.3 out of 5 stars
796 global ratings
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Customers say

Customers find this book an enjoyable read with an amazing storyline and fascinating mystery plot, featuring compelling characters and endearing romance. Moreover, the writing is beautifully crafted, and customers appreciate its enchanting gothic vibes and nostalgic 80s atmosphere. Additionally, the content is praised for its intertwining of Egyptian lore and history.
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26 customers mention readability, 24 positive, 2 negative
Customers find the book to be a very enjoyable read and a fabulous debut, with one customer noting it's perfect for winding down at the end of the day.
This book was a great read! It was well written and kept me entertained, when I got to the end of the book I wanted more!...Read more
This was a fun read! It’s a bit outside my usual genre, and I found myself annoyed my the main character at first - then realized she’s a teenager....Read more
Loved this book so much!!! I cannot wait to read the second book! ⭐ïļâ­ïļâ­ïļâ­ïļâ­ïļRead more
...thing you can think about become your entire personality but it’s worth it. I read this in a day and I can’t wait until the next book! 💜Read more
22 customers mention story, 21 positive, 1 negative
Customers enjoy the fascinating mystery plot of the book, with one customer noting it's a low-stake gothic love story.
...I loved this book and need more please.Its just a wonderful story.Read more
Loved the story line the characters the pg13 romance very well written highly recommendRead more
I LOVED this story! The characters were so compelling, I thought about them at work and couldn’t wait to get back home to read more. Get this book!Read more
...I really enjoyed the story and the mystery of the book kept me coming back to read more pages....Read more
17 customers mention character development, 14 positive, 3 negative
Customers appreciate the character development in the book, finding them compelling, with one customer specifically noting the non-spooky paranormal characters.
...It had a great pace, great characters and such a sweet love story. I can't wait for the rest of the series!!Read more
...The world-building is immersive, and the characters feel so real. If you love a mix of supernatural romance and mystery, this is a must-read!...Read more
...Capturing the 80's era and this small town filled with colorful characters and interesting history plus a mystery to solve and romance?...Read more
...for readers who enjoy mysteries with a paranormal edge, deep character development, and stories that leave you thinking long after you’ve turned the...Read more
13 customers mention romance, 13 positive, 0 negative
Customers enjoy the romance in the book, describing it as sweet and endearing.
...Shelby’s complex cast of characters are memorable and endearing; from the very eccentric Aunt Ruth—my personal favorite—and the professor-turned-...Read more
Grove Hollow Metamorphosis was incredible! I love the mystery, the romance, and everything in between....Read more
...This gothic, paranormal romance novel is easily one of my favorite reads of 2025, thus far.Read more
...It’s a closed-door type of romance. It doesn’t include anything R rated. It speaks of one particular instance, but it’s very PG-13. ðŸŒķïļ/⭐ïļâ­ïļâ­ïļâ­ïļâ­ïļRead more
10 customers mention genre, 10 positive, 0 negative
Customers enjoy the book's gothic vibes and enchanting atmosphere, with one customer highlighting its perfect blend of 80s elements and another noting its wonderful spell of weaving in ancient Egyptian lore.
...The setting: 1985. The vibes: gothic, secretive, enchanting....Read more
...Whether you are 18 or 58 - this book is magical!Read more
It’s a captivating blend of Twilight, Casper, and Stranger Things, creating a magical, eerie atmosphere that pulls you in from the very first page....Read more
...This is literally the perfect coming-of-age Romance, and a perfect blend of 80s vibes (who doesn’t love the 80s?!) and gothic awesomeness....Read more
9 customers mention writing quality, 8 positive, 1 negative
Customers praise the writing of the book, describing it as beautifully and richly done, with one customer noting it is narrated very well.
...Grove Hollow is a beautifully-written, romantic, yet chilling story that will transport you to another time and place....Read more
...The writing is so beautiful and flows effortlessly....Read more
This book was a great read! It was well written and kept me entertained, when I got to the end of the book I wanted more!...Read more
...So many wonderfully fun and well written scenes. Please let there be a movie!Read more
8 customers mention 80s vibe, 8 positive, 0 negative
Customers appreciate the book's nostalgic 80s vibe, with one customer noting how well it captures that era.
Grove Hollow is a treat to read! I couldn’t put it down. It’s nostalgic and fantastical, while being very relatable!...Read more
...wants a low stake gothic love story, likes old school emo bands, classic literature, and...Dark Shadows.Read more
...Anyways, it had a certain nostalgic feel that I appreciated. The love triangleâ€Ķwell I just wished she hadn’t wasted anytime with the one guy....Read more
...small details throughout, Grove Hollow is filled with nostalgic 80s pop-culture references, and even a subtle, yet special nod to the late legend,...Read more
8 customers mention content, 8 positive, 0 negative
Customers appreciate the book's content, with its intertwining of Egyptian lore and history, and one customer highlights the unexpected inheritances of ostentatious mansions.
...I adored her friends, the 80s era, the music, the history, and of course the love story. Beware, this ends on a cliffhanger.Read more
...'s era and this small town filled with colorful characters and interesting history plus a mystery to solve and romance?...Read more
...depth while weaving together supernatural elements and human vulnerability....Read more
...The whole book is a great vibe. And it has an amazing soundtrack on Spotify that is a must listen either before you read it to set the mood or during...Read more
Small town, supernatural suspense at its best. You won't be able to put this book down.
5 out of 5 stars
Small town, supernatural suspense at its best. You won't be able to put this book down.
Grove Hollow: Metamorphosis is an immersive, suspenseful read that takes the familiar idea of a quiet small town and turns it into something haunting and unforgettable. The author does an amazing job building tension slowly, layering in emotional depth while weaving together supernatural elements and human vulnerability. The protagonist’s journey is gripping—you feel their fear, confusion, and growth as the story transforms around them. The pacing is tight, the twists land, and the final reveal is both satisfying and unsettling in the best possible way. The atmosphere is rich and vivid, and I found myself completely drawn into the world of Grove Hollow. Overall, this book is perfect for readers who enjoy mysteries with a paranormal edge, deep character development, and stories that leave you thinking long after you’ve turned the last page. I am left eagerly waiting for the second entry in this amazing story. I cannot wait to yet again not be able to escape the world and mystery created by Shelby McFadden.
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Top reviews from the United States

  • Reviewed in the United States on October 10, 2023
    Format: HardcoverVerified Purchase
    Such a beautiful and truly innovative story! The book tells of 18-year-old Jade Whitney whose life drastically changes when she moves in with her wealthy Great Aunt Ruth and begins a new life in the affluent town of Grove Hollow. Amidst meeting an amazing group of friends and a questionable love interest in her new private school, she discovers a cursed locket that is connected to a handsome hundred-year-old ghost, Will. Through her journey to help him, Jade discovers the secrets of her own family’s past and begins to embark on a path of self-discovery, all while finding a life-altering love along the way.

    I absolutely LOVED this story and have already planned to make it an annual fall re-read. Grove Hollow is highly evocative of all of my favorite things from the 1980s, intertwined with Egyptian lore and history, and weaved into a haunting plot-line full of mysteries of the past from the Victorian and Gilded Age. From the awesome music and movies, to the fashion and small details throughout, Grove Hollow is filled with nostalgic 80s pop-culture references, and even a subtle, yet special nod to the late legend, David Bowie (which really meant a lot to me!). There are also many hints of symbolism throughout the story that really bring an extra layer of depth to the well-balanced storyline.

    I was blown away with Shelby’s immersive storytelling and writing. Even in the midst of telling a story set in the heart of 80s high school drama, she manages to seamlessly weave in moody, dark academia vibes from the past with a Victorian ghost and the majestic qualities of the former Gilded Age within the setting. Her innate ability to add subtle details to each scene really makes the story so easy to visualize. I felt like I was right there with Jade, back into my awkward teen years and in the throes of high school drama (and a regrettable first “love”), albeit set twenty years earlier.

    Shelby’s complex cast of characters are memorable and endearing; from the very eccentric Aunt Ruth—my personal favorite—and the professor-turned-bookshop owner, Mr. Willoughby, to Jade’s colorful and loyal new group of friends, the Misfits, and the elusive, yet charming ghostly love interest, Will, her characters are unforgettable!

    Grove Hollow is a beautifully-written, romantic, yet chilling story that will transport you to another time and place. Its mysteries and twists in the plot will keep you turning page after page and have you on the edge of your seat waiting for the rest of the series, just as I am!
    Customer image
    5.0 out of 5 stars
    An original, beautifully-written, immersive book 💚

    Reviewed in the United States on October 10, 2023
    Such a beautiful and truly innovative story! The book tells of 18-year-old Jade Whitney whose life drastically changes when she moves in with her wealthy Great Aunt Ruth and begins a new life in the affluent town of Grove Hollow. Amidst meeting an amazing group of friends and a questionable love interest in her new private school, she discovers a cursed locket that is connected to a handsome hundred-year-old ghost, Will. Through her journey to help him, Jade discovers the secrets of her own family’s past and begins to embark on a path of self-discovery, all while finding a life-altering love along the way.

    I absolutely LOVED this story and have already planned to make it an annual fall re-read. Grove Hollow is highly evocative of all of my favorite things from the 1980s, intertwined with Egyptian lore and history, and weaved into a haunting plot-line full of mysteries of the past from the Victorian and Gilded Age. From the awesome music and movies, to the fashion and small details throughout, Grove Hollow is filled with nostalgic 80s pop-culture references, and even a subtle, yet special nod to the late legend, David Bowie (which really meant a lot to me!). There are also many hints of symbolism throughout the story that really bring an extra layer of depth to the well-balanced storyline.

    I was blown away with Shelby’s immersive storytelling and writing. Even in the midst of telling a story set in the heart of 80s high school drama, she manages to seamlessly weave in moody, dark academia vibes from the past with a Victorian ghost and the majestic qualities of the former Gilded Age within the setting. Her innate ability to add subtle details to each scene really makes the story so easy to visualize. I felt like I was right there with Jade, back into my awkward teen years and in the throes of high school drama (and a regrettable first “love”), albeit set twenty years earlier.

    Shelby’s complex cast of characters are memorable and endearing; from the very eccentric Aunt Ruth—my personal favorite—and the professor-turned-bookshop owner, Mr. Willoughby, to Jade’s colorful and loyal new group of friends, the Misfits, and the elusive, yet charming ghostly love interest, Will, her characters are unforgettable!

    Grove Hollow is a beautifully-written, romantic, yet chilling story that will transport you to another time and place. Its mysteries and twists in the plot will keep you turning page after page and have you on the edge of your seat waiting for the rest of the series, just as I am!
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    Customer image
    2 people found this helpful
    Report
  • Reviewed in the United States on October 15, 2023
    I finished this gem last night. I've been following the author for a while, this is her debut. I was so intrigued when I first came across this I knew I had to read it as soon as it was released. As she put it "An 80's gothic paranormal romance where a girl falls in love with a ghost". Oh and there's an ancient Egyptian artifact in there as well. It sounds like there's a lot going on in here, and there is but it works so well. Everything is effortlessly blended together to make for a very enjoyable read. It's a fantastic coming of age story. I could see myself in Jade, maybe not 100%, but close. But if we're being honest, I aspire to be Aunt Ruth! I absolutely adore her. The whole book is a great vibe. And it has an amazing soundtrack on Spotify that is a must listen either before you read it to set the mood or during. It's a perfect book for the season. I absolutely cannot wait for book 2!
    One person found this helpful
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  • Reviewed in the United States on November 30, 2025
    Grove Hollow: Metamorphosis is an immersive, suspenseful read that takes the familiar idea of a quiet small town and turns it into something haunting and unforgettable. The author does an amazing job building tension slowly, layering in emotional depth while weaving together supernatural elements and human vulnerability.

    The protagonist’s journey is gripping—you feel their fear, confusion, and growth as the story transforms around them. The pacing is tight, the twists land, and the final reveal is both satisfying and unsettling in the best possible way. The atmosphere is rich and vivid, and I found myself completely drawn into the world of Grove Hollow.

    Overall, this book is perfect for readers who enjoy mysteries with a paranormal edge, deep character development, and stories that leave you thinking long after you’ve turned the last page.

    I am left eagerly waiting for the second entry in this amazing story. I cannot wait to yet again not be able to escape the world and mystery created by Shelby McFadden.
    Customer image
    5.0 out of 5 stars
    Small town, supernatural suspense at its best. You won't be able to put this book down.

    Reviewed in the United States on November 30, 2025
    Grove Hollow: Metamorphosis is an immersive, suspenseful read that takes the familiar idea of a quiet small town and turns it into something haunting and unforgettable. The author does an amazing job building tension slowly, layering in emotional depth while weaving together supernatural elements and human vulnerability.

    The protagonist’s journey is gripping—you feel their fear, confusion, and growth as the story transforms around them. The pacing is tight, the twists land, and the final reveal is both satisfying and unsettling in the best possible way. The atmosphere is rich and vivid, and I found myself completely drawn into the world of Grove Hollow.

    Overall, this book is perfect for readers who enjoy mysteries with a paranormal edge, deep character development, and stories that leave you thinking long after you’ve turned the last page.

    I am left eagerly waiting for the second entry in this amazing story. I cannot wait to yet again not be able to escape the world and mystery created by Shelby McFadden.
    Images in this review
    Customer image
    One person found this helpful
    Report

Top reviews from other countries

  • Annie Tasaka
    5.0 out of 5 stars Got pulled in by the beautiful cover and it did not disappoint.
    Reviewed in Canada on November 1, 2024
    “You have made these last few months worth waiting a hundred years for—” ðŸĨđ

    This book was beautiful. And it’s a debut novel, I have no words. I need book 2 now. I love a good young adult book. Coming of age tale of love and friendship set in 1985, it gave me a Stranger Things vibe.

    Jade finds herself living with her eccentric aunt, talking to a handsome ghost all while trying to make friends at her new school. The whole thing was super charming to me and I was taken right away.

    My only issues at times were with Jade herself. A few times you just want to smack her for some of her choices. She comes off as way too naive for her 18 years of age.
  • Soph S
    5.0 out of 5 stars The Breakfast Club meets a ghost storyâ€Ķ
    Reviewed in the United Kingdom on February 2, 2025
    Grove Hollow Metamorphosis is a lovely mix of 1980s nostalgia, gothic mystery, and just the right amount of eerie suspense. Think The Breakfast Club meets a ghost story—with a mystery talisman thrown in for good measure. Jade’s journey of unearthing family secrets and her connection with the enigmatic William hooks you in. The writing is immersive and the atmosphere is deliciously haunting. If you love a book that feels like a forgotten VHS tape full of intrigue, romance, and things that go bump in the night, this one’s for you.
  • Arch13
    5.0 out of 5 stars Beautiful Storytelling
    Reviewed in the United Kingdom on August 26, 2024
    This is a fantastic debut novel from the author! The way in which she draws you in and immerses you in the world she has crafted is just beautiful. An eternal, beautiful abyss.
  • Claire oudkerk
    5.0 out of 5 stars Wow
    Reviewed in the United Kingdom on July 30, 2024
    Loved ðŸĨ°