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- Title: Ghost in the Coffee Machine: Coffee and Ghosts Series Starter
- Author: Charity Tahmaseb
- Narrator: Amy Mcfadden
- Length: 0.016944444
- Version: Abridged
- Release Date: 13-May
- Publisher: Findaway Voices
- Genre: Science Fiction & Fantasy, Fantasy, Paranormal, Contemporary Fantasy
- ISBN13: 9.78E+12
Some books feel like they were written for a specific moment in your life. For me, *Ghost in the Coffee Machine: Coffee and Ghosts Series Starter* by Charity Tahmaseb, narrated by Amy McFadden, was just such a book. I stumbled upon this audiobook during a long road trip through the Pacific Northwest, my car packed with an assortment of beans from Portland’s finest roasters. It’s a magical place, where mist hangs in the air like a whisper, and every small-town café feels like it could be hiding a ghost or two. Listening to Katy’s adventures as she brewed coffee to catch spirits felt almost like an extension of my own journey—only her ghosts were real and mine were the wistful echoes of people I’d met along the way.
The story unfolds like the first sip of a perfectly brewed cappuccino—rich, smooth, and layered. Katy, our protagonist, is grappling with the loss of her grandmother and the nuanced legacy of their ghost-hunting coffee business. There’s something inherently charming about the way Tahmaseb blends the mundane (grinding coffee beans, brewing the perfect cup) with the extraordinary (ghosts haunting espresso machines). As someone who has spent countless hours in cafés around the world, scribbling notes about local legends or sipping on the house blend while listening to a stranger recount their life story, I found Katy’s world delightfully relatable. It reminds me of a time when I was in Vienna, sitting in an old café rumored to be haunted by its founder. The atmosphere was thick with history, much like the ambiance Tahmaseb creates in this audiobook.
Amy McFadden’s narration is a masterclass in storytelling. Her voice is warm and inviting, like the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. She captures Katy’s wit and determination with just the right touch of vulnerability, making her feel like an old friend you’re reconnecting with over a cup of joe. McFadden’s ability to bring the secondary characters to life—each with their distinct quirks and cadences—adds depth to the narrative. It reminded me of evenings spent in Oaxaca, listening to a grandmother’s voice weave tales that felt both intimate and universal. McFadden achieves that same magic, making you feel as though the story is being told just for you.
The themes of loss, resilience, and the power of tradition resonate deeply. Katy’s struggle to keep her grandmother’s ghost-hunting legacy alive while facing the challenges of a rival ghost hunter (who uses tea, of all things!) is as much about finding her own identity as it is about battling supernatural infestations. There’s a subtle commentary here on the rituals that ground us—whether it’s brewing coffee or honoring family traditions—and how they shape our sense of self. As someone who has spent years chronicling the rituals of different cultures, from tea ceremonies in Japan to coffee ceremonies in Ethiopia, this aspect of the book struck a particularly poignant chord.
The pacing of the story is brisk but never rushed, much like the rhythm of a busy café. There’s a playful humor woven throughout, which keeps the tone light even when the stakes are high. The titular ghost in the coffee machine is a delightful twist, blending whimsy with a dash of the eerie. It’s a balance that Tahmaseb handles with aplomb, making this audiobook a perfect choice for anyone who loves their fantasy with a side of fun.
One of the audiobook’s strengths is its accessibility. You don’t need to be a hardcore fantasy fan to enjoy it. The contemporary setting, relatable characters, and universal themes make it an easy entry point for newcomers to the genre. That said, seasoned fans of paranormal fiction will appreciate the unique twist on ghost hunting and the richly imagined world Tahmaseb has created.
If I had to point out a limitation, it would be that the story’s episodic nature—being the series starter—leaves some threads tantalizingly unresolved. But rather than feeling incomplete, it left me eager to dive into the next installment. It’s the kind of story that lingers, like the aftertaste of a particularly good espresso, making you crave more.
For those who enjoyed *Practical Magic* by Alice Hoffman or the whimsical charm of *The House in the Cerulean Sea* by TJ Klune, this audiobook will feel like a cozy, caffeinated hug. And if you’re a fan of narrators like Julia Whelan or Lorelei King, Amy McFadden’s performance will undoubtedly win you over.
In conclusion, *Ghost in the Coffee Machine* is an enchanting blend of humor, heart, and the supernatural, brought vividly to life by McFadden’s stellar narration. It’s a story that invites you to sit down, savor the moment, and let yourself be swept away. Whether you’re a coffee lover, a ghost enthusiast, or just someone looking for a little magic in your life, this audiobook is well worth a listen.
With a fresh cup of coffee in hand and a heart full of stories, I can’t recommend this audiobook enough. So, brew yourself your favorite blend, press play, and let Katy’s adventures whisk you away.
Warmly,
Marcus Rivera
Happy listening and safe travels, wherever your stories may take you.
