The Haunting of the Desert Rose

After being killed in her room at the brothel, Viola decides to keep doing her job even in death. Madame Russo, the ‘manager’ of the establishment contacts Karloff Paranormal Institute to see if they can help. They send Gabriel Fredericks to see what he can do.

Gabriel has known that he was different since he was a child. As a child he had what his parents deemed, an imaginary friend. However, his friend wasn’t imaginary, he was dead.

Viola doesn’t remember who killed her, but she remembers that she loves to tease men. She’s decided that being dead doesn’t change anything, so Viola haunts the pool house and strokes and teases men.

Gabe will try and find out who killed Viola, but will she leave after he does? Does he want her to?

This was one of the most bizarre ghost stories I have ever read. I loved it! What a twist! This was a great story even being as short as it was. I enjoyed the byplay between Gabe and Candy and watching Gabe struggle with sampling the wares or not. Even though it was a short-lived struggle. The ending blew me away and was completely unexpected! Thank you Ms. LaCroix for an extremely imaginative ghost story!

Reviewed by: Serena