Meredith Spies' After Life is a delightful blend of humor, mystery, and the supernatural, set against the backdrop of a quaint seaside town that is as charming as it is haunted. The novel takes readers on a whimsical journey through the eyes of Julian and Oscar, a couple whose much-needed vacation turns into an unexpected adventure with the spectral residents of Rosie Sands.

The premise of the book is both intriguing and refreshing. Julian, who is looking for a peaceful retreat, finds himself in a cottage that is more akin to a Brothers Grimm tale than a serene getaway. The town's obsession with ghosts is not just a quirky trait but a central theme that drives the narrative forward. Spies cleverly uses this setting to explore themes of belief, acceptance, and the thin veil between the living and the dead.

One of the novel's strengths is its character development. Julian is portrayed as a reluctant medium, someone who is thrust into the world of the supernatural against his will. His journey from skepticism to acceptance is both humorous and heartfelt. Julian's initial denial of the ghosts' existence and his subsequent realization that he cannot ignore them adds depth to his character. His interactions with the ghosts are often laced with wit and sarcasm, providing comic relief while also highlighting his internal struggle.

Oscar, on the other hand, serves as a foil to Julian's character. His laid-back attitude and initial amusement at the town's haunted nature provide a stark contrast to Julian's growing unease. However, as the story progresses, Oscar's character evolves, revealing layers of complexity. His sleepless nights due to the landlady's ghostly boyfriend and his increasing frustration with the lack of phone reception add a touch of realism to the otherwise fantastical setting. Oscar's journey is one of realization and adaptation, as he comes to terms with the fact that the supernatural is not as avoidable as he once thought.

The supporting characters, both living and dead, are well-crafted and add richness to the story. The landlady and her ghostly boyfriend's constant bickering provide a humorous subplot, while the various ghosts in the town each have their own stories and personalities. Spies does an excellent job of weaving these characters into the narrative, making them integral to the plot rather than mere background noise.

Thematically, After Life delves into the idea of unfinished business and the impact of the past on the present. The ghosts in Rosie Sands are not just there for scares; they have unresolved issues that need addressing. Julian's ability to see and communicate with them becomes a catalyst for change, both for the ghosts and for himself. The novel explores the concept of closure and the importance of facing one's fears, whether they are of the supernatural kind or not.

Spies' writing style is engaging and accessible, with a perfect balance of humor and suspense. The dialogue is sharp and witty, capturing the essence of each character and their unique perspectives. The pacing of the novel is well-executed, with enough twists and turns to keep readers invested without overwhelming them with too much information at once.

In comparison to other supernatural tales, After Life stands out for its lighthearted approach to the genre. While it shares similarities with stories like Neil Gaiman's The Graveyard Book or Alice Hoffman's Practical Magic, Spies' novel is distinct in its focus on humor and the everyday challenges of dealing with ghosts. The book's charm lies in its ability to make the supernatural feel ordinary and relatable, a testament to Spies' skill as a storyteller.

Overall, After Life is a captivating read that offers a fresh take on the ghost story genre. Its blend of humor, mystery, and heart makes it a must-read for fans of the supernatural and those looking for a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. Meredith Spies has crafted a novel that is sure to leave a lasting impression, reminding readers that sometimes, the most unexpected journeys are the ones that teach us the most.

For those seeking a book that combines the whimsical with the eerie, After Life is a perfect choice. It is a story that invites readers to suspend disbelief and embrace the possibility that the line between the living and the dead is not as clear-cut as it seems. In the end, it is a tale of acceptance, understanding, and the enduring power of love and friendship, both in this life and the next.