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Chasing Brooklyn by Lisa Schroeder, book cover

Chasing Brooklyn Summary

by Lisa Schroeder

4.09 Goodreads · 8k ratingsFantasy412 pages13-min summary

A grieving girl haunted by her dead friend's ghost must team up with her deceased boyfriend's brother to find peace before the spectral visitations consume them both.

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By BookBrief EditorialPublished March 2026How we write summaries

Synopsis

Covers the whole plot, including the ending.

Brooklyn is haunted by the ghost of her recently deceased friend, Gabe, in her dreams, while grappling with the loss of her boyfriend, Lucca, a year prior. Meanwhile, Lucca's brother, Nico, is also being haunted by Lucca's ghost, who insists he help Brooklyn. As the supernatural occurrences intensify for both of them, Brooklyn and Nico are reluctantly drawn together, forced to confront their shared grief and the impossible reality of their haunting, in order to find peace for themselves and the restless souls around them.
Difficulty
Easy
Pacing
Moderate
Mood
Haunting, emotional, romantic, hopeful, mysterious

Chasing Brooklyn Plot Summary

Covers the whole plot, including the ending.

  1. The Weight of Ghosts

    A year after her boyfriend Lucca's death, Brooklyn struggles with insomnia and vivid dreams. These dreams are not of Lucca, but of her friend Gabe, who recently died from an overdose. Gabe's ghostly presence is unsettling, leaving Brooklyn to wonder what he wants. She feels immense guilt over both deaths, especially Gabe's, believing she could have done more. Meanwhile, Nico, Lucca's younger brother, is also struggling. He copes by constantly running, trying to outrun his grief and anger. His life is marked by his parents' strained relationship and his inability to connect with others, particularly Brooklyn, whom he resents for her role in Lucca's final moments.

  2. Whispers from the Beyond

    Nico's solitary life changes when he starts receiving cryptic messages he believes are from Lucca. These messages, appearing in unexpected places, consistently point him toward Brooklyn. Initially, Nico dismisses them, attributing them to grief or a cruel prank. However, the messages' persistence and specificity become undeniable. Lucca's ghost seems to be guiding Nico, pushing him to engage with Brooklyn, someone he has avoided since his brother's death. This supernatural intervention forces Nico to confront his deep emotions and unresolved issues surrounding Lucca's death, especially his animosity toward Brooklyn.

  3. A Reluctant Connection

    Despite his reluctance and resentment, Nico feels compelled by Lucca's messages to approach Brooklyn. Their first interactions are tense, marked by unspoken grief and their shared loss. Brooklyn, still reeling from her own hauntings and the emotional weight of Lucca and Gabe's deaths, is surprised by Nico's sudden attention. She is wary, unsure of his motives, and still carries her own guilt. Neither dares admit the supernatural occurrences they are experiencing, fearing judgment. Their conversations are stilted, circling their shared past but avoiding the true reason for Nico's outreach.

  4. Shared Secrets

    As Lucca's messages to Nico intensify and Gabe's presence in Brooklyn's dreams becomes more demanding, the two teenagers are drawn closer. The burden of their individual hauntings, coupled with their isolation, slowly erodes their defenses. One conversation leads to another, and the unspoken truth begins to surface. Brooklyn, exhausted and desperate for understanding, cautiously reveals her dreams of Gabe. Nico, in turn, shares the strange messages he's been receiving from Lucca. The realization that they are both experiencing supernatural phenomena, and that their deceased loved ones are trying to communicate, creates an unexpected bond and a shared purpose.

  5. Unraveling Gabe's Plea

    With their secrets shared, Brooklyn and Nico begin to investigate the meaning behind their hauntings. Gabe's presence in Brooklyn's dreams is particularly insistent, often showing her fragmented memories. They deduce that Gabe has unfinished business, a burden that prevents his soul from resting. Through clues in Brooklyn's dreams and their combined knowledge of Gabe, they start piecing together the events leading up to his overdose. They realize that Gabe was struggling with more than just addiction, and that there might be a secret he needed to reveal or an apology he needed to make before he could find peace. This joint effort strengthens their fragile connection.

  6. The Truth About Lucca's Death

    While focusing on Gabe, Lucca's messages to Nico become clearer and more frequent, subtly guiding them toward the truth about his own death. They realize that Lucca isn't just trying to bring them together, but also to reveal something about his final moments. The story hints at a deeper, more complicated story behind Lucca's accident than what was initially understood. Nico, still grappling with the guilt and unanswered questions surrounding his brother's passing, is especially invested in this revelation. Brooklyn, too, feels a renewed sense of urgency, hoping that understanding Lucca's truth might also bring her some peace and forgiveness for her perceived role.

  7. Confronting the Past

    As the pieces of both Gabe and Lucca's stories come together, Brooklyn and Nico must confront painful truths and their past mistakes. They discover that Gabe had been struggling with a secret burden related to a past incident, and that his overdose was not entirely accidental but a desperate cry for help. Simultaneously, Lucca's messages reveal a more complex story surrounding his death, suggesting that his final moments involved more than just a simple accident. This shared journey of discovery forces them to acknowledge their own involvement and the ways in which they, perhaps unknowingly, contributed to the circumstances that led to their friends' deaths. The emotional weight of these revelations is immense.

  8. Forgiveness and Release

    Through their combined efforts, Brooklyn and Nico uncover the full story behind Gabe's struggles and his final wishes. They realize that Gabe needed to be forgiven for a past transgression and that he needed to know he was loved despite his flaws. By acknowledging his pain and offering him the understanding he sought, Brooklyn helps Gabe find peace. His haunting presence in her dreams finally subsides, a clear indication that his soul has moved on. This initial success validates their efforts and strengthens their belief in their connection and their ability to help restless souls.

  9. Lucca's Final Request

    With Gabe's soul at rest, Lucca's messages to Nico shift, becoming less about his own death and more about the connection between Nico and Brooklyn. It becomes clear that Lucca's primary purpose in lingering was not solely to reveal the circumstances of his passing, but to ensure that Brooklyn and Nico found each other and healed from their shared grief. His guidance was a catalyst, forcing them to confront their pain, communicate, and ultimately forge a new bond. This realization is bittersweet for Nico, as it means letting go of his brother while also understanding the gift Lucca has given him.

  10. A New Beginning

    As Lucca's presence fades, leaving behind a sense of peace rather than haunting, Brooklyn and Nico are left with a deep understanding of their past and a hopeful outlook for their future. They have not only helped their friends find rest but have also found a path to healing for themselves. The grief for Lucca and Gabe remains, but it is no longer paralyzing. Instead, it has transformed into a shared experience that has brought them closer. They begin to open up to the possibility of a future together, recognizing the unique bond they've formed and the strength they've found in each other. Their journey ends with a sense of closure and the promise of new beginnings.

Chasing Brooklyn Characters

Brooklyn

Protagonist

A grieving girl haunted by the ghosts of her past.

Brooklyn is a deeply empathetic and introspective teenager, consumed by grief and guilt after the deaths of her boyfriend, Lucca, and her friend, Gabe. She suffers from severe insomnia and is haunted by Gabe's ghost, leading her to feel isolated and burdened. Despite her emotional fragility, she possesses a quiet strength and a deep desire to understand and help others. Her guilt over Gabe's overdose and her role in Lucca's last moments weigh heavily on her, making it difficult for her to move on. She is initially closed off but gradually opens up to Nico as they navigate their shared supernatural experiences.

Relationships: Lucca (Deceased boyfriend); Gabe (Deceased friend who haunts her); Nico (Lucca's brother, reluctant ally, and eventual romantic interest)

Nico

Protagonist

Lucca's younger brother, trying to outrun his pain.

Nico is a brooding and emotionally guarded teenager, struggling intensely with the loss of his older brother, Lucca. He channels his grief and anger into running, both literally and figuratively, trying to escape the pain. He harbors resentment towards Brooklyn, believing she is partly responsible for Lucca's death. Lucca's ghost begins leaving him messages, compelling him to connect with Brooklyn, which forces him to confront his own suppressed emotions and unresolved issues. He is initially resistant and sarcastic but gradually softens as he and Brooklyn work together, revealing a caring and protective nature beneath his tough exterior.

Relationships: Lucca (Deceased older brother who haunts him); Brooklyn (Lucca's girlfriend, initial object of resentment, and eventual romantic interest); Parents (Strained relationship due to shared grief)

Lucca

Supporting

The deceased boyfriend whose ghost orchestrates a connection.

Lucca is Brooklyn's deceased boyfriend and Nico's older brother. Though dead, his presence is central to the narrative as his ghost communicates with Nico, leaving messages that guide him to Brooklyn. He is portrayed as a loving and protective figure, even in death, whose ultimate goal is to bring Brooklyn and Nico together so they can heal and find peace. His messages are cryptic at first but become clearer, revealing his desire for his loved ones to move on and find happiness. He acts as a catalyst for the main plot, forcing the two protagonists to confront their grief and form a new bond.

Relationships: Brooklyn (Deceased boyfriend); Nico (Deceased older brother)

Gabe

Supporting

Brooklyn's friend whose restless spirit seeks peace.

Gabe is Brooklyn's friend who recently died of an overdose. His ghost haunts Brooklyn's dreams, appearing restless and confused, indicating he has unfinished business. His presence is initially frightening and perplexing for Brooklyn, but through their combined efforts, she and Nico work to understand his past struggles and the reasons behind his overdose. Gabe represents the lingering guilt and unresolved issues that can trap a soul. His story highlights themes of addiction, hidden pain, and the need for forgiveness and understanding. His eventual peace signifies a major turning point in Brooklyn's own healing journey.

Relationships: Brooklyn (Deceased friend who haunts her dreams); Nico (Acquaintance, part of the group of friends)

Brooklyn's Parents

Supporting

Supportive but concerned parents.

Brooklyn's parents are portrayed as loving and concerned, doing their best to support her through her profound grief. They are aware of her insomnia and withdrawn behavior but are largely unaware of the supernatural elements of her struggles. They offer a stable home environment, contrasting with Nico's more fractured family life. Their presence highlights Brooklyn's isolation in her unique experiences, as she feels unable to confide in them about the ghosts. They represent the conventional world, unable to fully grasp the fantastical elements that are consuming their daughter.

Relationships: Brooklyn (Parents)

Nico's Parents

Supporting

Grieving parents struggling with their own loss.

Nico's parents are deeply affected by Lucca's death, leading to a strained and often tense home environment. Their grief manifests in different ways, creating a palpable distance between them and Nico. They are largely absent emotionally, absorbed in their own sorrow, which contributes to Nico's sense of isolation and his need to escape. Their inability to openly communicate about Lucca's death mirrors Nico's initial struggle to process his emotions. Their fractured dynamic emphasizes the heavy toll that unresolved grief can take on a family.

Relationships: Nico (Parents); Lucca (Deceased son)

Chasing Brooklyn Themes

Grief and Loss

The novel explores the nature of grief, showing how it impacts individuals differently. Brooklyn is paralyzed by guilt and insomnia, haunted by the past, while Nico channels his grief into anger and avoidance. Both struggle with the void left by Lucca and Gabe. The story illustrates that grief is not a linear process and often involves confronting painful truths and finding ways to honor the deceased while moving forward. It emphasizes the isolating nature of grief but also its potential to forge unexpected connections.

“Sometimes, the only way to heal is to go back to where the pain started.”
Narrator

Healing and Forgiveness

A central theme is the journey toward healing, which is linked to forgiveness. Both Brooklyn and Nico carry immense guilt – Brooklyn for her perceived role in the deaths, Nico for his resentment. The ghosts themselves, particularly Gabe, cannot rest until forgiveness is offered and received. The protagonists learn that true healing comes not from forgetting, but from understanding the past, forgiving themselves and others, and releasing the burdens that prevent peace. This process allows them to embrace new possibilities and find closure.

“Maybe that's what ghosts are for. To remind us of the things we need to fix.”
Brooklyn

Communication and Connection

The inability to communicate openly about grief and guilt initially isolates Brooklyn and Nico. Their breakthrough comes when they finally confide in each other about their supernatural experiences, realizing they are not alone. The ghosts themselves are attempting to communicate unfinished business, highlighting the importance of expressing one's feelings and needs. The novel shows how genuine connection, built on shared vulnerability and understanding, is essential for overcoming profound loss and forming new, meaningful relationships.

“It was like we'd been speaking different languages, and now, finally, we understood each other.”
Narrator

The Supernatural as a Catalyst for Healing

The fantastical element of ghosts is a powerful plot device and thematic driver. The restless spirits of Lucca and Gabe are not merely spooky apparitions but agents of change, forcing Brooklyn and Nico to confront their unresolved issues. Lucca's ghost actively orchestrates their meeting and eventual connection, while Gabe's haunting compels Brooklyn to seek understanding and offer forgiveness. The supernatural realm provides the necessary push for the characters to break free from their emotional stagnation and embark on their respective journeys of healing and self-discovery.

“Some souls just need a little help finding their way home.”
Nico

Plot Devices & Literary Techniques

Haunting Dreams

Gabe's ghost appears in Brooklyn's dreams.

Brooklyn's haunting dreams are a primary plot device. Gabe's spectral presence within her subconscious serves multiple purposes: it highlights Brooklyn's guilt and unresolved grief, provides cryptic clues about Gabe's unfinished business, and acts as a constant, unsettling reminder that she cannot escape the past. These dreams are a direct line of communication from the deceased, pushing Brooklyn to seek answers and eventually confide in Nico, thereby driving the narrative forward and initiating their joint investigation.

Cryptic Messages

Lucca's ghost leaves messages for Nico.

Nico receives a series of cryptic messages, seemingly from his deceased brother Lucca, appearing in unexpected places (e.g., fogged windows, notes). This device is crucial for compelling Nico to engage with Brooklyn, despite his initial reluctance and resentment. The messages are vague enough to be initially dismissed but persistent enough to demand attention, building suspense and hinting at a deeper purpose. They serve as Lucca's way of guiding Nico and Brooklyn towards each other and ultimately towards healing.

Shared Secret

Brooklyn and Nico secretly experience hauntings.

The shared secret of being haunted by their deceased loved ones acts as a powerful bonding agent between Brooklyn and Nico. Their initial isolation and fear of judgment keep them from speaking out. However, the immense burden of their individual experiences eventually forces them to confide in each other. This shared secret creates an exclusive, intimate connection, allowing them to overcome their initial animosity and work together. It transforms their relationship from one of resentment to one of mutual understanding and support, which is essential for solving the mysteries of the ghosts.

Quiz

10 questions on the plot and the characters. Each answer comes with a short explanation.

  1. Question 1

    What is the name of the main protagonist of the book?

    1. Gabe
    2. Lucca
    3. Brooklyn
    4. Nico
    Show answer

    C. Brooklyn The book's synopsis explicitly states, 'Brooklyn can't sleep.'

  2. Question 2

    How did Gabe die?

    1. Car accident
    2. Illness
    3. Overdose
    4. Suicide
    Show answer

    C. Overdose The synopsis mentions, 'and now her friend Gabe has just died of an overdose.'

  3. Question 3

    Who is Nico's deceased brother?

    1. Gabe
    2. Lucca
    3. Brooklyn's boyfriend
    4. Nico's uncle
    Show answer

    B. Lucca The synopsis states, 'He's always running, trying to escape the pain of losing his brother, Lucca.'

  4. Question 4

    Whose ghost initially visits Brooklyn in her dreams?

    1. Lucca's
    2. Nico's
    3. Gabe's
    4. Her mother's
    Show answer

    C. Gabe's The synopsis says, 'Every time she closes her eyes, Gabe's ghost is there waiting for her.'

  5. Question 5

    What is Nico trying to escape from?

    1. His past mistakes
    2. The pain of losing his brother
    3. A legal issue
    4. His responsibilities
    Show answer

    B. The pain of losing his brother The synopsis states, 'He's always running, trying to escape the pain of losing his brother, Lucca.'

  6. Question 6

    What does Lucca's ghost tell Nico to do?

    1. Seek revenge
    2. Leave town
    3. Help Brooklyn
    4. Forget about Brooklyn
    Show answer

    C. Help Brooklyn The synopsis mentions, 'But when Lucca's ghost begins leaving messages, telling Nico to help Brooklyn...'

  7. Question 7

    What is a central theme in the book, as suggested by the synopsis?

    1. The importance of forgiveness
    2. The struggle with grief and letting go
    3. The challenges of social media
    4. The pursuit of fame
    Show answer

    B. The struggle with grief and letting go The synopsis focuses on characters dealing with loss, ghosts, and unresolved emotions, pointing to grief and the difficulty of moving on.

  8. Question 8

    What is the underlying reason the souls are restless, according to the synopsis?

    1. They are seeking revenge for their deaths.
    2. They are waiting for their unfinished business to be completed.
    3. They are trapped in a cycle of reincarnation.
    4. They are unable to communicate with the living.
    Show answer

    B. They are waiting for their unfinished business to be completed. The synopsis implies that the souls (Gabe and Lucca) are restless because of unfinished business and unresolved emotions related to the living characters, particularly Brooklyn and Nico, and that they won't rest until Brooklyn and Nico 'let each other in.'

  9. Question 9

    What initial obstacle prevents Nico from reaching out to Brooklyn?

    1. He is afraid of her.
    2. He doesn't believe in ghosts.
    3. He is unable to admit he is being haunted.
    4. He is trying to protect her from danger.
    Show answer

    C. He is unable to admit he is being haunted. The synopsis states, 'As the nightmares escalate and the messages become relentless, Nico reaches out to Brooklyn. But neither of them can admit that they're being haunted.' This implies an internal struggle or unwillingness to confront the supernatural reality.

  10. Question 10

    What is the key to finding rest for the souls mentioned in the book?

    1. Confronting the person who wronged them.
    2. Finding their lost belongings.
    3. Accepting their fate and moving on.
    4. Brooklyn and Nico trusting each other and opening up.
    Show answer

    D. Brooklyn and Nico trusting each other and opening up. The final sentence of the synopsis is, 'Until they learn to let each other in, not one soul will be able to rest.' This directly links the resolution for the restless souls to the connection and openness between Brooklyn and Nico.

Chasing Brooklyn FAQ

What is the plot of Chasing Brooklyn?

Chasing Brooklyn is a young adult fantasy novel about Brooklyn, who is haunted by the ghost of her recently deceased friend, Gabe. She struggles to cope with grief and confusion, especially when Gabe's ghost appears in her dreams, not Lucca's, her late boyfriend. Meanwhile, Lucca's brother, Nico, is also dealing with grief and is guided by Lucca's ghost to help Brooklyn.

Who are the main characters in Chasing Brooklyn?

The main characters are Brooklyn, who is grieving the loss of her boyfriend Lucca and friend Gabe, and Nico, Lucca's brother, who is also struggling with his own grief and is tasked by Lucca's ghost to help Brooklyn.

What genre is Chasing Brooklyn?

Chasing Brooklyn is a young adult novel that blends fantasy and romance elements. It deals with themes of grief, loss, and the supernatural.

What is the central conflict in Chasing Brooklyn?

The central conflict revolves around Brooklyn and Nico being haunted by the ghosts of their loved ones. They must confront their grief and learn to trust each other to find peace and allow the restless souls to rest.

What role do ghosts play in Chasing Brooklyn?

Ghosts, specifically Gabe and Lucca, play a crucial role in driving the plot. They appear in dreams and leave messages, guiding the living characters towards healing and resolution.

Does Chasing Brooklyn have a romantic element?

Yes, Chasing Brooklyn has a significant romantic element. As Brooklyn and Nico connect while dealing with their shared grief and supernatural experiences, a romance begins to develop between them.

What are the main themes explored in Chasing Brooklyn?

The book explores themes of grief, loss, healing, friendship, and the complexities of love. It also touches on the idea of finding peace and letting go.

Is Chasing Brooklyn a standalone novel?

Yes, Chasing Brooklyn is a standalone novel. It tells a complete story with a resolution for its main characters and their supernatural encounters.

Who would enjoy reading Chasing Brooklyn?

Readers who enjoy young adult fantasy novels with elements of romance, supernatural themes, and stories about overcoming grief and loss would likely enjoy Chasing Brooklyn.

How does the book handle the theme of grief?

The book handles grief by showing its different facets through Brooklyn and Nico's experiences. It illustrates how grief can manifest as nightmares, isolation, and a sense of being haunted, and how connection and vulnerability can aid in the healing process.

About the author

Lisa Schroeder

Lisa Schroeder is an author known for her young adult fiction. Her notable works include "Far from You," which explores themes of loss and resilience, and "Chasing Brooklyn," a story that intertwines love and grief. Schroeder's writing often features lyrical prose and emotional depth.

All 2 summaries of Lisa Schroeder's books →

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