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Where Secrets Stay
She thought she left the past behind—until it started painting itself into her present.
When artist Kevan returns home after her grandmother’s death, she intends to close the door on a past she has spent years avoiding. What she doesn’t expect is an inheritance—an abandoned house in the woods, untouched for years, yet heavy with the weight of something unfinished.
As Kevan visits her hometown, she crosses paths with a stranger, Nathan, who is searching for answers to his sister’s disappearance more than two decades ago—an unsolved mystery that may be tied to the same house in the woods.
Kevan’s art begins to takes a darker turn, pulling her toward images she doesn’t remember creating. The deeper she digs, the more unsettling her memories become—especially those of her childhood best friend, Beth. But as Kevan begins to uncover the truth, she realizes that some bonds run deeper than reason, and some memories are buried for a reason.
As past and present collide, Kevan must untangle a decades-old mystery of betrayal, buried bodies, and the twisted bonds of friendship and family. And when the final pieces fall into place, she’ll learn that not all hauntings come from the dead—some are just echoes of sins still waiting to be reckoned with.
If I could give this more than five stars I would -- Reader Review
When artist Kevan returns home after her grandmother’s death, she intends to close the door on a past she has spent years avoiding. What she doesn’t expect is an inheritance—an abandoned house in the woods, untouched for years, yet heavy with the weight of something unfinished.
As Kevan visits her hometown, she crosses paths with a stranger, Nathan, who is searching for answers to his sister’s disappearance more than two decades ago—an unsolved mystery that may be tied to the same house in the woods.
Kevan’s art begins to takes a darker turn, pulling her toward images she doesn’t remember creating. The deeper she digs, the more unsettling her memories become—especially those of her childhood best friend, Beth. But as Kevan begins to uncover the truth, she realizes that some bonds run deeper than reason, and some memories are buried for a reason.
As past and present collide, Kevan must untangle a decades-old mystery of betrayal, buried bodies, and the twisted bonds of friendship and family. And when the final pieces fall into place, she’ll learn that not all hauntings come from the dead—some are just echoes of sins still waiting to be reckoned with.
If I could give this more than five stars I would -- Reader Review
286 pages, ebook
Published December 1, 2023
89 people are currently reading
2600 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
November 18, 2024
This book kept me guessing all the way to the end! I loved how everything came together slowly and kept me interested. This is not usually the type of book I would say I love, but I really did!! I added her backlist to my tbr because this was so well thought out and put together. I don’t want to say a lot about the plot because it is best to go in blind but needless to say, this is a 5 star winner!
September 19, 2024
Where Secrets Stay is an amazing story and very well written by a new author to me. There were plenty of twists and turns, most of which I didn’t see coming. The constant changing of POV and time periods was difficult to follow at times, and other times a bit annoying. For example when a chapter built to a big reveal, then the next chapter changed POV or time period. By the time we got back to the big reveal much of my anticipation had dissipated. I never quite understood why Edith was so stand-offish and mean to Kevan following Clyde’s death. Just didn’t make sense to me. The seeing and talking to spirits is kind of believable for the most part. But when the spirit cooks breakfast and cleans up the kitchen afterwards it loses a little credibility (just one example). But I am being picky. All in all this was an enjoyable read and a page turner. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
February 18, 2024
I discovered this book on Tiktok and was not disappointed! Cherann has a way of slowly unravelling a mystery without giving too much away. I spent over half the book just trying to figure about what exactly happened as the main characters did the same. There were even a few plot twists that took me by surprise. If you like a good mystery you will love this book.
August 29, 2025
Durch Zufall entdeckt und auch wenn ich mir einiges schon so gedacht hatte, wurde ich am Ende doch noch überrascht und fand es richtig richtig gut!
May 26, 2024
This story kept me guessing all the way to the end. Once I thought I had figured it out, I was wrong. Several components of the story tugged at my heart and made me feel many different emotions. I love when I can get lost in a book and I got lost in this one! The story and twists were so clever. I started this book yesterday and finished today. If you want a book that you can’t put down, this is one of them!
September 5, 2024
Not for me.
I really hate giving such a low rating to a debut novel because I can imagine how much blood, sweat, tears, and hope must have gone into getting a first book published. That being said, this book just wasn‘t for me.
First of all, it‘s heavy on paranormal activity (not one of my favorite topics to begin with) and abuse - animal cruelty, child abuse, domestic violence, rape, you name it, it happened, and sometimes in unnecessarily gruesome detail.
Second, I would not have even minded those topics so much if the payoff had been a good story, but sadly, I guessed all the twists very early on, so there was no suspense element to keep me interested (haven‘t we all seen „Sixth Sense“?).
Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, I found it hard to connect with the characters and thought there were some huge plot holes, or storylines that just didn‘t make sense to me. For example, I never understood the rift between Kevan and her brothers. Also, why a woman wouldn‘t hesitate to kill one abuser, but then didn‘t do anything to protect innocent children from another for the longest time was beyond me. Edith‘s story arc was also not believable at all - why would she behave so horribly towards her own daughter? And why could Kevan not remember that she had seen that key before, and had even been told what it opened? Was that also supposedly covered by her amnesia, despite happening at a completely different time? There were some meager tries to explain some of these points, but I didn‘t find them very satisfying or credible. Finally, I could not believe the whole coverup - it was ludicrous. WHY? The cause of *spoiler*‘s death would have allowed for a complete reframing of the narrative without hiding that death altogether and leaving distraught family members in the dark.
Overall, the story sadly failed to convince me or draw me in.
TW: domestic violence, child abuse, rape, animal cruelty.
Thank you to NetGalley and Sleuthing Sloth Press for the digital copy in exchange for my honest review.
I really hate giving such a low rating to a debut novel because I can imagine how much blood, sweat, tears, and hope must have gone into getting a first book published. That being said, this book just wasn‘t for me.
First of all, it‘s heavy on paranormal activity (not one of my favorite topics to begin with) and abuse - animal cruelty, child abuse, domestic violence, rape, you name it, it happened, and sometimes in unnecessarily gruesome detail.
Second, I would not have even minded those topics so much if the payoff had been a good story, but sadly, I guessed all the twists very early on, so there was no suspense element to keep me interested (haven‘t we all seen „Sixth Sense“?).
Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, I found it hard to connect with the characters and thought there were some huge plot holes, or storylines that just didn‘t make sense to me. For example, I never understood the rift between Kevan and her brothers. Also, why a woman wouldn‘t hesitate to kill one abuser, but then didn‘t do anything to protect innocent children from another for the longest time was beyond me. Edith‘s story arc was also not believable at all - why would she behave so horribly towards her own daughter? And why could Kevan not remember that she had seen that key before, and had even been told what it opened? Was that also supposedly covered by her amnesia, despite happening at a completely different time? There were some meager tries to explain some of these points, but I didn‘t find them very satisfying or credible. Finally, I could not believe the whole coverup - it was ludicrous. WHY? The cause of *spoiler*‘s death would have allowed for a complete reframing of the narrative without hiding that death altogether and leaving distraught family members in the dark.
Overall, the story sadly failed to convince me or draw me in.
TW: domestic violence, child abuse, rape, animal cruelty.
Thank you to NetGalley and Sleuthing Sloth Press for the digital copy in exchange for my honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 10, 2024
Oh my, what a tangled web we weave. This book is haunting, compelling and so very intriguing.
When Kevan inherits her grandmother’s home, her childhood traumas finally come to light through secrets that her grandmother left behind. She can finally come to terms with her traumatic childhood and learn how family secrets can shape your life.
The characters are superbly written. I love when even the setting feels like a character because it is described so perfectly. The pacing is spot on, the multiple POV’s are richly crafted, and you’ll be taken on an emotional journey with this one. I highly recommend.
Thank you, NetGalley and Sleuthing Sloth Press for the advanced copy.
When Kevan inherits her grandmother’s home, her childhood traumas finally come to light through secrets that her grandmother left behind. She can finally come to terms with her traumatic childhood and learn how family secrets can shape your life.
The characters are superbly written. I love when even the setting feels like a character because it is described so perfectly. The pacing is spot on, the multiple POV’s are richly crafted, and you’ll be taken on an emotional journey with this one. I highly recommend.
Thank you, NetGalley and Sleuthing Sloth Press for the advanced copy.
July 2, 2024
I was really surprised at how good this book was. I had picked it up at Barnes and Noble and laid it back down. Then I find out that I go to church with the author’s mom and she was telling me about her daughter writing this book and I went home and ordered it. Very well written and good storyline. I only gave it 4 stars because there were a few little things that disappointed me. I don’t want to give away anything about the book. But I would definitely recommend it.
July 15, 2024
"Where Secrets Stay" by CherAnn Wright is an enthralling novel that grips you from the very first page. From the outset, Wright’s masterful storytelling and rich, vivid descriptions pull you into a world brimming with mystery and emotion.
The story centers around Kevan, a woman who has survived a traumatic childhood thanks to the loving care of her grandmother, Gammie. After Gammie's death, Kevan is forced to revisit her painful past, confronting long-buried secrets and unresolved emotions. This journey is both harrowing and compelling, making it difficult to read at times, yet impossible to put down.
Nathan, another central character, has also endured a difficult past, never coming to terms with a childhood loss. His pain and Kevan’s intersect in unexpected ways, drawing them together through their shared experiences. With the help of Gammie’s best friend, Dotty, Kevan and Nathan manage to uncover long-searched-for answers about their pasts, offering a path toward healing and understanding.
Wright’s writing is nothing short of exquisite. Her prose flows effortlessly, with each sentence crafted to draw you deeper into the plot. The characters are well-developed, and their journeys are portrayed with a realism that makes them feel incredibly authentic.
"Where Secrets Stay" is a testament to CherAnn Wright's skill as an author. It’s a beautifully written book that keeps you hooked until the very last page, making it a must-read for anyone who appreciates a powerful and gripping story of resilience and discovery.
The story centers around Kevan, a woman who has survived a traumatic childhood thanks to the loving care of her grandmother, Gammie. After Gammie's death, Kevan is forced to revisit her painful past, confronting long-buried secrets and unresolved emotions. This journey is both harrowing and compelling, making it difficult to read at times, yet impossible to put down.
Nathan, another central character, has also endured a difficult past, never coming to terms with a childhood loss. His pain and Kevan’s intersect in unexpected ways, drawing them together through their shared experiences. With the help of Gammie’s best friend, Dotty, Kevan and Nathan manage to uncover long-searched-for answers about their pasts, offering a path toward healing and understanding.
Wright’s writing is nothing short of exquisite. Her prose flows effortlessly, with each sentence crafted to draw you deeper into the plot. The characters are well-developed, and their journeys are portrayed with a realism that makes them feel incredibly authentic.
"Where Secrets Stay" is a testament to CherAnn Wright's skill as an author. It’s a beautifully written book that keeps you hooked until the very last page, making it a must-read for anyone who appreciates a powerful and gripping story of resilience and discovery.
August 12, 2024
"Where Secrets Stay" by CherAnn Wright is an absolute page-turner that captivated me from the very first chapter. This was the first book I've read by this author, and I am already eagerly looking forward to exploring more of her work. Wright masterfully intertwines suspense, mystery, and deep emotional undertones, creating a story that is as haunting as it is compelling.
Inspired by true events, the novel follows Kevan Renee, an artist haunted by her traumatic past, as she inherits a forgotten estate with a dark secret. Wright's writing brings the eerie atmosphere of the abandoned estate to life, with every detail painting a vivid picture of a place that holds far more than just memories. The way she portrays Kevan's gradual unraveling of the past is both chilling and deeply moving, keeping the reader on edge with each new revelation.
Nathan Hill's subplot, centered on the decades-long disappearance of his sister, adds another layer of mystery and emotional depth to the story. Wright skillfully weaves together these two narratives, leading to a climax that is as satisfying as it is surprising.
The themes of buried secrets, childhood trauma, and the quest for truth are explored with sensitivity and insight, making "Where Secrets Stay" not just a thrilling read but also a profound exploration of the human psyche.
If you're a fan of suspenseful, emotionally charged mysteries, this book is a must-read. CherAnn Wright has proven herself to be a talented storyteller, and I can't wait to see what she has in store next. Highly recommended!
Thank you @netgalley and @cherannwright for the ARC!
***All thoughts and opinions are mine and mine alone***
Inspired by true events, the novel follows Kevan Renee, an artist haunted by her traumatic past, as she inherits a forgotten estate with a dark secret. Wright's writing brings the eerie atmosphere of the abandoned estate to life, with every detail painting a vivid picture of a place that holds far more than just memories. The way she portrays Kevan's gradual unraveling of the past is both chilling and deeply moving, keeping the reader on edge with each new revelation.
Nathan Hill's subplot, centered on the decades-long disappearance of his sister, adds another layer of mystery and emotional depth to the story. Wright skillfully weaves together these two narratives, leading to a climax that is as satisfying as it is surprising.
The themes of buried secrets, childhood trauma, and the quest for truth are explored with sensitivity and insight, making "Where Secrets Stay" not just a thrilling read but also a profound exploration of the human psyche.
If you're a fan of suspenseful, emotionally charged mysteries, this book is a must-read. CherAnn Wright has proven herself to be a talented storyteller, and I can't wait to see what she has in store next. Highly recommended!
Thank you @netgalley and @cherannwright for the ARC!
***All thoughts and opinions are mine and mine alone***
July 9, 2024
This book was incredible! I LOVED it!!!! I thought the writing was excellently done, and got me into the book immediately to where I couldn’t put it down! I read every opportunity I had because it was so compelling.
Two tiny little critical comments. I found it hard to follow certain parts because many characters went by several names. It took me a while to keep it straight. And at the end where Kevan comes to the realization that Beth isn’t alive-I found that confusing. In a sense I understood it in the same time that Kevan understood it. Perhaps that’s what the author intended the reader to do?
All in all I found this book to be a wonderful and exciting story. It makes me want to read more from this author.
Two tiny little critical comments. I found it hard to follow certain parts because many characters went by several names. It took me a while to keep it straight. And at the end where Kevan comes to the realization that Beth isn’t alive-I found that confusing. In a sense I understood it in the same time that Kevan understood it. Perhaps that’s what the author intended the reader to do?
All in all I found this book to be a wonderful and exciting story. It makes me want to read more from this author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 11, 2024
Wow! This book really blew me away. I love thrillers and this one delivered on every aspect. From the first pages I was absolutely pulled in. The author rights in multiple POVS which I love in a book and I think was absolutely necessary for this one. The characters are so well written. I just wanted to know more and more about the characters and their stories I couldn’t put the book down! The book focuses a lot on past traumas so please make sure you check the trigger warnings. There’s a lot going on in this book and the author wraps up each story line very well. I couldn’t guess a single thing and there were plot twists all throughout the book. All in all this was a fabulously written thriller and if you are looking for a book you can’t put down, here it is.
October 8, 2024
This book broke my heart many times, I was literally sobbing by the end. There was so much going on that I was trying so hard to figure out which direction this book was going to end. Granted I put a few things together, but the end had me absolutely speechless. I didn’t know what direction this book was going to head at any point and I was constantly left with the need to know. I couldn’t put this book down, and when I had to it’s all I could think about until I could get back to it. This was such a phenomenal story line, with even better writing.
November 20, 2023
Where Secrets Stay is a psychological thriller. A story told over many generations and different points of view. Kevan Renee spent years trying to cover up and forget all the trauma of her childhood. When her Gammie passed away everything changed. As she then inherits a property she is quick to remember her childhood and how her and Gammie had often went there, which leads to long day and sleepless nights.
If you want a book that keeps you on edge and can not stop reading, this is it. I highly recommend!
If you want a book that keeps you on edge and can not stop reading, this is it. I highly recommend!
June 25, 2024
I read a lot and this was such a phenomenal story. I literally couldn’t stop and finished it in one sitting. It’s tragic and heart wrenching and yet you must read on. It’s also loving and touching too. It’s a story of struggle and hurt but also seeing that good can still come from broken pieces if you put them back together. Brilliantly written! I will be looking into what else this author has written!
September 21, 2024
What a wow book!! This one kept me guessing and took me by surprise! If you like a good thriller that will keep you on your toes this is most definitely worth reading! I thought maybe I had it figured out and then came another twist. You really get into the characters of this book. It did take me a few chapters to actually get hooked but once I did it did not disappoint.
December 29, 2024
This book kept me on my toes. The beginning seemed so normal and kinda sad. Then, the end comes along and blew all my ideas out of the water. Never saw that end coming.
The main characters are well developed, in my opinion. It seems like you either like them or hate them.
I liked this book so well that, even though I know it's a stand-alone, i want a sequel.
The main characters are well developed, in my opinion. It seems like you either like them or hate them.
I liked this book so well that, even though I know it's a stand-alone, i want a sequel.
August 23, 2024
I picked this book up at a book festival and I have to say I am so happy I did! I loved the characters and was thrilled by the unexpected revelations at the end of the book, I highly recommend giving this book a go.
October 24, 2024
Wow
I'm setting here with tears rolling off my face .this book is just awesome I never cry reading books but this one tore my heart out then mended it .
Do your selves a great favor and read this book there is so much heart woven into it. This has to be one of my all time favorites.I can't even begin to unpack it all ,the stories the anger the heartbreak. Its well worth the read but have a box of tissues handy you will need it...
I'm setting here with tears rolling off my face .this book is just awesome I never cry reading books but this one tore my heart out then mended it .
Do your selves a great favor and read this book there is so much heart woven into it. This has to be one of my all time favorites.I can't even begin to unpack it all ,the stories the anger the heartbreak. Its well worth the read but have a box of tissues handy you will need it...
March 14, 2025
This is a new to me author and I’m definitely looking for her other books after reading Where Secrets Stay. Such a haunting and intriguing story that kept me interested the whole way through! I love how the author weaved everything together. And what unexpected twists!
December 2, 2023
The passing of Grammie was a catalyst she can’t escape, for years trauma has been buried deep , never to be explored. All that changes with the inheritance of that house. Chilling nightmares for two people . Secrets and lies remain entangled into the very fabric of the property scanning generations. A suspensive psychological thriller to chill the bones and test the curious mind. Well put together , structure story with a compelling narrative
I read an advance of this book and leave a voluntary review
I read an advance of this book and leave a voluntary review
May 7, 2024
Best book I've read in a while
June 1, 2024
A thriller where I guarantee the ending will most likely be a surprise. Not only did I not expect the end, but I also didn’t guess most of the twists. It really surprised me!
Kevan lived through a difficult childhood, one that she worked to escape. After her grandma, “Grammie”, passed away, she returned home and slowly started remembering parts of her childhood she had forgotten. There she met Nathan. His sister disappeared decades earlier, and he continued wondering about what happened. What happened to his sister? What was Kevan running from?
This was a good thriller/mystery. Though it started slower for me, it picked up quickly. It was also difficult to follow towards the beginning, but this improved quickly and I had trouble putting it down.
There were various POVs, which really added to the story. I thought that they all flowed together seamlessly, and loved that they gave a full understanding of events.
I do want to give a heads up that there were some adult themes (trauma; abuse, etc.) in the book that I wasn’t expecting. They added to the story, but some did throw me for a loop.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, received from the publisher and author through NetGalley. However, all thoughts and views reflected are strictly my own opinions.
Kevan lived through a difficult childhood, one that she worked to escape. After her grandma, “Grammie”, passed away, she returned home and slowly started remembering parts of her childhood she had forgotten. There she met Nathan. His sister disappeared decades earlier, and he continued wondering about what happened. What happened to his sister? What was Kevan running from?
This was a good thriller/mystery. Though it started slower for me, it picked up quickly. It was also difficult to follow towards the beginning, but this improved quickly and I had trouble putting it down.
There were various POVs, which really added to the story. I thought that they all flowed together seamlessly, and loved that they gave a full understanding of events.
I do want to give a heads up that there were some adult themes (trauma; abuse, etc.) in the book that I wasn’t expecting. They added to the story, but some did throw me for a loop.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, received from the publisher and author through NetGalley. However, all thoughts and views reflected are strictly my own opinions.
July 13, 2024
Very talented writer. I had figured some things out half way through the book so that made me dread the ending
April 22, 2025
Wow
The gifts we have or don't know we have! The mind is a wonderful thing, sometimes it saves us from ourselves!
The gifts we have or don't know we have! The mind is a wonderful thing, sometimes it saves us from ourselves!
July 14, 2024
This book is amazing! Couldn’t put it down! Wonderfully written! Am definitely a fan now!
April 16, 2025
NO SPOILERS
Where Secrets Stay
CherAnn Wright
She is another new author to me. I love a book that is so suspenseful and full of mystery that it kept me on the edge! I loved how she ties everything together and this definitely had twists and turns we all crave! I can’t wait to read more of CherAnn’s books.
Where Secrets Stay
CherAnn Wright
She is another new author to me. I love a book that is so suspenseful and full of mystery that it kept me on the edge! I loved how she ties everything together and this definitely had twists and turns we all crave! I can’t wait to read more of CherAnn’s books.
October 16, 2025
OMG!!!! I can't brag enough about this book. This was one of the best psychological thrillers I have ever read. This book kept me guessing the entire time. As soon as I thought I had something figured out, there was a new twist or turn that I didn't expect. Wheww!!!! This book took me on a ride.
This book is about a lady named Kevan that tries to leave her past in the past. Dreams start to bring up old memories. She is thrust back into her past with an unexpected inheritance. While on this journey she encounters Nathan that is investigating and unsolved mystery. The story unfolds with tons of forgotten memories and multiple twists and turns.
This book is about a lady named Kevan that tries to leave her past in the past. Dreams start to bring up old memories. She is thrust back into her past with an unexpected inheritance. While on this journey she encounters Nathan that is investigating and unsolved mystery. The story unfolds with tons of forgotten memories and multiple twists and turns.
January 18, 2026
At 8%, I had about half of Where Secrets Stay figured out. By %25, I knew almost the entirety. Yet here I am, still giving this book 4 stars, because I enjoyed the writing and story so much! Usually if I can predict how a story is going to pan out, I feel no joy in finishing. However, in this one I had a lot of fun waiting for the characters to piece it together.
June 29, 2025
I loved this one!!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews