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You I Lie With
Have you ever watched an apocalypse movie and, instead of admiring the stunts in the foreground, found yourself distracted wondering about the fate of a sweet-looking, nameless couple in the background?
This is their story.
Sam and Ally are stranded in a hotel during a catastrophic winter storm. Their bond with each other grows stronger as the world around them begins to crumble.
A romantic, atmospheric, slice-of-life apocalypse novella that explores what it means to love unconditionally and grapples with what it means to die well.
This is their story.
Sam and Ally are stranded in a hotel during a catastrophic winter storm. Their bond with each other grows stronger as the world around them begins to crumble.
A romantic, atmospheric, slice-of-life apocalypse novella that explores what it means to love unconditionally and grapples with what it means to die well.
61 pages, Paperback
Published May 20, 2024
6 people are currently reading
219 people want to read
About the author
Meghan Davis
3 books30 followers@minnielikesbooks on booksta - come say hi!
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
May 25, 2024
This is my debut work of fiction.
Here’s my attempt at reviewing my own book:
This novella is simultaneously heart-wrenching and sweet. One moment you’ll be squealing and kicking your feet at how adorable Sam and Ally are together, and in the next moment their situation will plunge you into deliciously agonizing despair. I think you will be pleasantly surprised by how much is packed into this slim volume.
If you decide to take a chance and read my little self-published book, I can't tell you how much I appreciate it. I hope the risk pays off for you. If not, don't tell me, I don't want to know. Pretend you never read this.
Here’s my attempt at reviewing my own book:
This novella is simultaneously heart-wrenching and sweet. One moment you’ll be squealing and kicking your feet at how adorable Sam and Ally are together, and in the next moment their situation will plunge you into deliciously agonizing despair. I think you will be pleasantly surprised by how much is packed into this slim volume.
If you decide to take a chance and read my little self-published book, I can't tell you how much I appreciate it. I hope the risk pays off for you. If not, don't tell me, I don't want to know. Pretend you never read this.
May 10, 2024
okay my one and only complaint about this is that I turned the page and suddenly it was the ACKNOWLEDGMENTS. GIRL WHAT????????? I NEED MORE???????????
I don't usually request ARCs because I'm always so worried that I'll end up getting one that's awful and then I'll feel bad having to say that it's awful, but I had no such worry about this one. As soon as I saw it I knew it was going to be beautiful, and it absolutely is. I underestimated how many times such a little book could rip my heart out tho!! These characters were so real and lovable. Despite my wish that I had more of this book to read, the ending was exactly what it needed to be. Sudden and tragic and left me reeling. Perfection.
Some other thoughts: The descriptions of living through the "beginning stages" of an apocalypse were incredibly eerie after having experienced the pandemic, especially being in the perspective of regular people, rather than heroic action heroes like dystopian fiction usually focuses on. Meghan Davis did such a good job at capturing that sense of unreality and disconnect. (I mean she was on the same planet as me for the last 4 years so like... makes sense... but still. I think it's something that's hard to put into words in such a visceral way). Also being someone who got really, really sick the first year of the pandemic, this book did an AMAZING job at capturing the feeling of "I can't focus on the whole world ending right now because I need to spend every single hour focusing on how the hell I'm going to get through the next one." I'm sure there's a more elegant way to word that, but it's late and I'm tired.
I will probably never forget this novella. THANK YOU FOR THE ARC AND THE GOOD CRY <33333333
Add to your tbr girlies bc this is out 5/20 on KU (and I think also available for preorder)
I don't usually request ARCs because I'm always so worried that I'll end up getting one that's awful and then I'll feel bad having to say that it's awful, but I had no such worry about this one. As soon as I saw it I knew it was going to be beautiful, and it absolutely is. I underestimated how many times such a little book could rip my heart out tho!! These characters were so real and lovable. Despite my wish that I had more of this book to read, the ending was exactly what it needed to be. Sudden and tragic and left me reeling. Perfection.
Some other thoughts: The descriptions of living through the "beginning stages" of an apocalypse were incredibly eerie after having experienced the pandemic, especially being in the perspective of regular people, rather than heroic action heroes like dystopian fiction usually focuses on. Meghan Davis did such a good job at capturing that sense of unreality and disconnect. (I mean she was on the same planet as me for the last 4 years so like... makes sense... but still. I think it's something that's hard to put into words in such a visceral way). Also being someone who got really, really sick the first year of the pandemic, this book did an AMAZING job at capturing the feeling of "I can't focus on the whole world ending right now because I need to spend every single hour focusing on how the hell I'm going to get through the next one." I'm sure there's a more elegant way to word that, but it's late and I'm tired.
I will probably never forget this novella. THANK YOU FOR THE ARC AND THE GOOD CRY <33333333
Add to your tbr girlies bc this is out 5/20 on KU (and I think also available for preorder)
May 7, 2024
This is an intimate portrait of a couple. And we learn everything we need to know about them despite the novella length. Because all that really matters is the two of them. Together. Meghan has a sweet way of showing their character simply in the way they treat each other. Which is so accurate. It’s the most intimate kind of relationship and how your spouse treats you speaks volumes about them as a person.
Beyond the bubble of the two of them, the “background character” concept was really well executed. I felt it added a new dimension to the story and the stakes without overpowering it.
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Beyond the bubble of the two of them, the “background character” concept was really well executed. I felt it added a new dimension to the story and the stakes without overpowering it.
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 3, 2025
A beautiful view in to how normal people may deal with the end of the world. Not all of us are heroes and sometimes it’s good to be reminded of that. A sad and sweet story that made me feel incredibly emotional in a short span of pages.
May 23, 2024
*wistful sigh* 🫠
Okay- after I lost my father in 2021, I developed a completely different outlook on life. Unfortunately, it’s true what they say: one day you’ll just…die. No second chances. Don’t waste one second of your time on earth holding yourself back from letting everyone you know just how much you love them, no matter how you might express it. And to anyone reading this feeling that horribly familiar stab of grief & knowing exactly what I’m getting at here- I’m so sorry, ily, and you’re not alone.
This novella was not only a story about true love, it was a story about loss. It was beautifully and tantalizingly written in a way that sucked me in immediately. At the end of the world, will you be able to say you lived with no regrets? Are you taking anything for granted? Are you cherishing your memories? Will you wish you’d said more? Done more?
Here’s my favorite quote: “He revels in the heady presence of Ally in his arms and his heart sends up a prayer of thanks for the way music can somehow express a depth and reality of emotion more thoroughly than words ever could.”
This novella is so short and sweet that I didn’t want to get into too much detail at the risk of spoiling anything. Hopefully my impression of the book is doing what I want it to be doing. I read it twice today and will definitely be reading again when I’m feeling emo and want to make it worse!! All of this to say, you should absolutely read this. I was full-on crying several different times IN THE BEST WAY. This was cathartic as hell. 100/100 stars please read this!!!!!!!
Okay- after I lost my father in 2021, I developed a completely different outlook on life. Unfortunately, it’s true what they say: one day you’ll just…die. No second chances. Don’t waste one second of your time on earth holding yourself back from letting everyone you know just how much you love them, no matter how you might express it. And to anyone reading this feeling that horribly familiar stab of grief & knowing exactly what I’m getting at here- I’m so sorry, ily, and you’re not alone.
This novella was not only a story about true love, it was a story about loss. It was beautifully and tantalizingly written in a way that sucked me in immediately. At the end of the world, will you be able to say you lived with no regrets? Are you taking anything for granted? Are you cherishing your memories? Will you wish you’d said more? Done more?
Here’s my favorite quote: “He revels in the heady presence of Ally in his arms and his heart sends up a prayer of thanks for the way music can somehow express a depth and reality of emotion more thoroughly than words ever could.”
This novella is so short and sweet that I didn’t want to get into too much detail at the risk of spoiling anything. Hopefully my impression of the book is doing what I want it to be doing. I read it twice today and will definitely be reading again when I’m feeling emo and want to make it worse!! All of this to say, you should absolutely read this. I was full-on crying several different times IN THE BEST WAY. This was cathartic as hell. 100/100 stars please read this!!!!!!!
May 27, 2024
Beautiful. Absolutely beautiful.
I read this in one sitting. Honestly wish there was more to it. Raw and intimate.
I read this in one sitting. Honestly wish there was more to it. Raw and intimate.
May 27, 2024
I read this heart-wrenching novella in one sitting and loved every second of it (even if it hurt). 🥲
The depiction of Sam and Ally's relationship was so real and raw, and is exactly the type of connection you hope for in a marriage. They have found themselves stuck in an impossible situation on top of their already unfortunate circumstances. I just wanted them to catch a break! 🥺
Even though I wouldn't call this a HEA by any means, it was perfect for this couple going through this specific set of challenges. The ending is beautifully tragic, and I have found my thoughts straying to Sam and Ally several times since finishing this novella.
The depiction of Sam and Ally's relationship was so real and raw, and is exactly the type of connection you hope for in a marriage. They have found themselves stuck in an impossible situation on top of their already unfortunate circumstances. I just wanted them to catch a break! 🥺
Even though I wouldn't call this a HEA by any means, it was perfect for this couple going through this specific set of challenges. The ending is beautifully tragic, and I have found my thoughts straying to Sam and Ally several times since finishing this novella.
May 3, 2024
This book is absolutely beautiful. When those plot shifts hit? Your stomach WILL drop, and your heart will be grabbed right out your chest.
This book is equal parts heartwarming, kick your feet and giggle like a school girl AND utterly devastating. This is one of the most real stories I have ever had the pleasure of reading. These are real people with real problems. These aren't just side characters of the apocalypse--no, this is the apocalypse playing out in a microcosm while simultaneously playing out globally.
This is a real, honest to goodness couple with real problems that aren't just there for *plot* or to get a reaction. No, this is heart wrapped with a bow at the end of the world.
Do yourself a favor and read this book. See what humanity really has to offer at the time of the apocalypse. It's not the bang or the attractive MCs saving the world. It's the little moments of real connection and real relationships that mean so much MORE.
Thank you, Meghan for sharing your talent and gift with the world.
This book is equal parts heartwarming, kick your feet and giggle like a school girl AND utterly devastating. This is one of the most real stories I have ever had the pleasure of reading. These are real people with real problems. These aren't just side characters of the apocalypse--no, this is the apocalypse playing out in a microcosm while simultaneously playing out globally.
This is a real, honest to goodness couple with real problems that aren't just there for *plot* or to get a reaction. No, this is heart wrapped with a bow at the end of the world.
Do yourself a favor and read this book. See what humanity really has to offer at the time of the apocalypse. It's not the bang or the attractive MCs saving the world. It's the little moments of real connection and real relationships that mean so much MORE.
Thank you, Meghan for sharing your talent and gift with the world.
August 14, 2024
✨”His soul recognizes hers.”✨
What can I say about this short novella that hasn’t probably already been said?
“You I Lie With” gave me more romance, story staging, and character building than some 200+ page books. I felt a genuine fondness for the main characters and formed an attachment, like I somehow knew Sam and Ally even before this book.
The ending was as bittersweet as I expected.
Such a hauntingly beautiful, creative story! ❤️
What can I say about this short novella that hasn’t probably already been said?
“You I Lie With” gave me more romance, story staging, and character building than some 200+ page books. I felt a genuine fondness for the main characters and formed an attachment, like I somehow knew Sam and Ally even before this book.
The ending was as bittersweet as I expected.
Such a hauntingly beautiful, creative story! ❤️
August 27, 2024
A short novella, absolutely not the sort of genre I would chose normally but a recommendation via a glowing review of it by a friend whose taste I trust. Always the way with discovering self published books and authors.
And I loved it.
A romance nested inside a personal tragedy, inside an external nightmare. But mostly it’s the first aspect, and with a positive outlook despite the problems revealed. When you have a long term committed relationship with a partner, as I have, it’s all the more poignant especially as I approach dotage!
Not a long read, an hour or two, but one of those that might stick with you. Be interesting to see what this self published author does in the future but she’s on my radar, at least.
And I loved it.
A romance nested inside a personal tragedy, inside an external nightmare. But mostly it’s the first aspect, and with a positive outlook despite the problems revealed. When you have a long term committed relationship with a partner, as I have, it’s all the more poignant especially as I approach dotage!
Not a long read, an hour or two, but one of those that might stick with you. Be interesting to see what this self published author does in the future but she’s on my radar, at least.
May 3, 2024
Jess’s overall enjoyment: 5/5⭐️
Spice level: 2/5 🌶️
Angst level: 4.5/5 ❤️🩹
Plot: 4.5/5 🗺️
Writing: 5/5🖊️
This story has been occupying my brain ever since I beta read it. It feels like Meghan took a microcosm of time and expanded it and explored the emotions and interactions that we don’t realize we pass by in such a beautiful way. There is such chaos happening in the story and the character’s situations are so terrible, but their actions and their relationship made me feel so comforted within this apocalyptic nightmare. It was such a juxtaposition it somehow felt RIGHT.
This story is short but will definitely stick with me.
Spice level: 2/5 🌶️
Angst level: 4.5/5 ❤️🩹
Plot: 4.5/5 🗺️
Writing: 5/5🖊️
This story has been occupying my brain ever since I beta read it. It feels like Meghan took a microcosm of time and expanded it and explored the emotions and interactions that we don’t realize we pass by in such a beautiful way. There is such chaos happening in the story and the character’s situations are so terrible, but their actions and their relationship made me feel so comforted within this apocalyptic nightmare. It was such a juxtaposition it somehow felt RIGHT.
This story is short but will definitely stick with me.
May 13, 2024
Firstly, thank you a billion to Meghan Davis for the eARC of her debut novella!
You I Lie with is a novella that was inspired by the song "as the world caves in". It follows Sam and Ally, a "nameless couple" in the background during an apocalypse, as they navigate the world falling apart, unconditional love, and what it means to die well. A lot of substance for a short novella, but Meghan de👏li👏vers👏! For all you 90s kids that grew up with the day after tomorrow on repeat, this one's for you! (Ps, Meghan even references this movie in the story!) But what I loved so much, was that instead of focusing on "main character energy", hero's, and saving the world, this story focuses instead on those of us in the background. The lives of ordinary people, in an extraordinary situations.
I laughed, I cried, and I had my heartstrings pulled while following along sam and ally's story, and I can't wait for everyone else to experience this lovely novella on May 20!
In the words of Meghan Davis,
For lovers of the simple life.
And for everyone who knows they would probably die in an apocalypse
You I Lie with is a novella that was inspired by the song "as the world caves in". It follows Sam and Ally, a "nameless couple" in the background during an apocalypse, as they navigate the world falling apart, unconditional love, and what it means to die well. A lot of substance for a short novella, but Meghan de👏li👏vers👏! For all you 90s kids that grew up with the day after tomorrow on repeat, this one's for you! (Ps, Meghan even references this movie in the story!) But what I loved so much, was that instead of focusing on "main character energy", hero's, and saving the world, this story focuses instead on those of us in the background. The lives of ordinary people, in an extraordinary situations.
I laughed, I cried, and I had my heartstrings pulled while following along sam and ally's story, and I can't wait for everyone else to experience this lovely novella on May 20!
In the words of Meghan Davis,
For lovers of the simple life.
And for everyone who knows they would probably die in an apocalypse
May 3, 2024
So beautiful and raw. I spent the whole story wishing it would end happily, routing for these two to beat the storm and get his memory problems fixed, but it ends with tragedy, as most apocalyptic stories do.
I loved the author’s descriptions and imagery, it was so vivid and sucked you in to this world that’s falling apart. The characters were relatable and authentic. It was a true slice of life story that made me want more.
I loved the author’s descriptions and imagery, it was so vivid and sucked you in to this world that’s falling apart. The characters were relatable and authentic. It was a true slice of life story that made me want more.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 19, 2025
Be right back. Gonna go cry.
May 7, 2024
This. Was. So. Good. This novella not only has such an interesting premise, but it’s executed so incredibly well. In the short time it took to read this (because duh, I read it in one sitting and could not put it down), I became so attached to the main characters and what they were facing. It will hook you in from the first line and keep your attention until the very last. The writing is beautiful and sweet and lyrical, and if you don’t read this you’re not my friend anymore
January 8, 2025
I was browsing my Kindle library and saw this book that was recommended to me the other day. At first, I wondered what to expect in a 60 pager book. This is the first time i’m reading a book by Meghan Davis and wow. I did not expect that she will hit me in the feels. This beautiful, slice-of-life story about Sam and Ally set during the apocalypse centers on love, loss, and all the little moments that make life worth living.
The writing feels so raw and real, and even though it’s a short read, it packs an emotional punch. I got teary eyed because it wasn’t all sadness… there’s something so uplifting about the way the story celebrates love, even in the darker times.
If you’re in the mood for a quick, emotional read that’ll leave you thinking about life and love, this one is worth picking up. It’s absolutely unforgettable. 4.5 stars ⭐️
The writing feels so raw and real, and even though it’s a short read, it packs an emotional punch. I got teary eyed because it wasn’t all sadness… there’s something so uplifting about the way the story celebrates love, even in the darker times.
If you’re in the mood for a quick, emotional read that’ll leave you thinking about life and love, this one is worth picking up. It’s absolutely unforgettable. 4.5 stars ⭐️
September 27, 2024
Original review:
Amazing novella. Heartbreaking and tragic, and so well written.
Had me caring more for two characters in 60 pages than other series do over multiple books. I genuinely care for these characters.
Amazing novella. Heartbreaking and tragic, and so well written.
Had me caring more for two characters in 60 pages than other series do over multiple books. I genuinely care for these characters.
February 20, 2025
The emotionally devastating lovechild of 50 First Dates and The Day After Tomorrow. 🥹
(ARC received in exchange for my honest review)
(ARC received in exchange for my honest review)
June 9, 2025
A short and bittersweet novella. It wasn’t about the apocalypse but rather about unconditional love and if you have to die, what are your choices for dying well.
I wish there was more intensity described regarding the apocalyptic weather events happening - but despite that lack of depiction there was still a good sense of doom - which is echoed by Sam’s worsening condition. Either way, Allison is experiencing a type of doom / end of life event: with Sam forgetting her, in a way that’s also an end of life.
I wish there was more intensity described regarding the apocalyptic weather events happening - but despite that lack of depiction there was still a good sense of doom - which is echoed by Sam’s worsening condition. Either way, Allison is experiencing a type of doom / end of life event: with Sam forgetting her, in a way that’s also an end of life.
February 1, 2025
“Haltingly at first, she recalls odds and ends of memories and cobbles them together. She tells not a chronological history—no, their life together cannot be presented like a textbook—but a litany, a catechism of daily, commonplace joys. Flashes of unity where they felt so close, so inseparable, as to be one and the same person. She creates the shape of a life with her words.”
This was a quiet novella. Ally and Sam are dealing with a personal tragedy amidst the background of the apocalypse. The story isn’t about the apocalypse though, it’s about their relationship. It was a short, bittersweet read.
This was a quiet novella. Ally and Sam are dealing with a personal tragedy amidst the background of the apocalypse. The story isn’t about the apocalypse though, it’s about their relationship. It was a short, bittersweet read.
September 18, 2024
Never has 58 pages absolutely ~wrecked~ me so hard. I have never grown so attached to two characters in such a short amount of time. I can't even articulate my words. Y'all just gotta trust me when I say to read it.
That's it. That's my review. 😅
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
That's it. That's my review. 😅
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
August 20, 2024
Such a short, beautiful and heartbreaking story.
I truly have no words.
The only thing I can say is read this book!
I truly have no words.
The only thing I can say is read this book!
July 14, 2024
Excellent and sad
April 9, 2025
4 Stars.
I'll keep my review short and sweet just like this story. Beautiful and heart wrenching. Super quick novella, however the impact is everlasting. I loved the duel POV. I didn't want it to end.
"On your worst days, you’re still my favorite person in the world. Till death.”
Well done, Davis. Well done.
I'll keep my review short and sweet just like this story. Beautiful and heart wrenching. Super quick novella, however the impact is everlasting. I loved the duel POV. I didn't want it to end.
"On your worst days, you’re still my favorite person in the world. Till death.”
Well done, Davis. Well done.
July 26, 2024
WHO KNEW A BOOK SO SHORT COULD HURT SO MUCH 😭😭
May 7, 2024
I felt so lucky and excited to get this ARC!! This is a dystopian novella that focuses on the characters in the background rather than the chosen one or traditional hero. It reminded me of some of my favorite Kazuo Ishiguro books, like Never Let Me Go and Clara and the Sun. We are viewing the (possible) end of the world through average eyes.
Stories are usually fixated on the hero, it’s the most interesting and exciting perspective. But Meghan dedicated this book to “everyone who knows they would probably die in an apocalypse.” More than just that jokey little line (which is absolutely true for me!), this book addresses when you can’t be the hero to many because you are focused on being the hero to one. Sometimes loving one person well is even braver and bigger than saving the whole world. I did not expect the depth this novella delivers in just a few short pages!
And then, the romance!!!!! I don’t get to read enough married romances, this one delivered in the BEST way. Without feeling rushed, I grew to love the characters and I was invested in their relationship. I just LOVED their precious dynamic.
This is so short and made me feel so many feelings. I absolutely loved it. The ending?! Amazing. Be sure to pick this up when it releases on May 20th!
Stories are usually fixated on the hero, it’s the most interesting and exciting perspective. But Meghan dedicated this book to “everyone who knows they would probably die in an apocalypse.” More than just that jokey little line (which is absolutely true for me!), this book addresses when you can’t be the hero to many because you are focused on being the hero to one. Sometimes loving one person well is even braver and bigger than saving the whole world. I did not expect the depth this novella delivers in just a few short pages!
And then, the romance!!!!! I don’t get to read enough married romances, this one delivered in the BEST way. Without feeling rushed, I grew to love the characters and I was invested in their relationship. I just LOVED their precious dynamic.
This is so short and made me feel so many feelings. I absolutely loved it. The ending?! Amazing. Be sure to pick this up when it releases on May 20th!
February 20, 2025
A fantastic debut. It's eerie and gut-wrenching, yet incredibly tender. A lot of emotional intensity is packed into 60-something pages.
July 6, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
I 1000% recommend reading this short novella. It really gave me some hope of the kind of love that exists out there. Meghan Davis does a brillant job captivating the love between Ally and Sam in such short pages. Definitely one of my favorite novellas read thus far 💛
I 1000% recommend reading this short novella. It really gave me some hope of the kind of love that exists out there. Meghan Davis does a brillant job captivating the love between Ally and Sam in such short pages. Definitely one of my favorite novellas read thus far 💛
July 14, 2024
From the first few pages of this book I was hooked, it’s like it reached into my chest and was beating my heart for me.
How a book can be simultaneously cozy and wholesome, but also heartbreaking and devastating, I have no idea. But Meghan nails it.
How a book can be simultaneously cozy and wholesome, but also heartbreaking and devastating, I have no idea. But Meghan nails it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews