Still, the Song Remains

The Park Legacy #1

by Kristen Tiu

Some loves never fade. But some truths refuse to stay buried.


Atlas Park was born into legacy: heir to a powerful industrial manufacturing company, groomed to take over the family empire.

But beneath it all, he is haunted by the memory of Calla Ladrón, the girl who vanished without a trace six years ago, taking his heart and the music they once shared.

When a work relocation lands him in a sleepy coastal town, the last thing Atlas expects is to find Calla living next door under a new name.

Their reunion is cautious, their chemistry undeniable. But rekindling old love isn’t simple when one of them is running from secrets that refuse to stay buried.

When whispers of Calla’s past start resurfacing, the truth she fought to escape threatens everything—including Atlas and his family.


***


Set against the backdrop of family secrets, redemption, and the lingering echoes of first love, Still, the Song Remains is a story of second chances, found family, and the courage to face the past.

Perfect for readers who love romantic suspense woven into a multigenerational family saga about the ties that break and the ones that endure.

468 pages, ebook

Published August 10, 2026

About the author

Kristen Tiu is an indie author, corporate writer, and visual storyteller.

Before turning to fiction writing, her earlier works had previously appeared in local publications, including an essay that was anthologized by a national newspaper.

She lives in the Philippines with her husband and two children.

Reviews

[Ruslana Pidsadiuk]

Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC copy.

I truly enjoyed this story. More than once, I found myself smiling while reading. The characters felt alive and engaging, making it easy to become invested in their journeys and root for their happiness.

Alongside the romance, there is also a mystery storyline carefully woven between the past and the present. It was well-crafted, logical, and added another layer of depth to the book.

All three couples were wonderful, but Alaric and Savannah completely stole my heart, even though they weren’t the main focus of the story. They were the couple I found myself rooting for the most.

The atmosphere of this book is one of a small town where everyone knows everyone, lives are intertwined, and every relationship is connected in some way. It’s filled with music, warmth, community, and genuine love.

[Aga Mari]

Personal Enjoyment Score: 8.1/10 with a splash of Korean and Spanish heritage.

*Advance Reader's Copy acquired from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*

Some story spoilers for the following:
1. Apollo Justice: Ace Attorney
2. The Last of Us Part 2
3. Call of Duty: Black Ops 2
4. Everything We Never Had
5. Twilight

Prologue: Venturing Out
At some point, I had to stretch my wings and fly toward other book genres. I’m a firm believer that some of the best reads are hidden behind titles you wouldn’t give a second glance. There are plenty of books that didn’t hook me until I finally read their blurbs or looked up what other readers had to say online.

Stephenie Meyer’s Twilight was almost a household name when I was growing up, and I can think of a few friends who praised it like it was written by titans. Yet when I finally picked it up a decade later, the few things that made Edward a decent character couldn’t stand under the weight of his red flags, like stalking an underage Bella or watching her sleep. Just no, Edward.

Then again, if I hadn't ventured out of my comfort zone, I wouldn’t have found the opportunity to read and love Randy Ribay’s Everything We Never Had. At first, I thought the title was some fancy poetry trying to get the attention of the next performative male sipping on some matcha flavor he forgot five minutes ago. But walking through the pages and living the lives of four generations of Filipinos fighting for family (Was it worth leaving the Philippines?), for belonging (Will I make it?), for history (Will this chapter matter to the newer generation?), and for healing from generational trauma (Can my father and grandfather work things out?), I stood in awe of what a second chance could be.

So I thought about going against the grain here and read a book that does not have other people’s opinions. Better yet, read a book that’s not published yet. As if on cue, an opportunity presented itself: being an ARC reader for Still, The Song Remains. A second chance of romance marred by conspiracy, deceit, and crime. So, a romance thriller. Definitely something you don’t see every day, and very far from my usual reads. I decided to give it a chance.

Chapter 1: What Kept Me Turning Pages
Firstly, I love how the chapters are constructed to contain a decent number of pages. As a guy who reads a decent amount, I often find lengthy chapters mentally exhausting—drained by all the literary jargon crammed into a single sitting. This one, though, feels like it was made for people who have little time on their hands because, well, maybe they’re working two jobs or handling newborns. Take it from me, who is often busy with other hobbies and personal ventures. I appreciated the author’s design to have fewer pages in their chapters because each finished chapter feels like a satisfying mini-victory against my limited time as a burned-out corporate employee.

Speaking of burnout, let’s talk about the characters I loved:
1. Alaric (my beloved): The absolute highlight for me. He radiates loud, chaotic younger-brother energy, and his speech patterns are so distinct that I didn't even need dialogue tags to know when he was speaking.

2. Iñigo: A close second. I know exactly how it feels to possess a creative talent (like poetry) but have to shove it down just to be effective at a corporate job like a PR Executive. Lord knows I’ve walked down that path numerous times.

3. Max & Luka: Two characters on opposing sides holding down the thriller elements. Max stayed true to his convictions—he was a bodyguard, not an assassin, choosing to protect the last pieces of Elena like the absolute gigachad he is. Meanwhile, Luka’s action scenes held me at gunpoint (in a good way). Between the rigged bomb and the road ambush, I kept thinking my boi wouldn't make it, but he survived and tackled the case that had been haunting him for years.

The musical school play was an amazing sequence of events. From the inception of the plan made by Principal Grove to the heartfelt execution of the “Burned-Out Club” in all its fairytale goodness. I actually thought the story would go the route that the play would be canceled, and there would be a hostage situation or dogfight between mercenaries and the undercover cops, and there would be more casualties. While later parts of the story showed casualties, I think having the school play out was a brilliant creative idea.

Lastly, Old Townsend. Something about a cozy and small town far from all the corporate bullshit we go through every day becomes more and more enticing. There’s something wonderful about how the town was shaped and nurtured through the pages. In fact, when I was about to turn the last page, I didn’t want to leave the old town. It had the right amount of love, the right amount of good people, and the right amount of ease that I often started feeling envious of the main cast. What do you mean they get to have poetry night in a cozy cafe? What do you mean Iñigo and Freya get to go stargazing on the rooftop together? Cozy galore, and I think this book made me want to start planning my next vacation!

Chapter 2: Where I Lost The Trail…
I always thought that The Last of Us Part 2 had severe pacing issues with its heavy use of flashbacks, like when Abby appeared in the theater to finally face Ellie and her crew. After killing Jesse with a clean headshot and forcing Ellie to surrender, I was so engrossed in how this would play out… when a flashback happened, and I would not see that theater again until two or three hours later. I did not appreciate the game derailing my excitement.

When the first flashback appeared in this book, I had my own flashback as well to how I felt when The Last of Us Part 2 did that to me. There were a handful of flashbacks, too, in this story, and I kept wondering if this was going to be a recurring gimmick. It was for a bit, and I kept laughing my ass off saying, “There’s no way. Another flashback?” A chapter opens, a flashback is brought up. A few chapters later, a flashback introduces itself. Just when I thought I was safe, the flashbacks returned with a vengeance. It annoyed me for a bit. At least the flashbacks brought me back to the main story quickly, and it did offer helpful context to progress the plot forward.

Apollo Justice: Ace Attorney is a great visual novel and game written by the legendary Shu Takumi, about an attorney defending his clients from unlawful charges filed against them. In each case or episode in this visual novel, the characters are introduced and are given ample time to show who they are, allowing me to have a firm impression of their personality, what they do, and what they are trying to achieve in this episode. For example, when Kristoph Gavin was introduced in episode one, I thought for sure I had him figured out, until Phoenix Wright was able to show a different shade of his character, artfully done with a wreath of cards. The entire episode was dedicated to these characters, and because the author took time to flesh them out without having to introduce another character or idea, I was able to follow the story well without asking too many questions. The next time I saw the name “Kristoph Gavin”, I shuddered at the mention of his name.

In Still, The Song Remains, a lot of characters are introduced in rapid succession. I kept losing track of who was who, constantly flipping back pages or checking my tablet to remember their relations, professions, and backstories. While key figures like Max, Selva, Atlas, Calla, Alaric, and Luka stood out brilliantly, others like Dean, Lux, Liv, and Dr. Caruso blurred into the background. It also got disorienting when multiple characters spoke in a single scene. In a future sequel, I hope some of these supporting characters get enough spotlight to shine without overshadowing the main cast.

There was also one scene where I really had to suspend my disbelief. You're telling me a group of wealthy old executives who shoot guns as a casual hobby are capable of going toe-to-toe with armed mercenaries in a real gunfight? The book mentions that the Parks and the Whitmens know how to handle themselves in a scrap, but taking down trained mercs felt like a stretch. This might be one of the few drawbacks of the shorter chapter format, as the brief pages didn't give enough room to visually build up their actual combat proficiency. Hopefully, a sequel could shed some more light here.

Lastly, the main bad guy: Selva. Selva reminded me of a sober version of Raul Menendez from Call of Duty: Black Ops 2. In that game, we get a flashback (AAAH!) of Raul’s reasons why he is fighting the US through anti-American propaganda. We take control of Raul, and we see him commit terrible things to the main characters early on. He even crippled Frank Woods in one of their encounters. Seeing the villain actively torment our main characters early on raises the stakes and makes their ultimate downfall immensely satisfying. I firmly believe that a great antagonist needs an early, impact-heavy clash with the heroes to establish their presence. While we did get that with Selva in the later chapters, I really wished we had more of his POV and earlier clashes before his final conclusion.

Chapter 3: Final Thoughts
When I finally closed the final chapter of this story, I felt a genuine sense of peace. I never thought that a romance thriller such as Still, The Song Remains would consistently engage me with its charming story despite the pacing hiccups. While not every character has the same spotlight or had ample time to grow into a memorable character, those who received this treatment made me love and care about them, especially when things didn’t go well for them or when they finally got someone they love back into their arms.

Cassian became my secret pocket favorite. As strange as it sounds, he felt like a warning sign for my own future: a fractured version of who I might become if I obsess over work and past legacies instead of living in the present alongside good friends. He fought and loved in his own way to protect Calla, just as Atlas nurtured his devotion to her. After all, when love is real, it always finds a way.

This was a fantastic read, and I’m genuinely happy to recommend it to anyone who loves the idea of watching friends hang out in a cozy small town, rekindling old loves and forgotten hobbies. Life isn't all corporate bullshit and endless PR disasters to remedy. Believe me. Just make sure you don't get tangled up in an illegal smuggling ring along the way.

Kristen Tiu, you got yourself a new fan. I look forward to the books written by you.

[Patch]

"Still somehow, by fate. We found our way again.
Like a lighthouse glowing through the rain.
The song we left behind refused to fade.
It played in the quiet, still called out your name.
Still, the song remains."

This stanza was taken from the great romance-suspense novel "Still, the Song Remains (The Park Legacy #1) by Kristen Tiu. The last romance-suspense book that I have read was from my former boss, who has a large collection of books by Danielle Steel. But this book was different from your typical romance-suspense books, which commonly focus on infidelity issues, child legitimacy, heavy court scenes, and the like. And here's why.

The book started off with a delicate second-chance romance with Atlas and Calla/Cara, which gradually reveals a huge conspiracy connected to her family's dark history. Great start. Now, what I love about it is that it doesn't have an unnatural or forced cliffhanger (like most of the thriller or suspense authors do); it allows readers to immerse the world of Atlas and Calla/Cara. Speaking of world-building, it was uniquely described by the author, wherein readers would easily envision the places and scenes and vibes in the book without any confusion. I also love how flashbacks were remarkably written. It gives a small hint of all the whys the readers keep questioning throughout the entire book. I also love how this book highlighted diverse characters, not just because they were mixed race but their exceptional value-driven characters that play along the book. I also love how the author includes Filipino representation in the book, from some of the quirky banter they speak, to the unparalleled and beautiful places they have been to, and to the extraordinarily sumptuous food being described in the story. Very Pinoy.

Let's talk about the "Burned Out Club"; I want to be part of them so bad. Their dynamics felt familiar and nostalgic for me, remembering one of the most unforgettable memories in high school: being part of a play. I also love the romantic subplots of Savannah and Alaric & Iñigo and Freya. It's giving meet-cute high school romance. The "burned out club" was also a great help for Cara/Calla and Atlas to grant themselves to confront their life concerns and grow themselves in the story.

Sometimes, I got confused about the switching of POVs, though it was written in third-person POV; there were a few chapters that I thought Atlas was the one talking, but it was Alaric or Iñigo (maybe it's a ME thing though). A few characters were rapidly introduced in one or two chapters in the middle to closer to the end parts of the book, which might be overwhelming to some of the readers.

Overall, this book is a must-read. It offers a unique way of mixing romance and suspense books with exceptional familial concerns. The readers may feel like they are watching a Filipino telenovela, but with a less campy vibe and a more realistic way of dealing with family dynasty and shenanigans. I'm excited to read the rest of the book in this series. Congratulations, Tin.

[Macy A]

Still, the Song Remains by Kristen Tiu is a romantic suspense debut novel set in a fictional country called Veronia. Atlas Park, twenty-three years old, is the heir to Park Industrial Corp., a powerful industrial manufacturing company built by his family. When he moves to a small coastal town, the last thing he expects is to find next door the girl he loves, Calla Ladrón, who disappeared six years ago and is now living under the name Cara Mendoza.

“Their love never left. It simply waited.”

Still, the Song Remains is exciting and interesting. There’s action, there’s romance and there’s drama, and it involves Atlas’s and Calla’s family members, such as Atlas’s younger brother, Alaric Park, a basketball player and actor, and Calla’s adoptive parents, Rosa and Tomas, as well as other characters not related to the families, such as tabloid reporter Savannah Lane, who eventually becomes Alaric’s love interest. But even with a large cast of characters, the information isn’t overwhelming. They are introduced gradually, and I’m glad to get to know each character and to be able to keep track of everyone. It’s interesting to learn about how the families’ lives and their past and present intertwine. While I have read books that read like a movie, to me, Still, the Song Remains reads like a teleserye, with family secrets and a gripping finale.

My favorite part of the entire book, though, is the school play called “The Keeper of the Lost Song” that Atlas and Calla helped finish. It’s like a story within a story. Atlas and Calla, who’s now a music teacher at the school, started writing a song when they were still students six years ago, and because they were given the chance to sing it in the school play, I believe the play contributed greatly to rekindling their love. As someone who enjoys watching live performances, I loved how a whole play, complete with song lyrics and poetry, and not just mentions of it, was incorporated. I was as intrigued about the play as I was about the main story of the novel.

“But silence stole the song we wrote,

Left echoes in a room we never closed.”

Other things that appealed to me were the Burned-Out Club, a friend group of six, including Atlas and Calla, which I would like to be a part of; the playlist the author provided, which consists of a few of my favorites (“This Love (Taylor’s Version)” by Taylor Swift) and new discoveries (“The Violet Hour” by Sea Wolf); the map of Veronia (I love all kinds of maps in books—world maps, seating charts, floor plans); and that moment of finally knowing the meaning of the title “Still, the Song Remains.” I truly loved this story.

“If you’ll take an old man’s advice, don’t wait too long. Life has a habit of moving faster than you think.”

Thank you to the author for providing me with an advanced reader copy. Still, the Song Remains, Book 1 of the Park Legacy series, by Kristen Tiu will release on August 10, 2026.

[Pamela]

𝙍𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬 𝙤𝙛 𝘼𝙙𝙫𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚𝙙 𝙍𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝘾𝙤𝙥𝙮 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝘼𝙪𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙧

still, the song remains follows atlas park, who moves to the quiet town of old townsend only to discover that his first love, presumed missing for six years, has been living right next door under a new name. what starts as a tender second chance romance slowly unravels into a much bigger conspiracy tied to her family's past. it has such an ambitious start. the world of old townsend feels warm and lived in right away, and the way kristen tiu blends a slow burn childhood love story with a full blown smuggling conspiracy is genuinely something i haven't read before. mystery/thriller with romance isn't a combo i've tried until this book, and i'm so impressed with how well it worked overall

one of my favorite parts of the book is the school play thread woven throughout the story. it starts off as such a sweet, small town subplot with the kids and the "burned out club" pulling it together, but it slowly becomes so much more meaningful by the end. it's a lovely example of how the author ties the everyday, cozy moments into the bigger picture without it feeling forced

that said, the pacing took me a little longer to settle into. there's a lot happening from the first few chapters, with new characters, multiple family lines, and several couples forming around the same time, so it felt a bit overwhelming for me personally. i also found it a little tricky to stay grounded when a single chapter would shift between different povs and even different places

because of this, it took me a bit longer to fully connect with atlas and calla, since so much of their bond is shared through flashback while the present day plot is already moving quickly around them. but once the mystery started building, i found myself so much more invested, and the barn sequence toward the end genuinely had me hooked

i think this is mostly a me thing. i just tend to need a little more time to adjust to multiple timeline switches and a big ensemble cast being introduced all at once, even when every character is written with such a clear and distinct identity. but like if you love layered family sagas with a lot of moving parts, i think this will click for you so much more easily than it did for me at first

overall, it's a lovely story with a very unique plot and so much potential, and i can already see this series growing into something special as the world continues to unfold

thank you so much to ms. kristen tiu for the opportunity to read this arc. it truly means a lot and i appreciate the chance to experience your work firsthand. wishing you all the best with this release! 💗

[Sarah Benchekroun]

Advanced copy reader review

Rating 3.5 ⭐️

First I want to thank Kristen Tiu so much for trusting me with an ARC. I'm grateful for the opportunity to read and review your work, and I'm excited to see where this world and these characters go next.

The Song Still Remains was one of those books that completely surprised me. Going in, I expected a suspense romance, but I wasn't expecting such an ambitious blend of romance, mystery, family drama, and conspiracy. It's a unique combination, and I really appreciated how different it felt from the romances I usually read.

One of my favorite aspects was the Filipino representation. The culture, the close-knit families, and the strong sense of community gave the story so much warmth and authenticity. It made Old Townsend feel like a real place, and I loved getting immersed in that atmosphere.

The mystery was probably my favorite part. The questions surrounding Calla (Cara), her disappearance, the powerful family names, and the pressure placed on Atlas, Alaric, and Iñigo kept me turning the pages. As the truth slowly unraveled, I became increasingly invested, especially during the final chapters when the suspense really came together.

The romance between Atlas and Calla was sweet, and I appreciated their shared history. However, I found it a little difficult to connect with them emotionally because so much of their relationship is built through flashbacks while the present-day mystery moves at a fast pace. I wanted a bit more time with them in the present to fully feel the emotional weight of their reunion.

My biggest challenge with the book was the structure. There are a lot of characters, several important families, multiple timelines, and frequent POV shifts introduced very early on. At times, I found myself pausing to remember who everyone was or where we were in the timeline. Once I adjusted, everything became much clearer, but those first chapters required a lot of concentration.

That said, every character had their own personality, and I enjoyed getting to know them. I especially liked how even the quieter moments like the school play and the Burned Out Club added heart to the story and balanced the heavier mystery elements.

Overall, this was a creative and engaging read that successfully blends romance with suspense while highlighting family, loyalty, and identity. Although the pacing and multiple perspectives made it a slower book for me to settle into, I still enjoyed the journey and can definitely see this series growing into something even stronger.

[JJ]

ARC copy received from author. All opinions are mine

There are books that keep you turning the pages because you want answers, and there are books that make you stay because you genuinely care about the people living through them. "Still, the Song Remains" managed to do both for me!

I went into this expecting a romance, but I wasn't prepared for how much suspense would be woven into the story! The blend of a long-lost first love, family secrets, and an unfolding smuggling/white-collar crime exposé made every chapter feel like there was another piece of the puzzle waiting to be uncovered. I kept telling myself I'd stop after "just one more chapter," and then another question would pop up and pull me right back in.

Additionally, I loved how much depth the ensemble cast brought to the story! There are many characters, relationships, and family histories, and while it creates a lot of moving pieces, I found that complexity to be one of the most rewarding parts!

And can we talk about The Burned-Out Club? Because I absolutely adored them! I had the biggest smile on my face watching everyone step in to help Calla with the play. What made it even better was that every single person brought a skill that actually mattered, so it felt like they were building something together instead of everyone just randomly pitching in. Their dynamic was honestly one of my favorite parts of the book.

Also, I am OBSESSED with all the couples, but if I had to pick a favorite, it would be Savannah and Alaric. Their banter is so effortless, their chemistry is absolutely unreal, and I swear I was smiling through every interaction they had!

And the climax and the fight scenes absolutely delivered! The tension kept building until everything finally came to a head. I particularly cried at that ONE barn scene, and I just... ugh, this author has a way of pulling at your heartstrings!

The ending was everything I hoped it would be! I especially loved how the author brought the story full circle, echoing one of the very first moments between Atlas and Calla. It gave their journey a sense of closure, and it left me with that wonderful mix of satisfaction and "I need the sequel immediately"!

[yue]

I have mixed feelings when it comes to how I wanted to rate the book. The pacing was a bit on the slow side for me. Looking at the table of contents can also feel a bit overwhelming with how many chapters and parts there are, but once you start reading, you’ll realize that each chapter is actually quite short, and there are also a lot of sub-headers within them. This is probably just a personal preference, but I didn’t really like that because the story and the transitions between scenes didn’t always hit well for me. Sometimes, I felt like I was just getting into a certain moment before the story suddenly moved on to something else. Another thing I struggled with was the number of characters. There were a lot of them to keep track of, and at times, I had to remind myself who was who and how they were connected to the story.

There are also things that I genuinely loved about the story. This was my first time reading a romantic suspense, so it was a pretty new experience for me. I liked how the romance wasn’t the only thing going on and how the suspense added another layer to the story. I also really loved how familial expectations were written. The pressure that comes from family and the expectations placed on the characters felt like an important part of their relationships and decisions, and I enjoyed seeing how that affected the story.

Another thing I really liked was the small-town romance aspect. There’s something about the setting and the relationships between the characters that made the story feel more personal. I enjoyed seeing the dynamics between the people in the town and how their connections played into the romance and the overall story.

Overall, I think Still, the Song Remains had a lot of interesting elements that I enjoyed, especially the romantic suspense and the way familial expectations and small-town romance were handled. I just had a few issues with the pacing, transitions, and the number of characters I had to keep up with, which made it harder for me to fully connect with the story. Still, it was an interesting reading experience, especially since romantic suspense is a genre that I haven’t really explored before.

Thank you so much to the author for the opportunity to read this book!

[Gabrielle Dumrique]

Thank you for the author (one of my author besties I consider) for letting me ARC read for this book.

I picked this up for the mystery and stayed for it. I was excited for the premise, love in midst of underlying danger/mystery.

What I loved most, though, was the warmth. Old Townsend is so lived-in — the Mendozas, Freya's café, the whole Burned-Out Club chaos of six exhausted people rescuing a school musical. It reads like watching a really good, cozy movie. The author writes ensemble and found-family better than almost anyone I've read indie, and the Filipino-Korean-Spanish texture running through it feels effortless rather than decorative. It's the details that made me love them.

The Deza thread, the gold molar, the slow tightening around Selva — I was genuinely excited to turn pages, which is the highest compliment I can give a book. And the Cassian-Selva swap is a real piece of construction. Two memories Calla built her whole life around, both true events with the wrong man attached. That reveal is commendable.

And Cassian broke my heart. A father who let his daughter believe he was a murderer because he thought it would keep her alive, who protected her for six years from a distance she never knew about, and who finally got to be in the same room as her only long enough to die for her. That's a wound I felt.

Which is why my one wish is more of Calla's interior life around it — her love for him, her anger at those stolen years, what it costs to forgive a man that fast. Same with Atlas: six years isn't nothing, and seeing someone you loved reappear under a different name would *do* something to you. I wanted him more guarded, asking harder questions, taking longer to soften. I wanted a bit of slow-burn around them?

Buttt….that’s entirely my bias as a very emotional writer who's sensitive about wounds — I want to sit in them a little longer before the healing starts. It's a want, not a flaw.

A beautiful, generous story, and I'm already curious where the Park Legacy goes next.

[Ellie]

I set out for a romance written by an indie Filipino author and found a multicultural, ensemble cast soap opera where love lost and rediscovered is woven through a suspenseful plot balancing organized crime with music and poetry.

What I liked:

Multicultural references: I loved the mix and easy inclusion of food and names from across Korean, Filipino, Spanish, and American cultures.

Young love: We follow brothers Atlas (the heir) and Alaric (the basketball star) and cousin Inigo (the PR manager) and their blooming loves with Cara (Calla’s hidden identity, now a local schoolteacher), Savannah (a tabloid reporter), and Freya (a local cafe owner), respectively. Their winding paths land each of them in small town Old Townsend as strangers and they grow as a found family, working through misunderstanding and disagreements as they come together to save the school musical play.

Suspense: Meanwhile their presence shakes up Calla’s quiet existence and starts attracting unwanted attention from the past she ran away from. Calla is the center of this growing mystery.

The action: The school play is the tipping point in the plot that brings threads together, from small town love to big city police work, investigative journalism, mercenaries, and extended family legacies.

Where I struggled was how the story felt long and short at the same time. The 60 short chapters were fast to read, but because they cover such a short time period, one month, the plot felt slow to read. However, settling in to the soap opera helped me pace myself better and take my time, especially in the small town magic.

It’s fun to learn this is the author’s debut book based on her five years’ of digital webcomics about the multigenerational family. This book is a standalone, yet as Book 1 in the Park Legacy Series, I wonder where the author will take it next.

Thanks Kristen Tiu for the advanced reader copy!

[Beyz Socco]

Still, The Song Remains is the debut novel from Filipina author Kristen Tiu and the first installment in the Park Legacy series.

The story centers on Atlas and Calla (now going by Cara). After six years of complete radio silence—following the night she suddenly disappeared and left him stranded on their supposed first date—Atlas is shocked to find Calla living right next door. He’s left with an endless stream of unanswered questions, but none of them matter as long as he can keep her in his life again.

I'll admit I had a bit of a slow start with this book. I was nursing a bit of a reading slump after finishing a long series, but receiving an Advance Reader’s Copy (ARC) was the perfect motivation to dive into something new. The first half took me about a week to get through because there were so many characters and subplots being introduced. However, all that setup was quietly building incredible suspense. By the time I hit the second half, I was so hooked that I finished the rest of the book in a single afternoon! The tension was killer, and the plot twist surrounding Ladron’s secrets completely took me by surprise.

What I loved most were the authentic Filipino elements woven throughout the story. The diverse cast of characters initially makes you forget it's written by a Filipina author, but the subtle cultural touches give the characters so much depth and clearly explain their motivations.

This book completely reignited my love for the romantic suspense genre, and I’m so excited to see where the Park Legacy series goes next! I’ve already been checking the author’s page for updates on book two—even if it might be a bit of a wait, it will definitely be worth it.

Thank you to the author/publisher for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Nikki]

I had the privilege of receiving a special edition ARC of Still, the Song Remains by Kristen Tiu, and it was an absolute joy to read.

From the very first page, the story completely drew me in and held my attention until the very end. The pacing was excellent, balancing heartfelt character moments with action-packed scenes that had me on the edge of my seat. Kristen's writing is so vivid that I could easily picture every setting and every moment unfolding as if I were watching it on screen.

One of my favorite aspects of the novel was the characters. They felt authentic, relatable, and wonderfully developed. I especially loved how each character's story intertwined with the others, creating a rich, interconnected world that made every interaction feel meaningful. The cultural elements woven throughout the story added another layer of depth and authenticity that made the world feel even more alive.

I also had the unique privilege of being introduced to some of the characters through Kristen's online short stories before reading the novel. Having that additional glimpse into their backstories made reconnecting with them in Still, the Song Remains even more rewarding, though the novel stands beautifully on its own.

Overall, Still, the Song Remains is a captivating, immersive read with memorable characters, thrilling action, and a thoughtfully crafted world. Kristen Tiu has created a story that is both exciting and heartfelt, and I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of it. I highly recommend it to readers who love character-driven fantasy filled with rich world-building, compelling relationships, and unforgettable adventures.

[Grace]

Thank you to the TBR girlies book club for helping me get an ARC of this in exchange for an honest review!

The writing is not bad but I think this book really needs an editor. I had problems with the pacing of the story (i.e. too much flashbacking, redundant scenes) and how you're bogged down by too many characters introduced just in the first few chapters of the book. It felt too long and the foreshadowing was dragged on for too many chapters.
I also don't understand why there was a need to create a separate fictional country. The setting sounded like a mix of the U.S. (e.g. the NBA, the long air travel times between cities) and Philippines (e.g. the Parks/Whitmans speaking Filipino languages and playing patintero with the kids even when there was no background written that anyone was specifically Filipino) and to me it makes more sense to write a fictional town since the world-building is kept to a minimum but an entire fictional country where the world-building is half-baked just didn't make sense. The U.S. especially has a good mix of people from different ethnic and racial backgrounds that no one would bat an eye that these characters have mixed heritage.
The story is very reminiscent of prime time television in the Philippines so it's a story flow that's easy to follow for me, but felt predictable. The characters are lovable, but I am also not a big fan of the insta-love trope and the fighting in the warehouse/abandoned building/barn trope, but those are more personal preferences.

[Fredda]

I really enjoyed Still, the Song Remains and found it to be a compelling blend of romance, family drama, and suspense!

The story has a cinematic, almost telenovela-like feel, with long-buried secrets and plenty of twists that kept me invested until the end.

The cast is quite large, so it took me a little while to settle into all the different POVs and relationships. However, once the story found its rhythm, I appreciated how each perspective contributed to the bigger picture and how the various storylines eventually came together.

One of my favorite parts was the school play. It added so much heart to the novel, and the inclusion of the songs and poetry was giving a bit of Tolkien. I was so impressed!

The rekindled romance between Atlas and Calla was also absolutely touching, and I loved how music became such an important thread connecting their past and present.

I also enjoyed the rich supporting cast, the Burned-Out Club friendships, the fictional setting of Veronia, and thoughtful details like the map and character art. The author's descriptive writing also made the world and settings feel even more immersive, like I can really picture each scene in my mind.

Overall, this is a wonderful debut that offers romance, mystery, and family intrigue. Even if I occasionally wanted more time with certain characters, the engaging plot and satisfying payoff made this an enjoyable read.

I'm looking forward to seeing where the Park Legacy series goes next!

[Farida]

Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

3.5 stars 🌟

What stood out the most wasn't just the romance or the mystery it was the heart behind every relationship. Every character felt like they had a purpose, flaws that made them human, and connections that mattered. It never felt like anyone was there simply to move the plot forward.

The mystery unfolds at a steady pace, revealing pieces of the past exactly when they're needed. It kept me curious without relying on constant twists or shock value. Instead, it trusted the story and the characters to keep me invested, and that worked beautifully.

One of my favorite aspects of the book was its sense of community. The small-town setting feels warm, familiar, and lived in. Every relationship is intertwined in a way that makes the town itself feel like another character, creating a comforting atmosphere even as the story explores heavier moments.

Although I enjoyed every romance, Alaric and Savannah completely stole my heart. Their chemistry, quiet moments, and unwavering support for one another made me look forward to every scene they shared. I honestly found myself rooting for them just as much if not more than the main couple.

If you enjoy character-driven stories with a touch of mystery, heartfelt relationships, and a community you'll wish you could be part of, I would definitely recommend picking this book.

[Nescee Ann Silverio]

Unfinished song. Unresolved crime. Unexpected romance. These were the elements that immediately drew me into Kristen Tiu's debut novel.

The story seamlessly blends romance, suspense, and action, creating a reading experience that kept me hooked from beginning to end.

As I read, I felt the same excitement and intrigue I experience when watching murder mystery and action-drama series such as Royal Blood and Widow's War on GMA 7. The suspense unfolds gradually, with each chapter revealing new twists and secrets that make it difficult to put the book down.

Although the characters' names and settings are not distinctly Filipino, the novel's portrayal of family relationships gives it a uniquely Filipino heart. I was particularly amazed that Atlas, Alaric, and Iñigo's parents were not merely background characters. They had their own memorable action scenes, adding depth, excitement, and a strong family dynamic to the story.

Kristen Tiu's writing style is also accessible and easy to follow. The language is straightforward, making the novel approachable for many readers. However, don't mistake its simplicity for predictability. As the story progresses, the plot becomes increasingly intense, filled with surprising revelations and breathtaking moments that keep the pages turning.

Still, the Song Remains is a compelling mix of romance, mystery, and action that will appeal to readers who enjoy emotional stories with high-stakes suspense and unexpected twists.

[Ann Lamang]

𝙍𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬 𝙤𝙛 𝘼𝙙𝙫𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚𝙙 𝙍𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝘾𝙤𝙥𝙮 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝘼𝙪𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙧

This is my first-ever ARC review.

Thank you so much, Kristen, for the opportunity to be part of your ARC readers and experience this story early. It was such a pleasure to read! 🤍 Congratulations on your book! 🥹📖

I went in expecting Calla and Atlas’ story, so the many POVs initially confused me. But once I realized the story followed three couples, I grew to love getting glimpses into everyone’s lives and found myself rooting for them all. 🤍

The action scenes kept things exciting and added a nice balance to the romance and emotional moments. You know the suspense is good when you’re no longer just invested in the story that you’re actively rooting for the villain’s demise. 😂 And THIS was definitely one of those books for me! 😭

It was heartbreaking to see how much Calla lost throughout the novel. 💔 She lost so many people she loved, yet she continued to face everything head-on and slowly learned to accept things for what they were. Seeing how brave and strong she became by the end made me so proud of her. 🥹🤍

I also loved seeing Calla and Atlas find their way back to each other and fall in love a second time around. After everything they had been through, it felt like they were finally given the chance to choose each other again. ❤️‍🩹

More than just a romance, this was a story about love, family, friendship, grief, and finding your way back to hope. 🤍📖

[Heyyynuhh]

Mixed feelings on this.
The build-up is slow, 50% in, and I felt like it’s going nowhere and everywhere. Chapters are short, which is a hit or miss for me. Personally, it’s good for tension and cliffhangers, but it also makes me lose my focus. I understand the characters are filial, reflecting Filipino culture, but there seem to be one too many characters. There were even some named at the end; idk if they’ll be plot-pertinent. Thankfully, the family tree page helps. I’d also prefer the playlist page placed in the beginning to help the readers immerse and get in the mood right from the start, but it’s in the last pages. I have to reread the book to double-check some plot holes I noticed (I could be wrong). Maybe Veronians are just far too smart to piece together the whole mess. Hmmmm
It’s also more of a thriller/whodunnit than romance. If it’s more of a romance, it didn’t bank on the main characters’ “lost love” well enough to make it so. Chili and Hotshot’s budding romance is more appealing than Attie and Cece’s. Go-Go and Fifi’s was awkward and rushed, imo.
I enjoyed it still! It’s like watching a Pinoy primetime soap opera in my head! You have the crime committed at the very beginning, a journalist/cop seeking the truth, families linked by the crime albeit unknowingly, forbidden love, shootout, and an ending that ties all the loose ends all at once.

[Ꭵ r ᥲ ᥲ ⊹ ࣪]

3⭐

i was so excited to read this ARC, but sadly, by around the 60% i was ready to DNF it. but as i rarely DNF books, so i kept going lol.

the story was interesting, but most of the plot twists were pretty easy to guess. i loved Calla and Atlas, as well as all the family members and friends. however, because there were so many POVs, Calla and Atlas often felt like side characters in their own story.

i also felt like Calla and Atlas's chemistry and romance were lacking. like, i was hoping for a true slow burn with more sweet moments, a stronger build-up of attraction, and a deeper look at how they fell in love, but i didn't really get that :(

as for the side couples, their love stories felt a little rushed too. that said, i really enjoyed their banter and all the moments when everyone was just hanging out together. the ending was a little emotional but at least all the couples got their HEA, which made me happy.

overall, this book just didn't meet my expectations. it wasn't a bad read—it just wasn't for me. that doesn't mean you won't enjoy it, though, so i'd still recommend giving it a try if you want a small-town romantic suspense novel about family secrets, second chances, and love that endures!!!<3

[Renee Alexis (therandombibliophile)]

𝙍𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬 𝙤𝙛 𝘼𝙙𝙫𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚𝙙 𝙍𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝘾𝙤𝙥𝙮 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝘼𝙪𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙧.

First off, I don’t like the cover and if I wasn’t given an ARC, I wouldn’t pick this up because I’m the type of person that judges a book by its cover. 😅

Anyway, this was an okay read. There were too many characters that at first, it confused me with the changing of perspective. There was too much happening and it just didn’t really flow smoothly. I appreciate the flashbacks though, to make the story clearer. I like the mystery aspect to this book but I had a hard time believing the love connection of the main characters (as well as the side characters as I’m not a fan of insta-love). There just wasn’t enough to the story to make me feel attached to them. The “love” story felt shallow and I get what the author is trying to do but I just don’t feel the showing was enough. The friendship was nice but felt undercooked in that amount of time.

I feel like when I read ARCs, I get very critical and nitpicky that’s why I judge every detail in it. Nonetheless, the book has some good parts and I still found myself getting absorbed and delighted with it at some point. I just felt it was too long that I got bored with it towards the end. There are definitely some filler chapters that could’ve been cut or edited more.

[Ahdee]

📖ARC Review📖
Still, the Song remains by Kristen Tiu (@kreistn.writes)

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.75)

First, I'd like to thank Kristen for sending ARCs to TBR girlies, and spending time with us discussing about you and your book.💕

The reason that I really love this book is probably not a popular one for those who have read it too. And that is how involved and relevant the roles of the parents are in here. Nope, they are not the main characters, but they are important. For once, a book where the parents are not the cause of their kids trauma, where they are actually loving and supportive, and have their "moments" too. And they are alive and badass! I was actually scared for them towards the end 🫣

I have my favorites among the young ones (Alaric and Savannah 😉), but I can't help but have faves on the older gens too (Ariadne and Inez 💕). The characters are well written for me, the way they act and they talk, you could already tell their personality. I actually don't mind the multiple PoVs. Each chapter feels like an episode of a tv series, where you shift scenes to show the audience that there's something in here to see (or tease). 😏

Also, taking note to self to not judge the book by it's title. I'm not a Romance-girly, but I love Suspense, Family Saga, and Thriller. And I know you can't probably tell by the title, but ALL of that is actually in this book! There are romantic moments were I can't help but smile/blush, domestic moments that makes me yearn for the same, but there are also scenes that I had to pause or gasp, and of course, action-packed chapters that made me hold my breath. This, for me, is just full of things I love in a book, I'm too attached to the characters now, I just can't wait to see what's more in store for them.

This book is now available thru @keirstin.writes site, amazon, or the like. Go to her bio for the links and check out this book! I hope you'll love it as much as I did 😉

[Mai]

If you love family drama, slow-burn, second-chance stories, then this is definitely the best book to pick for your next TBR!

First of all, I’m not usually into third-person POV, since I easily get lost in the story, but this book is an exception. Every scene is so easy to picture, it’s like reading a script where your brain just wires through it, almost like watching a telenovela. The writing is easy to follow, and the author adds a location tag to each scene, which makes it even easier to stay immersed.

The characters are very likeable. I thought the love story would only focus on Calla and Atlas, but it also highlights Alaric and Savana, and Iñigo and Freya. I felt a bit shortchanged on their love scenes, but I know books 2 and 3 will spice things up more.

The plot itself is also fantastic. I don’t think I’ve read a romance with this much suspense woven in. I had my doubts that Calla’s father orchestrated the smuggling, but the story took a turn I didn’t see coming.

The story is also very emotional, and my favorite part is when Calla thanks Atlas for being her safe space, knowing her family background isn’t safe but finally she can call someone as her home.

I know I might be biased, but I’m giving this story 5 stars, and I can’t wait for books 2 and 3.

[Katrine Madayag]

Still, the Song Remains was a refreshing pick from my usual reads. As someone who typically gravitates toward novels written in the first-person point of view, I initially found it challenging to follow a story told through multiple perspectives and an ensemble cast. However, once I settled into the rhythm of the narrative, I found myself thoroughly immersed.

Reading it felt like watching a TV series, where I wasn’t only invested in Atlas and Calla's journey, but equally eager to follow the lives and stories of the supporting characters. Each perspective added depth to the narrative, making the world more interconnected.

By the final chapters, I was completely engrossed, gripping the edge of my seat through every twist, revelation, and action-packed sequence. As the first installment in the Park Legacy series, the novel raises plenty of questions and leaves readers with much to anticipate.

With everything that unfolded in this book, I can't help but wonder what surprises await in the next installment. And I genuinely hope the second book centers on Alaric and Savannah! Huge fan of these characters.

Thank you to the author for the ARC! :)

[readwithsamy]

Thank you Kristen for providing me with an ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

This was such a wonderful surprise and easily one of my favourite reads this August. The story brings together mystery, romance, family, and suspense in a way that feels well-balanced throughout.

I particularly enjoyed uncovering Calla’s past and watching the different pieces of the mystery connect. The investigation, the hidden identities, and the connection to Obsidian Axis added plenty of intrigue, while the relationships gave the story warmth and depth.

Atlas and Calla’s relationship was one of my favourite aspects. I also loved seeing how the unfinished song became an important part of their journey. And that revelation about Calla’s father wanting to save her? That was such a moment! 😭

The final chapters delivered plenty of tension and emotion while giving the characters meaningful closure. I could genuinely picture so many scenes playing out like a movie while I was reading.

A beautifully layered story with an engaging mystery, heartfelt relationships, and a satisfying conclusion. 🥹🎻

[Talya]

Still, the Song Remains is a romantic suspense novel that follows Atlas Park as he moves to a small coastal town and reconnects with a lost love, Calla. More characters are introduced falling in love and staying in the small town Each character finds their own special someone in this community. One of my favorite parts was watching everyone come together to help with the school musical. I thought it was such a fun way to bring the community together.
The secrets that have kept the main characters apart eventually catch up with them, leading to a suspenseful and engaging second half that kept me on the edge of my seat. I also enjoyed the cultural references to Korea and the Philippines, especially through the food and language.
At times, I felt there were a few too many characters, and some of the romances seemed to develop a little too quickly. Regardless, I enjoyed getting to know the families and am curious to see where the author takes their story next.

[Christina]

Small-town romance with hand grenades 😯

You can’t resist a cozy, sweet love story in a quaint setting but tend to miss a bit of zing? Then Kristen Tiu’s Still, the Song Remains is your perfect read!

While a big cast of characters takes you through all your romance favorites—star-crossed lovers, café charm, group trips to the beach, timid first kisses, and even a school play—make no mistake in getting too attached to them. The moody, at times poetic descriptions of the setting may lure you into an atmosphere of slow mornings and tranquil small-town life but that doesn’t stop Tiu from blowing it all up with a bang that could make a James Bond–movie blush.

The juxtaposition of PG13 love and explosive action may feel a bit unconventional at first and admittedly, the transition could have been a bit smoother. But if you are the type of person who tends to mix their feel-good reads with a side of drama or even thriller, Still, the Song Remains will leave you fully satiated.

[A.M. Bennett]

This is an ARC review and the opinion is my own.

I genuinely enjoyed diving into Still, the Song Remains and experiencing the warm, small-town atmosphere of Old Townsend. Kristen’s writing is incredibly strong and engaging, seamlessly blending a delicate second-chance romance with a gripping family mystery. What stood out to me the most were the characters. While Atlas and Calla are wonderful leads, the side characters are exceptionally interesting and vividly drawn. The dynamic of the 'Burned Out Club' and the sweet subplot between Alaric and Savannah completely stole my heart, adding so much rich detail to the overall story.

The multi-POV format works well to slowly unravel the larger conspiracy and family secrets, making it feel like a beautifully woven drama. It is a lovely story with a very unique plot and brilliant world-building.

Thank you so much to the author for providing the copy, and I wish her all the best with her future books!

[Kaitlyn Evans]

***Review of Advanced Copy provided to me by the author


When I found out my wildly talented friend was planning to publish her debut novel, I knew I was in for an intricate and captivating ride: and it absolutely did not disappoint!

“Still, The Song Remains” tells the story of Atlas and Calla, two star-crossed lovers who reconnect when Atlas embarks on a restful getaway to a small coastal town—only to find themselves confronting family secrets that begin to unravel.

From the very first pages, I was hooked. While romantic suspense isn’t my go-to genre, Kristen draws you in with the perfect combination of beautiful prose and harrowing suspense, making it nearly impossible not to keep turning the pages. But what truly stood out to me was her gift for writing found family. Every character, although equipped with a wonderful variety of personalities, felt distinct, well-developed, and equally easy to love. Every hangout, conversation, and little moment between them felt natural, heartwarming, and genuine.

My only note: while I appreciated getting narration from some of my favorite side characters, there were moments when the depth of their introductions and development felt a little overwhelming. Because the rest of the novel does such a beautiful job of showing rather than telling, these moments occasionally felt more explanatory than the otherwise immersive storytelling.

Overall, this was such a cozy read for anyone looking for an engaging blend of romance and mystery, woven within a deeply heartfelt story about love, family, secrets, and finding the courage to face what’s been hidden. I absolutely cannot wait for the next book! ✨

[Kristen Simmons]

Thank you to the author for the eARC of this book. However, I felt I was making myself read it to meet the suggested review deadline and not actually enjoying the book. I DNF’d at 30%. The writing is well done in this book, but there are so many POVs I didn’t feel like I was connecting with the main characters. Two characters meet and then after a day or two of them knowing each other, the author says “their usual banter flowing.” We’ve never seen this banter, so it felt like more telling than showing. It felt very surface level, which makes sense with so many characters, but I would have liked a bit more depth. The mystery element kind of looms in the background but I’m pretty sure I’ve guessed the ending so I’m going to move on to other books.

[Cecelle]

First, thank you Ate Kristen, for this ARC. It always makes my heart happy every time an author granted me the opportunity to be an ARC reader. This story makes me kilig while reading and I was heartbroken at the few chapters in the end (I won't tell why because it would be a spoiler! but I already message Ate Kristen, asking Why!?!? lol) Anyway, I really love the flow of the story, the storytelling and the words used are so compelling and it didn't make me feel bored. I also love the characters (yes including the villain) because it makes the story interesting and I would really love and so excited to read the book 2! I had the chance to know who's the lead in 2nd book and that really excites me because he's my bias!!! :)