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Never Leave
Some secrets don’t stay buried.
Especially not in an archive.
I like my job at the Graydon Archives for one simple reason: everything has its place.
Every document filed.
Every record sealed.
Every story finished.
Until Professor Eveline Vallon walks in with an offer I can’t refuse. Forty thousand dollars to find one missing folder.
I know it’s wrong. But I need that money.
The next morning, Vallon is found murdered in the rare books room.
No witnesses. No clear motive. Just a body in a pool of blood… and a handwritten note left behind, one that reads like it was meant for me.
The police have questions. I have answers I can’t give. Because the deeper they dig, the more it seems like someone is using my own mistakes to build a cage around me.
Someone who knows how I think.
Someone who knows where to apply pressure.
Someone who feels… familiar.
When the second murder happens, the trap finally snaps shut. And somewhere inside the archives is a missing folder that could prove my innocence—if I can find it first.
Because I'm not just a suspect anymore.
I’m the target.
And in a building full of buried histories, the truth is the only thing that won't let me go.
Especially not in an archive.
I like my job at the Graydon Archives for one simple reason: everything has its place.
Every document filed.
Every record sealed.
Every story finished.
Until Professor Eveline Vallon walks in with an offer I can’t refuse. Forty thousand dollars to find one missing folder.
I know it’s wrong. But I need that money.
The next morning, Vallon is found murdered in the rare books room.
No witnesses. No clear motive. Just a body in a pool of blood… and a handwritten note left behind, one that reads like it was meant for me.
The police have questions. I have answers I can’t give. Because the deeper they dig, the more it seems like someone is using my own mistakes to build a cage around me.
Someone who knows how I think.
Someone who knows where to apply pressure.
Someone who feels… familiar.
When the second murder happens, the trap finally snaps shut. And somewhere inside the archives is a missing folder that could prove my innocence—if I can find it first.
Because I'm not just a suspect anymore.
I’m the target.
And in a building full of buried histories, the truth is the only thing that won't let me go.
370 pages, Paperback
Published July 13, 2026
About the author
Zahara Breckin
1 book24 followersI write psychological thrillers for readers who love dark atmospheres, buried secrets, and jaw-dropping twists that make them question everything they thought they knew.
I live in Alberta, Canada, with my husband and our two young boys. When I step away from my laptop, I’m usually chasing after my kids, lost in a good book, or eating far too much chocolate while watching a late-night thriller.
I live in Alberta, Canada, with my husband and our two young boys. When I step away from my laptop, I’m usually chasing after my kids, lost in a good book, or eating far too much chocolate while watching a late-night thriller.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 151 reviews
June 13, 2026
I received an advanced reader copy of this book and am leaving my honest feedback.
This was my first book from this author, so I didn’t know what to expect in terms of style, twists and character development, but lord, did Zahara deliver!
We start with a duel timeline presentation, one current - where we meet Sophie. Our main character. We learn quickly that Sophie is a loner, isolated from her past friendships and current co workers. I felt immediately tossed into the plot and wanting to understand where it was all leading. Though the beginning wasn’t necessarily fast paced, it hooked me enough that I believe I read this in 2 days total? And for a full time working mom of two, I think you can clearly see I was motivated! The second timeline draws us to the past. Where Sophie is about 20 years old, preparing to tell her sister that she was leaving for college. We watch Sophie stumble through this, torn between the loyalty to the last family she has and her dreams and desires.
We’re introduced to Alex, her sister, and immediately we feel the strain. These are two vastly different girls. Tied together by their love of literature alone and their shared DNA. By the end, I was definitely picking up the breadcrumbs being left by the author throughout both timelines. Subtle. But she gently steers the ship toward the twist. You know something’s coming but it’s immensely satisfying nonetheless. I felt the building tension toward the climax and all of the frustration and powerlessness of the main character. The writing felt effortlessly charismatic and the ending was tied up in a beautiful bow.
I loved this book and will continue to recommend to all of my friends and family.
Happy reading everyone!
This was my first book from this author, so I didn’t know what to expect in terms of style, twists and character development, but lord, did Zahara deliver!
We start with a duel timeline presentation, one current - where we meet Sophie. Our main character. We learn quickly that Sophie is a loner, isolated from her past friendships and current co workers. I felt immediately tossed into the plot and wanting to understand where it was all leading. Though the beginning wasn’t necessarily fast paced, it hooked me enough that I believe I read this in 2 days total? And for a full time working mom of two, I think you can clearly see I was motivated! The second timeline draws us to the past. Where Sophie is about 20 years old, preparing to tell her sister that she was leaving for college. We watch Sophie stumble through this, torn between the loyalty to the last family she has and her dreams and desires.
We’re introduced to Alex, her sister, and immediately we feel the strain. These are two vastly different girls. Tied together by their love of literature alone and their shared DNA. By the end, I was definitely picking up the breadcrumbs being left by the author throughout both timelines. Subtle. But she gently steers the ship toward the twist. You know something’s coming but it’s immensely satisfying nonetheless. I felt the building tension toward the climax and all of the frustration and powerlessness of the main character. The writing felt effortlessly charismatic and the ending was tied up in a beautiful bow.
I loved this book and will continue to recommend to all of my friends and family.
Happy reading everyone!
June 15, 2026
I was chosen to receive an ARC, and I am leaving my honest opinion voluntarily.
Firstly, thank you to Zahara Breckin for the privilege to give this an early read. I thoroughly enjoyed the experience!
I was immediately hooked. The characters were fresh, and I appreciated the alternating timelines. The pacing was such that the reader unwrapped just enough details before switching.
Mystery aspect: 4.5
Psychological thriller: 4.5
Characters: 4.5
Pacing: 5
Sensory details: 5 (impressed by the addition of the sense of smell throughout)
Twists: 5
****SPOILER****
The one part that I question as a reader is the character of Elliott. It seemed like a bit of a stretch that he dated Sophie, and that Alex never knew of him. Then him getting cozy with “Alex” not realizing it was not the same person… Even though the sisters were estranged, it just seems like there would be some small detail to reveal that it was not his former girlfriend. Not that big of a deal, just makes me wonder a bit.
Overall, this was a fun read that left me thinking about consequences in life. It could easily have been read in a couple days. Highly recommend!!!!
Firstly, thank you to Zahara Breckin for the privilege to give this an early read. I thoroughly enjoyed the experience!
I was immediately hooked. The characters were fresh, and I appreciated the alternating timelines. The pacing was such that the reader unwrapped just enough details before switching.
Mystery aspect: 4.5
Psychological thriller: 4.5
Characters: 4.5
Pacing: 5
Sensory details: 5 (impressed by the addition of the sense of smell throughout)
Twists: 5
****SPOILER****
The one part that I question as a reader is the character of Elliott. It seemed like a bit of a stretch that he dated Sophie, and that Alex never knew of him. Then him getting cozy with “Alex” not realizing it was not the same person… Even though the sisters were estranged, it just seems like there would be some small detail to reveal that it was not his former girlfriend. Not that big of a deal, just makes me wonder a bit.
Overall, this was a fun read that left me thinking about consequences in life. It could easily have been read in a couple days. Highly recommend!!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 14, 2026
Review of advance copy received from author.
I really enjoyed reading this book. It had me guessing right to the end but I never saw that twist coming. I highly recommend reading this book if you like reading thrillers.
Thank you to the author for the book and I am looking forward to reading more of her books when they are released.
I really enjoyed reading this book. It had me guessing right to the end but I never saw that twist coming. I highly recommend reading this book if you like reading thrillers.
Thank you to the author for the book and I am looking forward to reading more of her books when they are released.
August 14, 2026
I received an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book and I am giving an honest opinion voluntarily free from bias.
Never Leave is a psychological thriller that will keep you guessing until the end. It is told from Sophie's point of view then and now so you want to pay attention to what time period you are in which is easy to do. The then is the past for Sophie where she is working, hanging out with friends as well as her twin identical sister. The Now is the present where Sophie is working at the Graydon University Archives building. During the present though Sophie is treated as a murder suspect when someone from the building turns up dead and her key card was used during that time frame. Sophie must clear her name and prove that she is being framed which proves harder than she thought it would be.
Never Leave left me guessing until the very end and even then I didn't figure out what exactly happened. There were so many twists and turns that kept me guessing and not want to put the book down. It grabs you from the very start with the prologue of the main character finding a knife while a detective is in the home. You want to know what exactly is going on and how the knife got there. The main character Sophie pulled me in and you can see how much she wants to make things work for her friends and sister. I love her mind and how she tries to figure out who is behind the murder and framing her. Just when I thought I knew what was going to happen next and the ending was near another twist occurred that pulled the rug out from under me.
If you are looking for a book that's going to keep you guessing, not put down and want to finish to the very end I suggest you check out Never Leave. There is some violence, mental health and of course murder so if those bother you this book isn't for you.
Never Leave is a psychological thriller that will keep you guessing until the end. It is told from Sophie's point of view then and now so you want to pay attention to what time period you are in which is easy to do. The then is the past for Sophie where she is working, hanging out with friends as well as her twin identical sister. The Now is the present where Sophie is working at the Graydon University Archives building. During the present though Sophie is treated as a murder suspect when someone from the building turns up dead and her key card was used during that time frame. Sophie must clear her name and prove that she is being framed which proves harder than she thought it would be.
Never Leave left me guessing until the very end and even then I didn't figure out what exactly happened. There were so many twists and turns that kept me guessing and not want to put the book down. It grabs you from the very start with the prologue of the main character finding a knife while a detective is in the home. You want to know what exactly is going on and how the knife got there. The main character Sophie pulled me in and you can see how much she wants to make things work for her friends and sister. I love her mind and how she tries to figure out who is behind the murder and framing her. Just when I thought I knew what was going to happen next and the ending was near another twist occurred that pulled the rug out from under me.
If you are looking for a book that's going to keep you guessing, not put down and want to finish to the very end I suggest you check out Never Leave. There is some violence, mental health and of course murder so if those bother you this book isn't for you.
July 10, 2026
There's nothing more satisfying than a thriller that gives me all the pieces and still manages to fool me.
The first thing I saw when I started Never Leave was THE MAP, which I absolutely love in a book! I immediately spent time studying it and trying to memorize the layout of the building before I even knew how it would come into play.
I'm also a huge fan of dual timelines in thrillers, and this book does them beautifully. The story follows Sophie, alternating between past and present in a way that kept me turning the pages as I tried to connect the dots and figure out how the two timelines would collide.
Never Leave had me glued to the pages the entire time, and the second half had me completely on the edge of my seat. There is NO WAY I would have guessed how the two timelines came together. It was honestly one of the best twists I've read in a thriller this year, and I was completely blown away to discover this is Zahara Breckin's debut novel!
Five stars!
The first thing I saw when I started Never Leave was THE MAP, which I absolutely love in a book! I immediately spent time studying it and trying to memorize the layout of the building before I even knew how it would come into play.
I'm also a huge fan of dual timelines in thrillers, and this book does them beautifully. The story follows Sophie, alternating between past and present in a way that kept me turning the pages as I tried to connect the dots and figure out how the two timelines would collide.
Never Leave had me glued to the pages the entire time, and the second half had me completely on the edge of my seat. There is NO WAY I would have guessed how the two timelines came together. It was honestly one of the best twists I've read in a thriller this year, and I was completely blown away to discover this is Zahara Breckin's debut novel!
Five stars!
June 19, 2026
I received an advanced copy from the author, and I am leaving an honest review.
Ok. Let me start by saying I very much enjoyed this! At first, it didn’t grab my attention and it was kind of hard to stay in it. After reaching chapter 5-7 it started picking up and really setting up the mystery.
This is definitely a personal thing and a nitpick, but it doesn’t take away from the story at all! I noticed a lot of talk about the air and how “dry” it was. I totally get why, being the setting is mainly in an archives room, but after noticing the first couple of time I couldn’t help but notice it every single chapter. I would have liked more descriptive words other than dry like maybe stale or musty? Other than that, the writing was good, the flow was slow but it definitely picked up, and the characters were likable.
Thank you to the author for entrusting me with your book and to give an honest review. It took me a minute to read it through with some personal things going on at the same time, but I wanted to make sure this review got out before the release.
I would definitely recommend to others who are starting to explore the thriller/mystery genre as a gateway read.
4/5 ⭐️❤️
Ok. Let me start by saying I very much enjoyed this! At first, it didn’t grab my attention and it was kind of hard to stay in it. After reaching chapter 5-7 it started picking up and really setting up the mystery.
This is definitely a personal thing and a nitpick, but it doesn’t take away from the story at all! I noticed a lot of talk about the air and how “dry” it was. I totally get why, being the setting is mainly in an archives room, but after noticing the first couple of time I couldn’t help but notice it every single chapter. I would have liked more descriptive words other than dry like maybe stale or musty? Other than that, the writing was good, the flow was slow but it definitely picked up, and the characters were likable.
Thank you to the author for entrusting me with your book and to give an honest review. It took me a minute to read it through with some personal things going on at the same time, but I wanted to make sure this review got out before the release.
I would definitely recommend to others who are starting to explore the thriller/mystery genre as a gateway read.
4/5 ⭐️❤️
September 5, 2026
First of all, thank you to the author for the ARC. The following is an honest review of the book.
I enjoy an unreliable narrator in my suspense fiction and this book does not disappoint. Sophie is a young woman who has been a victim much of her life and works in the archives of a university. I knew nothing about how archives work and found the setting fascinating and much more exciting than you’d think. This is a testament to the writing.
I didn’t always agree with her choices and often shook my head, but how she responds to the events of the story make sense based on what we know about her through the twin storylines (past and present).
The mystery kept me guessing the whole time and I thoroughly enjoyed the twists and turns. This is a fun read in a unique setting that sets it apart from other suspense I’ve read. Highly recommend!
I enjoy an unreliable narrator in my suspense fiction and this book does not disappoint. Sophie is a young woman who has been a victim much of her life and works in the archives of a university. I knew nothing about how archives work and found the setting fascinating and much more exciting than you’d think. This is a testament to the writing.
I didn’t always agree with her choices and often shook my head, but how she responds to the events of the story make sense based on what we know about her through the twin storylines (past and present).
The mystery kept me guessing the whole time and I thoroughly enjoyed the twists and turns. This is a fun read in a unique setting that sets it apart from other suspense I’ve read. Highly recommend!
June 20, 2026
I received an advance reader copy and am leaving my honest opinion. This was my first time reading a book by this author, in fact my first time being an ARC reader so I didn't know what to expect! Never Leave kept me hooked from beginning to end. The dual timeline was expertly woven together, revealing just enough information to keep me guessing without giving too much away. The suspense built steadily, and the ending was both surprising and satisfying. If you enjoy psychological thrillers with clever plotting and unexpected turns, this is definitely a book worth reading!
June 20, 2026
Thank you to the author for giving me the chance to read this debut novel with an ARC copy.
I really enjoyed the multiple timelines of the main character. The book kept me guessing until the very end and the twist OMGI did not see that coming. Five stars for this wonderful novel, I cannot wait to read more from this author..
I really enjoyed the multiple timelines of the main character. The book kept me guessing until the very end and the twist OMGI did not see that coming. Five stars for this wonderful novel, I cannot wait to read more from this author..
August 8, 2026
This is a great debut thriller novel! It was a bit of a slow start, but once the mystery started going, it kept me guessing! I wasn’t a huge fan of the dual timeline at first, but once it clicked, it all made sense. The author did a great job of leaving enough crumbs to push you in the right direction of the twist!
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Thank you to Zahara Breckin for gifting me this eARC! This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
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Thank you to Zahara Breckin for gifting me this eARC! This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
June 29, 2026
This was my first book by Zahara, and it definitely won’t be my last. Zahara is officially on my radar after this one. From the very first chapter, I was completely hooked and couldn’t turn the pages fast enough. The story was fast-paced, gripping, and packed with suspense, while the characters felt well-developed and believable. Just when I thought I had everything figured out, the ending completely blindsided me. An intense, addictive read that kept me engaged from beginning to end.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I received the ARC copy and am leaving my honest opinion after reading. Also, thank you for allowing me to be an early reader!!
This one started off slow and I was worried I would DNF, but I persisted, and boy am I glad I did (four stars because I considered the DNF early on)
This is my first novel I have read by this author, but I do not believe it will be my last. I honestly ended up finishing in two days. Once you get hooked, it is hard to set it down.
The characters are a tad hard to connect with, but you still want to know what will happen. This is told in present day and past, all the same POV. There were a couple of spots, particularly toward the end where the writing was slightly repetitive (particularly where Sophie is tied up and is trying to get free and can tell she is close but not quite there), but overall the writing is quick paced and not drug out. All in all, I would recommend this book to anyone who likes a good thriller that is also a quick read. Would be a great beach / vacation read!
***SPOILERS AHEAD****
(Do not read the spoilers if you have not read the book, as they give away the twist)
YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
***LAST CHANCE***
I called that Elliot was going to be "Him <3" fairly early in. Like, as soon as we met him early. The immediate connection he seemed to have to Sophie was just odd unless that was his identity. I was also okay with Alex not knowing who he was, because she was never introduced to him.
Alex wanting to change her name and disappear finally made sense after the twist was revealed because we learn she had already done it once successfully. We can assume she was going to resume her identity as Alex afterwards, because no one would be looking for Alex to her knowledge. It also makes sense why in the present, "Sophie" has no thoughts about Alex.
I do find it a little hard to believe that no one noticed Natalie's name in the missing grant or that no one noticed the first time around that the research had already been done years earlier. Or all the things that were missing, such as tickets, etc. I also found it odd that none of Sophie's friends back home ever filed a missing person's report on both her and her sister since both disappeared. I also had a hard time believing that Sophie's best friends just accepted she left and thought she was mad, even though nothing about her leaving made sense.
This one started off slow and I was worried I would DNF, but I persisted, and boy am I glad I did (four stars because I considered the DNF early on)
This is my first novel I have read by this author, but I do not believe it will be my last. I honestly ended up finishing in two days. Once you get hooked, it is hard to set it down.
The characters are a tad hard to connect with, but you still want to know what will happen. This is told in present day and past, all the same POV. There were a couple of spots, particularly toward the end where the writing was slightly repetitive (particularly where Sophie is tied up and is trying to get free and can tell she is close but not quite there), but overall the writing is quick paced and not drug out. All in all, I would recommend this book to anyone who likes a good thriller that is also a quick read. Would be a great beach / vacation read!
***SPOILERS AHEAD****
(Do not read the spoilers if you have not read the book, as they give away the twist)
YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
***LAST CHANCE***
I called that Elliot was going to be "Him <3" fairly early in. Like, as soon as we met him early. The immediate connection he seemed to have to Sophie was just odd unless that was his identity. I was also okay with Alex not knowing who he was, because she was never introduced to him.
Alex wanting to change her name and disappear finally made sense after the twist was revealed because we learn she had already done it once successfully. We can assume she was going to resume her identity as Alex afterwards, because no one would be looking for Alex to her knowledge. It also makes sense why in the present, "Sophie" has no thoughts about Alex.
I do find it a little hard to believe that no one noticed Natalie's name in the missing grant or that no one noticed the first time around that the research had already been done years earlier. Or all the things that were missing, such as tickets, etc. I also found it odd that none of Sophie's friends back home ever filed a missing person's report on both her and her sister since both disappeared. I also had a hard time believing that Sophie's best friends just accepted she left and thought she was mad, even though nothing about her leaving made sense.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 26, 2026
Never Leave gave me chills after I found out the crazy twist at the end. I can't explain it. I felt sorry for some characters here while feeling completely confused and suspicious of others.
💔 It turns out this story betrayed me in the best possible way. I am still picking up the pieces of my mind! I mean...I was totally unprepared for HOW HARD that ending would hit. It broke my heart into pieces. But watching every scattered piece fall right into place was the most satisfying payoff I could have ever asked for.
So...if you are looking for a true, deeply unsettling psychological thriller, this is the one to read.
✅ This is not for readers who want a fast-paced sprint. The slow-burn atmosphere here will give you an understanding of why that psychological unraveling has to happen.
✅ It brilliantly alternates between different POVs. This will urge you to "READ MORE" to see how these two different perspectives in different timelines connect to the mind-blowing plot twist of the whole story. Brilliant author, especially for a debut novel!
✅ The title Never Leave is absolute perfection! Once you uncover the dark history of the archives and the psychological trap closing in, you realize the title takes on a chilling double meaning that stays with you long after the final page.
😳 Just like the characters from the book, you will also CHASE AND CRAVE knowing what was inside of the missing folder. This is one of the most exciting parts of the book. It feels like I am right there in the rare books room, trapped in the shadows with them. Do yourself a favor and pick this up!
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NOTE: This is my personal opinion about the book. My goal is to share my experience, not to change anyone's perspective. Thank you to Zahara Breckin for giving me the opportunity to read this early.
Wordpress | Storygraph | Blog
💔 It turns out this story betrayed me in the best possible way. I am still picking up the pieces of my mind! I mean...I was totally unprepared for HOW HARD that ending would hit. It broke my heart into pieces. But watching every scattered piece fall right into place was the most satisfying payoff I could have ever asked for.
So...if you are looking for a true, deeply unsettling psychological thriller, this is the one to read.
✅ This is not for readers who want a fast-paced sprint. The slow-burn atmosphere here will give you an understanding of why that psychological unraveling has to happen.
✅ It brilliantly alternates between different POVs. This will urge you to "READ MORE" to see how these two different perspectives in different timelines connect to the mind-blowing plot twist of the whole story. Brilliant author, especially for a debut novel!
✅ The title Never Leave is absolute perfection! Once you uncover the dark history of the archives and the psychological trap closing in, you realize the title takes on a chilling double meaning that stays with you long after the final page.
😳 Just like the characters from the book, you will also CHASE AND CRAVE knowing what was inside of the missing folder. This is one of the most exciting parts of the book. It feels like I am right there in the rare books room, trapped in the shadows with them. Do yourself a favor and pick this up!
-------------
NOTE: This is my personal opinion about the book. My goal is to share my experience, not to change anyone's perspective. Thank you to Zahara Breckin for giving me the opportunity to read this early.
Wordpress | Storygraph | Blog
Review of advance copy received from Author
WHAT DID I JUST READ?! OH YES! 😍 THAT REALLY JUST HAPPENED.
What an entrance into the book world for Zahara Breckin!!
I had a tiny suspicion about what might be going on, and when the reveal finally happened, I screamed. Loudly. My apologies to anyone whose eardrums may have suffered in the process. 😂 I never guess twists correctly, so even though it was only a fleeting thought, I'm absolutely counting this one as a win.
I loved the dual timelines and parallel stories. Just when I finally gave up waiting for the past and present to collide, I got the reveal of a lifetime. At first, I wasn't quite sure what to think. The setting, the job, and the overall premise aren't your "typical" setup for this type of story. There were moments where I found myself wondering, "Okay... how exactly do these pieces fit together?"
Trust me—hang on.
The brief confusion is intentional, and the payoff is more than worth it.
Reading this felt like climbing the first hill of a roller coaster. You're slowly making your way up, taking everything in, and then suddenly you're barreling downhill toward a loop that leaves your stomach doing that flippy-floppy thing while you question everything you thought you knew. Nothing is quite what it seems. For a few moments you're weightless, suspended between possibilities, and then everything clicks into place.
That's exactly how this book felt.
Once I understood the timeline, the job, and the characters, I was completely locked in. I was buckled into that roller coaster seat and there was no getting off. I genuinely didn't put the book down until I hit 80%, and even then I only stopped because I wanted to stretch the experience out a little longer. 😅
I cannot wait to read more from Zahara Breckin because this was an incredible ride from beginning to end.
Higher than 5 definitely 6 stars. Highly recommend. Still haven't stopped thinking about it days later. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
What an entrance into the book world for Zahara Breckin!!
I had a tiny suspicion about what might be going on, and when the reveal finally happened, I screamed. Loudly. My apologies to anyone whose eardrums may have suffered in the process. 😂 I never guess twists correctly, so even though it was only a fleeting thought, I'm absolutely counting this one as a win.
I loved the dual timelines and parallel stories. Just when I finally gave up waiting for the past and present to collide, I got the reveal of a lifetime. At first, I wasn't quite sure what to think. The setting, the job, and the overall premise aren't your "typical" setup for this type of story. There were moments where I found myself wondering, "Okay... how exactly do these pieces fit together?"
Trust me—hang on.
The brief confusion is intentional, and the payoff is more than worth it.
Reading this felt like climbing the first hill of a roller coaster. You're slowly making your way up, taking everything in, and then suddenly you're barreling downhill toward a loop that leaves your stomach doing that flippy-floppy thing while you question everything you thought you knew. Nothing is quite what it seems. For a few moments you're weightless, suspended between possibilities, and then everything clicks into place.
That's exactly how this book felt.
Once I understood the timeline, the job, and the characters, I was completely locked in. I was buckled into that roller coaster seat and there was no getting off. I genuinely didn't put the book down until I hit 80%, and even then I only stopped because I wanted to stretch the experience out a little longer. 😅
I cannot wait to read more from Zahara Breckin because this was an incredible ride from beginning to end.
Higher than 5 definitely 6 stars. Highly recommend. Still haven't stopped thinking about it days later. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review of advance copy
A psychological thriller set within the archives of a university was enough to grab my attention, and Never Leave delivers a mystery filled with secrets, suspicion, and questions about what might be hidden among the records.
The setting is what initially caught my eye and since I’ve never read a thriller centred around an archivist before, the concept is fresh and intriguing. Scenes set inside the archive were especially effective, with endless aisles, windowless rooms, and an eerie silence that created a claustrophobic, isolating atmosphere.
I liked how the title, Never Leave, is woven through different layers of the narrative. At first it feels tied to the central mystery, but it gradually gains broader meaning through the characters, their pasts, and the secrets they carry. Not knowing exactly how it would all connect added an extra layer of intrigue.
The inclusion of a map of the archives was a nice touch to the overall plot. It’s not something you often see in thrillers, and it added a real Cluedo-like feel while helping me visualise the space and follow key events more easily. Combined with the cover, which perfectly captures the unsettling feeling of being alone among the shelves, the setting was the stand out element for me.
The ending genuinely caught me off guard, which isn’t easy given how many thrillers I read. Looking back, I can see some of the clues that were planted along the way, though I did feel a few key details were more withheld than subtly foreshadowed. I liked several of the reveals, but I was still left wanting a bit more clarity in places.
Despite not being a five-star read for me, this is still a strong debut. Zahara Breckin is an author I’ll be keeping on my radar, and I’m interested to see where their writing goes next.
I received an advance reader copy of this book via BookSirens and am leaving my honest opinion voluntarily.
The setting is what initially caught my eye and since I’ve never read a thriller centred around an archivist before, the concept is fresh and intriguing. Scenes set inside the archive were especially effective, with endless aisles, windowless rooms, and an eerie silence that created a claustrophobic, isolating atmosphere.
I liked how the title, Never Leave, is woven through different layers of the narrative. At first it feels tied to the central mystery, but it gradually gains broader meaning through the characters, their pasts, and the secrets they carry. Not knowing exactly how it would all connect added an extra layer of intrigue.
The inclusion of a map of the archives was a nice touch to the overall plot. It’s not something you often see in thrillers, and it added a real Cluedo-like feel while helping me visualise the space and follow key events more easily. Combined with the cover, which perfectly captures the unsettling feeling of being alone among the shelves, the setting was the stand out element for me.
The ending genuinely caught me off guard, which isn’t easy given how many thrillers I read. Looking back, I can see some of the clues that were planted along the way, though I did feel a few key details were more withheld than subtly foreshadowed. I liked several of the reveals, but I was still left wanting a bit more clarity in places.
Despite not being a five-star read for me, this is still a strong debut. Zahara Breckin is an author I’ll be keeping on my radar, and I’m interested to see where their writing goes next.
I received an advance reader copy of this book via BookSirens and am leaving my honest opinion voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I Came for the Twists, Tension, and Shocks — and I Definitely Got Them!
Huge thank you to the author, Zahara Breckin, for sending me an advanced reading copy of this book! All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
● The Hook & Pacing: What an absolute mind-bender! This book hooks you from page one with a chaotic opening that totally messes with your head. The pacing is completely relentless, utilizing a brilliant circular timeline that keeps you flipping pages late into the night.
● The Atmospheric Setting: The Graden University archives are incredibly atmospheric and claustrophobic. Having the layout of the space made the environment feel intensely vivid — it honestly felt like the building itself was a character driving the plot.
● The Shocking Twists: The author drops phenomenal breadcrumbs, delivering a masterclass in the unreliable narrator trope. I was literally shouting at some of these wilder parts! I actually managed to call one of the massive identity twists early on, but instead of making the ending predictable, it was so satisfying to watch play out because the final act completely pulls the rug out from under you.
● The Ending: The final act is an emotional rollercoaster that ties everything together perfectly. The way the truth finally comes out is incredibly sharp, and the epilogue brings everything to a chilling, perfect full circle conclusion that really stuck with me.
This is a gripping, five-star psychological thriller that leaves you with something much deeper to think about long after that final page. A mandatory addition to your thriller TBR!
Huge thank you to the author, Zahara Breckin, for sending me an advanced reading copy of this book! All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
● The Hook & Pacing: What an absolute mind-bender! This book hooks you from page one with a chaotic opening that totally messes with your head. The pacing is completely relentless, utilizing a brilliant circular timeline that keeps you flipping pages late into the night.
● The Atmospheric Setting: The Graden University archives are incredibly atmospheric and claustrophobic. Having the layout of the space made the environment feel intensely vivid — it honestly felt like the building itself was a character driving the plot.
● The Shocking Twists: The author drops phenomenal breadcrumbs, delivering a masterclass in the unreliable narrator trope. I was literally shouting at some of these wilder parts! I actually managed to call one of the massive identity twists early on, but instead of making the ending predictable, it was so satisfying to watch play out because the final act completely pulls the rug out from under you.
● The Ending: The final act is an emotional rollercoaster that ties everything together perfectly. The way the truth finally comes out is incredibly sharp, and the epilogue brings everything to a chilling, perfect full circle conclusion that really stuck with me.
This is a gripping, five-star psychological thriller that leaves you with something much deeper to think about long after that final page. A mandatory addition to your thriller TBR!
Review of advance copy received from Author
3 1/2⭐️
This was my first ARC book & I was thrilled to be among the first to read this debut novel by Zahara Brecken. Thank you so much for the opportunity to read it and review.
The book started off quickly with an air of mystery surrounding FMC Sophie. The past and present timelines were both interesting, even though we don’t find out til the end what the past has to do with the present. I quickly found myself talking to the FMC, advising her on what do (or not do). This is an obvious sign that I’m engaged with the characters & invested in the outcome.
I did not see the 2 twists coming at the end. So, well done there!
Why only 3 1/2⭐️? A few reasons.
1. I felt like some of the dialogue and inner monologue was a bit juvenile. On at least 2 occasions, I wondered if I missed the fact that I was reading a YA novel (not that there’s anything wrong with YA! I choose to read them every now and then, even though I am anything but “Y,” having just turned 60!). The confrontation between Sophie & Nat in the basement and the argument between Sophie & Alex on the bridge are the 2 that stick out to me.
2. I’m not sure I got why the contents of that missing file led to multiple murders. I don’t see how a fraudulent grant and $50,000 embezzlement leads to murder. Maybe I’m missing something?
3. I don’t think there was enough detail linking Alex to Nat to show they were working together. Or is that the point? That they weren’t, but Nat did such a good job setting up Alex?
Anyway - despite those observations, I clearly enjoyed the book & I will definitely be reading future works by this author.
This was my first ARC book & I was thrilled to be among the first to read this debut novel by Zahara Brecken. Thank you so much for the opportunity to read it and review.
The book started off quickly with an air of mystery surrounding FMC Sophie. The past and present timelines were both interesting, even though we don’t find out til the end what the past has to do with the present. I quickly found myself talking to the FMC, advising her on what do (or not do). This is an obvious sign that I’m engaged with the characters & invested in the outcome.
I did not see the 2 twists coming at the end. So, well done there!
Why only 3 1/2⭐️? A few reasons.
1. I felt like some of the dialogue and inner monologue was a bit juvenile. On at least 2 occasions, I wondered if I missed the fact that I was reading a YA novel (not that there’s anything wrong with YA! I choose to read them every now and then, even though I am anything but “Y,” having just turned 60!). The confrontation between Sophie & Nat in the basement and the argument between Sophie & Alex on the bridge are the 2 that stick out to me.
2. I’m not sure I got why the contents of that missing file led to multiple murders. I don’t see how a fraudulent grant and $50,000 embezzlement leads to murder. Maybe I’m missing something?
3. I don’t think there was enough detail linking Alex to Nat to show they were working together. Or is that the point? That they weren’t, but Nat did such a good job setting up Alex?
Anyway - despite those observations, I clearly enjoyed the book & I will definitely be reading future works by this author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 15, 2026
What an incredible entrance into the thriller world for Zahara Breckin!
There's nothing more satisfying than a thriller that gives you all the pieces and still manages to keep you guessing until the very end—only for everything to click into place. I had my suspicions, but I was never completely confident because the story kept pulling me in different directions.
Never Leave is a dual-timeline, parallel-story psychological thriller, and it absolutely delivers. At first, I wasn't quite sure what to think. The setting, the profession, and the overall premise aren't your typical psychological thriller setup. More than once I found myself wondering, Okay... how exactly are all of these pieces connected?
Stick with it - trust. One sitting by the pool and it did not disappoint!
This is a mystery filled with secrets, suspicion, and lingering questions about what might be hidden among the records. "Never Leave" is woven throughout the story in more ways than one. At first, it feels tied to the central mystery, but as the story unfolds, it takes on deeper meaning through the characters, their pasts, and the secrets they've been carrying.
I always keep my thriller reviews on the shorter side because I never want to take away from the reading experience. Half the fun is going in with just enough to hook you and then letting the author do the rest. This is one of those books that is best experienced with as little information as possible. Read the blurb, dive in, and let the story unfold the way Zahara intended.
Overall, this was an incredibly strong debut, and I'm officially sold. I can't wait to see what Zahara Breckin writes next.
There's nothing more satisfying than a thriller that gives you all the pieces and still manages to keep you guessing until the very end—only for everything to click into place. I had my suspicions, but I was never completely confident because the story kept pulling me in different directions.
Never Leave is a dual-timeline, parallel-story psychological thriller, and it absolutely delivers. At first, I wasn't quite sure what to think. The setting, the profession, and the overall premise aren't your typical psychological thriller setup. More than once I found myself wondering, Okay... how exactly are all of these pieces connected?
Stick with it - trust. One sitting by the pool and it did not disappoint!
This is a mystery filled with secrets, suspicion, and lingering questions about what might be hidden among the records. "Never Leave" is woven throughout the story in more ways than one. At first, it feels tied to the central mystery, but as the story unfolds, it takes on deeper meaning through the characters, their pasts, and the secrets they've been carrying.
I always keep my thriller reviews on the shorter side because I never want to take away from the reading experience. Half the fun is going in with just enough to hook you and then letting the author do the rest. This is one of those books that is best experienced with as little information as possible. Read the blurb, dive in, and let the story unfold the way Zahara intended.
Overall, this was an incredibly strong debut, and I'm officially sold. I can't wait to see what Zahara Breckin writes next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an advanced reader copy, and am leaving my honest feedback.
First of all, I want to thank Zahara for including me in the ARC giveaway as it was my first time receiving one and wasn’t sure what to expect.
Second of all, now that I’ve finished this book I’m super upset. WHAT DO YOU MEAN this is your debut novel and you don’t have anymore to read???? I loved this one so much, and want to go on a bender to read 10 more Zahara books.
As a Canadian, I loved the setting of the book! I grew up in the GTA, but live in Northern Ontario and my husband is from PEI, so I felt a personal connection to the locations and could visualize the setting. I haven’t read a book with a Canadian setting in a long time, which was refreshing for me, personally.
It was a quick, easy, read in the best way possible. I was consistently captivated, and on hook to read more. The story is told from (mostly) a single POV with flashbacks and timeline overlap. I understand not every reader is a fan of this format, but I found it was done in a simple, straightforward way that does not confuse the reader. In fact, it helps the storyline and contributes to the theme of the book.
The ending felt unfinished – but again, in a good way. It’s open for interpretation and also leaves me hopeful that we might get another book from this story. Maybe from E’s perspective??? 👀
Thanks again Zahara, looking forward to reading more from you!
First of all, I want to thank Zahara for including me in the ARC giveaway as it was my first time receiving one and wasn’t sure what to expect.
Second of all, now that I’ve finished this book I’m super upset. WHAT DO YOU MEAN this is your debut novel and you don’t have anymore to read???? I loved this one so much, and want to go on a bender to read 10 more Zahara books.
As a Canadian, I loved the setting of the book! I grew up in the GTA, but live in Northern Ontario and my husband is from PEI, so I felt a personal connection to the locations and could visualize the setting. I haven’t read a book with a Canadian setting in a long time, which was refreshing for me, personally.
It was a quick, easy, read in the best way possible. I was consistently captivated, and on hook to read more. The story is told from (mostly) a single POV with flashbacks and timeline overlap. I understand not every reader is a fan of this format, but I found it was done in a simple, straightforward way that does not confuse the reader. In fact, it helps the storyline and contributes to the theme of the book.
The ending felt unfinished – but again, in a good way. It’s open for interpretation and also leaves me hopeful that we might get another book from this story. Maybe from E’s perspective??? 👀
Thanks again Zahara, looking forward to reading more from you!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Sophie moves to the big city of Toronto after leaving her sad previous life behind. She lost her mom and grandpa and for years helped take care of her sister while knowing there was more to life.
Sophie works at a university library as an Archivist, she is the quieter type, still struggling with money like she was back home before college. She is friends with her co-workers and enjoys her job. Suddenly a well-known professor has been around looking for a folder that got “mis-filled” -this folder was created prior to digitalization of files. Sophie is interested to see what is in this folder, but the professor ends up dead before Sophie can look for it for her. An intern also reaches out to Sophie about the folder, and he ends up dead as well. Interestingly enough both murder victims have had close contact with Sophie right before their deaths- this puts her in the center of a police investigation. In this book it goes back and forth between Sophie’s past and her present. Reading this I knew that her past had shaped her, but I was intrigued to see what the past was leading up to. The past and present come together very nicely at the end, finding out what was in the secretive folder as well as who was behind the murders.
This book was easy to read and fit my style of reading; I never had to force myself to keep reading.
I was lucky enough to receive an advanced review copy of this book- I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Sophie works at a university library as an Archivist, she is the quieter type, still struggling with money like she was back home before college. She is friends with her co-workers and enjoys her job. Suddenly a well-known professor has been around looking for a folder that got “mis-filled” -this folder was created prior to digitalization of files. Sophie is interested to see what is in this folder, but the professor ends up dead before Sophie can look for it for her. An intern also reaches out to Sophie about the folder, and he ends up dead as well. Interestingly enough both murder victims have had close contact with Sophie right before their deaths- this puts her in the center of a police investigation. In this book it goes back and forth between Sophie’s past and her present. Reading this I knew that her past had shaped her, but I was intrigued to see what the past was leading up to. The past and present come together very nicely at the end, finding out what was in the secretive folder as well as who was behind the murders.
This book was easy to read and fit my style of reading; I never had to force myself to keep reading.
I was lucky enough to receive an advanced review copy of this book- I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an advance reader copy and am leaving my honest opinion voluntarily.
Never Leave is told through dual timelines following Sophie. In the past, Sophie and her younger sister, Alex, are left to navigate life after losing both their mother and grandfather. Sophie promises she’ll never leave Alex, but when she’s accepted to Grayden College and plans to move away, that promise begins to unravel. In the present, Sophie is working in the archives at Grayden when a professor requests a missing file. The next morning, he’s found murdered, and the evidence quickly begins to point toward Sophie. As she tries to clear her name, long-buried secrets from her past start coming to light.
While the premise was intriguing, the pacing didn’t quite work for me. The first half of the book felt very slow and contained a lot of filler that made it difficult to stay engaged. Things began to improve around the 50% mark, but the story didn’t really gain momentum until the final quarter. Once it picked up, the mystery became much more compelling, and I found myself wanting to know how everything would come together.
Overall, this was an enjoyable mystery with an interesting concept, but I wish the pacing had been tighter throughout. If you don’t mind a slow-burn thriller that saves most of its action for the end, then this book is for you.
Never Leave is told through dual timelines following Sophie. In the past, Sophie and her younger sister, Alex, are left to navigate life after losing both their mother and grandfather. Sophie promises she’ll never leave Alex, but when she’s accepted to Grayden College and plans to move away, that promise begins to unravel. In the present, Sophie is working in the archives at Grayden when a professor requests a missing file. The next morning, he’s found murdered, and the evidence quickly begins to point toward Sophie. As she tries to clear her name, long-buried secrets from her past start coming to light.
While the premise was intriguing, the pacing didn’t quite work for me. The first half of the book felt very slow and contained a lot of filler that made it difficult to stay engaged. Things began to improve around the 50% mark, but the story didn’t really gain momentum until the final quarter. Once it picked up, the mystery became much more compelling, and I found myself wanting to know how everything would come together.
Overall, this was an enjoyable mystery with an interesting concept, but I wish the pacing had been tighter throughout. If you don’t mind a slow-burn thriller that saves most of its action for the end, then this book is for you.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Some thrillers entertain you. Others completely take over your life for a few days. "Never Leave" by Zahara Breckin definitely falls into the second category.
I devoured this debut novel in just 4 days, and honestly could have finished it even faster if life hadn't kept getting in the way. As a thriller lover, there's nothing I enjoy more than thinking I've cracked the case... only to realise the author is ten steps ahead of me.
Fast-paced, gripping, and packed with suspense, the story unfolds within the atmospheric Graydon Archives, where what begins as a search for a missing folder quickly spirals into murder, secrets, and a dangerous game where nobody can be trusted. The characters felt believable and well developed and just when I thought I had finally figured it all out, the author delivered an ending that completely blindsided me.
A twisty, addictive, edge-of-your-seat thriller that kept surprising me right until the very last page. Exactly the kind of book thriller addicts live for. 👏
Huge thank you to Zahara for the ARC and for trusting me with an honest review of your debut novel. If this is the standard for your first book, I can't wait to see what comes next! A solid 5 stars! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
#sasbooknook #ARCReview #ThrillerObsessed #PsychologicalThriller #Bookstagram
I devoured this debut novel in just 4 days, and honestly could have finished it even faster if life hadn't kept getting in the way. As a thriller lover, there's nothing I enjoy more than thinking I've cracked the case... only to realise the author is ten steps ahead of me.
Fast-paced, gripping, and packed with suspense, the story unfolds within the atmospheric Graydon Archives, where what begins as a search for a missing folder quickly spirals into murder, secrets, and a dangerous game where nobody can be trusted. The characters felt believable and well developed and just when I thought I had finally figured it all out, the author delivered an ending that completely blindsided me.
A twisty, addictive, edge-of-your-seat thriller that kept surprising me right until the very last page. Exactly the kind of book thriller addicts live for. 👏
Huge thank you to Zahara for the ARC and for trusting me with an honest review of your debut novel. If this is the standard for your first book, I can't wait to see what comes next! A solid 5 stars! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
#sasbooknook #ARCReview #ThrillerObsessed #PsychologicalThriller #Bookstagram
July 9, 2026
I received an advance reader copy of this book and I am leaving my honest opinion voluntarily.
Never Leave is a dual timeline read following Sophie both in the present working in the Archives at Grayden College, and in her past with her younger sister Alex.
In the present she gets caught up in a murder investigation of one of the college's professors, with evidence starting to point towards her being set up. In trying to clear her name secrets from her past start becoming apparent.
I am usually a big fan of dual timeline reads but this one just didn't hit the mark for me. The first half of the book was extremely slow paced with a lot of filler which I just didn't find engaging enough to make me want to read on. It took me quite a while to read this book as I kept having to come back to it.
Once I got past the halfway mark it did pick up and I was more motivated to keep reading. I definitely didn't see the twists coming. It all came together in the final quarter of the book but for me personally this was too late.
If you enjoy a really slow burn where everything only comes together at the end this one is for you. The twists when they finally came were clever and unexpected and for this reason I gave this three stars.
Never Leave is a dual timeline read following Sophie both in the present working in the Archives at Grayden College, and in her past with her younger sister Alex.
In the present she gets caught up in a murder investigation of one of the college's professors, with evidence starting to point towards her being set up. In trying to clear her name secrets from her past start becoming apparent.
I am usually a big fan of dual timeline reads but this one just didn't hit the mark for me. The first half of the book was extremely slow paced with a lot of filler which I just didn't find engaging enough to make me want to read on. It took me quite a while to read this book as I kept having to come back to it.
Once I got past the halfway mark it did pick up and I was more motivated to keep reading. I definitely didn't see the twists coming. It all came together in the final quarter of the book but for me personally this was too late.
If you enjoy a really slow burn where everything only comes together at the end this one is for you. The twists when they finally came were clever and unexpected and for this reason I gave this three stars.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I am providing my honest review after receiving an advanced reader copy of this book.
Never having thought about what it would be like to work in archives, I love the setting of this book. Just the right level of detail to really be able to picture it all, without getting bored by too much blah blah. I completely forgot about the map provided, which would definitely have added to the experience had i remembered it while reading...
I figured out most of the major twist about 20% into the book, but it was still worth reading! I still didn't know the how, why and when. This made the other twist a bit disappointing for me, as I don't feel it was given enough context or clues. To me it ended up feeling like the murder mystery was just a vessel to hide the other twist behind, and I was unsatisfied by that portion of the book in the end because it felt like a rushed conclusion.
I would still recommend the book because it is a smooth read and the twists are decent enough. I would have given 3.5 stars if I could, but went with 4 rather than 3 as I have no regrets about reading it and I found the setting refreshing!
Never having thought about what it would be like to work in archives, I love the setting of this book. Just the right level of detail to really be able to picture it all, without getting bored by too much blah blah. I completely forgot about the map provided, which would definitely have added to the experience had i remembered it while reading...
I figured out most of the major twist about 20% into the book, but it was still worth reading! I still didn't know the how, why and when. This made the other twist a bit disappointing for me, as I don't feel it was given enough context or clues. To me it ended up feeling like the murder mystery was just a vessel to hide the other twist behind, and I was unsatisfied by that portion of the book in the end because it felt like a rushed conclusion.
I would still recommend the book because it is a smooth read and the twists are decent enough. I would have given 3.5 stars if I could, but went with 4 rather than 3 as I have no regrets about reading it and I found the setting refreshing!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an advanced reader copy and am leaving an honest review voluntarily.
This book was such a surprise! I usually have lower expectations for debut novels. I like to cut the authors a little slack, you know? But I am so surprised at how much I enjoyed her writing! It took me until I was about 20% of the way into the book to really be hooked in, but once there I couldn't put it down. I ended up finishing it a few hours later! The next morning, I immediately recommended it to my friends at work because I was so shocked at the ending. It takes a lot to surprise me because my background is in English and creative writing. However, shocked me, she did! I didn't start picking up on the clues until shortly before the reveal when I suspect the author was deliberately leading me there. Even then, I was still so stunned that I didn't believe it at first!
This story follows Sophie with perspectives from both the past and the present. It was a little confusing at first to follow - you really have to pay attention to the chapter headings to know which timeline is taking place. Sophie's career at the University Archives is threatened when a brutal murder takes place on campus, and the police seem to suspect Sophie. Throughout the book, Sophie (and the reader) doesn't know who to trust; she can't tell who's lying, who has ulterior motives, who's keeping secrets, who's telling the truth. Even more riveting is the bigger plot at play that you aren't even aware is occurring until the very end.
I would definitely recommend this to any reader who's a fan of mysteries, thrillers, and novels full of secrets. I guarantee you'll love it!
This book was such a surprise! I usually have lower expectations for debut novels. I like to cut the authors a little slack, you know? But I am so surprised at how much I enjoyed her writing! It took me until I was about 20% of the way into the book to really be hooked in, but once there I couldn't put it down. I ended up finishing it a few hours later! The next morning, I immediately recommended it to my friends at work because I was so shocked at the ending. It takes a lot to surprise me because my background is in English and creative writing. However, shocked me, she did! I didn't start picking up on the clues until shortly before the reveal when I suspect the author was deliberately leading me there. Even then, I was still so stunned that I didn't believe it at first!
This story follows Sophie with perspectives from both the past and the present. It was a little confusing at first to follow - you really have to pay attention to the chapter headings to know which timeline is taking place. Sophie's career at the University Archives is threatened when a brutal murder takes place on campus, and the police seem to suspect Sophie. Throughout the book, Sophie (and the reader) doesn't know who to trust; she can't tell who's lying, who has ulterior motives, who's keeping secrets, who's telling the truth. Even more riveting is the bigger plot at play that you aren't even aware is occurring until the very end.
I would definitely recommend this to any reader who's a fan of mysteries, thrillers, and novels full of secrets. I guarantee you'll love it!
July 9, 2026
This is a debut thriller novel but the writing did not show that! The story takes place mainly in an old archive library on a college campus. I absolutely loved the setting and the dual timelines. The story continuously ramped up in suspense as it progressed on both timelines, coming together at the end. The author left enough clues from one timeline to another for the readers to anticipate the twist at the end - creating a satisfying need to continue until the book was completed. The author also did a good job describing the settings without losing the urgency of suspense throughout the story. My only critique is that the motive for the killing(s) was weak and I would have liked that part to be a little more developed. Also, we never did get to find out why those specific quotes… how would they know the significance? Overall, the ambience was awesome, writing was engaging and the story had me staying up at night to finish. This is a great starting novel and I look forward to more books in the future. 4⭐️
I received a complimentary ARC from the author. These opinions are my own and are not influenced by the author or publisher.
I received a complimentary ARC from the author. These opinions are my own and are not influenced by the author or publisher.
July 25, 2026
Never Leave is a twist‑heavy, layered thriller that pulls you in with its quiet tension and then refuses to let go. What begins as a missing folder and two murders in the archives quickly becomes a story about buried identities, fractured relationships, and the danger of the past resurfacing.
Sophia being the prime suspect sets the tone early, but Zahara Brackin is clever with her reveals. The slow unraveling of Sophie and Alex’s history adds an emotional weight that makes every chapter feel charged. And just when you think you understand the dynamic, the truth hits: Natalie’s role isn’t what it seems. The realization that she’s been orchestrating everything — a reveal that comes very late — reframes the entire story.
The final twist involving Sophie and Alex being identical twins, with one dead and the surviving identity left deliberately ambiguous, is the kind of ending that lingers. You close the book still turning over the possibilities, still questioning who survived, still feeling the impact of every choice made along the way.
A smart, layered thriller with tension that builds quietly and explodes at the end. It’s the kind of story that stays with you.
Sophia being the prime suspect sets the tone early, but Zahara Brackin is clever with her reveals. The slow unraveling of Sophie and Alex’s history adds an emotional weight that makes every chapter feel charged. And just when you think you understand the dynamic, the truth hits: Natalie’s role isn’t what it seems. The realization that she’s been orchestrating everything — a reveal that comes very late — reframes the entire story.
The final twist involving Sophie and Alex being identical twins, with one dead and the surviving identity left deliberately ambiguous, is the kind of ending that lingers. You close the book still turning over the possibilities, still questioning who survived, still feeling the impact of every choice made along the way.
A smart, layered thriller with tension that builds quietly and explodes at the end. It’s the kind of story that stays with you.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy
I wasn't immediately hooked at the beginning of the novel, so I wasn't sure what to expect with the rest of the story. However, the pacing and mystery accelerated quickly, and I was absolutely riveted. I finished the book in one night. The imagery was beautifully descriptive and immersive, and though I'm not usually a fan of a dual timeline, the timelines were seamlessly woven together where they felt equally important and interesting.
The twists were shocking and well executed. They made you question everything you thought you knew about the characters. After finishing the story, so many tiny clues peppered throughout the novel took on new meaning. While I wouldn't say this story had a happy ending, it wasn't sad either. The conclusion felt deserved and fitting. Everyone faced the consequences of their actions, in varying ways.
Overall, this was a suspenseful novel with thrilling twists and complex characters. I highly recommend it. *I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.*
The twists were shocking and well executed. They made you question everything you thought you knew about the characters. After finishing the story, so many tiny clues peppered throughout the novel took on new meaning. While I wouldn't say this story had a happy ending, it wasn't sad either. The conclusion felt deserved and fitting. Everyone faced the consequences of their actions, in varying ways.
Overall, this was a suspenseful novel with thrilling twists and complex characters. I highly recommend it. *I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.*
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was lucky enough to be chosen as an ARC reader for this book and I cannot thank the author enough!
Starting with something that IMO is not mentioned enough in reviews, not only was this a fantastic read but it was very well edited! So much professionalism was put into the cover, the editing, and the writing. *chef's kiss*
As far as the story, thrillers are my preferred genre. I'm a pretty picky reader and it's also hard to hold and keep my attention. I'm happy to say this book did that. In the beginning, I thought I had it figured out pretty quickly but boy was I wrong.
It was refreshing to me that the plot was not predictable (as I was initially afraid it was going to be), but the breadcrumbs were there and it was absolutely figure-out-able. I ended up figuring out the truth very shortly before the characters in the book did, which I feel like is a good spot.
This was a thoroughly enjoyable read; I'd definitely recommend this book and can't wait to see what else the author has in store!
Starting with something that IMO is not mentioned enough in reviews, not only was this a fantastic read but it was very well edited! So much professionalism was put into the cover, the editing, and the writing. *chef's kiss*
As far as the story, thrillers are my preferred genre. I'm a pretty picky reader and it's also hard to hold and keep my attention. I'm happy to say this book did that. In the beginning, I thought I had it figured out pretty quickly but boy was I wrong.
It was refreshing to me that the plot was not predictable (as I was initially afraid it was going to be), but the breadcrumbs were there and it was absolutely figure-out-able. I ended up figuring out the truth very shortly before the characters in the book did, which I feel like is a good spot.
This was a thoroughly enjoyable read; I'd definitely recommend this book and can't wait to see what else the author has in store!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an ARC version of this book from the author- Thank you!
I love a book that switches timelines and keeps you bouncing between past and present, which this book did. The build-up was a bit slow for me, but the last 30% of the book kept me wanting to keep reading.
I knew something had happened to the sister, Alex, and it was going to be tragic. The nuggets about her mental health and episodes of explosiveness led me to believe she murdered someone and that Sophie tried to help her out of it. The twist of Alex actually killing Sophie and taking over her life for 7 years was a major twist that I didn't see coming.
I love that Elliot, the secret lover, is who pushed the investigation and brought justice forth for Sophie in the end.
Part of me wonders if Alex was having any mental health episodes and if she maybe did help murder her co-workers or if she was a reliable storyteller and really was a victim being framed.
This was a solid 4-star book for me! Thanks again for the ARC copy!
I love a book that switches timelines and keeps you bouncing between past and present, which this book did. The build-up was a bit slow for me, but the last 30% of the book kept me wanting to keep reading.
I knew something had happened to the sister, Alex, and it was going to be tragic. The nuggets about her mental health and episodes of explosiveness led me to believe she murdered someone and that Sophie tried to help her out of it. The twist of Alex actually killing Sophie and taking over her life for 7 years was a major twist that I didn't see coming.
I love that Elliot, the secret lover, is who pushed the investigation and brought justice forth for Sophie in the end.
Part of me wonders if Alex was having any mental health episodes and if she maybe did help murder her co-workers or if she was a reliable storyteller and really was a victim being framed.
This was a solid 4-star book for me! Thanks again for the ARC copy!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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