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Kellam High
Lay Me Down
Life is more than just breathing.
Kylee's the cook. She's the maid. She's the caretaker.
But that's where her Cinderella story ends.
She has an evil stepfather instead of a stepmother, and there's no Prince Charming in sight. Each day is like the one before it. She knows there must be something more to life than merely existing.
And then Price moves in next door. He brings along his own baggage, but somehow he reaches a part of Kylee that makes her feel more alive than she's ever felt. Just when she thinks there might be a happy ending in store for her, she discovers something that threatens to keep her and Price apart forever.
If you loved Before I Fall and The Fault in Our Stars, you will love this haunting love story about redemption and discovery.
Kylee's the cook. She's the maid. She's the caretaker.
But that's where her Cinderella story ends.
She has an evil stepfather instead of a stepmother, and there's no Prince Charming in sight. Each day is like the one before it. She knows there must be something more to life than merely existing.
And then Price moves in next door. He brings along his own baggage, but somehow he reaches a part of Kylee that makes her feel more alive than she's ever felt. Just when she thinks there might be a happy ending in store for her, she discovers something that threatens to keep her and Price apart forever.
If you loved Before I Fall and The Fault in Our Stars, you will love this haunting love story about redemption and discovery.
332 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 25, 2016
42 people are currently reading
130 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
January 15, 2016
When I started reading this book, I honestly wasn't sure what to expect, other than an awesome story since I'm already familiar with Tamara Hart Heiner's writing style. But I was truly bowled over by what a well-written story it was. Seriously, I was not even expecting the twists and turns that Kylee went through. Her story was both heartbreaking, and triumphant. And the characters around here were great, three dimensional people that I was able to believe in. Price was a believable character, as were her mom and step-dad. I could go on and on about how despicable that guy was, which shows how well the character was created. Towards the end, I could not put the book down, because of the tension and peril that Price found himself in. I absolutely loved the way Price's mom stepped in to help. I think that helped to bring the book to a sad but also happy ending at the same time.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 17, 2016
Kylee doesn't know why her best friend won't talk to her any more, or why her mother barely notices her, but she isn't ready to give up on her new neighbor. Price, the boy next door, acts strange around her at first, but then they become friends, and Kylee realizes she feels much more about him than expected. But her life is complicated--her step-father is abusive and Kylee doesn't dare leave her mother alone with him. Price says she deserves her own happiness though, but Kylee isn't convinced she deserves anything good. LAY ME DOWN is an unexpected story, one that will tug at your heartstrings and remind you of the value of human kindness. Readers will rejoice when Kylee finds justice, even though it's in the most unexpected way.
January 19, 2016
Wow, this book really sucked me in. Seriously, I had to keep reading to figure out Kylee's full story. By the end I found myself talking like Kylee--"I know, right?" And I was in love with Price. I love that he was a good guy. Kind, patient, wanting to help Kylee because she was hurting, in trouble.
The writing was clean, nothing pulled me out of the story. It was an easy fast read. Like I mentioned, I didn't want to put it down until I KNEW what had happened. :) Now I just want to know what happens after the story ends. I'm trying not to give any spoilers, but even though this is resolved nicely, there is still more story to tell. I hope Heiner plans on writing it.
The writing was clean, nothing pulled me out of the story. It was an easy fast read. Like I mentioned, I didn't want to put it down until I KNEW what had happened. :) Now I just want to know what happens after the story ends. I'm trying not to give any spoilers, but even though this is resolved nicely, there is still more story to tell. I hope Heiner plans on writing it.
May 6, 2016
4.5/5.0
This story has an edge-of-the-seat quality that pulls the reader in, giving them tidbits of information as the characters receive it.
Read full review in the 2016 May issue of InD'tale Magazine.
This story has an edge-of-the-seat quality that pulls the reader in, giving them tidbits of information as the characters receive it.
Read full review in the 2016 May issue of InD'tale Magazine.
October 1, 2016
This story broke my heart! I kind of had my suspicions at the start about the direction the story would go, but I didn't expect to need a box of tissues!
June 5, 2023
I really liked this book. It was heartbreaking but it was great. I had trouble putting it down once I started reading it. I loved the characters and the plot. Definitely a page turner. I highly recommend that you check it out.
January 22, 2016
I must preface this review by saying first: this review may be vague in what I can tell you about the story. The reason why is, I absolutely do not want to ruin the story for you. This book is so far one of the best I've read this year in 2016. It has a little of everything in it: romance, mystery, and supernatural. Quite a combination wouldn't you say?
The story starts with us looking at the world through main character Kylee's eyes. Her life is not easy. She lives with her browbeaten, druggie mom, and abusive stepfather Bill, in a rundown home. Kylee doesn't go to public school anymore and is always in fear of her life because of Bill's explosive temper. Kylee is cut off from her few friends and the rest of the world. She feels like she is non-existent and no one cares.To help her deal with the pain in her life she cuts herself.
It is amazing to me how this story is told so beautifully in such an ugly situation, but Author Tamara Hart Heiner is able to do so. You are pulled into Kylee's world of emotional pain,verbal and physical abuse, and her longing to be loved.You will be mesmerized like I was as this story unfolds. This is one of those stories that you won't be able to put down. You'll be reading as fast as you can to figure out the many mysterious things that start occurring in Kylee's life.
The story brightens a bit when Kylee's cute, new neighbor, Price Hudson, starts talking to her.He's hesitant at first because of his own heartache he's living through, but soon he can't stay away from Kylee. Price soon shows her that the world can be a brighter and more loving place. They also form a friendship that can't be broken. The two teens are quickly pulled into a supernatural world where they work together to figure something very important out. Price is a wonderful character that you will like because of his kindness and loyalty.
As you figure out what is truly going on, the tension in the story does not die down, it only builds. Time is running out for the mystery to be solved and both Kylee and Price are in danger. With the help of a Medium, Madame Humphrey, the story finally comes to an end with a shocking revelation. I was left with a feeling of contentment at the end, though the ride getting there was full of angst. This is a must read and I think I heard there may be a sequel. I hope it is true!
**I read this book with my teen daughter and we had some good discussions along the way. The story is for older teens and adults. There is some violence, blood, and mild gore within the book.**
The story starts with us looking at the world through main character Kylee's eyes. Her life is not easy. She lives with her browbeaten, druggie mom, and abusive stepfather Bill, in a rundown home. Kylee doesn't go to public school anymore and is always in fear of her life because of Bill's explosive temper. Kylee is cut off from her few friends and the rest of the world. She feels like she is non-existent and no one cares.To help her deal with the pain in her life she cuts herself.
It is amazing to me how this story is told so beautifully in such an ugly situation, but Author Tamara Hart Heiner is able to do so. You are pulled into Kylee's world of emotional pain,verbal and physical abuse, and her longing to be loved.You will be mesmerized like I was as this story unfolds. This is one of those stories that you won't be able to put down. You'll be reading as fast as you can to figure out the many mysterious things that start occurring in Kylee's life.
The story brightens a bit when Kylee's cute, new neighbor, Price Hudson, starts talking to her.He's hesitant at first because of his own heartache he's living through, but soon he can't stay away from Kylee. Price soon shows her that the world can be a brighter and more loving place. They also form a friendship that can't be broken. The two teens are quickly pulled into a supernatural world where they work together to figure something very important out. Price is a wonderful character that you will like because of his kindness and loyalty.
As you figure out what is truly going on, the tension in the story does not die down, it only builds. Time is running out for the mystery to be solved and both Kylee and Price are in danger. With the help of a Medium, Madame Humphrey, the story finally comes to an end with a shocking revelation. I was left with a feeling of contentment at the end, though the ride getting there was full of angst. This is a must read and I think I heard there may be a sequel. I hope it is true!
**I read this book with my teen daughter and we had some good discussions along the way. The story is for older teens and adults. There is some violence, blood, and mild gore within the book.**
January 20, 2016
Kylee Mansfield lives in a neglected, rundown house with her mother and her physically and verbally abusive, controlling step-father. Her mom appears numb and acts as though Kylee doesn’t exist. Kylee suddenly stopped attending school, so her old friends no longer talk with her. In fact, they simply ignore her when they see her. She finds ways to deal with that pain.
Price Hudson is no stranger to pain. When he moves into the beautifully maintained house next door to Kylee, she soon learns he’s recently lost his mother. Price is hesitant- almost afraid- to become Kylee’s friend. But, she is persistent and ultimately their two worlds collide.
On her first trip to Virginia Beach with Price, they meet Madame Humphrey. She immediately senses Kylee’s love for Price and gives her a ring and some very strict instructions. The plot twists and turns from there as these two lonely teens try to maneuver a relationship that is nearly impossible.
As we witness a young love that is sweet and pure, we truly do learn- as this author promised- that life is definitely more than just breathing. This was a great read- I couldn’t put it down!
Price Hudson is no stranger to pain. When he moves into the beautifully maintained house next door to Kylee, she soon learns he’s recently lost his mother. Price is hesitant- almost afraid- to become Kylee’s friend. But, she is persistent and ultimately their two worlds collide.
On her first trip to Virginia Beach with Price, they meet Madame Humphrey. She immediately senses Kylee’s love for Price and gives her a ring and some very strict instructions. The plot twists and turns from there as these two lonely teens try to maneuver a relationship that is nearly impossible.
As we witness a young love that is sweet and pure, we truly do learn- as this author promised- that life is definitely more than just breathing. This was a great read- I couldn’t put it down!
April 16, 2023
Oh my F’ing Gawd… I LOVE THIS BOOK!!!
This will be a book I read over and over again. I will read this entire series. I can’t wait to get physical copies!
The first chapter had be hooked, but with each one I couldn’t put it down!
Check content warnings, if you pick it up, there is domestic violence in it as well as self harm, among other things. But it was all necessary to the story.
Kylee is not your average teenager. She’s homeschooled within an abusive home. But when new neighbors move in her world starts changing, and she’s hopeful to make a new friend. Price the boy who moved in with his father, sister, and their dog, does his best to ignore the odd girl, but is soon too intrigued by her story to stay away.
This story has a longing to it that cannot be spoken. It is one of my favorite books. I have to go, so I can read it again.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This will be a book I read over and over again. I will read this entire series. I can’t wait to get physical copies!
The first chapter had be hooked, but with each one I couldn’t put it down!
Check content warnings, if you pick it up, there is domestic violence in it as well as self harm, among other things. But it was all necessary to the story.
Kylee is not your average teenager. She’s homeschooled within an abusive home. But when new neighbors move in her world starts changing, and she’s hopeful to make a new friend. Price the boy who moved in with his father, sister, and their dog, does his best to ignore the odd girl, but is soon too intrigued by her story to stay away.
This story has a longing to it that cannot be spoken. It is one of my favorite books. I have to go, so I can read it again.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
July 20, 2023
4.5⭐️ rounded up. This was an unexpected treat with a plot that kept me counting down my workday until I could read more. There are heavy themes including domestic violence and self-harm, but the unexpected twists in this young adult romance had me rooting for Kylee and Price. This was a slow burn until mid book for me, but then I had to know what happened! Will definitely be reading more from this author!
January 21, 2016
This is a dark and violent book with a redemptive ending. A good read for people who like a blend of romance and mystery.
April 5, 2016
amazing. it's such a wonderful book
October 17, 2018
I couldn't stop reading this! It starts off with a bang and then draws back just enough to make you question what you're reading and what really happened in the beginning. Kept me asking questions right along with Kylee and Price. Creepy and perfect for Halloween, or anytime! Vivid details that didn't pull any punches sucked me in even when I wanted to look away. The romance is cute with a bit of heat later without going into too much detail. Kylee's sad life broke my heart and had me so happy for her in the end even though it was hard.
Due to the graphic descriptions and darker aspects (Kylee cuts herself quite a bit, abusive stepdad, and some heavier make-out scenes) I'd recommend this book for older teens and adults. Despite being a paranormal story, it hits on some hard truths that I don't think get addressed enough in books.
Due to the graphic descriptions and darker aspects (Kylee cuts herself quite a bit, abusive stepdad, and some heavier make-out scenes) I'd recommend this book for older teens and adults. Despite being a paranormal story, it hits on some hard truths that I don't think get addressed enough in books.
March 14, 2020
I received this book by the author from StoryOrigin for an honest review.
I guessed pretty early what was happening with the story, but that didn't deter me from listening. It was actually much better than I was thinking it would be. I became invested in the characters and wanted to know how this would wrap up. I definitely recommend this for young adults.
The only big disappointment I have is that Chapters 32 and 33 are the exact same thing... which means when we get to Chapter 34, a big chunk of information is missing. And it's an important part. We're getting to the end and all of a sudden it goes from one scene to another without any explanation on how they got there.
If that gets fixed then I'm willing to update my 3 stars to 4 stars.
The narrator is good. She made the story feel real.
I guessed pretty early what was happening with the story, but that didn't deter me from listening. It was actually much better than I was thinking it would be. I became invested in the characters and wanted to know how this would wrap up. I definitely recommend this for young adults.
The only big disappointment I have is that Chapters 32 and 33 are the exact same thing... which means when we get to Chapter 34, a big chunk of information is missing. And it's an important part. We're getting to the end and all of a sudden it goes from one scene to another without any explanation on how they got there.
If that gets fixed then I'm willing to update my 3 stars to 4 stars.
The narrator is good. She made the story feel real.
November 6, 2021
This was my first experience reading something by this author and I was very pleasantly surprised. I read this as an audiobook and I have to say, the narrator did an excellent job of portraying each of the characters and bringing the story to life. The writing itself was well done and the story flowed smoothly. There were so many plot twists and turns I did not see coming, they kept me.on the edge of my seat anxious to see what is next in store for Kylee. The story was a compelling and at times heartbreaking one and will definitely pull at your heartstrings. Kylee's story is sad but she does find justice in an unexpected way.
Great story and I really enjoyed listening to it.
I received a complimentary copy from StoryOrigin and am voluntarily leaving my review.
Great story and I really enjoyed listening to it.
I received a complimentary copy from StoryOrigin and am voluntarily leaving my review.
May 8, 2023
This is a beautiful book a would recomend for ya and na readers. I was crying by the end and I tend to favor adult books.
It is about a 15 year old girl from an problematic home. She becomes friends with them new neighbor boy. Things happen to the girl that make the friendship complicated and after some time a terible ting is revealed.
They become more than friends and have a big part to play in each others lives.
This book have trigger warnings that are important to know before reading.
It is about a 15 year old girl from an problematic home. She becomes friends with them new neighbor boy. Things happen to the girl that make the friendship complicated and after some time a terible ting is revealed.
They become more than friends and have a big part to play in each others lives.
This book have trigger warnings that are important to know before reading.
July 18, 2023
I really wasn’t sure all the way through the book until the very end how this was going to play out for Kylee and Price. I did figure out the gist of the story line right at the beginning but that doesn’t help you through the rest of the book and you are still let with many surprises. I loved the characters and felt my heart break for Price at the end.
December 1, 2025
A Haunted Love Story
I loved this book even though throughout, I was a bundle of mixed emotions... The characters are great and it is hauntingly sad but sweet... Great location and a wonderful story... I gave it 5 Stars and would recommend it to anyone loving a great ghost story... 😅
I loved this book even though throughout, I was a bundle of mixed emotions... The characters are great and it is hauntingly sad but sweet... Great location and a wonderful story... I gave it 5 Stars and would recommend it to anyone loving a great ghost story... 😅
October 24, 2016
I got this book as a gift from the author, and am glad i tooj the time to read it. Definetly a bit different, but I really liked it. And one of those books that had a twist that took a while to see coming.
January 4, 2023
tear jerker
I loved this book! I cried so hard at the end. Such a sad story on so many levels but also well written and a great plot. I read it before but wanted to take another look and do a review. A great read.
I loved this book! I cried so hard at the end. Such a sad story on so many levels but also well written and a great plot. I read it before but wanted to take another look and do a review. A great read.
March 11, 2023
This is a contemporary paranormal murder mystery for mature young adults & older. The plot is fairly simple but deals with subjects like domestic violence, teen cutting, verbal & emotional abuse, and other not so fun things. The ending was beautiful.
May 29, 2017
Incredibly powerful and touching - I couldn't put it down.
March 19, 2020
A great coming of age story that had a twist that works for me. I got the book through storyorigins and this is my voluntary and honest review.
May 22, 2023
Such a well written story of love, friendship, and mystery. The writing is amazing, and made this book a quick read, leaving me yearning for more!
March 3, 2017
This is a story about Price and Kylee. They are 15ish and meet when they become neighbors. There isn't much I can say without ruining the story, but it's definitely a surprisingly good read! I wasn't sure at first since the author is new to me, but I'm glad I took a chance and read!
March 9, 2016
Rural isolation, blinds closed, everything draped In cigarette smoke, a drugged mother unable to protect her child--LAY ME DOWN convincingly portrays the oppressive world of Kylee, a teen who cuts just to relieve a little of the pain. As the story unfolds we realize with Kylee that her existence is not normal--it's paranormal, in fact--but she finds refuge and answers with the cute boy next door.
Tamara Hart Heiner tells a story that embraces many popular themes and handles them with skill. She addresses mental illness, drug abuse, emotional and physical abuse, young love, and paranormal phenomena and their interpretation--all with satisfying depth and mostly with good pacing. I was captured by Kylee's confusion and pain, and Heiner helps us feel Kylee's experience rather than just be told about it.
The scene set in the high school doesn't add much to the story, and the police station scene is perhaps implausible. But that just goes to show how convincingly Heiner conveys the paranormal! I would like to see some Amy earlier in the narrative, and "Madame" has just a few too many pat answers and veiled suggestions to fit in well with the rest of the narrative. The story could be trimmed a bit further, and could use another light pass of editing, but overall it is a satisfying read. I am still haunted by Kylee's plight.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this novel for the purposes of honest review.
Tamara Hart Heiner tells a story that embraces many popular themes and handles them with skill. She addresses mental illness, drug abuse, emotional and physical abuse, young love, and paranormal phenomena and their interpretation--all with satisfying depth and mostly with good pacing. I was captured by Kylee's confusion and pain, and Heiner helps us feel Kylee's experience rather than just be told about it.
The scene set in the high school doesn't add much to the story, and the police station scene is perhaps implausible. But that just goes to show how convincingly Heiner conveys the paranormal! I would like to see some Amy earlier in the narrative, and "Madame" has just a few too many pat answers and veiled suggestions to fit in well with the rest of the narrative. The story could be trimmed a bit further, and could use another light pass of editing, but overall it is a satisfying read. I am still haunted by Kylee's plight.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this novel for the purposes of honest review.
January 25, 2016
I received an ARC for an honest review.
What a beautiful, satisfying Young Adult read that balanced heartache and pain with the gift of true love. This story pulled me in and wouldn't let me go. After being immersed into the female protagonist's world of an abusive home life, now I truly understand the issues at heart, and how pain from self-inflicted injury is used to overcome pain from a deeper loss and disappointment, and I appreciate that. So, Thank You, Ms. Heiner, for putting your heart and soul into a tale that had to have required huge emotion and great sacrifice for all our benefit. A story well-written (as usual). I feel saddened to say goodbye to Kylee and Price, as well as to their love and world.
Quote from story:
I felt overwhelmed. I needed an escape. Maybe, that first time, I actually thought about killing myself just to end my pathetic life. But I didn’t have to.
Because cutting gave me the outlet I needed. It sharpened my focus amd dulled my pain all at the same time. Suddenly I was in charge of what I felt. That made all the difference. I could endure.
And another quote:
He brushed her cheek with the back of his finger, leaving a trail of liquid heat from her cheekbone to her lip. “You belong with me.” He turned her to face him and pressed a kiss to her mouth. “You’re here with me.”
She focused on the taste of his lips. “I’m here,” she echoed.
What a beautiful, satisfying Young Adult read that balanced heartache and pain with the gift of true love. This story pulled me in and wouldn't let me go. After being immersed into the female protagonist's world of an abusive home life, now I truly understand the issues at heart, and how pain from self-inflicted injury is used to overcome pain from a deeper loss and disappointment, and I appreciate that. So, Thank You, Ms. Heiner, for putting your heart and soul into a tale that had to have required huge emotion and great sacrifice for all our benefit. A story well-written (as usual). I feel saddened to say goodbye to Kylee and Price, as well as to their love and world.
Quote from story:
I felt overwhelmed. I needed an escape. Maybe, that first time, I actually thought about killing myself just to end my pathetic life. But I didn’t have to.
Because cutting gave me the outlet I needed. It sharpened my focus amd dulled my pain all at the same time. Suddenly I was in charge of what I felt. That made all the difference. I could endure.
And another quote:
He brushed her cheek with the back of his finger, leaving a trail of liquid heat from her cheekbone to her lip. “You belong with me.” He turned her to face him and pressed a kiss to her mouth. “You’re here with me.”
She focused on the taste of his lips. “I’m here,” she echoed.
February 17, 2016
One you can't put down
This book definitely deserves five stars. It was literally one I could not put down, but had to because I needed sleep. I honestly don't have any words. It was so good. When Kylee's days were getting repetitive I couldn't figure out why. Finally I got my answers but it was still unclear to me about when it happened. I may have to go back and read it again because that was probably when I was falling in and out of sleep, but i will gladly do that. This is a book that I probably could read over and over. Definitely would recommend this one!
So it's been a day since I finished and I have been thinking about this book a lot. I have a few questions (that might not get answered.)
What would happen if they did have sex? How would the story change? At the end, was that really her blowing the wind, letting him know she was there? I want to believe so. I wish I could read how he lived his life without Kylee. Did he still think of her? Did he move on? What did he do with his life? Did they meet again?! I kind wish there was another book.
This book definitely deserves five stars. It was literally one I could not put down, but had to because I needed sleep. I honestly don't have any words. It was so good. When Kylee's days were getting repetitive I couldn't figure out why. Finally I got my answers but it was still unclear to me about when it happened. I may have to go back and read it again because that was probably when I was falling in and out of sleep, but i will gladly do that. This is a book that I probably could read over and over. Definitely would recommend this one!
So it's been a day since I finished and I have been thinking about this book a lot. I have a few questions (that might not get answered.)
What would happen if they did have sex? How would the story change? At the end, was that really her blowing the wind, letting him know she was there? I want to believe so. I wish I could read how he lived his life without Kylee. Did he still think of her? Did he move on? What did he do with his life? Did they meet again?! I kind wish there was another book.
January 25, 2016
I began this book intending to only read a couple of chapters at a time, but once I started I couldn't put it down until I was finished! I was completely intrigued by the initial story plot. It is something different and unexpected, and Heiner was not afraid to delve into some of the darker realms of humanism. It is a world so completely foreign to me, and I just couldn't get enough of it. I got swept away in the love story, and couldn't put it down until the mystery was solved, and then I had to see how Price and Kylee dealt with the answers. I liked the story telling overall, but I did think some of the scenes and twists and turns, particularly with the Madame, could have been streamlined. Some of the minor characters probably could have been developed just a little bit more.I would recommend this book to a friend! I received an Advance Reader Copy of this novel for the purposes of honest review.
March 29, 2016
An intriguing opening pulls the reader in. We know something is "off" and want to figure it out, in spite of Kylee's self-destructive behavior. The author never gets too graphic or gruesome, which I appreciated. The "figuring out" stage went on a little too long for me, but kept my interest enough to continue. Events are revealed at the midpoint. Then I really didn't know where the plot would lead and found renewed enthusiasm to keep reading. The rest is well-told and interesting with more suspense.
The sexual attraction between two characters felt fast to me, but might be more typical of YA than things I've read. I often struggle with paranormal intimacy issues and plausibility. This too is fairly clean with nothing graphic.
The author does a wonderful job of weaning the reader away from what they might expect, to the way it must go. I would recommend this to any teen or adult who likes paranormal romance.
The sexual attraction between two characters felt fast to me, but might be more typical of YA than things I've read. I often struggle with paranormal intimacy issues and plausibility. This too is fairly clean with nothing graphic.
The author does a wonderful job of weaning the reader away from what they might expect, to the way it must go. I would recommend this to any teen or adult who likes paranormal romance.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews