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They Stay #1
They Stay
There’s no way she’s going to believe in ghosts. But when her sibling is kidnapped, the only clues she has come from the other side…
Shiloh Oleson loves her six-year-old brother more than life. So the headstrong teen’s world shatters when he goes missing after tee-ball practice and her abusive father gives up the search. But the devastated girl doesn’t know what to think when a weirdo classmate claims a dead spirit told her his location.
Outright rejecting any paranormal garbage, Shiloh and her friends frantically investigate a similar disappearance in the hope of uncovering the truth. But all the desperate teenager unearths are disturbing secrets about her family, the school… and a sinister force on her tail.
Can the determined young woman bring the little boy home before all hell breaks loose?
They Stay is the first book in the bone-chilling They Stay YA supernatural thriller series. If you like relatable characters, unearthly mayhem, and endings that leave you wanting more, then you’ll love Claire Fraise’s spine-tingling story.
Content warning: Contains scenes of physical and mental abuse, alcoholism, and abduction.
Shiloh Oleson loves her six-year-old brother more than life. So the headstrong teen’s world shatters when he goes missing after tee-ball practice and her abusive father gives up the search. But the devastated girl doesn’t know what to think when a weirdo classmate claims a dead spirit told her his location.
Outright rejecting any paranormal garbage, Shiloh and her friends frantically investigate a similar disappearance in the hope of uncovering the truth. But all the desperate teenager unearths are disturbing secrets about her family, the school… and a sinister force on her tail.
Can the determined young woman bring the little boy home before all hell breaks loose?
They Stay is the first book in the bone-chilling They Stay YA supernatural thriller series. If you like relatable characters, unearthly mayhem, and endings that leave you wanting more, then you’ll love Claire Fraise’s spine-tingling story.
Content warning: Contains scenes of physical and mental abuse, alcoholism, and abduction.
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First published October 12, 2021
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About the author
Claire Fraise
6 books210 followersClaire Fraise is an award-winning author of paranormal thrillers about sinister spirits and the brave ghost hunters who bring them down. She won the Grand Prize at the 2023 Writer’s Digest Self-Published Book Awards for They Stay, and published her debut novel Imperfect when she was still in high school. When Claire is not sitting behind her computer writing about murder, you can find her hiking in the mountains, on the back of a horse, or taking too many pictures of her dog. Even though it goes against every introverted bone in her body, she is on social media. Connect with her on YouTube at Write with Claire Fraise, Instagram at @clairefraiseauthor, or visit her website at clairefraise.com.
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April 23, 2023Giving your own book five stars is not something you do, but I poured my blood, sweat, and tears into this book, and I wouldn’t be publishing it if I didn’t believe in this story and these characters with my whole heart. I'm so grateful and excited to be sharing They Stay with you.
While I wrote They Stay for a young adult audience (13-18), the book does contain mature subject matter.
Content Warnings: This book contains physical and mental abuse, death, kidnapping, gun violence, alcohol abuse, references to suicide, bullying, fade-to-black intimacy, implied sexual abuse (non-graphic), and mild adult language.
If you want some more context around any of these or have a specific question about anything that may appear in the book, please email me at clairefraisebooks@gmail.com or visit the contact page on my website. I want to do everything I can to ensure you all have a safe, enjoyable reading experience.
Goodreads is a platform for readers so, after posting this, I will not be engaging on this platform. If you’d like to engage with me directly, I’m active on both YouTube and Instagram and send out regular emails to my mailing list. For a bonus short story in the They Stay universe, subscribe to my mailing list and get it delivered straight to your Inbox.
They Stay is a creepy mystery but, at its core, it’s a story about love. Love for both family and found family, and how far we would go to protect them. It is also an exploration of trauma, both the ways we can overcome it and the ways it stays with us. In its own way, the book is a love letter to the pocket of rural Ohio I was lucky enough to call home for a year. It’s the only place capable of planting this idea in my brain and convincing me that this story could be possible.
I hope you enjoy it.
While I wrote They Stay for a young adult audience (13-18), the book does contain mature subject matter.
Content Warnings: This book contains physical and mental abuse, death, kidnapping, gun violence, alcohol abuse, references to suicide, bullying, fade-to-black intimacy, implied sexual abuse (non-graphic), and mild adult language.
If you want some more context around any of these or have a specific question about anything that may appear in the book, please email me at clairefraisebooks@gmail.com or visit the contact page on my website. I want to do everything I can to ensure you all have a safe, enjoyable reading experience.
Goodreads is a platform for readers so, after posting this, I will not be engaging on this platform. If you’d like to engage with me directly, I’m active on both YouTube and Instagram and send out regular emails to my mailing list. For a bonus short story in the They Stay universe, subscribe to my mailing list and get it delivered straight to your Inbox.
They Stay is a creepy mystery but, at its core, it’s a story about love. Love for both family and found family, and how far we would go to protect them. It is also an exploration of trauma, both the ways we can overcome it and the ways it stays with us. In its own way, the book is a love letter to the pocket of rural Ohio I was lucky enough to call home for a year. It’s the only place capable of planting this idea in my brain and convincing me that this story could be possible.
I hope you enjoy it.
December 27, 2021
This was a spooky, fun read, with complex characters and plotting. It touches on some sensitive issues regarding abuse, but never felt exploitative. The writing itself is fantastic, painting vivid images that flow quickly. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
September 28, 2021
* Rating: 3.5 * *WARNING: This book contains death, kidnapping, domestic abuse, references to suicide and sexual assault, bullying, and mild adult language.*
First and foremost, I would like to immensely thank Claire Fraise for the advance reader copy. I truly appreciate it and am grateful for this opportunity <33
First of all, if u are a fan of Kara Thomas', Cheerleaders, and Emma Berquist's, Missing Presumed Dead, then I truly believe that you will enjoy this book. This is because "They Stay" shares similar vibes and attributes with these mentioned novels. Now, this thriller/horror novel was actually pretty good. Personally, I really admired the writing style. It might have even been my favorite aspect of this book😅 It was simplistic and easy to follow, compared to most horror books, therefore I wasn't lost or confused but instead I ACTUALLY UNDERSTOOD WHAT THE HECK WAS HAPPENING, so that's a bonus! The characters, although a tad bit dull, were lovable and realistic. Which made it easier for me to understand their opinions and emotions, especially with Francesca's character. However, Miles and Jonah ended up as my comfort characters lolol😭😭😭 (maybe I luv Miles more though hehe😋). I also really appreciated the tough and serious topics that this book touched upon and addressed. For example; mental health, domestic abuse, and bullying. I say and mention this, because Claire Fraise did an outstanding job on portraying the negative and serious mental health effects that these critical issues have on victims. You can literally vividly see how they affect and develop Shiloh's character throughout the whole book!! And that's an outstanding achievement, SOO, my hat is off to the author for that!! Other than that, it was well-plotted, had mediocre pacing, and is an enjoyable and cool read. Maybe not out of this world crazy good, but definitely "I love it" good. I, however, would have loved to see more of Miles' and Jonah's POV's, just to get a glimpse of their thoughts and opinions. There were also some questionable and cheesy events, but they did manage to end up flowing synchronously together which really helped.
Overall, this book is a straightforward, fun and deep story, and I'd wholeheartedly recommend checking it out, because I frankly believe its worth it!! Can't wait for the upcoming sequel!!! And once again, thank you Claire Fraise!!
First and foremost, I would like to immensely thank Claire Fraise for the advance reader copy. I truly appreciate it and am grateful for this opportunity <33
First of all, if u are a fan of Kara Thomas', Cheerleaders, and Emma Berquist's, Missing Presumed Dead, then I truly believe that you will enjoy this book. This is because "They Stay" shares similar vibes and attributes with these mentioned novels. Now, this thriller/horror novel was actually pretty good. Personally, I really admired the writing style. It might have even been my favorite aspect of this book😅 It was simplistic and easy to follow, compared to most horror books, therefore I wasn't lost or confused but instead I ACTUALLY UNDERSTOOD WHAT THE HECK WAS HAPPENING, so that's a bonus! The characters, although a tad bit dull, were lovable and realistic. Which made it easier for me to understand their opinions and emotions, especially with Francesca's character. However, Miles and Jonah ended up as my comfort characters lolol😭😭😭 (maybe I luv Miles more though hehe😋). I also really appreciated the tough and serious topics that this book touched upon and addressed. For example; mental health, domestic abuse, and bullying. I say and mention this, because Claire Fraise did an outstanding job on portraying the negative and serious mental health effects that these critical issues have on victims. You can literally vividly see how they affect and develop Shiloh's character throughout the whole book!! And that's an outstanding achievement, SOO, my hat is off to the author for that!! Other than that, it was well-plotted, had mediocre pacing, and is an enjoyable and cool read. Maybe not out of this world crazy good, but definitely "I love it" good. I, however, would have loved to see more of Miles' and Jonah's POV's, just to get a glimpse of their thoughts and opinions. There were also some questionable and cheesy events, but they did manage to end up flowing synchronously together which really helped.
Overall, this book is a straightforward, fun and deep story, and I'd wholeheartedly recommend checking it out, because I frankly believe its worth it!! Can't wait for the upcoming sequel!!! And once again, thank you Claire Fraise!!
July 16, 2022
A story of courage, heart and trust, They Stay is a unique Supernatural YA Thriller that I enjoyed every second of reading. The book never has a dull moment, filled with episodic events, brilliant character development and honest, humble human challenges. It does not patronise readers, feeling both easy to digest, but insightful. The adolescent perspectives are created with realistic and poignant detail, each character with their own very personal and relatable thoughts and actions. Claire Fraise has done a wonderful job of delivering one of their first stories and I would without hesitation read another.
Life is Strange and Stranger Things would be two comparable medias that I believe feel similar to this novel. They Stay has a very nostalgic energy supported by it's atmosphere of small country towns, close-knit neighbourhoods, community and 'teen' context. Shiloh is one of our protagonists, of which we also share the majority of our experience with a unique individual named Francesca. Shiloh is a young girl with nothing to lose as she goes to drastic lengths to find her brother; a recently kidnapped child. Francesca is a quirky but beautiful soul who is equipped with the power of communicating with those who have passed; 'ghosts'. In some multi-perspective stories the reader can tend to favour one over the other, however within this novel we feel empowerment, enjoyment and compassion for both. Supportive characters such as Miles (boyfriend) and Jonah (boyfriends friend) are simple but just as fully fleshed out characters that deliver much justice.
Between early chapters, Fraise chooses to include what could almost be seen as 'behind the scene content', including small moments of dialogue and character interaction that don't happen within the main cast of characters. I found this detail very beneficial to the novel, however I wish it was more frequently visited in some later chapters. To be fair, the ending of the novel is very quick paced, and this may have spoilt it's rhythm. I was very emotional at the end of this book, and honestly nothing really moves me. I highly recommend They Stay to readers who enjoy stories of relationship, honesty and conflict; it is a beautiful story. ❤️
Life is Strange and Stranger Things would be two comparable medias that I believe feel similar to this novel. They Stay has a very nostalgic energy supported by it's atmosphere of small country towns, close-knit neighbourhoods, community and 'teen' context. Shiloh is one of our protagonists, of which we also share the majority of our experience with a unique individual named Francesca. Shiloh is a young girl with nothing to lose as she goes to drastic lengths to find her brother; a recently kidnapped child. Francesca is a quirky but beautiful soul who is equipped with the power of communicating with those who have passed; 'ghosts'. In some multi-perspective stories the reader can tend to favour one over the other, however within this novel we feel empowerment, enjoyment and compassion for both. Supportive characters such as Miles (boyfriend) and Jonah (boyfriends friend) are simple but just as fully fleshed out characters that deliver much justice.
Between early chapters, Fraise chooses to include what could almost be seen as 'behind the scene content', including small moments of dialogue and character interaction that don't happen within the main cast of characters. I found this detail very beneficial to the novel, however I wish it was more frequently visited in some later chapters. To be fair, the ending of the novel is very quick paced, and this may have spoilt it's rhythm. I was very emotional at the end of this book, and honestly nothing really moves me. I highly recommend They Stay to readers who enjoy stories of relationship, honesty and conflict; it is a beautiful story. ❤️
November 30, 2021
Such a great read! I loved the concept, the characters, the writing, everything!
A great YA paranormal read with characters that jump off the page and feel like they are living, breathing beings. Better yet, I'd like to know them!
The added spooky factor was a great touch in the story. Not enough to be scary but enough to give creepy vibes here and there. A great mystery to unravel makes it so much fun.
I can't wait to see what Book 2 will hold, especially after the ending of Book 1!! (Wow)
A great YA paranormal read with characters that jump off the page and feel like they are living, breathing beings. Better yet, I'd like to know them!
The added spooky factor was a great touch in the story. Not enough to be scary but enough to give creepy vibes here and there. A great mystery to unravel makes it so much fun.
I can't wait to see what Book 2 will hold, especially after the ending of Book 1!! (Wow)
October 11, 2021
I have to admit I was first drawn to this book with the tagline of Stranger Things meets Supernatural. When I started reading this book, we were presented with a cliched Sheriff family where the dad is an abusive jerk and the mum is the weak woman archetype who loves her husband, the strong sister, and her younger brother who she tries to protect with all her heart. The book starts with Shiloh's younger brother Max heading to his baseball game. Normally she would pick him up, but she has to work. Both her parents forget about Max and when her dad turns up to the park - Max has vanished without a trace. Shiloh's heart is breaking and she will do whatever she can to try and find out what happened to her brother, even if it means talking to those involved in a previous kidnapping and getting herself in dangerous situations. This part reminded me of what I would be like if my brother Zach went missing as we have a similar relationship to Shiloh and Max. The other storyline which weaves and connects is Fran who can speak to ghosts and who has been shunned from society as they think she is cray-cray. There is a disturbance in the force and a newcomer who can hurt the ghosts who she has become her family of sorts. I found this book quite slow-paced for my liking but if you love ghost stories and supernatural mysteries, then you will enjoy They Stay by Claire Fraise today.
October 12, 2021
So I just finished reading They Stay and that ending has me shook! (But in the best way)
I’ve never read a YA thriller before actually. I’ve loved adult thrillers and mystery books in the past, but now I feel like I’ve been missing out on an awesome genre.
They Stay us extremely well written and sucks you in! This book made me stay up way too let reading because I just HAD to know what was going to happen. It was pretty addicting!
It does touch on some sensitive topics such as domestic abuse and drug addiction, but I think they are handled beautifully. These topics don’t tend to be very present in a YA novel, but here, I really think an important depth was given to the characters with them.
I really adored Francesca’s character. Though she is the social pariah and the “psycho”, I found her so charming and beautifully vulnerable throughout this book. Many of the quotes I highlighted were from her. I am excited to see where her character goes in the next book.
Shiloh is a character that really did an amazing job accurately portraying a victim of domestic abuse, and I thought her character development and empowerment was so wonderful and inspiring. But, it also just felt very real. Not sugar coated, but a real, dirty journey.
The spook factor isn’t too intense in this book, but I loved the ghost and necromancy presence. I think this book was very unique. I’ve read similar books about missing/murdered boys in a paranormal context, but have never read one quote like this!
I am excited to read the next book in the series when it is released. My one sort of dislike (not reaaally a dislike), but I would have loved to see more from Jonah’s character. We get one chapter from his perspective in the middle of the book and I wish there were more. I found him to be a very intriguing character and just wanted a little more!
Thank you to the author for my review copy of this book. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I’ve never read a YA thriller before actually. I’ve loved adult thrillers and mystery books in the past, but now I feel like I’ve been missing out on an awesome genre.
They Stay us extremely well written and sucks you in! This book made me stay up way too let reading because I just HAD to know what was going to happen. It was pretty addicting!
It does touch on some sensitive topics such as domestic abuse and drug addiction, but I think they are handled beautifully. These topics don’t tend to be very present in a YA novel, but here, I really think an important depth was given to the characters with them.
I really adored Francesca’s character. Though she is the social pariah and the “psycho”, I found her so charming and beautifully vulnerable throughout this book. Many of the quotes I highlighted were from her. I am excited to see where her character goes in the next book.
Shiloh is a character that really did an amazing job accurately portraying a victim of domestic abuse, and I thought her character development and empowerment was so wonderful and inspiring. But, it also just felt very real. Not sugar coated, but a real, dirty journey.
The spook factor isn’t too intense in this book, but I loved the ghost and necromancy presence. I think this book was very unique. I’ve read similar books about missing/murdered boys in a paranormal context, but have never read one quote like this!
I am excited to read the next book in the series when it is released. My one sort of dislike (not reaaally a dislike), but I would have loved to see more from Jonah’s character. We get one chapter from his perspective in the middle of the book and I wish there were more. I found him to be a very intriguing character and just wanted a little more!
Thank you to the author for my review copy of this book. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 28, 2021
Suspense, ghosts, friendship, murder, oh my! This young adult book had everything. It had your typical romance, and your not so typical kidnapping. Shiloh's brother has recently been kidnapped by a mystery person. But, Francesca, "the weird girl" approaches Shiloh and tells her that she can help get her brother back, but there's a catch. She has to involve the ghosts that Shiloh doesn't believe in. Shiloh, Francesca, Miles and Jonah form an unlikely group as they all band together to find Shiloh's missing brother.
This book has multiple layers. It isn't just a ghost mystery, it's also a coming of age tale. Please check your trigger warnings, because Shiloh's life is rough. Her father is the sheriff, but he is also an abusive alcoholic. Shiloh grows within this book, and I really enjoyed that aspect. She learns to stand up for herself, and she's able to say when enough is enough. Also, the relationship between her and her brother is very heartfelt. I loved that all of the characters had multiple layers, and they weren't always who they appeared to be from the start.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. This mystery was fantastic, and the characters were all wonderful. The characters were probably my favorite part of this story, besides the friendly ghosts. I really loved how they were helpful for the most part. I would recommend this to anyone that enjoys character development and suspense. But, if you have triggers please check them. This is not a standalone, and there is a medium cliffhanger. So, also keep that in mind. Otherwise, please check this book out!
Thank you to the Rockstar Book Tours for providing a copy of this book. These opinions are my own, and were not influenced in any way. I was not obligated to provide a review.
https://coffeewanderbooks.blogspot.co...
This book has multiple layers. It isn't just a ghost mystery, it's also a coming of age tale. Please check your trigger warnings, because Shiloh's life is rough. Her father is the sheriff, but he is also an abusive alcoholic. Shiloh grows within this book, and I really enjoyed that aspect. She learns to stand up for herself, and she's able to say when enough is enough. Also, the relationship between her and her brother is very heartfelt. I loved that all of the characters had multiple layers, and they weren't always who they appeared to be from the start.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. This mystery was fantastic, and the characters were all wonderful. The characters were probably my favorite part of this story, besides the friendly ghosts. I really loved how they were helpful for the most part. I would recommend this to anyone that enjoys character development and suspense. But, if you have triggers please check them. This is not a standalone, and there is a medium cliffhanger. So, also keep that in mind. Otherwise, please check this book out!
Thank you to the Rockstar Book Tours for providing a copy of this book. These opinions are my own, and were not influenced in any way. I was not obligated to provide a review.
https://coffeewanderbooks.blogspot.co...
October 14, 2024
I really enjoyed this book and will continue the series soon. The story was unique and written well, but long-winded at times. The characters were dynamic, raw, and relatable. The story touched on some hard and heavy issues, which I was surprised to read in a YA book. A solid 4 stars.
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If you love active book communities, check out LiterALLy BOOKiSh Book Club (on Facebook)! Games, giveaways, discussions, reviews, bingo, swaps, pen pals, traveling books, and a lot more!
November 16, 2021
Review coming soon
October 14, 2021
The description I read of this book classed this book as a thriller YA with hints of the supernatural and, this is what really grabbed me, 'creepy circus'. As soon as I see the word, circus, in any book, I'm all grabby hands. Unfortunately, there wasn't that much of circus in this novel and yet, it was still a very engaging read despite my fears that things just aren't going to turn out well at the end.
This novel is told from 2 perspectives, Shiloh and Francesca, but there are basically 4 of them in the 'team'; Miles, Shiloh's boyfriend of all 3 weeks, and his best friend, Jonah. Shiloh and Francesca are both very strong heroines though for very different reasons; Shiloh is holding a family secret very deep inside that would threaten to destroy her if it came out while Francesca's family is already broken and her secret (seeing & talking to ghosts) is known to all in town. Jonah has his own issues with a broken family of his own and tendency towards juvenile delinquency but Miles is most 'normal' out of them all with loving parents and terribly good grades. They gather together to help Shiloh save her most beloved brother and yet, to what cost?
I found the mystery to be well written and the supernatural just slightly creepy; I mean, hanging out at cemeteries at all times is just a bit creepy. I love the dynamics between these four teens and I hope to see them back together again in the next book. I did feel though that I wasn't in a very good space to read this book because it turned out to be a lot darker than I thought so I'd recommend that you pay attention to above trigger warnings.
My thanks to Xpresso Book Tours for this copy of book in exchange of my honest thoughts
This novel is told from 2 perspectives, Shiloh and Francesca, but there are basically 4 of them in the 'team'; Miles, Shiloh's boyfriend of all 3 weeks, and his best friend, Jonah. Shiloh and Francesca are both very strong heroines though for very different reasons; Shiloh is holding a family secret very deep inside that would threaten to destroy her if it came out while Francesca's family is already broken and her secret (seeing & talking to ghosts) is known to all in town. Jonah has his own issues with a broken family of his own and tendency towards juvenile delinquency but Miles is most 'normal' out of them all with loving parents and terribly good grades. They gather together to help Shiloh save her most beloved brother and yet, to what cost?
I found the mystery to be well written and the supernatural just slightly creepy; I mean, hanging out at cemeteries at all times is just a bit creepy. I love the dynamics between these four teens and I hope to see them back together again in the next book. I did feel though that I wasn't in a very good space to read this book because it turned out to be a lot darker than I thought so I'd recommend that you pay attention to above trigger warnings.
My thanks to Xpresso Book Tours for this copy of book in exchange of my honest thoughts
August 13, 2021
One of the biggest joys of reading is discovering a new author. This is often done by reading newsletters, searching social media, or joining the latest celebrity book club. But don’t forget about self-publishing - the authors who just want to have their stories out in the world and enjoyed by the largest possible audience.
In 2015, I found a teenager named Claire Fraise. She self-published a book called “Imperfect” while still in high school. It reminded me of “The Hunger Games”. I found the book thrilling. She was even kind enough to send me a signed copy of the book and a pen bearing the title (which I still have).
Recently, the new college graduate has completed her sophomore effort, “They Stay”. I am happy to say this surpasses her first effort, and I cannot wait for the next installment.
The novel is divided into chapters and told from three different points of view - two female, one male. The females are the protagonists - Shiloh and Francesca. Shiloh is the daughter of the abusive alcoholic sheriff. Francesca is the town freak. Shiloh is dating Miles, a studious and scientifically minded young man. Lastly is Jonah, Miles’ best friend, a local street-smart bad boy.
Shiloh is devoted to her little brother Max. She considers herself his protector. One day Shiloh sends Max to tee ball practice on her way to work, telling him his mom will pick him up. Instead his drunken father arrives late to pick him up. But Max is nowhere to be found.
Francesca spends most of her time in the local cemetery. She sees the spirits of the dead. To call them ghosts isn’t correct. They are more like essences - who Francesca considers friends. They talk back and forth nightly. Francesca claims someone’s spirit “fades” over time. Some people fade quickly, but others “stay” longer. Most people just think she’s crazy.
This is not a typical abduction tale, ghost story, coming-of-age story, or a simplified YA novel. In fact, it isn’t a typical anything. The whole is much greater than the sum of its parts. It’s an emotional investment.
It gives hope and comfort - two ideas sorely needed. I found myself devouring it to escape all the current negativity. I deliberately delayed reading the last thirty pages as long as possible, flying through them once started. The character descriptions are so vivid I feel like I know these young people. Although I didn’t relate to any one character, I feel that distance enriched the overall experience.
I am not ashamed to admit I cried through the last few pages. And I can't wait to see my new friends again in the sequel, currently being written. It isn’t often a reader gets to see a career bloom from its infancy. I would highly recommend jumping onboard now.
Claire Fraise is going places. It has been an honor to join her and I look forward to the next steps of her journey.
In 2015, I found a teenager named Claire Fraise. She self-published a book called “Imperfect” while still in high school. It reminded me of “The Hunger Games”. I found the book thrilling. She was even kind enough to send me a signed copy of the book and a pen bearing the title (which I still have).
Recently, the new college graduate has completed her sophomore effort, “They Stay”. I am happy to say this surpasses her first effort, and I cannot wait for the next installment.
The novel is divided into chapters and told from three different points of view - two female, one male. The females are the protagonists - Shiloh and Francesca. Shiloh is the daughter of the abusive alcoholic sheriff. Francesca is the town freak. Shiloh is dating Miles, a studious and scientifically minded young man. Lastly is Jonah, Miles’ best friend, a local street-smart bad boy.
Shiloh is devoted to her little brother Max. She considers herself his protector. One day Shiloh sends Max to tee ball practice on her way to work, telling him his mom will pick him up. Instead his drunken father arrives late to pick him up. But Max is nowhere to be found.
Francesca spends most of her time in the local cemetery. She sees the spirits of the dead. To call them ghosts isn’t correct. They are more like essences - who Francesca considers friends. They talk back and forth nightly. Francesca claims someone’s spirit “fades” over time. Some people fade quickly, but others “stay” longer. Most people just think she’s crazy.
This is not a typical abduction tale, ghost story, coming-of-age story, or a simplified YA novel. In fact, it isn’t a typical anything. The whole is much greater than the sum of its parts. It’s an emotional investment.
It gives hope and comfort - two ideas sorely needed. I found myself devouring it to escape all the current negativity. I deliberately delayed reading the last thirty pages as long as possible, flying through them once started. The character descriptions are so vivid I feel like I know these young people. Although I didn’t relate to any one character, I feel that distance enriched the overall experience.
I am not ashamed to admit I cried through the last few pages. And I can't wait to see my new friends again in the sequel, currently being written. It isn’t often a reader gets to see a career bloom from its infancy. I would highly recommend jumping onboard now.
Claire Fraise is going places. It has been an honor to join her and I look forward to the next steps of her journey.
October 11, 2021
This book hooked me right from the start and was filled with suspense, creepiness and mystery. The story revolves around missing Max and his sister, Shiloh’s, mission to find him. In order to do that she has to work with a fabulous cast of misfits from greasy Jonah to Freaky Frankie. Behind the main story of Max’s disappearance, is a tale of poverty and abuse that gives all of the characters a common thread. Many of the young people in this book have been let down or deserted by adults and are trying to navigate life the best they can, until they have an opportunity to escape to better things. It isn’t all dreary, however, the ghosts in this story are perhaps some of the best characters and occasionally bring some light relief. I loved Natalie and the way she spoke to people, with no discrimination. Mrs Lewis and the Reverend, despite being dead, were the most responsible adults in Francesca’s life and while there was something lonely about her life initially, I was glad she had them. This story was very cleverly written and had so many leads and threads that the person involved in Max’s disappearance came as a complete surprise. Having said that, towards the end I guessed what was going to happen to a certain member of the Scooby Gang, as I have come to think of them. Though this made me excited for the next book in the series, as I can imagine the role that this person is going to be playing. A great read that I thoroughly enjoyed.
October 12, 2021
I found this book through bookdepository first, than the author’s instagram and immediately joined her arc team. As a Latin American reader (especially South American readers), we don't always get opportunities like this and because of this, I want to thank Claire and her team for being so kind to send me an ARC. My physical copy didn't arrive but it didn't stop me from reading this book. Now, to the actual review. It took me a couple of days to get into the story in between exams and other stuff going on in life; I often have a hard times with ‘the first book of the series’, but soon I took a liking to the characters and their hardships. At the beginning, we follow Shiloh, we get to know her and her backstory. She loves her brother Max more than anything in this world and then, we have Francesca, the weird kid of school, who sees & experiences things no one can imagine. I love how the author touched important topics like mental health and the direct consequences of bullying and domestic abuse. When Max goes missing, these two stories, that barely have anything to do with one another, begin to shape into one. I loved the mystery, the plot twists, relating to the characters. If I have to point something out, is that I don't really like when everything is explain to me every couple of sentences, like comments or why certain characters had to do exactly what they did, even when it's fairly obvious why. But around the middle the pace picks up and it's a really enjoyable book. I'm also not really a fan of books written in the first person but I’ve always kept in mind that is the first book of a series and there's a lot of room for improvement. All in all, a good book. What I want to add is that Claire put trigger warnings at the beginning of the book and that's always helpful.
October 12, 2021
Thank you so much to Claire for the advanced copy of your beautiful book!
It’s been a really long time since I’ve read a book that I didn’t want to put down, that I read into the late hours of the night despite my head hurting with fatigue. It was a breath of fresh air. I adored every second of They Stay.
I adore all of our amazing teen heroes in the story. I love how real the story felt. It was written in a way that I don’t think many stories are written, that I felt like this not only could all happen, but was happening right in front of me. The way Fraise describes details is so lovely and peculiar and unlike anything I’ve ever read, and it was so enjoyable. I love how the story was generally unpredictable, and how many times I was really surprised. I love how not everything in the story was a clear-cut straight line, because I think it’s important to note that sometimes when trying to solve a problem we come to absolutely dead ends. The story was well-paced and wonderfully written, and I know that because I wanted to keep reading even when seemingly nothing was happening. It had me the entire time. And if I may, this book came at the perfect time in my life, as an almost carefree horror. I loved every page of it.
(PG-13 rating)
It’s been a really long time since I’ve read a book that I didn’t want to put down, that I read into the late hours of the night despite my head hurting with fatigue. It was a breath of fresh air. I adored every second of They Stay.
I adore all of our amazing teen heroes in the story. I love how real the story felt. It was written in a way that I don’t think many stories are written, that I felt like this not only could all happen, but was happening right in front of me. The way Fraise describes details is so lovely and peculiar and unlike anything I’ve ever read, and it was so enjoyable. I love how the story was generally unpredictable, and how many times I was really surprised. I love how not everything in the story was a clear-cut straight line, because I think it’s important to note that sometimes when trying to solve a problem we come to absolutely dead ends. The story was well-paced and wonderfully written, and I know that because I wanted to keep reading even when seemingly nothing was happening. It had me the entire time. And if I may, this book came at the perfect time in my life, as an almost carefree horror. I loved every page of it.
(PG-13 rating)
October 10, 2021
Oh my god.
This was absolutely amazing.
Where do I even start? First off, I need the next book to be created and send to me in this exact second because that ending 🤯
Okay, the actual story: the story was so so good and deep, I loved that it has supernatural and realistic elements that lowkey intertwined and I loved that things slowly tied together until the end; playing the guessing game is the best part of a thriller after all!
The characters: I love that I got so connected to the characters! Sometimes in thrillers I can’t even remember the characters names but in this one I was so deeply invested; I had ships, I had favorites, I had least favorites etc.
Overall: This book is perfect for spooky season and the writing is just so well done. The story perfectly grips the reader and it’s something that you just spend the days that you are reading it, trying to find time to get back to the story!
This book comes out on October 12! Perfect for the season! This is a supernatural thriller btw! I really recommend this if you love not just spooky but deep and thought provoking reads! Please pick this up this Halloween season! You will not regret it.
TW: domestic abuse, sexual assault, violence, grief
This was absolutely amazing.
Where do I even start? First off, I need the next book to be created and send to me in this exact second because that ending 🤯
Okay, the actual story: the story was so so good and deep, I loved that it has supernatural and realistic elements that lowkey intertwined and I loved that things slowly tied together until the end; playing the guessing game is the best part of a thriller after all!
The characters: I love that I got so connected to the characters! Sometimes in thrillers I can’t even remember the characters names but in this one I was so deeply invested; I had ships, I had favorites, I had least favorites etc.
Overall: This book is perfect for spooky season and the writing is just so well done. The story perfectly grips the reader and it’s something that you just spend the days that you are reading it, trying to find time to get back to the story!
This book comes out on October 12! Perfect for the season! This is a supernatural thriller btw! I really recommend this if you love not just spooky but deep and thought provoking reads! Please pick this up this Halloween season! You will not regret it.
TW: domestic abuse, sexual assault, violence, grief
September 29, 2021
WARNING: This book contains death, kidnapping, domestic abuse, references to suicide and sexual assault, bullying, and mild adult language.
See, I'm not a great fan of mystery books with teenagers as characters. But for some reason, when I found this book I got a great feeling (especially since it said ghosts! I love ghosts stories). I finished it a few days ago, and oh life, what a great book it has been.
At the beginning (literally the first chapter) I was a little scared that it was gonna be too young-ish for me, but then it gets to the turning point and just like that, I couldn't put it down. I was so into the story and really wanted to know what was going on. The main thing about this book is that it talks a lot about serious matters, and it does it great! It doesn't overreact or over explain them. Claire makes an amazing work talking about these topics, and that's something I really appreciate.
The mystery is very straightforward and I really enjoyed that. It wasn't unnecessarily confusing nor it used a lot of complicated words, and since I like UNDERSTANDING WHAT'S GOING ON, I liked that a lot. That and the fact that the whole mystery was actually very interesting? And original? Yes please, I was wanting more and more the whole time, and I started being very cautious with all the characters.
Speaking of characters, Shiloh is a girl who has gone through a lot, and I really appreciated her. Her loyalty and mixed feelings about everything, and her whole focus to keep looking for her brother even when life turned really bad, all these thing had me finding myself very worried about her wellbeing the whole book. Francesca is a great girl, is she weird? Totally, but also amazing. And Miles and Jonah were a nice addition to the team. Overall, characters were really great.
AND THE ENDING? Not gonna lie, I was kinda expecting that since like 90% of the book, but for a moment I thought everything was gonna be fine, BUT IT WASN'T. So now I'm not-so-patiently waiting for the second book. They Stay is totally worth checking out!
*ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you so much Claire!
See, I'm not a great fan of mystery books with teenagers as characters. But for some reason, when I found this book I got a great feeling (especially since it said ghosts! I love ghosts stories). I finished it a few days ago, and oh life, what a great book it has been.
At the beginning (literally the first chapter) I was a little scared that it was gonna be too young-ish for me, but then it gets to the turning point and just like that, I couldn't put it down. I was so into the story and really wanted to know what was going on. The main thing about this book is that it talks a lot about serious matters, and it does it great! It doesn't overreact or over explain them. Claire makes an amazing work talking about these topics, and that's something I really appreciate.
The mystery is very straightforward and I really enjoyed that. It wasn't unnecessarily confusing nor it used a lot of complicated words, and since I like UNDERSTANDING WHAT'S GOING ON, I liked that a lot. That and the fact that the whole mystery was actually very interesting? And original? Yes please, I was wanting more and more the whole time, and I started being very cautious with all the characters.
Speaking of characters, Shiloh is a girl who has gone through a lot, and I really appreciated her. Her loyalty and mixed feelings about everything, and her whole focus to keep looking for her brother even when life turned really bad, all these thing had me finding myself very worried about her wellbeing the whole book. Francesca is a great girl, is she weird? Totally, but also amazing. And Miles and Jonah were a nice addition to the team. Overall, characters were really great.
AND THE ENDING? Not gonna lie, I was kinda expecting that since like 90% of the book, but for a moment I thought everything was gonna be fine, BUT IT WASN'T. So now I'm not-so-patiently waiting for the second book. They Stay is totally worth checking out!
*ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you so much Claire!
September 17, 2021
I was given an ARC by the author for review, I receiving the arc had no impact on how I reviewed this story, I am very blunt when it comes to stories I like and dislike so here is my review.
I had to give this story a 5-star rating because it hit all the marks in terms of the emotional appeal of the characters, the plot and pacing were perfect and the characters were all relatable. Many a time while reading this story I felt the character's pain, confusion, anger, she created characters you wanted to root for. They are not perfect but what person is, they have flaws just like me and you, and that's probably why this story got 5 stars from me when I think about it, this story was truly character-driven. You can tell the author took the time to world build in this story she did not create an epic world like a Brandon Sanderson but she created the perfect world for her characters which was this small town. The development of this world made you feel you were there with the characters moving through the scenes and feeling what they felt. I recommend this book for anyone looking for a character-driven story that touches upon real-life issues but as well tells a story beyond those issues. Claire Fraise crafted a great story that deserves to be read by many people especially those who have suffered abuse they can see a character overcome it and deal with it. This story has a paranormal subplot, has the drama, has a subplot for teens after the subplot of abuse of various degrees suffered by the characters, there will be an aspect to this story you will enjoy. There is also the good old-fashioned mystery to find her brother. This story is worth the read and based on the current price you're not losing much taking a chance on the book. Buy it it's worth it. This was a book I truly enjoyed the journey and look forward to seeing book 2.
I had to give this story a 5-star rating because it hit all the marks in terms of the emotional appeal of the characters, the plot and pacing were perfect and the characters were all relatable. Many a time while reading this story I felt the character's pain, confusion, anger, she created characters you wanted to root for. They are not perfect but what person is, they have flaws just like me and you, and that's probably why this story got 5 stars from me when I think about it, this story was truly character-driven. You can tell the author took the time to world build in this story she did not create an epic world like a Brandon Sanderson but she created the perfect world for her characters which was this small town. The development of this world made you feel you were there with the characters moving through the scenes and feeling what they felt. I recommend this book for anyone looking for a character-driven story that touches upon real-life issues but as well tells a story beyond those issues. Claire Fraise crafted a great story that deserves to be read by many people especially those who have suffered abuse they can see a character overcome it and deal with it. This story has a paranormal subplot, has the drama, has a subplot for teens after the subplot of abuse of various degrees suffered by the characters, there will be an aspect to this story you will enjoy. There is also the good old-fashioned mystery to find her brother. This story is worth the read and based on the current price you're not losing much taking a chance on the book. Buy it it's worth it. This was a book I truly enjoyed the journey and look forward to seeing book 2.
October 2, 2021
Huge thank you to the author, Claire Fraise, for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!
This book was soooo good! It really sucks in you in so fast and it’s an absolute thrill ride! There are twists and turns and OMG THAT ENDING! I am floored by Fraise’s writing taken and I’m so excited to see what comes next! This book jumps right into the main story at the end of chapter one and we even see several layers of sub plot that doesn’t over complicate the story. Once this book sinks it’s claws it, it doesn’t let go and you won’t be able to put it down.
There’s only one thing that I wish I would have seen more of in this book. I wish we would have gotten more of Jonah’s perspective to get a little bit more insight, but this book was still great anyways. This YA Thriller was absolutely riveting, easy to understand, has an insane ending, and filled with important subjects what were executed perfectly. Please not that this book contains some serious subjects so check the trigger warnings before reading.
The ending of They Stay has a wild ending that sets up beautifully for the next installment! Fraise has insane talent as an author and I’m stoked to read what comes next from her. This is the perfect book for this spooky season so you should definitely give it a try!
Such a great book with a wild ride of a book! This is a great book for this spooky season and I promise you’ll love this book if you give it a try! I absolutely recommend this book if you like YA Thriller/Horrors!
This book was soooo good! It really sucks in you in so fast and it’s an absolute thrill ride! There are twists and turns and OMG THAT ENDING! I am floored by Fraise’s writing taken and I’m so excited to see what comes next! This book jumps right into the main story at the end of chapter one and we even see several layers of sub plot that doesn’t over complicate the story. Once this book sinks it’s claws it, it doesn’t let go and you won’t be able to put it down.
There’s only one thing that I wish I would have seen more of in this book. I wish we would have gotten more of Jonah’s perspective to get a little bit more insight, but this book was still great anyways. This YA Thriller was absolutely riveting, easy to understand, has an insane ending, and filled with important subjects what were executed perfectly. Please not that this book contains some serious subjects so check the trigger warnings before reading.
The ending of They Stay has a wild ending that sets up beautifully for the next installment! Fraise has insane talent as an author and I’m stoked to read what comes next from her. This is the perfect book for this spooky season so you should definitely give it a try!
Such a great book with a wild ride of a book! This is a great book for this spooky season and I promise you’ll love this book if you give it a try! I absolutely recommend this book if you like YA Thriller/Horrors!
September 12, 2021
They Stay by Claire Fraise
⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
This book had everything! Including my name ! That was a huge shock, and a wonderful surprise as I barely ever see my name !
This book is the adventure of a young woman who will stop at nothing to find her missing brother , presumed dead; but she knows hes not .
She needs her brother back . She was supposed to be watching over him. But one fateful day she is asked to cover a shift so her abusive father wnds up having this "burden" fall on him . He is to pick up the boy- and when he arrives , Max is gone .
A mother who is blinded by love and the wellbeing of her children sticks around to try and make things work . Until one day she decides shes had enough.
But WHO took Max . Who is arrested for the "murder" of this boy ?? The outcome will shock you . And the ending will break your heart .
I've never thought of my self as a Y.A reader. But this book has opened my eyes . I have also steered clear of the paranormal genre . But this mixture of both will have you melting into the pages and turning until there is nothing left to turn .
I deducted 1 star purely because the Authors use of food analogies had me hungry .
Over all. A great read. And I'm so happy to have been chosen to read this ARC paperback! Thank you @clairefraiseauthor
⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
This book had everything! Including my name ! That was a huge shock, and a wonderful surprise as I barely ever see my name !
This book is the adventure of a young woman who will stop at nothing to find her missing brother , presumed dead; but she knows hes not .
She needs her brother back . She was supposed to be watching over him. But one fateful day she is asked to cover a shift so her abusive father wnds up having this "burden" fall on him . He is to pick up the boy- and when he arrives , Max is gone .
A mother who is blinded by love and the wellbeing of her children sticks around to try and make things work . Until one day she decides shes had enough.
But WHO took Max . Who is arrested for the "murder" of this boy ?? The outcome will shock you . And the ending will break your heart .
I've never thought of my self as a Y.A reader. But this book has opened my eyes . I have also steered clear of the paranormal genre . But this mixture of both will have you melting into the pages and turning until there is nothing left to turn .
I deducted 1 star purely because the Authors use of food analogies had me hungry .
Over all. A great read. And I'm so happy to have been chosen to read this ARC paperback! Thank you @clairefraiseauthor
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 17, 2021
Thank you to Claire Fraise for sending me an ARC of your new book, They Stay!
They Stay is about a young girl named Shiloh whose little brother Max goes missing one day during tee ball practice. Desperate to find her brother, Shiloh begins her own investigation into his disappearance with her boyfriend, Miles, and his best friend, Jonah, along with help from the weird ghost girl, Francesca.
Francesca can see and speak with ghosts, but of course nobody believes her. After she set a dead man on fire, people avoid her like the plague. But Francesca says the ghosts know where Shiloh’s brother is, so Shiloh will have to push aside her current belief that ghosts don’t exist if she wants to save Max from his fate.
This was a well written story with plenty of background information to make the characters feel real and well rounded. While it’s mainly told from Shiloh’s POV, we do see Francesca occasionally and even one POV from Jonah. They Stay is great for those who love ghosts, mysteries, and that feeling of racing against the clock! Also, while I saw the ending coming, I’m excited to see what happens in book 2!
They Stay is set to publish October 12th! Preorder your copy today!
They Stay is about a young girl named Shiloh whose little brother Max goes missing one day during tee ball practice. Desperate to find her brother, Shiloh begins her own investigation into his disappearance with her boyfriend, Miles, and his best friend, Jonah, along with help from the weird ghost girl, Francesca.
Francesca can see and speak with ghosts, but of course nobody believes her. After she set a dead man on fire, people avoid her like the plague. But Francesca says the ghosts know where Shiloh’s brother is, so Shiloh will have to push aside her current belief that ghosts don’t exist if she wants to save Max from his fate.
This was a well written story with plenty of background information to make the characters feel real and well rounded. While it’s mainly told from Shiloh’s POV, we do see Francesca occasionally and even one POV from Jonah. They Stay is great for those who love ghosts, mysteries, and that feeling of racing against the clock! Also, while I saw the ending coming, I’m excited to see what happens in book 2!
They Stay is set to publish October 12th! Preorder your copy today!
September 19, 2021
I was so excited to receive an ARC of this book, and Claire Fraise did not disappoint!
Normally, I don't care for switching POVs, but in this book you really got to know both the main characters individually, and I squealed OUTLOUD when Jonah's POV popped up. I have to say, I didn't expect the plot or the storyline to take the direction it went into, most of my guesses where wrong (though I'm still side-eyeing Shiloh's dad with suspicion, even though it was confirmed he didn't purposefully lose Max.) I finished this book within a day, because I just had to know how it ended, and I was hoping for Jonah's happy-ending (sorry, I'm a sucker for the 'bad-boy' doing the good thing while being sarcastic trope), I cannot wait to read book 2!!
It's made the top five new books I've read this year, I only hand out five-star reviews for books that made me feel a strong emotion, and I would read again. You'll come to love both girls for their cleverness and unfathomable loyalty, love seeing girls empowering and helping each other, as well as strong feminine characters
Normally, I don't care for switching POVs, but in this book you really got to know both the main characters individually, and I squealed OUTLOUD when Jonah's POV popped up. I have to say, I didn't expect the plot or the storyline to take the direction it went into, most of my guesses where wrong (though I'm still side-eyeing Shiloh's dad with suspicion, even though it was confirmed he didn't purposefully lose Max.) I finished this book within a day, because I just had to know how it ended, and I was hoping for Jonah's happy-ending (sorry, I'm a sucker for the 'bad-boy' doing the good thing while being sarcastic trope), I cannot wait to read book 2!!
It's made the top five new books I've read this year, I only hand out five-star reviews for books that made me feel a strong emotion, and I would read again. You'll come to love both girls for their cleverness and unfathomable loyalty, love seeing girls empowering and helping each other, as well as strong feminine characters
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 19, 2021
I didn't want to put this book down, and even the ending makes me impatient for the second book – but there's also a lot to unpack with this one.
The trigger warnings in the book (on the back cover) should not be overlooked. There are severe depictions of domestic abuse, sexual abuse, kidnappings, missing children, ghosts, death, and more. This is not a light read in the slightest.
The alternating narrators give readers a chance to see things from more than one point of view. I have characters I hate and others I was rooting for – even if they didn't end up winning technically in the end.
"They Stay" definitely contains a unique idea – where ghosts aren't the enemy, but rather are there to potentially help when you least expect it.
The trigger warnings in the book (on the back cover) should not be overlooked. There are severe depictions of domestic abuse, sexual abuse, kidnappings, missing children, ghosts, death, and more. This is not a light read in the slightest.
The alternating narrators give readers a chance to see things from more than one point of view. I have characters I hate and others I was rooting for – even if they didn't end up winning technically in the end.
"They Stay" definitely contains a unique idea – where ghosts aren't the enemy, but rather are there to potentially help when you least expect it.
February 26, 2022
Disclaimer: I received a free ARC of They Stay but it in no way affects my review.
Loved it! They Stay is a perfect novel for October, giving that Halloween vibe. It has a really interesting premise and exposition and the characters feel kinda like JK Rowling's. Every main character has a fleshed-out backstory and feels quite relatable. I'd definitely recommend reading it.
Loved it! They Stay is a perfect novel for October, giving that Halloween vibe. It has a really interesting premise and exposition and the characters feel kinda like JK Rowling's. Every main character has a fleshed-out backstory and feels quite relatable. I'd definitely recommend reading it.
November 14, 2021
4.5 stars - Please read the trigger warnings in this book before deciding to get stuck in.
I was so pleasantly surprised with this book.
'They Stay' is told from the points of view of two protagonists: Shiloh and Francesca. Shiloh's whole life is about protecting and doing what's best for her brother, Max. When he goes missing Shiloh will stop at nothing to get him back home safely; even if that means stepping up to her father - the County Sheriff - and going against everything that everyone is telling her to do, let the police handle the search for Max.
Shiloh is a character you cannot help but sympathise with. A rocky home and parents who severely lack in the role, the only love she knows (and thinks she will ever have) is that of a sibling. At time I found her painstakingly frustrating. Her friends cared so deeply for her and she was quick to lash out and appeared unappreciative at times. Nevertheless, 'They Stay' was narrated in a manner which allowed you to organically understand the reasoning of her actions and the constant barrier placed between her and Miles. Claire Fraise truly let Shiloh grow as the book went on, something which I had not expected. The evolution of her character was classy, sophisticated and extremely well placed. Shiloh grew with the plot and not by some miraculous epiphany.
I immediately loved Francesca. She thinks so deeply, so beneath-the-surface that I wanted to wrap her in a bubble and bring her home with me. Francesca's home life was just as terrible as Shiloh's, in an alternative way. Pushed aside, neglected and ridiculed, she is the underdog that no one seems acknowledge the potential in her; never bitter, nor expectant she is the epitome of the type of friend you want in your life. I hope in Claire Fraise's second book, we see her get the utmost out of life.
Miles, deserved so much more. Jonah's soul is pure. Kudos for the concrete, healthy masculine friendships presented in 'They Stay', they remind us that sometimes the misfits and those that go against societal norms are some of the best people.
The plot made complete sense. I hate when characters just seemingly discover or know something that solves the issues/mystery in the book, I am SO SO glad that this was not the case here. The reader is able to understand the decisions, the characters way of thinking, follow the leads. The mystery was there and it had me itching to solve exactly how and why Max went missing. The supernatural elements added to the story perfectly and one of the smartest decisions Claire Fraise could have made when publishing. It turned the story from okay to otherworldly, in a way that made you REALLY think about the world. I'm glad that she didn't shy away from the subjects spoken about in the book which included multiple types of violence and abuse. I'm more glad that she did not cast the characters in a 'needed to be saved' light and instead made them the heroes of their own story. These topics are not easy to read or write about, but have been done with the utmost respect and honour.
As someone who does not favour narrations that switch between characters, Claire Fraise has done an impeccable job in creating a storyline that runs through the lives of the two teen girls. They were brought together tactfully and added to the story by allowing the reader to see the full and complete picture.
I am so happy that my first impression of this book were wrong - this was a great read, full of suspense and heart warming friendship.
I was so pleasantly surprised with this book.
'They Stay' is told from the points of view of two protagonists: Shiloh and Francesca. Shiloh's whole life is about protecting and doing what's best for her brother, Max. When he goes missing Shiloh will stop at nothing to get him back home safely; even if that means stepping up to her father - the County Sheriff - and going against everything that everyone is telling her to do, let the police handle the search for Max.
Shiloh is a character you cannot help but sympathise with. A rocky home and parents who severely lack in the role, the only love she knows (and thinks she will ever have) is that of a sibling. At time I found her painstakingly frustrating. Her friends cared so deeply for her and she was quick to lash out and appeared unappreciative at times. Nevertheless, 'They Stay' was narrated in a manner which allowed you to organically understand the reasoning of her actions and the constant barrier placed between her and Miles. Claire Fraise truly let Shiloh grow as the book went on, something which I had not expected. The evolution of her character was classy, sophisticated and extremely well placed. Shiloh grew with the plot and not by some miraculous epiphany.
I immediately loved Francesca. She thinks so deeply, so beneath-the-surface that I wanted to wrap her in a bubble and bring her home with me. Francesca's home life was just as terrible as Shiloh's, in an alternative way. Pushed aside, neglected and ridiculed, she is the underdog that no one seems acknowledge the potential in her; never bitter, nor expectant she is the epitome of the type of friend you want in your life. I hope in Claire Fraise's second book, we see her get the utmost out of life.
Miles, deserved so much more. Jonah's soul is pure. Kudos for the concrete, healthy masculine friendships presented in 'They Stay', they remind us that sometimes the misfits and those that go against societal norms are some of the best people.
The plot made complete sense. I hate when characters just seemingly discover or know something that solves the issues/mystery in the book, I am SO SO glad that this was not the case here. The reader is able to understand the decisions, the characters way of thinking, follow the leads. The mystery was there and it had me itching to solve exactly how and why Max went missing. The supernatural elements added to the story perfectly and one of the smartest decisions Claire Fraise could have made when publishing. It turned the story from okay to otherworldly, in a way that made you REALLY think about the world. I'm glad that she didn't shy away from the subjects spoken about in the book which included multiple types of violence and abuse. I'm more glad that she did not cast the characters in a 'needed to be saved' light and instead made them the heroes of their own story. These topics are not easy to read or write about, but have been done with the utmost respect and honour.
As someone who does not favour narrations that switch between characters, Claire Fraise has done an impeccable job in creating a storyline that runs through the lives of the two teen girls. They were brought together tactfully and added to the story by allowing the reader to see the full and complete picture.
I am so happy that my first impression of this book were wrong - this was a great read, full of suspense and heart warming friendship.
October 14, 2021
Shiloh Oleson’s whole life revolves around her little brother, Max. He is all she truly cares about, and she would do anything to protect him. Stuck in a household with an abusive father and a mother who does not step up to protect her children, Shiloh takes sole responsibility for Max and for keeping him safe and happy.
However, after agreeing to take on an extra shift at work, Shiloh has to ask her mother to pick Max up from tee-ball and, when she phones to make sure he was picked up, she learns that her father was going to pick Max up instead, and he was over forty-five minutes late. Shiloh returns from her shift ready to play dinosaurs with Max, but walks into the sort of nightmare she has been trying to protect Max from all this time – he was not at tee-ball when his father arrived to pick him up, and no one knows exactly where he is.
Doing her best to help in the efforts to find Max, while trying to avoid letting her father know, as he has specifically told her not to do anything other than joining the search parties, Shiloh finds herself delving deeper into the case than any of the police force seem to be doing. There is another missing child, Poppy, who disappeared a month previously, and Shiloh is convinced that both cases must be connected somehow.
Francesca Russo is the biggest outcast in the town. She has no friend to call her own, at least none that are alive. When she was a child, a man’s ghost asked her to burn his body at his funeral, and since doing so, Francesca has been mocked, ridiculed, and become the object of bullying and fear. Yet, when she is in the graveyard, talking to those who do not shun her, or think she’s crazy, she feels less alone. But something is threatening the ghosts she calls friends, a man in a green coat can also see them, and he left a bruise on one of the children’s arms. No human should be able to touch a ghost. Determined to protect those she cares for, but also curious about this other person, the only other person she has ever known, who can also see the ghosts, Francesca starts investigating.
This book is the kind that pulls you in and refuses to let you go, even after the final page has been turned. It will make you physically edge closer to the edge of your seat, and hold your breath in anticipation as you read the words as quickly as possible. Shiloh is a character that you cannot help but root for, and as you learn about her home life and the terrible things she has experienced, and experiences on a regular basis, you feel a deep ache in your heart for her as well. In addition to this, we also have Francesca’s point of view, and you quickly fall in love with her character as well, and, although her situation is different from Shiloh’s, she is no less a victim of other people’s actions and bullying.
It is no surprise that Francesca and Shiloh eventually band together to try and figure out what is going on, and to find Max, but they are not the only members of this group. Miles, Shiloh’s boyfriend, and his best friend Jonah join them as they desperately search for the truth. I had mixed feelings about Miles throughout the entire book. On one hand, he is a wonderful guy, incredibly loving and kind, and ready to do almost anything for Shiloh, even though they haven’t been going out for very long. On the other hand, he keeps pushing her to open up, to tell him things she is not ready to tell him, and, at times, treats her incredibly coldly, especially considering her brother is missing and it is already a very difficult time for her. Jonah, despite being what could be considered the ‘bad boy’, the juvenile delinquent who has girls swooning over him and often has a cigarette in his hand, treats Shiloh in such a way that I found myself rooting for them to end up together. At first, they despise each other, but Jonah becomes a rock that Shiloh can count on, and he is up for anything, whether it be following a lead that could reveal where Max is, or simply listening to her and understanding.
In the search for Max, and as we learn more about the ghosts through Francesca, this novel has created an effect where normally bad news ignites a spark of hope, and good news can make your stomach fall. When you factor the supernatural into any book, the tables are turned with new implications, and this book has achieved that perfectly. The reader learns what the four main characters know, and yet, none of it will be believed by the authorities, so they are on their own in finding Max before it is too late.
This book, to my absolute horror, ends on a cliffhanger. The kind of cliffhanger that makes you sit back, staring at the last words, and slowly coming to the realisation that book 2 is not out yet, and won’t be for several months at least. If you want a book to pull you in, and spit you back out, shocked, intrigued, and desperate for more, this book is one that you cannot overlook.
*I received a copy of this book from Xpresso Book Tours for review consideration.
However, after agreeing to take on an extra shift at work, Shiloh has to ask her mother to pick Max up from tee-ball and, when she phones to make sure he was picked up, she learns that her father was going to pick Max up instead, and he was over forty-five minutes late. Shiloh returns from her shift ready to play dinosaurs with Max, but walks into the sort of nightmare she has been trying to protect Max from all this time – he was not at tee-ball when his father arrived to pick him up, and no one knows exactly where he is.
Doing her best to help in the efforts to find Max, while trying to avoid letting her father know, as he has specifically told her not to do anything other than joining the search parties, Shiloh finds herself delving deeper into the case than any of the police force seem to be doing. There is another missing child, Poppy, who disappeared a month previously, and Shiloh is convinced that both cases must be connected somehow.
Francesca Russo is the biggest outcast in the town. She has no friend to call her own, at least none that are alive. When she was a child, a man’s ghost asked her to burn his body at his funeral, and since doing so, Francesca has been mocked, ridiculed, and become the object of bullying and fear. Yet, when she is in the graveyard, talking to those who do not shun her, or think she’s crazy, she feels less alone. But something is threatening the ghosts she calls friends, a man in a green coat can also see them, and he left a bruise on one of the children’s arms. No human should be able to touch a ghost. Determined to protect those she cares for, but also curious about this other person, the only other person she has ever known, who can also see the ghosts, Francesca starts investigating.
This book is the kind that pulls you in and refuses to let you go, even after the final page has been turned. It will make you physically edge closer to the edge of your seat, and hold your breath in anticipation as you read the words as quickly as possible. Shiloh is a character that you cannot help but root for, and as you learn about her home life and the terrible things she has experienced, and experiences on a regular basis, you feel a deep ache in your heart for her as well. In addition to this, we also have Francesca’s point of view, and you quickly fall in love with her character as well, and, although her situation is different from Shiloh’s, she is no less a victim of other people’s actions and bullying.
It is no surprise that Francesca and Shiloh eventually band together to try and figure out what is going on, and to find Max, but they are not the only members of this group. Miles, Shiloh’s boyfriend, and his best friend Jonah join them as they desperately search for the truth. I had mixed feelings about Miles throughout the entire book. On one hand, he is a wonderful guy, incredibly loving and kind, and ready to do almost anything for Shiloh, even though they haven’t been going out for very long. On the other hand, he keeps pushing her to open up, to tell him things she is not ready to tell him, and, at times, treats her incredibly coldly, especially considering her brother is missing and it is already a very difficult time for her. Jonah, despite being what could be considered the ‘bad boy’, the juvenile delinquent who has girls swooning over him and often has a cigarette in his hand, treats Shiloh in such a way that I found myself rooting for them to end up together. At first, they despise each other, but Jonah becomes a rock that Shiloh can count on, and he is up for anything, whether it be following a lead that could reveal where Max is, or simply listening to her and understanding.
In the search for Max, and as we learn more about the ghosts through Francesca, this novel has created an effect where normally bad news ignites a spark of hope, and good news can make your stomach fall. When you factor the supernatural into any book, the tables are turned with new implications, and this book has achieved that perfectly. The reader learns what the four main characters know, and yet, none of it will be believed by the authorities, so they are on their own in finding Max before it is too late.
This book, to my absolute horror, ends on a cliffhanger. The kind of cliffhanger that makes you sit back, staring at the last words, and slowly coming to the realisation that book 2 is not out yet, and won’t be for several months at least. If you want a book to pull you in, and spit you back out, shocked, intrigued, and desperate for more, this book is one that you cannot overlook.
*I received a copy of this book from Xpresso Book Tours for review consideration.
November 15, 2021
This was my attempt to continue to read more books that are out of my genre, so to speak. I loved the mystery of this story, but I wished it was a bit more fast-paced. I appreciated the backstory of everyone. That way, I understand what was happening. It felt like there was a bit of over-explaining; however, I’d rather you over-explain than have me really confused about what is supposed to be happening.
I also really enjoyed Francesca and Shiloh, and getting multi-POVs. They were strong female characters, and that is something this book definitely needed, given the weakness of some adults. I didn’t really feel like the adults had any redeeming qualities. I would absolutely heed the warning that comes with this book. There is abuse, not graphic described, but it is definitely talked about.
The writing is simplistic, which works for me. I never got lost, and I enjoyed the story. I would have liked more of Jonah, but that could be coming in the next book. I’m really excited about book 2. I would love to see where this story goes.
I also really enjoyed Francesca and Shiloh, and getting multi-POVs. They were strong female characters, and that is something this book definitely needed, given the weakness of some adults. I didn’t really feel like the adults had any redeeming qualities. I would absolutely heed the warning that comes with this book. There is abuse, not graphic described, but it is definitely talked about.
The writing is simplistic, which works for me. I never got lost, and I enjoyed the story. I would have liked more of Jonah, but that could be coming in the next book. I’m really excited about book 2. I would love to see where this story goes.
October 13, 2021
CONTENT WARNINGS: This book contains physical and mental abuse, death, violence, kidnapping, gun violence, alcohol abuse, references to suicide, implied sexual abuse (non-graphic), bullying, and mild adult language.
***Possible Spoilers***
I was given an ARC by the author for review. Receiving the arc had no impact on how I reviewed this story. In fact, I pre-ordered a copy of the book as well because I truly adored it.
First, I would just like to say a huge thank you to Claire Fraise for the chance to be on her ARC team and for the advance reader copy of this book. I am so appreciative, and so grateful for this opportunity! <3
One of my favorite things in the world is discovering a new author, I am always on the lookout for new debut authors. I usually find them by searching social media, joining a celebrity book club, or even just a quick Google search for new books coming out within the year. Back in 2016, I found a book called “Imperfect”. It was self published in 2015, by the author Claire Fraise. The book reminded me of “The Hunger Games”, which was the coolest thing around back then, and I loved it. I also, just found out recently that she graduated from Tufts University which is so cool because that’s where I go to school! So when I found out she was allowing people to join her arc team I knew I had to apply and I am so glad I did.
I had to give this story a 5-star rating because it checks all the boxes in terms of the emotional appeal of the characters, the plot and pacing of the events were absolutely perfect and the characters were all so relatable. The characters weren’t perfect, they had flaws, which makes them feel real. The character descriptions are so vivid, I felt like I knew them in real life. They were friends you wanted to root for, and throughout the entire book I could feel what each of the characters were feeling, and that isn’t easy to accomplish.
The book is divided into chapters and told from three different pov’s. The females are the protagonists - Shiloh and Francesca. Shiloh is the daughter of the abusive alcoholic sheriff. Francesca is the town freak. Shiloh is dating Miles. Lastly is Jonah, Miles’ best friend.
Shiloh is very protective over her little brother Max. Their parents aren’t good role models. One day Shiloh sends Max to tee ball practice on her way to work, telling him his mom will pick him up. Instead his drunken father arrives late to pick him up, and Max is nowhere to be found.
Claire Fraise, does an amazing job revealing the abuse Shiloh has experienced in a natural, gradual way without glamorizing it, while also shining light on the incredible strength Shiloh has.
Francesca spends most of her time in the local cemetery. She sees the spirits of the dead. Francesca considers them as friends. They talk back and forth nightly. Francesca claims someone’s spirit “fades” over time. Some people fade quickly, but others “stay” longer. Most people in the town think she’s crazy hence why she’s considered the town freak.
This is not a typical abduction tale, ghost story, coming-of-age story, or a simplified YA novel. it actually isn’t typical anything. It’s an emotional investment.
It gives hope and comfort- I found myself devouring it to escape all the current negativity. As soon as I picked up this book I couldn’t put it down. It’s enthralling.
I honestly recommend this book for anyone looking for a character-driven story that touches upon real-life issues as well as tells a story beyond those issues.
I cried through the last few pages. Which doesn’t happen to me very often. I can't wait to see my new friends again in the sequel, that is currently being written.
One thing I will say is that the ending of the novel is very quick paced, and that it’s the only “bad thing” about this book, and even then I can’t actually say it’s a bad thing because there’s a sequel coming out.
Read on if you like ghost stories, plot twists, enemies-to-friends, creepy circuses, budding romance, and unlikely heroes.
Claire Fraise is going places. It has been such an honor to join her and I look forward to the next steps of her journey, she will be an automatic purchase for me from now on. Order They Stay, available now. 👻 ❤️
***Possible Spoilers***
I was given an ARC by the author for review. Receiving the arc had no impact on how I reviewed this story. In fact, I pre-ordered a copy of the book as well because I truly adored it.
First, I would just like to say a huge thank you to Claire Fraise for the chance to be on her ARC team and for the advance reader copy of this book. I am so appreciative, and so grateful for this opportunity! <3
One of my favorite things in the world is discovering a new author, I am always on the lookout for new debut authors. I usually find them by searching social media, joining a celebrity book club, or even just a quick Google search for new books coming out within the year. Back in 2016, I found a book called “Imperfect”. It was self published in 2015, by the author Claire Fraise. The book reminded me of “The Hunger Games”, which was the coolest thing around back then, and I loved it. I also, just found out recently that she graduated from Tufts University which is so cool because that’s where I go to school! So when I found out she was allowing people to join her arc team I knew I had to apply and I am so glad I did.
I had to give this story a 5-star rating because it checks all the boxes in terms of the emotional appeal of the characters, the plot and pacing of the events were absolutely perfect and the characters were all so relatable. The characters weren’t perfect, they had flaws, which makes them feel real. The character descriptions are so vivid, I felt like I knew them in real life. They were friends you wanted to root for, and throughout the entire book I could feel what each of the characters were feeling, and that isn’t easy to accomplish.
The book is divided into chapters and told from three different pov’s. The females are the protagonists - Shiloh and Francesca. Shiloh is the daughter of the abusive alcoholic sheriff. Francesca is the town freak. Shiloh is dating Miles. Lastly is Jonah, Miles’ best friend.
Shiloh is very protective over her little brother Max. Their parents aren’t good role models. One day Shiloh sends Max to tee ball practice on her way to work, telling him his mom will pick him up. Instead his drunken father arrives late to pick him up, and Max is nowhere to be found.
Claire Fraise, does an amazing job revealing the abuse Shiloh has experienced in a natural, gradual way without glamorizing it, while also shining light on the incredible strength Shiloh has.
Francesca spends most of her time in the local cemetery. She sees the spirits of the dead. Francesca considers them as friends. They talk back and forth nightly. Francesca claims someone’s spirit “fades” over time. Some people fade quickly, but others “stay” longer. Most people in the town think she’s crazy hence why she’s considered the town freak.
This is not a typical abduction tale, ghost story, coming-of-age story, or a simplified YA novel. it actually isn’t typical anything. It’s an emotional investment.
It gives hope and comfort- I found myself devouring it to escape all the current negativity. As soon as I picked up this book I couldn’t put it down. It’s enthralling.
I honestly recommend this book for anyone looking for a character-driven story that touches upon real-life issues as well as tells a story beyond those issues.
I cried through the last few pages. Which doesn’t happen to me very often. I can't wait to see my new friends again in the sequel, that is currently being written.
One thing I will say is that the ending of the novel is very quick paced, and that it’s the only “bad thing” about this book, and even then I can’t actually say it’s a bad thing because there’s a sequel coming out.
Read on if you like ghost stories, plot twists, enemies-to-friends, creepy circuses, budding romance, and unlikely heroes.
Claire Fraise is going places. It has been such an honor to join her and I look forward to the next steps of her journey, she will be an automatic purchase for me from now on. Order They Stay, available now. 👻 ❤️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 4, 2022
“Nobody ever dies, my dear. Every person who dies—they stay.”
Okay this book really surprised me. It has a very original idea behind it, with an interesting and at times very sad and unsettling plot. I was expecting a fun YA thriller and I got that, but I also got some really deep issues too. I'd say this book needs some serious trigger warnings, but they are a bit spoilery so I'll hide them below:
When Shiloh's 6-year-old brother Max goes missing, everything in her life starts to unravel - the secrets about her home life, her new relationship with boyfriend Miles, her anonymity at school. The only thing that's certain is her hope that Max is alive, and waiting for her to find him.
The supernatural element to this book feels so natural and blends so well with the rest of it that it never felt weird. It reads like thriller that just happens to be about ghosts. It was also an incredibly easy read - I finished in in twelve hours because I was so immersed.
My only complaint is that the sequel was slated to come out in April 2021 and there's no sign of it! Please, I need to know what happened!
Okay this book really surprised me. It has a very original idea behind it, with an interesting and at times very sad and unsettling plot. I was expecting a fun YA thriller and I got that, but I also got some really deep issues too. I'd say this book needs some serious trigger warnings, but they are a bit spoilery so I'll hide them below:
When Shiloh's 6-year-old brother Max goes missing, everything in her life starts to unravel - the secrets about her home life, her new relationship with boyfriend Miles, her anonymity at school. The only thing that's certain is her hope that Max is alive, and waiting for her to find him.
The supernatural element to this book feels so natural and blends so well with the rest of it that it never felt weird. It reads like thriller that just happens to be about ghosts. It was also an incredibly easy read - I finished in in twelve hours because I was so immersed.
My only complaint is that the sequel was slated to come out in April 2021 and there's no sign of it! Please, I need to know what happened!
January 2, 2024
Wow this was good but very sad
I loved the story with poor Max and Shiloh and Miles that ending blew me away and now I have to read the second part. It end in a cliffhanger. and I need to know what happens. There are a lot of bad things going on in this book. Spousal abuse, child abuse, sexual abuse, death of a child, Kidnapping, and a necromancer . I don't want to say anymore. but it really showed how much Shiloh would do for her little brother. The Father is an abusive drunk who just happens to be the sheriff. He is just vile! I really need to see how everything turns out.
The book starts with Max disappearing from Tball. And his sisters frantic search for answers. It gets very twisted and she joins a girl who can talk to ghosts and hopes together they can find him before its too late.
I loved the story with poor Max and Shiloh and Miles that ending blew me away and now I have to read the second part. It end in a cliffhanger. and I need to know what happens. There are a lot of bad things going on in this book. Spousal abuse, child abuse, sexual abuse, death of a child, Kidnapping, and a necromancer . I don't want to say anymore. but it really showed how much Shiloh would do for her little brother. The Father is an abusive drunk who just happens to be the sheriff. He is just vile! I really need to see how everything turns out.
The book starts with Max disappearing from Tball. And his sisters frantic search for answers. It gets very twisted and she joins a girl who can talk to ghosts and hopes together they can find him before its too late.
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