What do you think?
Rate this book
Under the Stars
After getting separated from her friends in the woods, Mae meets a mysterious stranger, who leads her to a bright and lively amusement park where she begins to find herself drawn to him, but she soon realises he is not the person she first thought.
Haunted by what she has learnt, Mae must keep it a secret from her friends and family. Can she overcome her new knowledge without losing herself?
Haunted by what she has learnt, Mae must keep it a secret from her friends and family. Can she overcome her new knowledge without losing herself?
236 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 21, 2021
1 person is currently reading
20 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
November 14, 2021
I feel as if i went on the rollercoasters of Jeremys park myself. A rollercoaster of plottwists and heartbreak. This book is about accepting loss and about forgiving yourself and others. I Read this in a time that i could really use the distraction.
I normally don't really like a story where a girl likes the 2 brothers but this didn't feel like something like that. Jeremy and Liam are so different and they take such different roles which made for me to not feel that Awkward about it.
I did wish for some extra insights on Mae's friends and family. They became a bit flat. A wanted some more dynamics between Them. Some bigger moments with her Friends. But maybe the simplicity of it all made it even better. It felt more normal, more realistic. It feels like something that could happen to anyone (besides the paranormal stuff maybe). But it's normal to have issues with Friends, with discovering what you want for your futures, with getting over An ex. It's what makes us human. This story can get you to accept all that. To accept your humanity.
I normally don't really like a story where a girl likes the 2 brothers but this didn't feel like something like that. Jeremy and Liam are so different and they take such different roles which made for me to not feel that Awkward about it.
I did wish for some extra insights on Mae's friends and family. They became a bit flat. A wanted some more dynamics between Them. Some bigger moments with her Friends. But maybe the simplicity of it all made it even better. It felt more normal, more realistic. It feels like something that could happen to anyone (besides the paranormal stuff maybe). But it's normal to have issues with Friends, with discovering what you want for your futures, with getting over An ex. It's what makes us human. This story can get you to accept all that. To accept your humanity.
May 1, 2022
Quick thoughts: Wow! What a story! I was on the edge of my seat more times than not. Really enjoyed it.
Summary: The novel starts off with a young Mae following her friends one late evening to an abandoned amusement park. Not long after, security turns up and the friends are forced to run and hide. Mae is split from the group and soon finds herself captivated by a pair of blue eyes and a beautiful boy leading her deeper into the woods. Blindly following him, she finds herself at a full on lit up and running amusement park. Blown away as to how this place can exist without anyone else knowing about it, Mae sets out to learn more about her new friend, Jeremy, and this place. As events further unfold and Mae keeps coming back every night to see Jeremy, we start to question is everything truly as it seems or is there something else at play here? 👀
Further thoughts: I was on the edge of my seat more times than not. What I thought was predictable actually turned out to be an emotionally moving story. This was an easy to follow fantasy story, nothing too complex and overwhelming, yet it was still very entrancing! I really felt the suspense as to what was going to happen next as I read on. I cant help but feel for Mae. She's young and freshly heartbroken so it makes sense how easily things got out of hand with Jeremy. I loveeed the ending! I wish we could have more !!! I was really emotionally invested from the get go & overall was not disappointed. What seems like a start to a teenager love story turned into something far more emotionally complex and meaningful. My only hesitancy is the pacing of the story was a bit inconsistent at times. I still enjoyed it nonetheless.
Thank you Katherine for sending me your beautiful novel to read & review. Id definitely read more from you. <3
Summary: The novel starts off with a young Mae following her friends one late evening to an abandoned amusement park. Not long after, security turns up and the friends are forced to run and hide. Mae is split from the group and soon finds herself captivated by a pair of blue eyes and a beautiful boy leading her deeper into the woods. Blindly following him, she finds herself at a full on lit up and running amusement park. Blown away as to how this place can exist without anyone else knowing about it, Mae sets out to learn more about her new friend, Jeremy, and this place. As events further unfold and Mae keeps coming back every night to see Jeremy, we start to question is everything truly as it seems or is there something else at play here? 👀
Further thoughts: I was on the edge of my seat more times than not. What I thought was predictable actually turned out to be an emotionally moving story. This was an easy to follow fantasy story, nothing too complex and overwhelming, yet it was still very entrancing! I really felt the suspense as to what was going to happen next as I read on. I cant help but feel for Mae. She's young and freshly heartbroken so it makes sense how easily things got out of hand with Jeremy. I loveeed the ending! I wish we could have more !!! I was really emotionally invested from the get go & overall was not disappointed. What seems like a start to a teenager love story turned into something far more emotionally complex and meaningful. My only hesitancy is the pacing of the story was a bit inconsistent at times. I still enjoyed it nonetheless.
Thank you Katherine for sending me your beautiful novel to read & review. Id definitely read more from you. <3
September 13, 2022
3.75/5 ⭐️
First of all, thank you to Katherine Taylor for gifting an e-copy of this book in exchange for my honest review!
I really enjoyed this book, I think it’s a very strong debut novel. While it’s plot is very simplistic, it works wonders to represent loss, grief and moving on. I wish the fantastical elements in the story had been stronger, I think there was defining room to elaborate on them but to be honest that fact that this was such a simple concept made it really easy to read.
The writing I feel could improve, but I was definitely able to see past as I become engrossed in the story. But if we’re being honest, there were a fair few grammar mistakes and also a few bits that I personally would have edited or take out to make it an easier read, I found myself naturally contracting these as I read. However it is a debut, indie novel so I never expect tip top standards.
Writing aside, the story was great, the amusement park aspect was so magical…until it wasn’t (no spoilers here though 🤫), and I look forward to see what the author brings us next!!
First of all, thank you to Katherine Taylor for gifting an e-copy of this book in exchange for my honest review!
I really enjoyed this book, I think it’s a very strong debut novel. While it’s plot is very simplistic, it works wonders to represent loss, grief and moving on. I wish the fantastical elements in the story had been stronger, I think there was defining room to elaborate on them but to be honest that fact that this was such a simple concept made it really easy to read.
The writing I feel could improve, but I was definitely able to see past as I become engrossed in the story. But if we’re being honest, there were a fair few grammar mistakes and also a few bits that I personally would have edited or take out to make it an easier read, I found myself naturally contracting these as I read. However it is a debut, indie novel so I never expect tip top standards.
Writing aside, the story was great, the amusement park aspect was so magical…until it wasn’t (no spoilers here though 🤫), and I look forward to see what the author brings us next!!
February 4, 2023
Thank you Katherine Taylor for providing me with this book in exchange for an honest review💕!
Rating:3.75/5⭐️
The romance in this book really surprised me and the little plot twists with a sprinkle of horror were a surprisingly good combinations! There is an element of supernatural and paranormal to it, that gives this story an unique touch!
I enjoyed the way there were at least three different perspectives on what to do after you finish High School; go to university, take a gap year or no university at all - I felt that it allowed all three representations to make their cases and for Mae to then figure out what she really wanted to do next!
This book was a very quick read and keeps you on your toes and curious to see what will happen next!
Katherine’s debut story has a lot of potential and I’m definitely wanting to see what she’ll come up with next!
Rating:3.75/5⭐️
The romance in this book really surprised me and the little plot twists with a sprinkle of horror were a surprisingly good combinations! There is an element of supernatural and paranormal to it, that gives this story an unique touch!
I enjoyed the way there were at least three different perspectives on what to do after you finish High School; go to university, take a gap year or no university at all - I felt that it allowed all three representations to make their cases and for Mae to then figure out what she really wanted to do next!
This book was a very quick read and keeps you on your toes and curious to see what will happen next!
Katherine’s debut story has a lot of potential and I’m definitely wanting to see what she’ll come up with next!
August 31, 2022
What a rollercoaster of a book (once you read you’ll get the cheesy pun 😉)
Genuinely thought I was after picking up a Romance book 📖 ❣️ but the book quickly took a dark turn and it had elements of thriller/paranormal 👻 So reading this was definitely an experience!
✨The main character is called Mae (18) and she’s hoping to spend her Summer before Uni having fun and finding a Summer romance, but she finds herself way more than she’s bargained for. ✨
🎢We soon meet Jeremy, and can’t say I was overly fond of him. Which is okay, because Liam soon arrives and I absolutely loved him🥰😍
What a fun, fast paced read, and kept me guessing throughout the whole thing “Whats going to happen?”
Genuinely thought I was after picking up a Romance book 📖 ❣️ but the book quickly took a dark turn and it had elements of thriller/paranormal 👻 So reading this was definitely an experience!
✨The main character is called Mae (18) and she’s hoping to spend her Summer before Uni having fun and finding a Summer romance, but she finds herself way more than she’s bargained for. ✨
🎢We soon meet Jeremy, and can’t say I was overly fond of him. Which is okay, because Liam soon arrives and I absolutely loved him🥰😍
What a fun, fast paced read, and kept me guessing throughout the whole thing “Whats going to happen?”
October 17, 2022
I was given a copy of this book by Katherine in order for a review! It’s not normal a book that I would read however I am glad I was giving the opportunity to read this. The story is based around the emotions of loss and being able to move on. I felt heartbreak, excitement and so many other emotions when reading this book. It is a book that I will recommend to friends. I finished the book within a few days due to work but couldn’t wait to get home and carry on reading. Thank you again Katherine! I hope you are doing another book, I would love to know what happens next with Mae!! This book gets a 4🌟 from me
July 31, 2021
Beautiful debut!!!! Absolutely adored Mae and Liam. Loved the imagery and the emotions Mae went through when dealing with her conflicting emotions with Jeremy, Liam, George and her friends. I thought it really highlighted the struggles in young/new relationships when people struggle to spend time with their friends at the same as their new relationship. Really lovely book and I thought the ending was perfect!!!
May 29, 2022
This book had an amazing premise and was very well-developed plot-wise. The characters needed a bit more work, as they fell flat and leaned strongly into stereotypes. The descriptions of setting were captivating as well as created a desire for me to know more. However, the story had struggled to really pull me in. Also, every guy was throwing himself at her for some reason? Anyways, it was still very enjoyable and I am very glad to have the privilege of reading it :)
June 5, 2022
Wow! What a roller coaster of a book this was!!
I started off thinking it was a romance sort of book. Then it became more of Thriller and dare I say horror!
I loved Liam! He seemed like such a sweet soul! And Jeremy was a bad grape from the very first chapter, I could tell!
This book was so different, I've never seen anything like it.
The MC, Mae, wasn't the most likeable to me. Some of her choices really annoyed me and I was like arghhhhh, just stop! 🤣
But overall, I definitely recommend this book!
I started off thinking it was a romance sort of book. Then it became more of Thriller and dare I say horror!
I loved Liam! He seemed like such a sweet soul! And Jeremy was a bad grape from the very first chapter, I could tell!
This book was so different, I've never seen anything like it.
The MC, Mae, wasn't the most likeable to me. Some of her choices really annoyed me and I was like arghhhhh, just stop! 🤣
But overall, I definitely recommend this book!
September 7, 2022
3.5⭐️
This is a supernatural thriller with hints of romance and it was a quick and enjoyable read. The author reached out to me on inter gran offering to send me a digital copy of her novel but I saw it was on Kindle Unlimited and decided to borrow it from there instead. If you like creepy stories with supernatural twists I’d definitely recommend!
This is a supernatural thriller with hints of romance and it was a quick and enjoyable read. The author reached out to me on inter gran offering to send me a digital copy of her novel but I saw it was on Kindle Unlimited and decided to borrow it from there instead. If you like creepy stories with supernatural twists I’d definitely recommend!
July 5, 2021
This story was intriguing and quite emotional especially towards the end. A very enjoyable read and a delightful debut
May 23, 2022
A gripping short read
I really enjoyed this book, it had me hooked from the get go.
Mae's emotions and thoughts are conveyed perfectly for her age
Definitely worth giving it a read!
I really enjoyed this book, it had me hooked from the get go.
Mae's emotions and thoughts are conveyed perfectly for her age
Definitely worth giving it a read!
May 28, 2021
This is a really enjoyable coming of age story, which is heartwarming, sad and a little dark!
The plot is well thought out and whilst it’s a short book at 189 pages, it’s not rushed at all!
Katherine does a great job at setting scenes, I could visualise the town, the characters homes, the pubs and cafes, and of course the amusement park, really clearly!
I was gripped from the start and eager to see how the story would play out and I did not see the twist in the middle coming!
The plot is well thought out and whilst it’s a short book at 189 pages, it’s not rushed at all!
Katherine does a great job at setting scenes, I could visualise the town, the characters homes, the pubs and cafes, and of course the amusement park, really clearly!
I was gripped from the start and eager to see how the story would play out and I did not see the twist in the middle coming!
May 15, 2022
The plot is such a good idea! My previous review noted a bunch of errors that were missed in editing, it looks like the majority of them have been fixed so updating my review!
February 13, 2022
At first, congrats to @k.t_Books for her debut romance fiction with a good story plot and character narration.
The story starts with two brothers Jeremy and Liam leaving their home at night to escape the shouts of their parents' daily fights and entering an amusement park.
Once there, they play all fun games and finally a roller-coaster ride. The chapter ends there.
10 years later
Mae has finished her high school and has been spending time with her bunch of friends the summer before she begins her college life. Also she broke up with George, one of the friends from her group.
On one such summer night, they all plan to have an adventure night in the now abandoned amusement park.
That night turns out to be a bizarre one for Mae as the friends disperse hearing security's footsteps while Mae is guided by a hand into a secret theme park with games, food carts, and fun rides.
The owner of that park is Jeremy, and he is the same age as Mae. Soon, Mae starts to visit him every night sneaking past her parents' and friends' view.
She loves spending time with Jeremy until one night she is caged by him and finally escapes the secret park with the help of Mrs Millar, the sweetshop lady.
In the real world, she bumps into the now old Mrs Millar and also the identical to Jeremy figure, his brother Liam.
Soon Mae understands who Jeremy was and what happened to him 10 years back in the park.
Liam, now 22, Ioves spending time with Mae. They eventually make out and their relationship progresses more than friendship.
However, once Mae stops going to secret place, she's haunted by Jeremy in her dreams, and that's when she decides to tell the truth to Liam.
What happens then to Mae, her newfound love with Liam, and to evil Jeremy is narrated in an interesting way. However, for me, the ending was quite a dampener.
Overall, a quick and easy weekend read I would recommend this Valentine's month.
The story starts with two brothers Jeremy and Liam leaving their home at night to escape the shouts of their parents' daily fights and entering an amusement park.
Once there, they play all fun games and finally a roller-coaster ride. The chapter ends there.
10 years later
Mae has finished her high school and has been spending time with her bunch of friends the summer before she begins her college life. Also she broke up with George, one of the friends from her group.
On one such summer night, they all plan to have an adventure night in the now abandoned amusement park.
That night turns out to be a bizarre one for Mae as the friends disperse hearing security's footsteps while Mae is guided by a hand into a secret theme park with games, food carts, and fun rides.
The owner of that park is Jeremy, and he is the same age as Mae. Soon, Mae starts to visit him every night sneaking past her parents' and friends' view.
She loves spending time with Jeremy until one night she is caged by him and finally escapes the secret park with the help of Mrs Millar, the sweetshop lady.
In the real world, she bumps into the now old Mrs Millar and also the identical to Jeremy figure, his brother Liam.
Soon Mae understands who Jeremy was and what happened to him 10 years back in the park.
Liam, now 22, Ioves spending time with Mae. They eventually make out and their relationship progresses more than friendship.
However, once Mae stops going to secret place, she's haunted by Jeremy in her dreams, and that's when she decides to tell the truth to Liam.
What happens then to Mae, her newfound love with Liam, and to evil Jeremy is narrated in an interesting way. However, for me, the ending was quite a dampener.
Overall, a quick and easy weekend read I would recommend this Valentine's month.
November 13, 2021
When a book has your heart racing, your reading pace quickening and levels of worry for the main character escalating, you know it is good.
It is the last summer holiday before our MC, Mae and her friends begin college. They had plans to relax and have fun together, before they go their separate ways. I don't think Mae had any plans for what did happen. Not to give anything away, this is a coming of age, young love story with a little bit of 'scary' thrown in.
Plot – twisting and turning just like a roller-coaster, as well as inventive and gripping.
Pace – It moves into the story swiftly, is dreamy in the right places, but moves quickly as the action intensifies.
Language/writing – This story was full of emotion, the language and writing depicted this perfectly. I loved the contrasting ideas of the lights of the amusement park and then the darkness that set in at the height of the action/drama.
It was a short book, 234 pages and I finished it in one day, but it has left an lasting impression.
Character development – fabulous. It is a gradual process where the reader learns the essential elements at the beginning of the story, but eventually understands more of the past events that have brought them to this point. I love that we are still finding out important information about them up until the very end of the book. In the final part, I think Mae has grown up a little through her experiences.
I loved Mae and Liam and was a quite dubious of Jeremy and Mrs Miller.
I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a coming of age, young romance story with a little dark twist. I would not recommend going to an abandoned amusement park to read this though.
It is the last summer holiday before our MC, Mae and her friends begin college. They had plans to relax and have fun together, before they go their separate ways. I don't think Mae had any plans for what did happen. Not to give anything away, this is a coming of age, young love story with a little bit of 'scary' thrown in.
Plot – twisting and turning just like a roller-coaster, as well as inventive and gripping.
Pace – It moves into the story swiftly, is dreamy in the right places, but moves quickly as the action intensifies.
Language/writing – This story was full of emotion, the language and writing depicted this perfectly. I loved the contrasting ideas of the lights of the amusement park and then the darkness that set in at the height of the action/drama.
It was a short book, 234 pages and I finished it in one day, but it has left an lasting impression.
Character development – fabulous. It is a gradual process where the reader learns the essential elements at the beginning of the story, but eventually understands more of the past events that have brought them to this point. I love that we are still finding out important information about them up until the very end of the book. In the final part, I think Mae has grown up a little through her experiences.
I loved Mae and Liam and was a quite dubious of Jeremy and Mrs Miller.
I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a coming of age, young romance story with a little dark twist. I would not recommend going to an abandoned amusement park to read this though.
May 13, 2022
This book was a new genre for me, I’m not usually one to read paranormal fictions but this novel definitely didn’t disappoint.
It was thrilling and beautiful in a way that you just couldn’t put it down. I often found myself reading late into the night!
Plot Summary:
We follow a young teenager Mae as she starts life after high school.
Dealing with the challenges of heartbreak, relationships and coming of age in a way that was very unique.
A simple girl who encounters a complex mystery of Jeremy and his story. As she uncovers who he is or was, her reality takes a dramatic turn and she questions what is really there and who Jeremy really is.
Review:
The novel is an interesting and engaging read that keeps you wanting more. The storyline is full of twists and turns that unravel a reality that is frightening but you can’t help but be as curious as Mae about the Brown brothers and their history.
You are immersed in her world and her viewpoint, feeling all the highs and lows and the conflicting emotions this novel engages in.
I found the writing to be very engaging and present so much so you could picture standing in the amusement park and looking into Jeremy’s blue eyes.
An easy to follow story that keeps you on the edge of your seat, mystery and suspense hold you at the end of every chapter.
The connection between the characters was also very real and as the reader you could be very connected to each character and relationship.
I enjoyed the different relationships between Mae, Liam and Jeremy, it very much support different aspects of Mae’s character and gave her a wonderful character description.
Overall the novel is a wonderful view on the complex life of a teenager and followed an emotional and exciting story.
It was thrilling and beautiful in a way that you just couldn’t put it down. I often found myself reading late into the night!
Plot Summary:
We follow a young teenager Mae as she starts life after high school.
Dealing with the challenges of heartbreak, relationships and coming of age in a way that was very unique.
A simple girl who encounters a complex mystery of Jeremy and his story. As she uncovers who he is or was, her reality takes a dramatic turn and she questions what is really there and who Jeremy really is.
Review:
The novel is an interesting and engaging read that keeps you wanting more. The storyline is full of twists and turns that unravel a reality that is frightening but you can’t help but be as curious as Mae about the Brown brothers and their history.
You are immersed in her world and her viewpoint, feeling all the highs and lows and the conflicting emotions this novel engages in.
I found the writing to be very engaging and present so much so you could picture standing in the amusement park and looking into Jeremy’s blue eyes.
An easy to follow story that keeps you on the edge of your seat, mystery and suspense hold you at the end of every chapter.
The connection between the characters was also very real and as the reader you could be very connected to each character and relationship.
I enjoyed the different relationships between Mae, Liam and Jeremy, it very much support different aspects of Mae’s character and gave her a wonderful character description.
Overall the novel is a wonderful view on the complex life of a teenager and followed an emotional and exciting story.
November 10, 2021
AAAHHH!!! Katherine Taylor’s debut novel!! I’m soo glad that she dm me on instagram and ask me to read her novel!😍 I’m so happy that I got to read this magical novel!
OMG! The plot! I haven’t read or heard anything like it! My mind is soo confuse, like I don’t know what’s happening but in a good way. It make me want to read more, so that I can figure things out! The chapters are short and the book is fast phased. You will think that after Mae (the mc) figure one thing out, the story is over, NO! there’s more problems to come! I did not expect the ending to be like that! Jeremy! My Gosh!! I just love the plot of this!
The romance part came in after 20 chapters and it’s not bad. It’s not pushed into the story, it fits the story well! although the character development of Mae is at the end, it’s still nice that from choosing her lovelife over her friends to merging it together. I really don’t like when people forget there friends just because they have a bf/gf and even though Mae did that at first, she change at the end (and that’s what matters).
Forgiveness and closure is what I’ve learn from this book. Closure really is everything. You need closure to move on. Closure is not just for romantic relationship but also for siblings. “Are you happy?” AAHHH! my tears just drop after reading that line!
The way of writing of the book, you can imaging the places, especially the amusement park! ahh I want to go there! The words are easy to understand. If you are a beginner, then you can easily understand this book.
If you read a lot of mystery, fantasy, romance book, you might be disappointed, but this is her DEBUT novel. This is a great book to start with!
OMG! The plot! I haven’t read or heard anything like it! My mind is soo confuse, like I don’t know what’s happening but in a good way. It make me want to read more, so that I can figure things out! The chapters are short and the book is fast phased. You will think that after Mae (the mc) figure one thing out, the story is over, NO! there’s more problems to come! I did not expect the ending to be like that! Jeremy! My Gosh!! I just love the plot of this!
The romance part came in after 20 chapters and it’s not bad. It’s not pushed into the story, it fits the story well! although the character development of Mae is at the end, it’s still nice that from choosing her lovelife over her friends to merging it together. I really don’t like when people forget there friends just because they have a bf/gf and even though Mae did that at first, she change at the end (and that’s what matters).
Forgiveness and closure is what I’ve learn from this book. Closure really is everything. You need closure to move on. Closure is not just for romantic relationship but also for siblings. “Are you happy?” AAHHH! my tears just drop after reading that line!
The way of writing of the book, you can imaging the places, especially the amusement park! ahh I want to go there! The words are easy to understand. If you are a beginner, then you can easily understand this book.
If you read a lot of mystery, fantasy, romance book, you might be disappointed, but this is her DEBUT novel. This is a great book to start with!
July 31, 2022
I wasn't quite sure what to expect when I started reading, but I was soon drawn into the lives of the characters. The setting up of the story was good and I liked the first chapter being 10 years previous to the rest of the story from which we could see the lead up to the accident from Liam's point of view as it was happening.
I did think that it was a little unrealistic how quickly Mae dismissed how strange the events were and how she didn't seem to care that the facts did not match up, such as there being a long walk to Jeremy's Amusement Park the first time she went but then it only being a step the other times. And also how Mae's parents weren't really fussed with her staying out all night every night until she didn't come home for two days.
I really enjoyed the plot twist near the end of the book and I was definitely not expecting it to happen. I thought that the concept of Jeremy being able to reach Mae through her dreams was very clever and interesting, however it appeared a little bit out of the blue and wasn't explained anymore more than 'he just could'.
Overall, the story was very gripping for such a short read (only 192 pages in total) and the ending was very sweet. Also as a debut book, it is very good, albeit a few minor things which can easily be improved upon in subsequent books. I have given it 4 stars for those reasons and I know it is important for new authors, especially self-published ones, to receive good reviews for their books to gain traction and a larger audience.
*The author reached out to me and offered to send me a PDF of her book in exchange for a review*
I did think that it was a little unrealistic how quickly Mae dismissed how strange the events were and how she didn't seem to care that the facts did not match up, such as there being a long walk to Jeremy's Amusement Park the first time she went but then it only being a step the other times. And also how Mae's parents weren't really fussed with her staying out all night every night until she didn't come home for two days.
I really enjoyed the plot twist near the end of the book and I was definitely not expecting it to happen. I thought that the concept of Jeremy being able to reach Mae through her dreams was very clever and interesting, however it appeared a little bit out of the blue and wasn't explained anymore more than 'he just could'.
Overall, the story was very gripping for such a short read (only 192 pages in total) and the ending was very sweet. Also as a debut book, it is very good, albeit a few minor things which can easily be improved upon in subsequent books. I have given it 4 stars for those reasons and I know it is important for new authors, especially self-published ones, to receive good reviews for their books to gain traction and a larger audience.
*The author reached out to me and offered to send me a PDF of her book in exchange for a review*
July 18, 2022
Under the stars - a beautiful debut novel!!
Firstly thanks to the author for sending me a free PDF of her book in return for a review.
I read under the stars in one day - it’s a short book and the chapters are also short which for me is a big plus because I love short chapters.
It was a really enjoyable read and simple to follow. The story is based around Mae who ends up at an abandoned amusement park one night with her friends. Security turns up and Mae is separated from her friends and is met with a pair of blue eyes which happen to belong to a boy who leads her deeper into the forest until they end up at another amusement park which is lit up and fully running. Mae finds herself coming back to the amusement park night after night to see her new friend Jeremy, but day after, she struggles to remember what happened the night before. As her relationship with Jeremy develops it’s clear there’s something not quite right about him…
The book was very suspenseful - I was on the edge of my seat a lot of the time and there were lots of twists and turns. I did feel that the other characters could’ve even explored a little more. It would’ve been nice to hear more from Jayne and I felt at the beginning that something may develop with Adam, but it turned into nothing.
Katherine is very good at scene setting - I could picture everything she described so clearly! 😍
The book navigates coming of age, grief and heartbreak really well. The story was gripping and emotional.
The ending was perfect and I definitely look forward to reading more of Katherine’s books 😊
Firstly thanks to the author for sending me a free PDF of her book in return for a review.
I read under the stars in one day - it’s a short book and the chapters are also short which for me is a big plus because I love short chapters.
It was a really enjoyable read and simple to follow. The story is based around Mae who ends up at an abandoned amusement park one night with her friends. Security turns up and Mae is separated from her friends and is met with a pair of blue eyes which happen to belong to a boy who leads her deeper into the forest until they end up at another amusement park which is lit up and fully running. Mae finds herself coming back to the amusement park night after night to see her new friend Jeremy, but day after, she struggles to remember what happened the night before. As her relationship with Jeremy develops it’s clear there’s something not quite right about him…
The book was very suspenseful - I was on the edge of my seat a lot of the time and there were lots of twists and turns. I did feel that the other characters could’ve even explored a little more. It would’ve been nice to hear more from Jayne and I felt at the beginning that something may develop with Adam, but it turned into nothing.
Katherine is very good at scene setting - I could picture everything she described so clearly! 😍
The book navigates coming of age, grief and heartbreak really well. The story was gripping and emotional.
The ending was perfect and I definitely look forward to reading more of Katherine’s books 😊
May 24, 2022
✨ Under the Stars ✨
This book follows Mae, a young adult during the summer before she starts university. A time she hopes to fill with relaxation and enjoying the last weeks she has to spend quality time with her parents and her close knit group of friends. They decide to hang out in the abandoned theme park where ten years prior a young boy, her age, was tragically killed on one of the rides. This one evening changes everything when a mysterious pair of eyes lead her away from the police who arrive to disperse her group from the park.
What a debut novel! Katherine really captured the thoughts of a young adult and how one would navigate everyday life, let alone the unprecedented circumstances Mae finds herself under. I love her interactions with Liam, as well as with her parents - it really took me back to being eighteen myself! The premise of this story is such an intriguing one and touches on the ‘supernatural’ while still firmly remaining in the young adult fiction genre. I don’t normally read young adult fiction so this was new for me but I really enjoyed it and it’s not a genre I’ll look to read more. I cant wait to see what Katherine writes next.
Katherine’s debut novel is available on amazon to purchase, both as a paperback and ebook.
Thank you @k.t.books for gifting me a copy of your debut novel, I really enjoyed it and wish you all the luck in your future career.
This book follows Mae, a young adult during the summer before she starts university. A time she hopes to fill with relaxation and enjoying the last weeks she has to spend quality time with her parents and her close knit group of friends. They decide to hang out in the abandoned theme park where ten years prior a young boy, her age, was tragically killed on one of the rides. This one evening changes everything when a mysterious pair of eyes lead her away from the police who arrive to disperse her group from the park.
What a debut novel! Katherine really captured the thoughts of a young adult and how one would navigate everyday life, let alone the unprecedented circumstances Mae finds herself under. I love her interactions with Liam, as well as with her parents - it really took me back to being eighteen myself! The premise of this story is such an intriguing one and touches on the ‘supernatural’ while still firmly remaining in the young adult fiction genre. I don’t normally read young adult fiction so this was new for me but I really enjoyed it and it’s not a genre I’ll look to read more. I cant wait to see what Katherine writes next.
Katherine’s debut novel is available on amazon to purchase, both as a paperback and ebook.
Thank you @k.t.books for gifting me a copy of your debut novel, I really enjoyed it and wish you all the luck in your future career.
June 18, 2022
The only thing that disappointed me with this book is that it did not last as long as I would have liked.
I think most people reading this book could relate to one character or another. For me, Mae reminded me very much of myself as a teenager, not quite sure if she fit in with her friends and holding on to affection where she could find it. Even if she should have questioned her sanity a bit more than what she did haha.
Mae's friends were not really her friends. But I think if they would have been decent then Mae would not have accepted this new situation she found herself in. She needed that distraction to find her feet again. Although I was rooting for her and Liam as soon as they saw each other in the cafe!
I liked that Jeremy's in-between was also the same location as his accident. It made you realise that his anger throughout the book, especially at the end, was misplaced and it was really confusion he was feeling. The details of his in-between had been clearly thought out and the detailing was impressive.
For a first book I think it was a good read and I would recommend to others. However, I would say that although the plot is evenly paced through the majority of the book, the ending seems very rushed. It could have been spread over a few more chapters with more detailing and more of a conclusive ending. Especially after Liam and Jeremy are reunited!
I think most people reading this book could relate to one character or another. For me, Mae reminded me very much of myself as a teenager, not quite sure if she fit in with her friends and holding on to affection where she could find it. Even if she should have questioned her sanity a bit more than what she did haha.
Mae's friends were not really her friends. But I think if they would have been decent then Mae would not have accepted this new situation she found herself in. She needed that distraction to find her feet again. Although I was rooting for her and Liam as soon as they saw each other in the cafe!
I liked that Jeremy's in-between was also the same location as his accident. It made you realise that his anger throughout the book, especially at the end, was misplaced and it was really confusion he was feeling. The details of his in-between had been clearly thought out and the detailing was impressive.
For a first book I think it was a good read and I would recommend to others. However, I would say that although the plot is evenly paced through the majority of the book, the ending seems very rushed. It could have been spread over a few more chapters with more detailing and more of a conclusive ending. Especially after Liam and Jeremy are reunited!
June 16, 2022
First of all, thank you to Katherine for gifting me this!
Okay wow! This book was honestly amazing! It’s like Layla with a bit more romanticism and a lot less creepy ism 😂.
I fell in love with both Jeremy and Liam and the ending almost made me cry! This hook kept me on the edge of my seat until the very end and put me on a rollercoaster (😲😂) of emotions! Please read this book if you haven’t already!
The way Katherine wrote this😘👌 it was so heartbreakingly good and was such an amazing romance/thriller mix!
This book follows Mae who goes to an abandoned theme park with her friends and loses them after almost getting caught. Whilst she’s hiding she meets a mysterious stranger, who leads her to a ‘bright and lively amusement park’ where she slowly starts to catch feelings for him, but she later finds out he isn’t actually who she thinks he is! After Mae discovers the truth about her ‘new friend’, she comes up with an idea to try and save him, but can she do so without harming her self?
This book honestly will keep you wanting to read until the end and if your anything like me, you won’t want to put the book down (although you have to at some points 😂)
This book is definitely getting a 5⭐️ and unlike Layla it has no 🌶 which sometimes makes a book better, this one it definitely did!
Okay wow! This book was honestly amazing! It’s like Layla with a bit more romanticism and a lot less creepy ism 😂.
I fell in love with both Jeremy and Liam and the ending almost made me cry! This hook kept me on the edge of my seat until the very end and put me on a rollercoaster (😲😂) of emotions! Please read this book if you haven’t already!
The way Katherine wrote this😘👌 it was so heartbreakingly good and was such an amazing romance/thriller mix!
This book follows Mae who goes to an abandoned theme park with her friends and loses them after almost getting caught. Whilst she’s hiding she meets a mysterious stranger, who leads her to a ‘bright and lively amusement park’ where she slowly starts to catch feelings for him, but she later finds out he isn’t actually who she thinks he is! After Mae discovers the truth about her ‘new friend’, she comes up with an idea to try and save him, but can she do so without harming her self?
This book honestly will keep you wanting to read until the end and if your anything like me, you won’t want to put the book down (although you have to at some points 😂)
This book is definitely getting a 5⭐️ and unlike Layla it has no 🌶 which sometimes makes a book better, this one it definitely did!
September 7, 2022
This book was a rollercoaster of emotions (pun definitely intended!! 😜)
It had the perfect mix of romance, thriller/paranormal elements, dark twists and drama - I really enjoyed it! For a story on the shorter side, it was packed full of adventure & emotions and I read this in a few sittings, definitely a book that could help out of a reading slump as it's quite fast paced. It's also the perfect book for spooky season coming up!
The main character, Mae was very relatable, I feel like I connected to her a lot. The author wrote in such a way that you felt everything Mae felt throughout the book, and it was intense at times. My heart hurt for her - how alone/anxious she felt. I just wanted the best for her.
There were times when I was on the edge of my seat, heart pumping wildly wondering what will happen next. It was the kind of book you didn't know if it would have a happy ending or a tragic one, but I'd say it turned out pretty bittersweet - which I'm glad about!
The only thing I would've like to have seen more of is Mae and Liam at the end - I'd be so down for a second book on them 👀
For a debut novel, I thought it was really well written and had such good twists - will definitely be interested in seeing what Katherine will publish next!
It had the perfect mix of romance, thriller/paranormal elements, dark twists and drama - I really enjoyed it! For a story on the shorter side, it was packed full of adventure & emotions and I read this in a few sittings, definitely a book that could help out of a reading slump as it's quite fast paced. It's also the perfect book for spooky season coming up!
The main character, Mae was very relatable, I feel like I connected to her a lot. The author wrote in such a way that you felt everything Mae felt throughout the book, and it was intense at times. My heart hurt for her - how alone/anxious she felt. I just wanted the best for her.
There were times when I was on the edge of my seat, heart pumping wildly wondering what will happen next. It was the kind of book you didn't know if it would have a happy ending or a tragic one, but I'd say it turned out pretty bittersweet - which I'm glad about!
The only thing I would've like to have seen more of is Mae and Liam at the end - I'd be so down for a second book on them 👀
For a debut novel, I thought it was really well written and had such good twists - will definitely be interested in seeing what Katherine will publish next!
June 4, 2022
What a rollercoaster of emotions! 🎢
It's summer time. Mae and her friends just graduated and have all the time in the world before they head off to university. One night, Mae and her friends decide to search for an abandoned amusement park in the woods. After they find the park, Mae is separated from her friends but meets a boy who she follows to a working amusement park. Intrigued, Mae learns more about this mysterious boy and the park but of course, nothing is as it seems.
And that's all I'm going to say about that or else I'll spoil it!
This was such a cute debut. It had some mystery and paranormal elements that I loved. Mae was an amazingly fleshed out character. I do wish some of the other characters were as fleshed out as her, but with the novel being on the shorter side (at close to 250 pages) I understand why they didn't have a lot of focus. Even with all the mystery there was even some romance thrown in. I really got a YA vibe from this book and guys, YA novels just give me the warm fuzzies 😍
If you want a super cute, quick read, you can get UNDER THE STARS from Amazon 📚
Thank you to the author, Katherine, for my e-copy!
It's summer time. Mae and her friends just graduated and have all the time in the world before they head off to university. One night, Mae and her friends decide to search for an abandoned amusement park in the woods. After they find the park, Mae is separated from her friends but meets a boy who she follows to a working amusement park. Intrigued, Mae learns more about this mysterious boy and the park but of course, nothing is as it seems.
And that's all I'm going to say about that or else I'll spoil it!
This was such a cute debut. It had some mystery and paranormal elements that I loved. Mae was an amazingly fleshed out character. I do wish some of the other characters were as fleshed out as her, but with the novel being on the shorter side (at close to 250 pages) I understand why they didn't have a lot of focus. Even with all the mystery there was even some romance thrown in. I really got a YA vibe from this book and guys, YA novels just give me the warm fuzzies 😍
If you want a super cute, quick read, you can get UNDER THE STARS from Amazon 📚
Thank you to the author, Katherine, for my e-copy!
June 26, 2022
Thank you so much to the author for sending me a copy in return for an honest review!
First I wanna say how much I loved the setting of this book. The abandoned theme park and its hidden secret world was so atmospheric and really added to the whole creepy feeling. I think it was a really unique idea too and I thought it was executed really well. It's been a while since I read a more paranormal book and I really enjoyed it!!
Mae was a great character, i liked how she was so invested in the theme park and Jeremy's story. Having said that, I did find it a bit irritating how she immediately blew off all her friends and family for Jeremy and the theme park. Liam was definitely my favourite character - I loved how him and Mae's relationship developed and seeing how was living with the consequences of the accident.
I didn't see the twist near the end coming which was great but I did work out the true nature of the theme park pretty quickly. That didn't take away from my enjoyment at all though! I thought the final big scene in the book was resolved a little too quickly but I liked how the book ended overall!
Would definitely read more from Katherine Taylor :)
First I wanna say how much I loved the setting of this book. The abandoned theme park and its hidden secret world was so atmospheric and really added to the whole creepy feeling. I think it was a really unique idea too and I thought it was executed really well. It's been a while since I read a more paranormal book and I really enjoyed it!!
Mae was a great character, i liked how she was so invested in the theme park and Jeremy's story. Having said that, I did find it a bit irritating how she immediately blew off all her friends and family for Jeremy and the theme park. Liam was definitely my favourite character - I loved how him and Mae's relationship developed and seeing how was living with the consequences of the accident.
I didn't see the twist near the end coming which was great but I did work out the true nature of the theme park pretty quickly. That didn't take away from my enjoyment at all though! I thought the final big scene in the book was resolved a little too quickly but I liked how the book ended overall!
Would definitely read more from Katherine Taylor :)
August 22, 2022
Under the Stars is Katherine's debut novel, and I have to say well done to her for a great start!
The story follows Mai, a soon-to-be University student, who stumbles across an amusement Park late one night. She meets a seemingly lovely guy, Jeremy, and they have a wonderful night playing games and chatting. However, she soon finds out not all is as it seems!
Under the Stars tackles some serious themes (purgatory, death, guilt, romance) but does it in such a way that the story remains quite a light read. Great for the YA genre this book is intended for. A really interesting take on purgatory as well, something I don't think I've seen before.
The book is quite short, which is a good and not-so-good thing. Great for taking on holiday or a nice summer read, however the story could have been more detailed and thorough had the book been longer.
As a debut novel I think Katherine has done a really good job. It's a little rough around the edges, which is expected from a first book, but she's hit all the main points and I loom forward to her future works.
Overall a solid 3.5 Stars!
The story follows Mai, a soon-to-be University student, who stumbles across an amusement Park late one night. She meets a seemingly lovely guy, Jeremy, and they have a wonderful night playing games and chatting. However, she soon finds out not all is as it seems!
Under the Stars tackles some serious themes (purgatory, death, guilt, romance) but does it in such a way that the story remains quite a light read. Great for the YA genre this book is intended for. A really interesting take on purgatory as well, something I don't think I've seen before.
The book is quite short, which is a good and not-so-good thing. Great for taking on holiday or a nice summer read, however the story could have been more detailed and thorough had the book been longer.
As a debut novel I think Katherine has done a really good job. It's a little rough around the edges, which is expected from a first book, but she's hit all the main points and I loom forward to her future works.
Overall a solid 3.5 Stars!
May 10, 2022
I received a free copy for an honest review.
This was a spooky debut could easily be read in a single sitting. Focussing on Mae, the main character, who is enjoying her final summer before she starts University. She questions her future and her choices until one night she encounters a mysterious boy who takes her away to a hidden amusement park where she can escape her worries. Playing into teenage fears about what the future may hold and growing up are touched upon throughout and as she unravels the mystery that is Jeremy, she herself grows and matures. Along the way she meets Liam, a pivotal character and romantic interest who becomes the final piece of the puzzle.
Looking at her relationships with her parents, she appears very mature for her age. On the other side she is still; young, niave and emotional which becomes clear through her friendships which appear to be straining as they prepare to part ways.
I felt the last few chapters were a little rushed and the climax was over too quickly and fell a little flat (hence the star deduction). Overall, I enjoyed this debut novel.
This was a spooky debut could easily be read in a single sitting. Focussing on Mae, the main character, who is enjoying her final summer before she starts University. She questions her future and her choices until one night she encounters a mysterious boy who takes her away to a hidden amusement park where she can escape her worries. Playing into teenage fears about what the future may hold and growing up are touched upon throughout and as she unravels the mystery that is Jeremy, she herself grows and matures. Along the way she meets Liam, a pivotal character and romantic interest who becomes the final piece of the puzzle.
Looking at her relationships with her parents, she appears very mature for her age. On the other side she is still; young, niave and emotional which becomes clear through her friendships which appear to be straining as they prepare to part ways.
I felt the last few chapters were a little rushed and the climax was over too quickly and fell a little flat (hence the star deduction). Overall, I enjoyed this debut novel.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 25, 2022
this book is very out of my usual, even more then romance, because of the paranormal element too it, but I was so impressed by it i think i found a new found love for paranormal stories!! so, setting, the books description of the setting was very well written and really helped to immerse myself in the story and imagine the setting the right way, especially the description of the amusement park, the detail in this book was beautiful, although the first chapter was a bit confusing to begin with, and it took me a couple chapters after it to fully understand it, but once I did the importance of the chapter was understandable! the details to the internal thoughts of the mc, mae, realy helped to understand her character and gave her so much more development, and seeing her struggle with her feelings and nightmares was so important for her character, without the detail i don’t think the story would of been as impactful as it was. every character has detail put into them, even the side characters, which was nice to understand them all and get a good visual on what they look like. jeremy’s character was a rollercoaster (no pun intended), i weren’t sure if i was supposed to like him or not but that came with the internal conflicts of the character ‼️SPOILER‼️ becoming conflicted and corrupted! liam was an amazing character to read about, even though he didn’t turn up fully for a while i really loved his character and id have to say he may be my favourite as well, the ending scene had me sobbing, the emotions were so well captured in that scene and really gave the characters more depth, knowing they needed that closure, all three of them, the one thing i wish we saw more of was liam and mae’s relationship starting over or even a skip in an epilogue to see where they are now as it’s very open to interpretation! overall, a beautiful and impactful story, which was also a quick and easy read, i really enjoyed it
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 12, 2022
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
After being in a recent reading slump this was the perfect read to pick up and immerse myself into another fictional world.
The book was described to me as a YA fantasy which is not something I would choose myself but I went and read the blurb and decided to give it a go and I’m so glad I did.
Mae is an 18 year old struggling with a recent breakup and misplacement in her friendship group when a trip to a derelict amusement park takes a bizarre turn. Here she meets Jeremy who she instantly feels gravitated towards. The story swings between her frequent meetings with Jeremy and reality outside of the amusement park. 🎢
I found the whole read so easy flowing and exciting. I’d definitely agree that it’s a YA read with elements of fantasy in the form of sprits/purgatory which gave me ‘behind her eyes’ and ‘Layla’ by Colleen Hoover vibes! (Both of which I also LOVED) but it’s also ultimately a romance!
Overall, I couldn’t not give this 5 ⭐️‘s as it was such a fun read and dragged me out of my reading slump. Absolutely loved it and will definitely pick up more YA fantasy and keep my eye out for the authors next novel!
(I will ever so kindly gifted a copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review)
After being in a recent reading slump this was the perfect read to pick up and immerse myself into another fictional world.
The book was described to me as a YA fantasy which is not something I would choose myself but I went and read the blurb and decided to give it a go and I’m so glad I did.
Mae is an 18 year old struggling with a recent breakup and misplacement in her friendship group when a trip to a derelict amusement park takes a bizarre turn. Here she meets Jeremy who she instantly feels gravitated towards. The story swings between her frequent meetings with Jeremy and reality outside of the amusement park. 🎢
I found the whole read so easy flowing and exciting. I’d definitely agree that it’s a YA read with elements of fantasy in the form of sprits/purgatory which gave me ‘behind her eyes’ and ‘Layla’ by Colleen Hoover vibes! (Both of which I also LOVED) but it’s also ultimately a romance!
Overall, I couldn’t not give this 5 ⭐️‘s as it was such a fun read and dragged me out of my reading slump. Absolutely loved it and will definitely pick up more YA fantasy and keep my eye out for the authors next novel!
(I will ever so kindly gifted a copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews