A Thrilling Retreat: My Thoughts on This Stays Between Us
As a lifelong fan of 80s and 90s horror films, This Stays Between Us by Margot McGovern instantly called out to me. It’s not every day you stumble upon a book that captures the essence of those classic slasher flicks while making you feel like you’re right there with its characters. The combination of nostalgia and suspense had me hooked from the very first page, prompting an urgent need to sing its praises before diving into anything else.
This gripping tale begins on a classic note: a school retreat filled with all the archetypes you’ll recognize from your own high school days. There are the jocks, the nerds, the cool kids, and even the loners—every stereotype is present and accounted for. Four schoolgirls take center stage: longtime friends Mack, Priya, and Raffi, paired with the new girl, Shelley. The dynamics are palpable and real, each character playing her part in a much larger narrative. The real kicker? They’re off to an abandoned, isolated town with a legend surrounding a ghost known as Smiling Jack, and let’s just say that the lack of supervision (thanks to a couple of teachers stationed quite a distance away) is a recipe for chaos.
Margot’s vivid descriptions bring the eerie setting to life, enhancing the chilling atmosphere that is vital in a good horror story. I found myself completely immersed in the unfolding drama, the hair-raising moments beautifully blended with the thrilling backstory of each girl. The deeper themes—their struggles, friendships, and challenges—add layers that endear you to the characters, making their plight even more compelling.
One aspect that truly stood out to me was McGovern’s deft pacing. The story accelerates as it progresses, plunging the reader headfirst into a whirlwind of emotions and suspense. Just when you think you’ve caught your breath, another twist comes flying at you, leaving your heart racing. It’s a masterclass in gripping storytelling, reminiscent of that delicious anxiety I felt during my favorite horror films.
A particularly haunting moment was when one of the characters quips, “What could possibly go wrong?” It’s a remark laden with irony that perfectly encapsulates the book’s tension. This line, coupled with Margot’s nail-biting narrative, had me giggling nervously while simultaneously shouting at the girls to make wiser choices.
I can’t recommend This Stays Between Us enough, as I firmly believe it will resonate not just with young adult readers but also with adults who have a fondness for those era-defining horror tropes. It’s a clever homage that playfully winks at its genre while bringing fresh perspectives to the table. As I closed the book, I couldn’t help but reflect on how it brilliantly juxtaposes light-hearted teenage shenanigans with darker undertones, making for an unforgettable reading experience.
So whether you’re a lover of horror, a fan of compelling character arcs, or just in need of a page-turner that keeps you guessing, grab a copy when it drops on March 4, 2025. Prepare to be utterly transfixed. Thank you to Better Reading and Penguin Books Australia for my #gifted ARC—it’s safe to say this book will become a staple recommendation for all my fellow readers!