This Stays Between Us by Sara Ochs 

3.5 out of 5 stars 

You’ll find I gravitate towards novels where the location, specifically tropical locations, is a big portion of the story. Thus, picking up Sara Ochs’ first novel, The Resort, was a no brainer for me as it was located on a remote island in Thailand and I loved it. When I heard Sara Ochs was writing another novel that would transport me to Australia, I couldn’t wait to read it! 

This Stays Between Us follows college students at a study abroad program like no other. For an entire month the students will travel through Australia experiencing everything it has to offer. It’s a dream come true, especially for Claire and her roommate/best friend, Phoebe. The student group quickly become friends partying night after night until Phoebe disappears. Ten years later, Pheobe’s body is found, and the Australian Police require them all to return to find out exactly what happened. 

This book immerses you in the Australian Outback with its stunning, but deadly, setting. The story progresses through multiple POVs, Claire’s in the present and Phoebe’s in the past, allowing you to see into their mindset. It is a slow-burning thriller that sizzles in the Australian heat with multiple morally gray characters that are bound by more than just an unforgettable study abroad experience. Each twist had me questioning who truly hurt Phoebe and just how far someone would go to keep their secrets buried. What was once a dream quickly turned into a nightmare. 

Don’t hesitate to pick up your copy on July 15th to find out what truly happened! 

Thank you Sourebooks and Netgalley for my ARCs! 

Originally posted on BookshelfbyTori on Instagram!